PHOTO CALL: Billy Elliot on Broadway

By Matthew Blank
October 27, 2008

The Olivier Award-winning Billy Elliot—The Musical began previews Oct. 1 at Broadway's Imperial Theatre.

With music by Elton John and lyrics by Lee Hall, the work is staged by Stephen Daldry, who also directed the inspirational motion picture of the same name.

The story concerns a working-class boy from Northeast England who, amidst the backdrop of a miner's strike, dreams of becoming a ballet dancer and the obstacles and advocates he encounters.

The title role is shared by three young actors who alternate performances: David Alvarez, Kiril Kulish and Trent Kowalik.

Also featured are Haydn Gwynne (who created the role of dance teacher Mrs. Wilkinson on the West End), Gregory Jbara as Dad, Carole Shelley as Grandma and Santino Fontana as Tony. David Bologna and Frank Dolce alternate in the role of Billy's friend Michael with Stephen Hanna as Billy's Older Self, Joel Hatch as George, Leah Hocking as Mum, Thommie Retter as Mr. Braithwaite and Erin Whyland as Debbie.

Billy Elliot—The Musical is scheduled to open Nov. 13.

Here is a first look at the production:

Gregory Jbara and David Alvarez		Haydn Gwynne

David Alvarez

David Alvarez, Haydn Gwynne and company

Kiril Kulish and Police

Kiril Kulish and ensemble

Kiril Kulish and Stephen Hanna

The cast of Billy Elliot

Trent Kowalik and Ballet Girls

Photos by David Scheinmann; bottom photo by Alistair Muir