Reader Reviews
Billy Elliot - The Musical (Victoria Palace Theatre, West End)
Back to Show Details| Score | Comment | Date |
 | Finally persuaded to see this show and have to say it was as I feared truly awful and not worth the effort. There are better musicals on in London. - IlS | 10 Apr 13 |
| I saw the show the other night with Harris Beatie playing Billy - absolutely fantastic! The only dodgy element to the show was the gordie accent. Overall it was wonderful - especially the relationship between Billy and Michael. Would recommend to anyone. - Helen | 13 Apr 12 |
| I went to see the show on the 7th July. I was truly blown away by the whole production. I saw Josh Baker play billy and may I just say that his alility to be able to convey raw emotion and just the sheer talent shown during his performance was unbelievable. I would honestly recommend this musical to ANYONE! - Hannah | 16 Jul 11 |
| I thought the show of Billy Elliot was amazing! All the characters played their part very well and everything was organised and went smoothly. I think that to say the character of 'Billy' was only 13, the standard of all his acting, dancing and singing where mid-blowing. Aswell as this, I think all of the other characters were brilliant, such as Billy's father, his best friend and the dance teacher. Over all I think the show was amazing and I would definitely recommend it to anyone wanting to see a London show! - Laura Fairbank | 14 Jun 11 |
| I was an emotional wreck for mosy of this show. Tom Holland was amazing as Billy. Everytime he danced I started to cry again and then when his dead mother appeared I was off again!! I can't believe I haven't been to see the show before now. It was wonderful. Such a talented bunch of people - led so well by amazing children. Can't wait to see it again (will take some hankies net time) - Stuart McConnachie | 15 Aug 09 |
| Went to see this for the second time after a 15 month gap. Different cast but overall just as enjoyable. Shows cant start to weaken in terms of their tightness over a long run but this hasnt. Still got the audience in all the right bits and got a standing ovation at a matinee which is some going. - kev | 20 Mar 09 |
| Oh my god! Did I see the same show as the reviewers on this page. If you want a show full of mournful miners wailing over the strike. A kid who dances the same moves repetitively. Children swearing. Awful songs, and a show not at all as good as the original movie. This show is for you, can I have a refund though please! - mark | 27 Dec 08 |
| I went to see this show last night for the second time - admittedly I haven't seen it since 2005 so I had forgotten a lot of the show. Well what can I say, the way this show is directed is great, scenes blend into each other effortlessly that keeps the action moving, and even though the songs don't leave you humming the tunes all the way home, they help tell the story with enthusiasm and passion. Like I said I have seen this show previously but my memories of the boy who played Billy last time were far exceeded last night with Corey Snide in the title role. His dancing was just superb, he managed to perform very difficult ballet moves for a young lad and still blend it with the rawness of Billy....which as Mrs Wilkinson says 'They are not expecting a finished package'. This show really puts you through the ringer in a rollercoaster of emotions, laughing one minute - TRYING not cry the next!! I had a fantastic evening and I would highly recommend this show to anyone who wants to have a good old fashioned fun night out. NB Sorry, can't help myself. In response to comments lower down the page. I am a gay man whose grandfather was a Miner, and I did not find this show in anyway partonising on any front. People have very short memories, a lot of what is depicted is based on things that did happen during that time and saying that complex issues are over simplified - SO WHAT! This is a story about Billy, who grew up in a certain environment and deals with how that affected his life and his dreams of being a ballet dancer, not about trying to discuss what was write or wrong about Maggie Thatcher and Trade Unions! Go any enjoy this show for what it is - FUN!! - T Garrad | 29 Apr 08 |
| When you can say, after your 5th visit in almost three years since it opened, you can say it is as fresh, thrilling and uplifting as the first, you know it's a classic. Still wonderful. - Gareth James | 22 Mar 08 |
| Went into this thinking no musical can have such amazing reviews from the profesionals and public alike. However I was blown away by it. It shouldnt work....children on stage, policemen and miners singing and dancing, ballet and tap dancing. But it works superbly and is a joy to watch and remember. - Kev | 25 Jan 08 |
| absolutely amazing. Can't wait to go back. Witty, highly talented cast. - abi cox | 01 Jan 08 |
| fantastic choreography - layton williams as billy was incredible and i cant believe he's only 12! i have never been to a musical that has made me laugh so much, the whole cast have great comical timing ! a truly fantastic show and great performances ! well done ! - lilly | 07 Sep 07 |
| The best show I have ever seen. - Tom | 04 Jul 07 |
| FANTASTIC !!! - Mick | 07 Jun 07 |
| I wasn't as overly impressed with this who as I was hoping to be. I was much more enthralled by Evita than this show. Overal I was left feeling empty. The dancing was amazing, the acting good but I don't know something was missing. I see why people love it and will probably go again. Liam Mower is amazing and totally brilliant. - Marcus | 19 Apr 07 |
| The sho gets betta and beta! Wish I could giv it 10 starrs out of five! - 84.69.12.101) | 13 Jan 07 |
| We love Liam Mower. He is an amazing dancer and beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 82.35.19.212) | 12 Jan 07 |
| This must be the best musical in the westend at the moment. Can't wait to see the show again. - 217.42.122.244) | 19 Nov 06 |
| The very fact that people keep going over and over again speaks for itself! Practically every show is a sell-out. How anyone could give it less than five stars is beyond belief. - 84.66.97.79) | 30 Oct 06 |
| How can you say this musical is less than 5 stars????????? it is the most amazing thing in hte world and the music and dancing in it is fantastic. Liam Mower is the most amazing pewrson in the world and i have fallen in love with him. Any reeading this thinking im mad is completly wrong. You obviously dont believe in love at first site. i have seen the musical 7 times and saw liams last night and im goin again to see the gala. Join the forum @ http://www.billyelliotthemusical.me.uk/forum/. Robyn Liam Mower lover, (Foxy L.M) - 86.138.60.82) | 29 Oct 06 |
| 'Utter rubbish' is partly right. Billy Elliot IS vastly over-rated, but comparing it to a school play is unfair on school plays, which are not self-congratulatory and politically correct enterprises. - 88.107.19.233) | 25 Oct 06 |
| I simply cannot understand the sentiments of that last reviewer. Clearly he or she is not seeing the same production as all the rest of us who see it repeatedly. - 84.65.47.254) | 25 Oct 06 |
| I saw this show a a couple of months back with great expectation. (Stalls seats) It is appalling. No more than a a school play, really. I am amazed by the number of positive reviews. On a par with a poor pantomine. - 86.20.144.199) | 14 Oct 06 |
| I saw Colin Bates (not Colin Blakley as BILLY ELLIOT) and he should get 5 stars for his performance. Remember that name. - 207.126.221.53) | 02 Oct 06 |
| I saw Colin Blakley as Billy Elliot and he was a wonderful dancer and a very good actor as well(5 stars for him). The staging was very good and the choreography was even better. I was not in love with the score but the overall effect of the show was uplifting. - 207.126.221.65) | 26 Sep 06 |
| AMAZING!!! The most engaging evening in a theatre ever. Pinch yourself you aren't dreaming!! - 86.129.175.49) | 14 Sep 06 |
| Brilliant Show - 193.113.48.17) | 11 Sep 06 |
| My parents took me to my first musical some 46 years ago (gulp!) and that was "Gypsy". A New Yorker, I have been a fan ever since. After three viewings in three trips to the West End over the last year, I am ready to declare BILLY ELLIOT one of the ten best musicals I have ever seen. And I've seen almost all of them for decades. - 162.83.199.212) | 18 Aug 06 |
| This is a somewhat unusual success in that the score is actually quite weak and that the storyline comes perilously close to being mawkish at times. What saves it, nay blasts it high to the stratosphere, is Stephen Daldry's directing. He never lets the emotional parts outstay their welcome and his use of space is, as ever, just a marvel to behold. Anyone who wants to learn how to use a stage could take a text book lesson from this show. All that and I haven't even mentioned the kids' performances - if Daldry has taken the show to the heights, the fab kids are what will keep it there. - 217.196.231.33) | 09 Aug 06 |
