On March 18th, Billy Elliot arrives in Chicago at the Ford Center for the Performing Arts - after winning 10 Tony's in 2009, including Best Musical. So, who is this Billy Elliot, and why is he so popular? We already took a look at the actors behind the show, so let's preview the Chicago production as part of a series highlighting new shows coming to the city this spring!
Based on the popular film of the same name, Billy Elliot uses an Elton John score that the
New York Post called his best yet. It was his idea to adapt the movie for stage, after all, and along with director Stephen Daldry (who also directed the film), choreographer Peter Darling (winner of the
2005 National Dance Award for Choreography), and writer Lee Hall (who cowrote the film adaptation of
Pride and Prejudice), the musical Billy Elliot manages to successfully make the jump between film and stage despite the difficulty of such a task, as
others have shown us.
And how long will Billy Elliot be staying in town? Producer
Eric Fellner answered vaguely - "Until such time as Chicago tells us 'go away'". Good news for us!
But don't take our word for it. Check out these reviews of the musical's past productions before it hits Chicago:
And if you're looking for somewhere to keep the music going after the show, check out
DaddyO's Pub and Piano Bar just up the street - you might even hear an Elton John tune.
Chris Jones' blog
I watched the movie growing up because I could relate to Billy as a child. I now have kids and they saw the movie and met one of Billy's and have fallen head over heels. I'm planning on surprising them for their birthday and taking them & their friends to see the show. They have been telling their teachers & friends of their experiences. I can't wait to surprise them & see the show, myself!
I heard the music was awesome and the dancing was INCREDIBLE!!!!!