| The show is so cleverly written!! Also it is not over sentimental, a good balance of the emotional moments and the lighthearted ones. The struggle of the whole mining community is so very well portraited by all the adult cast. We saw Sally Dexter as Mrs W, her range of facial expressions was great and her interpretation of the role brought some fresh insights. Phil W (dad) sang so movingly in the Christmas scene. Matthew Koon played Billy on Thursday 27th July. We were so blown away by this young man. It was a really hot evening, but he stayed focussed and kept his energy up in all his dances and scenes. Shaun malone who played Micheal was cheeky but also a sensitive actor when required. Billy and Michael had so much fun in their tap number.We will definitely recommend our friends to see the show. - 86.2.51.58) | 31 Jul 06 |
| After Liam Mower's performance, I thought of nothing else for a week! I can't get my head round the fact that he is so young with so much talent! I would say the musical left me feeling excited, inspired, proud and jealous. The boy who played Michael was hilarious! I just loved it so much! - 195.93.21.98) | 29 Jul 06 |
| Still one of the best things in the West End: this glorious, heartfelt musical masterpiece looks set to run forever....and deservedly so. Maybe even stronger now than when it first opened, the show has been enhanced by the new adult leads, Sally Dexter and Philip Whitchurch, both of whom are even better than their (admittedly superb) predecessors. Dexter in particular is a knockout, bringing a warmth and passion to the dance teacher role that is irresistible. Of the current crop of Billy's I saw Matthew Koon who is simply dazzling. A complete and utter triumph. Pass the tissues..... - 195.82.123.181) | 22 Jul 06 |
| Suppose it's unkind to say that if this is 'the most amazing show' you have seen in your life time then you can't have seen many shows, but true nevertheless. Billy Elliot remains the most over-hyped show in the West End. - 88.107.22.154) | 17 Jul 06 |
| 5 stars do not do this show justice! It needs more. Billy Elliot is by FAR the most AMAZING show i have ever seen in my life. No show will ever come close. It has inspired the whole of my family including me. Seeing it for the 7th time in September but hopefully before then aswell. LEON ROCKS 4EVA. Amy Lou xxxxxxxxxx join the forum @ http://www.billyelliotthemusical.me.uk/forum/. - 80.3.32.6) | 29 Jun 06 |
| It's a ral great musical worth to see. - 81.183.41.77) | 25 Jun 06 |
| Yesterday afternoon's performance was simply phenomenal! Do see it! K - 195.92.67.67) | 25 Jun 06 |
| emotionally fantastic,a beautiful performance that carries you through, crying of course!you just cannot miss it. absoloutely out of this world. - 172.141.28.51) | 21 Jun 06 |
| Well, I feel privileged to have been at the performance on June 3rd. There was a great air of anticipation in the theatre as 7.30 approached and a few minutes later, Stephen Daldry climbed onto the stage to loud applause. You knew that tonight would be something very special. Stephen gave a wonderful speech introducing those from the cast who would be leaving, ballet girls, Emma, Joey, Stephanie and Haydn. He spoke warmly of the contribution they have all made - the wonderful personalities of Emma and Joey, the haunting legacy that Stephanie will leave the show with and the professionalism and warmth of Haydn. And then the show started. Tonight it was Leon as Billy, exciting for me having never seen him in the role before. Haydn's opening scene was greeted with loud applause and the same for Stephanie. Needless to say, at the end of Expressing Yourself, Joey took an extra special bow and many in the audience rose to their feet including Liam, Travis, Matthew, Brad, Ryan and all the other Billy's, Michael's and Debbie's who were sitting together, two rows in front of me. Joey delivered a wonderful camp performance You could tell that tonights performance meant something very special to those on stage. Everyone rose to the occasion. It was the most polished performance I've seen since the very early days. I love Leon's Billy. He delivers a very understated performance which captures the real essence of the character, a boy who discovers dance, loves it and wants more, a real, true, raw talent. Leon is not raw in his talent but he portrays that rawness perfectly, particularly during those early scenes in the dance hall with the ballet girls and Mrs Wilkinson looking on. David Bardsley was Dad in this performance. He delivers a very different interpretation to Phil or Tim, harder and drunker yet he manages to see the way through to understanding that Billy needs his encouragement and support. Emma was on fine form, milking the line about showing Billy her fanny and at the end when Billy says his goodbyes to the ballet girls he has trained with for months, she added a lovely personal touch going to Leon and kissing him. Beautiful The final scenes were wraught with emotion. At the very end when Billy says goodbye to his dead mum for the last time, the emotions really showed through. Both Leon and Stephanie were clearly in tears and that emotion just added to what is an incredibly touching scene anyway. My final thoughts must go to Haydn Gwynne. We talk and read so much about the youngsters in the cast. Tonight Stephen Daldry summed it up when he spoke of Haydn as "the rock on which the show was has been built". He couldn't have summed it up better. I for one will really miss her! I have seen her in many shows on stage and screen over the years. She is an actress of great ability yet I'm sure this role has been one of the toughest. Working with hundreds of kids, rehearsing differently with each Billy, supporting those kids on and off stage and brillianly creating her own role...... Stephen mentioned that Mrs Wilkinson was going to have a dog originally, but the idea was soon cut. I don't blame him. Working with animals and children....... I think she had enough to do! *lol* Tonight Haydn gave what for me was in many ways the best performance I've seen from her in the show. It was my eighth Billy and the fifth time seeing Haydn. She is in every way a superb actress and tonight as she said her farewell to Billy, you could see how much it mean't to her. There was no need for acting at that point! And in the curtain calls, the tears were wiped away before all the current Billy's as well as James came on to present flowers to those leaving. Another great adventure for this wonderful Billy family is about to begin but for tonight I raise a glass and say a big thank you to Joey, Emma, the girls, Stephanie and Haydn for the wonderful times you have given us and best wishes to you all for the future - 86.129.95.49) | 17 Jun 06 |
| I find it fascinating just how much opinions can differ on the same show. I have seen Billy Elliot more than once and found it the most moving and enjoyable show I have ever seen. I've seen practically every other musical around both on Broadway and in the UK. As for the American reaction I don't think it will all be negative if an American couple in front of me are anything to go by. The husband had tears poring down his cheeks and at the end he refused to move. He just sat there continuing to applaud even after the orchestra had finished and most people had left their seats. The conductor actually came back and took another bow just to him. Haven't seen it since the cast changed but this show is in safe hands so I'm sure it's still to be recommended. - 83.138.189.75) | 10 Jun 06 |
| A big welcome to Sally Dexter who makes a wonderful Mrs Wilkinson and is every bit as good as Hayden Gwynne. Colin Bates was Billy and seemed to be perfect for the part. Liam is a hard act to follow but Colin's interpretation is sensitive and he shows just how much he is living and enjoying the role. The show goes from strength to strength and is just as powerful at the second viewing. There will be more! Those who marked the show down must be narrow and lacking in understanding of what makes outstanding theatre. - 86.138.162.117) | 09 Jun 06 |
| I came all the way from the States just to see this mess of a musical. Uninspired songs, ridiculous choreography, amateur staging (when do people stand in straight lines?) and the slowest pace in show business. Is anyone keeping an eye on this show? You'd think they were playing Macbeth in the 2nd Act-so boring and slow ! Thie choreographer should be arrested by giving such feminine moves to Billy ( and especially the pas de deux with his alter ego-which was an embarassment) and the rest of the choreography was wretched. There is concern about bringing this to the US because they feel we won't get the lingo, accents, and politicalness of the piece. BELIEVE ME, those are the least of the problems with this show. It will be laughed right back across the ocean. - 172.190.199.34) | 29 May 06 |
| In reply to Montree's point (this is turning into a very interesting debate!) I didn't say Billy Elliot was anti-gay, I said it patronised gays (and women and the working class) which is a different thing entirely. As regards the political aspect (which I contend is the real driving motivation of the musical, not talent achieving its fulfilment, which WAS a Thatcher aim) my objection is to the black and white simplification of what were extremely complex issues. To quote - or adapt - Orwell again (four legs good, two legs bad) it was really saying working class good, everybody else bad. And to have children singing a song rejoicing that somebody is one day nearer their death is not exactly my idea of family entertainment. If the song had said the same thing about, say, Princess Diana or Mother Teresa, when they were alive, or, say, Nelson Mandela today, the protests would have gone ballistic. It's nothing to do with liking or disliking Mrs T' politics. I don't think any human being, famous or otherwise, popular or unpopular, should be subject to such cheap and nasty abuse. - 88.107.23.94) | 28 May 06 |
| I disagree with all of R's remarks but as a gay man I'll deal with the accusation that it's anti gay. It's just the opposite and I found it an uplifting and positive experience. It does represent the attitudes of the period to gay people realistically but that's quite different from being anti gay. Billy shows by his acceptance of Michael that he has no prejudice and his own struggle for artistic acceptance is mirrored by Michael's for sexual acceptance. I have to disagree with the comments about Mrs Thatcher as well. She didn't care one bit for the arts and the only talent she cared about was that for making money at the expense of others. Billy would have got no help from her and he was fighting her attitudes as well as those of his father etc. R's use of Orwell's remark about 'prole-feed' is to misunderstand his point entirely. - 212.100.250.218) | 28 May 06 |
| S has every right to consider my contrary views of Billy Elliot 'pompous drivel', just as I have to hold and express them. If S goes to the Discussion Forum 'Is Billy Elliot over-rated?' that I started a few days ago on this website (in the Musicals section) he will see that the majority of the participants seem to agree with me. This was a great surprise to me, as I fully expected that anyone who even suggested that a commercially successful iconic show was not in fact the best thing since the invention of sliced bread would be shot down at every turn. It would be interesting to continue the debate there on specific points. - 88.107.20.69) | 27 May 06 |
| What pompous drivel from R. - 82.69.66.185) | 26 May 06 |
| The most over-rated show for many a long year - musically, dramatically, even politically. Not a single tune remained in the memory afterwards; at times the performance was like a bad, ill-disciplined school play, except that no school play would have contained such a string of foul expletives from young children; the ultimate irony is that the show took every opportunity of slagging off Mrs Thatcher, whereas Billy - hero Billy, gosh, cheer everybody - actually followed the Thatcherite enterprise route of getting on through his own talents, leaving his intolerant, judgmental background behind him as he moved onwards and upwards to fulfil his potential. In short, he 'got on his bike'. He didn't hang around, living the old nostalgic working class dream the musical did, as the world moved on. Overall the musical played to the gallery for cheap and easy approval, by espousing what the economist J.K. Galbraith called 'the conventional wisdom', the reiteration of which gives comfort to its adherents, until the march of events brings a new conventional wisdom that replaces the old and outmoded. Yet whilst ostensibly 'ticking all the right boxes', it also managed to be offensively patronising about the working class, women and gays, so actually was incoherent in its focus and full of contradictions. A classic example of what George Orwell dismissed as 'prole-feed'. - 88.107.27.72) | 19 May 06 |
| happy birfday billy elliot well done to you all congrats Liam, you were of cause the best ever, keep shining hun - 212.50.160.44) | 16 May 06 |
| We had been wanting to see billy since it opened and finally managed it last week friday 28th April. Was it worth the wait? A great big yes!! Leon was fantastic, what a personality for someone so young and as for Michael, Brad Kavanagh, Magic. The tap scene with the clothes was fabulous.There were so many memorable scenes it seems unfair to single them out. Just to say the show seemed to be over in such a short time, we just wanted to stay in our seats until the next day and see it again! If you have not seen it, go! If you have, go again, we would certainly hope to!! Well done to the entire class for making us cry and laugh so much. Thank you all. - 88.105.241.143) | 02 May 06 |
| I too saw the understudy Mrs Wilkinson on the 1st May.....and unlike the review on here 26th April, I thought she was fantastic. I have been to see this show twice before but last night I went with my work colleagues and they could not believe that it was an understudy (Stephanie Putson) as she was every bit as good as Haydn Gwynne, in fact I felt more for her and her relationship with Billy. The whole show was as good as ever and the new cast playing Tony and the Older Billy were brilliant. - 212.187.187.161) | 02 May 06 |
| Having seen Liam Mower in the role of Billy on Mon 24th I have to say I was very impressed. I felt that Liam had figured out just how to work the audience and seemed to have everyone in the palm of his hand. The choreography is done beautifully as I felt it was both clever and witty whilst letting the characters express themselves. Even though I knew what to expect from a previous visit I could feel the hairs stand up on the back of my neck during the last song of Act 1. The ensemble worked well together and were strong in their performances, like another reviewer I agree the scene going back into the mine was done beautifully and made me think about how hard a decision that must have been (being 19 I've never really thought about it much before). My only criticism would be that I did see an understudy for the ballet teacher who wasn't always easy to hear (this could be a microphone problem though) and just didn't seem to get her emotions across very well. Lastly the songs aren't very memorable like other cd's that I might take home and listen too. But I believe they work well in the context of the show. - 62.253.64.18) | 26 Apr 06 |
| I saw the Show a last Tuesday for the first time and thought that it was fantastic! Leon was great as was the rest of the cast. The standard of performance is amazing, particularly for teenagers in such demanding roles. I've already booked tickets to go again! Definately up there at the top of my favourite musicals list and that's saying something! The performers are all extremely talented and the music felt new and refreshing compared to other musicals. I would say that this is definately better than the film. - 84.64.188.253) | 26 Apr 06 |
| Agree with many of the poor reviews here. From all the hype I was expecting greatness, which it did touch on the odd occasion,but generally not gritty enough. Too "feel-good", cliched, unimpressive staging/sets and unbelievably bland music. - 172.200.16.210) | 24 Apr 06 |
| I don't think it helps if someone says they didn't like something to tell them they didn't understand it! Having loved Billy's story on film I was full of expectation for the musical. I saw the original cast and was particularly disappointed with the stage characterisation of Billy's dad and the dance teacher. In an attempt to make them 'grittier' they lost the sensitivity of the film performances. The score doesn't flow - unmemorable links between a few set piece songs. Its a sensitive story that needs closeups - it was told better on film. - 84.66.237.167) | 23 Apr 06 |
| I saw the show on Monday evening with Matthew Koon in the part of Billy and was absolutely amazed at it as a first time viewer of the show. I was particularly impressed with the dream sequence with Billy's older self which was amazing. I laughed at many moments in the show and others really tugged emotionally, specifically the ending in Once we Were Kings when the miners go back down 'the pit'. I thought it was excelently directed and praise the choreographer for some excellent work incorporating the ballet class with the strike. As a teenage dancing boy this show really was my thing and maybe that makes my opinion biased but I would say that any person going to see this show would thouroughly enjoy it and come home with 'electricity' rining in their heads. A fabulous show that rivals the lion king and les miserables. - 62.255.32.15) | 19 Apr 06 |
| THE BEST - 82.168.69.241) | 16 Apr 06 |
| This is a real MUSICAL MASTERPIECE!!!! I will surely see it again and again and again....... - 195.93.60.8) | 14 Apr 06 |
| There is only one word to sum up this musical .... AMAZING!! - 213.122.42.199) | 11 Apr 06 |
| liam you are like a good wine, mature with age. your performances improve each time we see you,and your professionalism is as always amazing. As for the score 1 comments sounds like your embarressment maybe for your inner self got in the way ? - 212.50.160.44) | 10 Mar 06 |
| Might I suugest that neither Phil nor Dave really watched the musical properly or really understood what it was all about. Full of candyflosss it isn't its really tough and gritty with a real message just listen to the actual words of the lyrics and anti gay it isn't. Just added this as my previous posting didn't make sense. - 86.136.137.15) | 02 Mar 06 |
| What I suugest that neither Phil nor Dave really watched the musical properly or really understood what if was all about. Full of candyflosss it isn't its really tough and gritty with a real message just listen to the actual words of the lyrics and anti gay it isn't. - 86.136.137.15) | 02 Mar 06 |
| I saw a matinee performance on 23 February. Judging from the performance that I saw, this show does for Gay people what those dreadful old TV sitcoms “Love Thy Neighbour” and “Til Death us do Part” did for Black people. Just as the sitcoms allowed the audience to make fun of Blacks by the incessant name calling, this show encouraged the audience to have a good laugh at Gays, Ballet and anything remotely cultural. I sat there totally embarrassed not by what was happening on stage but by the bigots who apparently made up most of the audience, laughing uproariously as they did at all the anti gay jokes. And this show comes by way of Stephen Daldrey and Elton John too. Ha! I wonder if they realise how the audiences are reacting? And don’t tell me that this happened in “The Producers” as well. That show was quite different. It was made up totally of ridiculous stereotypes. And very funny they were too. But “Billy Elliot” is a poignant, serious story. Sadly the majority of the audience when I saw it missed that point totally. - 80.195.236.104) | 24 Feb 06 |
| If you are constantly exasperated with musical theatre, then I stongly suggest you give Billy Elliot a go. I saw the show very early in the run, shortly after the press night, so this review is rather late in one sense. However, the show is spectacular in every way, so I though a review was in order! From the songs, to the dialogue, to the choreography, nothing has been overlooked or skimped on here. The acting is of the highest quality (a rarity for musical theatre) and I was moved throughout. There was one rather uneccesary song (though I understand the relevance to putting it in) - I refer to the dancing dresses and "being yourself" but it was rather out of place and a bit tacky. That aside, Billy Elliot has bags of energy and will not fail to please. - 195.93.21.69) | 14 Feb 06 |
| Very surprised to read Phil's review and he is right, it is an extremely rare viewpoint! Particularly when the show and main characters are justifiably winning accolades and awards from every direction. Malcolm - 195.92.67.67) | 10 Feb 06 |
| I do realise that I am the only person in the whole wide world who thought this a dreadful waste of an evening. Poor acting, dull music and uninventive staging. The reason why the film was so justifiably successful was that it was raw and gutsy. The musical is pure candy-floss - all sugar and no substance. Sorry if I am out of step with the world on this one. - 217.207.157.89) | 06 Feb 06 |
| Saw it again on Friday - excellent as ever. Philip Whitchurch is a great replacement for Tim Healy, and Leon is superb. If you've not see it yet, you must. - 195.93.21.69) | 29 Jan 06 |
| i saw it on new years eve it was by far the best musical i have ever seen-i think travis is going to be a big star..i would recommend it to anyone-sheer brilliance!! - 212.104.129.149) | 14 Jan 06 |
| Have now seen all three origional Billy's all great and all have their own strengths in which they excell. Have seen show 5 times now. - 86.142.160.147) | 28 Dec 05 |
| travis was adorable!!hes so tiny compared to the previous billys.his singing and dancing was great but obviously not upto the standards of the others yet.he'll no doubt get better and better with time.overall it was a brilliant debut and one he should be very proud of!!at the stagedoor he was excited and very friendly.you could tell he loved performing.well done travis!! - 194.46.136.27) | 21 Dec 05 |
| going to see travis' debut on monday cant wait!!!! im sure hell be as graet as the others. very sorry to see george go:-( anyone know when liams leaving - 194.46.136.212) | 16 Dec 05 |
| Welcome to the fan club Agnes. Come and join us on billyelliotthemusical.me.uk for loads more comment on this fantastic musical. Well done George for holding youself together for a memorably brilliant last performance on Saturday night. Very emotional for us all especially when all 4 billys came on stage at the end. I shall miss Tim Healey (Dad) and Joe Caffrey(Tony) who left on Saturday. Filling their shoes will not be easy. The cast recording is on sale from today, a must for all fans of the show. The Billy is Liam who is in fine voice throughout. - 62.6.139.13) | 05 Dec 05 |
| I was beginning to think I was too fussy. I've been to see a lot of musicals recently and most have left me feeling a litte unsatistified. Sure, the music was great,but they had either no story or two dimensional characters I cared little about. I kept returning to Blood Brothers as it had everything I wanted from a great show. Then, along comes Billy. This is possibly the greatest British musical I have ever seen. It has moments that made me sob like a child, moments that shocked me and moments that made me want to leap to my feet and punch the air in triumph. I can't stop talking about it to people or thinking about when I can get back down to the Big Smoke to see it again. Tim Healy's performance as Billy's Dad was thoughtful and multi-layered and the performances from all the children delivering a wonderful and honest script will move you to tears. Beg for a ticket if you have to, fly half way round the world if you have to, but I'm telling you don't whatever you do miss it. Beg for a ticket if you have to. Sir Elton, you sir are a national treasure. - 62.6.139.13) | 05 Dec 05 |
| Another beautiful flawless performance from Liam on Tuesday evening 29th November. He looks so happy it is no wonder the audience goes away on such a high. Liam's singing was first class and his dancing once again of the highest order. Well done Liam!! - 62.6.139.13) | 02 Dec 05 |
| I am going to 4 shows in a row, Dec 1,2, and both shows on Sayurday, Dec 3. I hear some of original cast is leaving, so I have to see it again! Its the GREATEST New York Fan - 64.12.116.203) | 27 Nov 05 |
| This is the Best musical I have Ever Seen! I live in New york and have seen many shows. This is number 1 ! - 152.163.101.7) | 27 Nov 05 |
| Came back just to see James again! Saw him in the summer. Wow He is amazing. The emotion in his acting is first class. His voice is deeper but its great! Brad was very good looked like they had been togeather for ages. This show is fantastic if you have not been yet your missing one of the best nights out. well done to all the cast. I love the finale everyone looks like they have a great time. - 195.92.168.165) | 20 Nov 05 |
| A BIG THANKYOU LIAM for your appearance on children in need, you were of course amazing and your courage always outstanding, we love you, your fans xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx - 212.50.160.44) | 18 Nov 05 |
| Totally agree with you Jon. when I first heard Liam in this role his voice was thin and reedy. On Saturday it could only be described as beautiful. His singing coaching and physical development have all clearly helped. All in all a first class show on Saturday fronted by a very talented boy. - 82.111.128.3) | 14 Nov 05 |
| It's great to see Liam back and judging from his performance on Saturday afternoon (12 November) he's fully recovered. His dancing was superb of course but his singing was the best I've heard him do it. Actually it was the best I've heard from any of the Billys. The whole performance was great fun with the audience very appreciative. - 212.100.250.215) | 13 Nov 05 |
| Second time round even better, have seen George twice. Gained so much more a second time round and from a different seat can | 11 Nov 05 |
| welcolme back Liam, hope you had a relaxing well deserved break, you have been missed by your fans. Why shouldn't you have time out, everyone does, we have missed you,xxxxxxxxxxxx - 212.50.160.44) | 10 Nov 05 |
| grrrr.im really angry i wanted george on the cd!! - 194.46.136.86) | 08 Nov 05 |
| Unfortunately, that's always the case when there are children in the cast, as there are always several teams of children and only one can be used on the recording. I suppose the same could be said for Press Nights, publicity stunts, publicity photographs etc etc........ - 80.4.224.8) | 06 Nov 05 |
| iv heard rumours that the cast recording is of just laim and not of james and george too.is this true?if it is im extremely annoyed as i dont think its fair on the other two or the fans to release just one of the boys.the cd should be mixed or there should be an option of buying diff versions.this almost makes me want to boycot the cd. - 194.46.137.24) | 06 Nov 05 |
| I didn't believe the rumours when I heard that James Lomas was returning to the title role to cover for absence. But when it was confirmed I took myself to the Victoria Palace for a highly professional and stunning performance in all aspects. Acting and singing are brilliant and the dancing... James flies! Mention must also be made of Brad Kavanagh who as Michael provides excellent support and makes the character, both flamboyant and serious, all his own. - 80.225.10.66) | 05 Nov 05 |
| best musical ever would see it evey day - 195.93.21.100) | 02 Nov 05 |
| Best Musical ever. Would see it every day - 195.93.21.100) | 31 Oct 05 |
| A date for the release of the cast recording has now been announced. It's due 21 November. - 83.138.136.91) | 30 Oct 05 |
| any news on cast recording? - 194.46.137.252) | 28 Oct 05 |
| Very enjoyable as you are watching it but left the theatre not being able to remember one song. Does not have the same impact as the film despite a blinding performance by Billy. - 155.140.121.227) | 27 Oct 05 |
| Joey Philips currently playing Micheal in Billy Elliot is the most talented boy on a stage. I have known Jojo for about 2 years now and we have our own little dance we do when ever we see each other. Hi to Joey or any1 that goes to Imagine productions. BTW Imagine productions are currently performing guys and Dolls at the Chater Theatre in POreston, so come and see it! Love ya loads Jo, ur my little Star, Amz lol, Can't touch this! - 195.93.21.72) | 26 Oct 05 |
| Outstanding - 62.173.201.41) | 21 Oct 05 |
| I also saw today's matinee performance and I totally agree. This boy, Liam, is a complete genius and the audience were the most demonstrative I have yet seen them. - 195.92.67.69) | 15 Oct 05 |
| Another stunning performance by Liam this Saturday matinee. The quality of his dancing never ceases to amaze and the added guymnastics to the electricity routine was totally awesome and had the audience applauding well before the end of the routine. Peter Darling (choreographer) must be incredibly pleased with Liam and proud of his performance overall.This show will be left with a huge void when Liam comes to the end of his contract. - 212.158.203.150) | 15 Oct 05 |
| Loved it. Went with an American who did not know the politics, the film or even what a Geordie was. She loved it too. Saw Mary Poppins and Billy Elliott in one trip with Superbreak. It was the best weekend! People who live near these theatres are so lucky. We will ceratinly go again. - 213.1.45.6) | 15 Oct 05 |
| i cant believe people actually say that the songs are poor and the music is bad........... the songs are phnominal and so amazingly thought up. the song billy sings back to his mother at the end was excellent, and deffinatly finishes the show off well. also the very happy finally that they all take part in at the end is also great so people with the bad reviews... iduno wat show u watched and for the person who sed people who lik this show r easily pleased and connected 2 the show, i am not easily pleased and im not connected to the show. george mguire is an excellent dacer singer and actor and ive payed 200 pound 2 c them so far and it will continue keep up the excellent work charlottexx - 193.112.229.150) | 13 Oct 05 |
| what a load of rubbish, rubbish songs no jam song like film a waste of my money - 213.120.114.16) | 11 Oct 05 |
| My visit to Thursday's matinee (6th Oct.) was my seventh altogether so far. Liam was fantastic and gets better and better. He thoroughly deserved the standing ovation at the end. Seeing this show repeadedly only enhances one's sheer admiration for such talent, energy and the 'feel-good factor'. I saw Leon on his second appearance last month. He was quite amazing, particularly the quality of his voice and his ballet. I spoke to a man later at the bus stop who had come from Cape Town. He agreed that this is a phenomenal show. - 195.92.67.66) | 07 Oct 05 |
| Billy Elliot - Is a really good production and in my view adds to the film, with good performances. When I saw it we had Gillian Kirkpatrick as Mrs Wilkinson, Leon Cooke was Billy and Liam Mower Michael. But as a night out costing over £100 it has some poor songs, is this the best musical in London? I have to say I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would. - 195.93.21.100) | 29 Sep 05 |
| I had the pleasure of seeing this show on the 19th which just happened to be the first performance of Leon Cooke as Billy. This was the first time I saw the show so I can't compare his performance to any of the others. But, I thought he was brilliant. He voice was great and his dancing was outstanding. I only saw one tiny mistake in the show. When he picked up the letter from the Royal Ballet School to read it he dropped it as the bedroom set was started to rise! But luckily it didn't drop all the down to the stage. He snagged it in time. It was also the first performance of Joey Philips as Michael. He was hysterical! I don't know if it was his own twist on the charactor with some of his "movements" and the like or what but he had me laughing hard! The entire show was fantastic. The best musical I have ever seen. I came a long way to see the show and it was well worth it. I am looking forward to the CD coming out soon. - 69.250.75.227) | 27 Sep 05 |
| hey havnt read any reviews on leon yet and was wondering how he got on?im sure he was great but it would be cool to hear form one of t fans.also loved the reviews on james' last night they were graet,even made me cry wish i had been there!! - 195.218.110.36) | 26 Sep 05 |
| A second viewing only confirmed for me what a sensational piece of work this is; I laughed and cried maybe even more than the first time, and appreciated just how clever, ambitious and well-crafted the show is (was too stunned the first time to take away more than the broadest of impressions). There aren't many shows which engage the heart and mind equally, and which appeal both to discerning regular theatregoers and to people who go once in a blue moon for a special treat. This great great musical is one of them; a unique and enthralling show, and a benchmark by which British musicals will be measured for a long time to come. - 195.82.123.181) | 26 Sep 05 |
| Disappointed,if that's what you think, why did you spend your time and/or money in going back and watching it again? - 213.2.158.163) | 25 Sep 05 |
| This show doesn't improve on a subsequent viewing. Elton John's music is unmemorable; the characterisation is poor. The acting wooden. It was simply a much better as a movie. What next? Billy Elliot on Ice? - 82.108.138.196) | 23 Sep 05 |
| I also saw James's last performance on Sat 17th sept and although previously I had seen Liam perform on the other 3 times I have seen it I wouldn't have missed James's & Ashley's last night for the world, and what a night it was I saw Lee Hall, Stephen Daldry and also thought it was really nice to see the other Billy's parents at the show supporting James & Ashley. The atmosphere was fantastic and I felt as an audience member you were welcomed into the performance to feel and be part of the dance, laughter, tears and hope. Lee Halls lyrics are great and I feel touch by them in every song and can't wait for the cast recording to be released. The whole cast are amazing and look like they get on well outside the show and this comes through in their great perfomances and dancing. My final thought on is thatvBilly Elliot will definately take you on a journey and leave you feeling totally inspired and hopeful and wanting to return. Trust me you'll love it so get onto the victoria palace box office and book your tickets NOW! Aaron - 195.93.21.72) | 19 Sep 05 |
| Jon's comments on Saturday night are spot on. Those of us who were there for Jame's last night found it a very moving and memorable occasion for the reasons given. The true nature of the 'family' was brought home for me with the additional curtain call dance tears and hugs of the three Billys for each other and Ashley. I doubt there was a dry eye in the house.Certainly for me it was a huge emotional roller-coaster of an evening and the thought of Liam and George's leaving is almost too much to contemplate. By the way George turned in a fantastic performance for the afternoon matinee with the audience applauding his build up to the boxing scene with Michael. I understand this has only happened once before also with George. Good luck Leon and Joey for Monday. - 62.6.139.13) | 19 Sep 05 |
| I was very grateful for Jon Bodsworth's moving review of Saturday evening and James and Ashley's final performances. Like many others one starts to feel somehow part of a whole family with this show and repeated visiting doesn't lessen the experience. So a report like his is very helpful as otherwise one simply would not have been aware of those moving events. Good luck to the new triumvirate and thanks to the those who have just left. - 195.92.67.66) | 19 Sep 05 |
| A fantastically moving piece of original theatre. Whilst not one of the tunes instantly sticks in your head, the strenth of feeling and passion which both score and lyric attempt to create and generates, most certainly do. The dance routines are wonderfully imaginative, especially the 'Solidarity' number which combined the picket line confrontation with a little girls ballet lesson. The individual performances are faultless, especially Billy (James Lomas on 15th Sept. It;s reassuring that British talent can produce work of such raw emotion, energey, and above all brilliance. - 193.37.180.1) | 18 Sep 05 |
| I saw the Saturday evening show which was James's last performance. From where I was sitting I could see Liam and George in the audience. Leon Cooke was also there (the new Billy) along with the other two Michaels and another boy who I assume will be the new Michael (Joey Philips). Other children from the various casts were also there. Stephen Daldry made a speech at the beginning explaining that they were saying goodbye to two boys and asking for forgiveness if there was more emotion on show than usual. He was obviously moved when he said it was the end of over two years work with James and Ashley. Well that was sure to get the audience on their side and it proceeded to be a wonderful performance. There were numerous add-libbs both from James and the other members of the cast and the audience was whooping and cheering. It was all the more moving in the sad bits with James very obviously affected. He added a few extra somersaults and stuff and was just tremendous. He really pulled the stops out and absolutely flew off the wall in what was the best bit of acrobatics I've seen him do at the end of "Electricity". Of course the audience went mad at the end. Then Tim Healy made a short speech saying what a pleasure it had been to work with James and Ashley and invited their parents onto the stage. I'd noticed that Liam and George had slipped away so I wasn't surprised when they then joined Asley and James on stage for an emotional series of hugs. Then the music started up again and Liam, Ashley, James and George all danced together. And then another round of deafening applause of course. It was a very special experience which anyone there was so lucky to see. - 212.100.250.209) | 18 Sep 05 |
| At Thursday's matinee (15th) Liam gave a magnificent performance. His singing, acting, dancing and professionalism was first rate. And the audience roared their approval well before the end. - 195.92.67.66) | 16 Sep 05 |
| Well Mia I do not smoke, drink sparingly, live near London and make other economies and sacrifices so I can go to the show when I can. This show is the absolute tops and I understand your felings totally which are shared by many who want to go again and again. There is alsways something different to catch our attention as well. By the way Liam danced last night (13th September). His 'electricity' was absolutely superb the best I have seen and had the audience roaring acclaim long before the routine ended. This lad will go far big time if he keeps up this standard. WELL DONE LIAM, no praise is high enough for what you demonstrated last night in your singing, acting and above all dancing. - 62.6.139.13) | 14 Sep 05 |
| guys how do you afford to go so often.im sooo jealous!!i love it and would go everyday if i could but alas its just not possible.brilliant show a must see.mia - 195.218.107.138) | 13 Sep 05 |
| Nice comment Malcolm. Very true what you say. I am sure you will catch us addicts up soon. Jon, I saw those evening little hiccups as well but I am told Liam has even dropped the chair in that routine and it is very difficult. What profesionals George and Brad are. The lipstick broke leaving a Billy with no lipstick,their head mikes crackled, the camera did not flash but they treated it all as a great laugh in the true tradition that 'The show must go on'.Well done lads. This week we say good bye to James and Ashley. Thanks a lot boys you have been really brilliant and we all wish you the very best and that 'the dream' really does live on for both of you. - 62.6.139.13) | 12 Sep 05 |
| Compared to Jon and Alan Roger I feel a bit of a novice in having only seen the show four times! But it is fabulous and I plan to see it many more before April. The reason it is so popular is that it strikes a cord of overcoming adversity though sheer effort and dedication. It is also heartwarming in that it shows the talent inherent in youth, and a real hope for the future. - 195.92.168.176) | 12 Sep 05 |
| Compared to Jon and Alan Roger I feel a bit of a novice in having only seen the show four times! But it is fabulous and I plan to see it many more before April. The reason it is so popular is that it strikes a cord of overcoming adversity though sheer effort and dedication. It is also heartwarming in that it shows the talent inherent in youth, and a real hope for the future. - 195.92.168.176) | 12 Sep 05 |
| I agree with Alan about Liam's singing. I saw him last week for the 6th time and his singing and general vocal projection was much better than when I first saw him just after the opening. I also saw George Saturday evening (10th) and he was certainly on form with just a small stumble during 'Electricity' and that chair nearly got away from him in the ballet. Repeated viewing hasn't decreased my enthusiasm for this wonderful show. - 195.92.67.66) | 11 Sep 05 |
| Kay I think George and Liam's contracts are up for review on December 3rd so it is not a done deal that thy leave on that day.So you may be lucky if you make it over again soon. I saw both boys yesterday as I attended the matinee and the evening shows. George was in fine form in the evening with a very resposive audience. The matinee(Liam) audience was much slower to get into the swing of things which was a great shame as Liam's performance was superlative. His dancing was as good as ever and his acting has come along a lot as well. What made it for me however was his singing. When I first saw Liam as Billy in May his voice was a bit thin but yesterday in 'Electricty'he was almost pitch perfect and of near cathedral quality.The singing lessons he has had have really paid off 100%.Whichever Billy you get you will be in for a great show and despite the previous comment I find the music in this show both varied and memorable. - 82.111.128.3) | 11 Sep 05 |
| Thanks alan im soooo relieved!!!although i dont think ill see it again before december as i live in ireland and am in my final year in college.Tear!but im def gonna go see the other guys asap if i cant see George and Liam. - 195.218.110.135) | 09 Sep 05 |
| Was at Matinee on 8/9/05. Was excellent and well acted, but the music is a bit unmemorable and having seen Guys and Dolls the previous evening, felt it had more to offer than Billy Elliot - 212.100.250.207) | 09 Sep 05 |
| We were expecting a "Good show" What we got was an exhiarating and truly memerable evening.We were delighted to see James Lomas performance as "Billy" His performance moved us and his dancing was quite thrilling and amazing. It was clear to us at the end when everybody was stood appauding that we had seen something very special.You could see James had enjoyed giving us such pleasure. We will always treasure his performance of "Billy" as im sure other countless theatre-goers will. Congratulations to the whole cast and company. - 195.92.168.167) | 05 Sep 05 |
| My family and I went to see a Sat Matinee show the main character being Liam Mower, how perfectly amazing and outstanding is he, the show was excellent, enjoyed by all, and Liam we are all so proud to have seen the talent you have, see you again soon, your simply the best xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx - 212.50.160.44) | 04 Sep 05 |
| Kay relax, it is only James and Ashley that conclude on the 17th September and that is bad enough!!Liam and Geoerge and their Michaels are contracted until the beginning of December. I have had excellent reports about Leon Cooke who replaces James. He has a ballet background and is said to be very exciting in rehearsals. I am looking forward to seeing his interpretation of the role as well. I am sure all you young ladies will be very impressed with him as you are with the other Billys. - 83.46.54.102) | 04 Sep 05 |
| was just comin on to ask if anyone knew when the boys were being switched when i read from katie its at the end of this month!!im soooo upset i dont want to see the others!! can anyone verify if this is right as i know that brad kavanagh doesnt finish till december and wouldnt they change the child casts at the same time?p.s katie you ROCK!! i think george and james were scared of me too i practically attacked them!!and yes breige that benelin pen/highlighter was very cool!!but at least you know someone cool has it!! - 195.218.107.43) | 03 Sep 05 |
| Can't even begin to describe how incredible the show was when I went on the 1st September!!! I took my 3 mates as I'd already seen it once and they loved it too, although they weren't crying when we met George after the show. I'm 17 and I adore them all! I've actually gone mad, I love the show sooo much. I want to see it again but this time with James because I've now seen Liam and George. However, I do know that their run ends at the end of the month and I want to see him before then, and hopefully get my picture taken with him like I did with George. (The poor kid must have exhausted and thought I was crazy, I asked him if I could give him a hug!!) I love the talent that all three of the boys exude and I am just soo overly impressed by them. Another fantastic night, and I told issac james how great he was as well!! - 195.92.168.164) | 02 Sep 05 |
| oh yes and another thing.on 26th agust,brad kavannagh you stole my pen!we were waiting to talk to you while this other woman was talking to you &she asked for a pen.she continued to talk to you and when we turned around to see if you were free,you had gone,pen and all!i did loved that pen as well,it has a higlighter on it! - 159.134.163.115) | 01 Sep 05 |
| I saw george and he was fantastic!! i also think he is sooo fit and i think i am falling 4 him hehe!! well da show was amazing n also well done 2 jessica bastic vines who is a ballet girl she was also fantastic lol. i loved it so much i am hopefully goin again in sept. well done 2 all the cast!! - 81.130.67.150) | 30 Aug 05 |
| Just to clear this up, it was George performing on the 26th August, as I also went to see the show that night and I am a member of his family. James was standby that night. I agree the show was fantastic !!! - 88.110.173.1) | 30 Aug 05 |
| sorry Kay - just a note, I was convinced it was James, then at one point doubted myself and believed it was George too. However got his autograph after (perhaps James could have been the standby they have backstage, however he was wearing all the clothes and still sweating a bit and looked exhausted. Plus everyone was congragulating him) and he signed it James beside his name and it certainly looked exactly like the one on stage. Again could be wrong but strange coincidence. However sounds like all boys are great so I would have been happy to see any perform! - 62.253.64.18) | 29 Aug 05 |
| ah,yes,the famous Billy Elliot musical that my friend,Kay,has spoken of so dearly and with such a passion.as she said,she was delighted to find that it was George preforming that night and i must admit,i;m glad as well.he was just so enthusastic and full of energy.i was not disappointed,in fact it exceeded all my expectations and i would go see it again.as for meeting some of cast afterwards,george was such a dote and seemed genuinely happy to be there,meeting and greeting! throughly enjoyed all the preformances,the dancing and the music.a must see! - 159.134.162.133) | 29 Aug 05 |
| first off Kerri the boy who"had such raw energy and talent that it was just so refreshing and natural" on friday the 26th was george not james,and i totally agree with you,he was brillaint.it was my second time seeing him and he was perfect again,he was sooooo funny and entertaining.i brought two of my friends to see it and was delighted when i saw that it was george who would performing as hes by far my fav billy.he looks the part, sounds great and is such a brialliant dancer,he moves with the music perfectly.we met him afterwards and he was so cheerful, and happy to pose for photos and sign autographs.he was just so adorable!!anyway back to the musical GO SEEE IT!! its totally amazing!!you will not regret it and im sure ull want to go again and again just like me!! - 195.218.110.206) | 29 Aug 05 |
| Saw James as Billy last night (26th august) and he was outstanding. I took mum as a birthday present and we both agreed after we haven't left the theatre feeling fully satisfied for a long time, was especially nice to see "House Full" board up outside up to an hour before the show started. I think if I was to explain to someone (esp someone who maybe doesn't attend many musicals) what made me enjoy it so much they might not understand. The music certainly didn't stand out, the singing was strong but nothing exceptional...but yet the whole package was just perfect. Some of the best ensemble work I have personally seen. The whole cast (esp James) seemed to enjoy themselves and I think that showed and the energy bounced between the audience and cast. James had such raw energy and talent that it was just so refreshing and natural. The dance just before the interval with the police was incredible as was Electricity which had me feeling shivers up my spine, not too mention the dance with Billy's older self which was beautiful. James (and other Billy's) must have so much strength I'd assume to be able to hold themselves up on the wire and in certain positions. As a student and the fact that theatre tickets are reaching crazy prices now I'm often reluctant to splash out on top price but believe me I'd happily do so again! highly recommend it - 62.253.64.18) | 27 Aug 05 |
| Billie Elliot was AMAZING, James Lomas played billie and i couldnt believe how brilliant he was. Billie Elliot was the best musical i have ever seen and would defenatly go and see it again. i love you james xxx - 81.174.209.84) | 27 Aug 05 |
| I saw George MacGuire as Billy on Saturday night from the restricted views at the front of the stalls - didn't matter that they were restricted though, I thought the whole show wa one of the best (if not *the* best) musicals I have ever seen. I simply couldn't believe the talent of the boys George and his "Michael" they and the whole ensemble were simply amazing! It is wonderful - go see!!! - 213.38.153.28) | 22 Aug 05 |
| I agree with your comments on James Jon and those on the overall general performance.I think James held back on the top notes as his voice cracked badly in one song on Friday night which must have unnerved him. I fear anno dominae is kicking in for James!!The rapport between him and Ashley is superb and the best and you get a real feeling that they are real good mates on and off stage. I agree also about Gillian Kirkpatrick who for me does not quite have the same emotionally world weary downtrodden feel as Hayden Gwynne. The husband part has not been there for several weeks now so I guess has been cut from the script. It is a throw back to the film and you do not miss it really.I agree that regular viewing does help one notice the subtle litle changes. However the impromptu repartee in word and mime between James' Billy and Mr Braithwaite in their dance routine stands out for me as 'class' acting by both performers. - 62.6.139.13) | 16 Aug 05 |
| I saw the same matinee as Alan Roger (below) so I am interested in his comments. I've heard James in better voice, he did seem to pull back a bit at some of the top notes which don't have the power that George gives them. His performance of "Electricity' was the best I've seen dance with a nice clean back somersault at the end. Though I've seen him do the earlier ballet scenes better it was still an amazing performance. Ashley has always been my favourite Michael and I will miss him and James. It was the first time I'd seen Gillian Kirkpatrick understudy as Mrs Wilkingson. She wasn't always as audible as Haydn Gwynne but otherwise I don't think there's much to choose between them. The visual gag when Tim Healey as dad turns to speak to Mrs Wilkingson and finds himself staring straight at her bust doesn't work quite as well with Gillian Kirkpatrick as the height difference isn't as great but I don't think the audience noticed. Where did Mrs Wilkinson's husband go in the scene where 'dad' visits the house? (He usually opens the door). And why was there an extra line of dialogue from dad at one point? Actually neither matter at all but I've been fascinated by the slight changes that repeated viewing has made me notice. - 195.92.67.78) | 15 Aug 05 |
| What an inspiration seeing James Lomas perform three times straight off this weekend. His performance at the matinee on the 13th August was sensational and had the audience in raptures.His mother being in the front row added to the rapport he had with what was a very responsive audience. James is so emotional, plus great acting and singing and his ballet is improving all the time. Such a tour de force especially as the lad had a nose bleed on Friday night. James we shall miss you and Ashley (Michael) lots when you move on. Good luck for the future. - 62.6.139.13) | 15 Aug 05 |
| Having performed on stage in london on several occasions, at 16 i can only be humbled by Billy Elliot The Musical. I saw George Maguire as Billy, and I was Absoloutely blown away by every aspect of the show. I will say that i am 6"1 and the Victoria Palace theatre is notoriously uncomfortable and cramped, HOWEVER the sheer bewilderment I experienced whilst watching the stage took my mind off my legs being by my ears for the 3-hour duration. George was fantastic, he was natural, gifted and talented portraying in dance emotion rivalled only by accomplished vocalists before him. I have never seen a show more than once, but i would pay double my ticket price to see it again tomorrow. Outstanding! - 62.255.64.10) | 12 Aug 05 |
| Stupendous. Original, exciting and life enhancing. I saw George Maguire as Billy who has an astonishing talent. But great work from Hayden Gwynne, Tim Healy and the entire cast. - 80.177.231.164) | 09 Aug 05 |
| I went to see this show feeling despondent and fed up and left feeling revived and inspired-very few musicals have had such a strong impact on me. A fantastic show, I was gripped from beginning to end and I would say it's the most inspiring and uplifting musical I have seen in years-it beats Poppins and The Producers in my opinion.The acting talent on display is outstanding. I loved the grittyness of the show too, a real breath of fresh air. This is a brave production -I'm glad they used some strong language and kept the "boy dressng up in womens clothes" angle-this is partly what gives it an edge over other West End shows, it feels raw and real and daring. Curiously, for all I enjoyed it, I can not remember a single tune-but it didn't seem to matter. I can't wait to see it again. - 212.135.157.226) | 29 Jul 05 |
| I paid my third visit to see Billy Elliot at Thursday's matinee (28th July) and was treated to another astoundingly spectacular performance by George Maguire, as well as the whole cast. Sitting right back in row V of the stalls, however, I was very glad I had theatre glasses with me so that I could see the faces of the performers clearly. I strongly recommend people take along a pair if you are sitting near the back. I had to hunt around to find a pair as they don't seem so easily obtainable now. Eventually I discovered that the Stockport Binocular and Telescope Centre sells them on 0161 429 8002, ask for 'Rick'. They are excellent quality Russian glasses and well worth the £29.00 they cost. Do ask for a pair with adjustable lenses. One small comment for the organisers: could you please ensure that the correct names of the performers are shown where they are displayed near the merchandising section. Immediately at the start of the perfomance it said James Lomas and halfway through the performance was changed to the correct name, George Maguire. - 195.92.168.176) | 29 Jul 05 |
| Saw this on Saturday 23rd at 730. All I can say is wow! Saw Liam Mower as Billy, and I think it would be unfair to call any of them the 'best', and I dont have anything to compare it with anyway as this was my first time, but oh my god this boy is talented. As is the entire cast. We were sat in row C (seats 26/27 in the stalls) restricted view, these arnt bad value, I wouldnt however want to be in seats 28 and higher as these really are on the side and would be an awkward angle. I could go on and one about how much I loved this show, its a real asset to the West End. Its gritty and real, moving (I had tears in my eyes at one point) and funny, its not corny or cheesy and in my opnion is the best family musical around because it sends out a great message in a realistic way. Some people may be shocked by the amount of swearing, especially by the kids, but if you kid is over 10 then they have probably heard it all before at school. Remember this is set during the miners strike in the 80s so its not going to be like 'Annie' and thank god for that! Musically I do admit that it isnt that strong, other than 'Electricity' I cant really remember and tunes, but its not that kind of show, lyrics are excellent. Basically everything gels together and provides a very unique show. As Elton Johns says in the programme, 'Art can inspire you, transform live, make you look at life in a different way and take you places well beyond your wildest dreams'. This perfectly sums up my view on theatre (when done well) and is the perfect comment on Billy Elliot! - 81.174.228.177) | 25 Jul 05 |
| I saw Liam as Billy last night (Saturday July 23) which was the fifth time I've seen him. It was the best performance I've seen him give. He was in particularly good voice and, of course, his dancing was incomparable. Of the three Billys, George and Liam have improved the most over the run which isn't to take anything away from James it's just that the other two have been catching him up. James still takes the honours for acting but Liam's dancing flows so naturally from his character that his is the most satisfying performance. George has improved the most over the period of the run and his natural cheekiness just can't help showing through and his energy levels make his performance irresistible. Daniel Coll understudied for Tim Healy as 'Dad' which unfortunately emphasised just how good Tim Healy is. Tim Healy can get a laugh with a single word or gesture. These same moments in Daniel Coll's performance just passed by without a murmur from the audience. It also emphasised the problem that Joe Caffrey looks too old to play Billy's brother Tony. With Daniel Coll as Dad the age difference just did not look credible. Trevor Fox as 'George' adlibbed to hilarious effect in his speech at the beginning to Act 2. A five minute pause in the production caused by a hole being left in the stage when 'Billy's Bedroom' retracted didn't dim the audience's enthusiasm which was as ecstatic as ever. I've seen most of the other musicals running in London at the moment but I keep coming back to this one which remains the best evening in the theatre that I've ever spent and judged by Saturday's performance is maintaining it's quality. - 195.92.67.77) | 24 Jul 05 |
| Most people are agreed that this is a great show. Its success springs from the appeal and talent of the child actors, including the Michaels and Debbies. Their performances are outstanding, not least for their ability to perform consistently - throughtout each show and through an exhausting run of nearly 3 months now. It is this youthful stamina and resilience, almost as much as their singing and dancing skills, that marks them out as truly exceptional. The fact that a 13-year-old (12 when he started) can carry on his shoulders the success or failure of a West End Show should be no surprise to those used to working with children; I never fail to be amazed at their capacity to amaze. That said, the weaknesses among the adult cast which have already been noted are not such as to spoil the overall enjoyment, especially as this is a show about a boy discovering his dream and going for it. As such all 3 Billys (I have only seen one, but the reviews rate them all) with their natural innocence take us back to our own childhoods and what might have been for us. So the show succeeds on another level - it involves us personally with it. For this alone I am very grateful to the Billy I saw on the 14th (Liam) and the wonderful supporting cast. - 81.152.80.78) | 22 Jul 05 |
| Saw the show last night.....and WHAT A SHOW!!!! James Lomas was Billy and he was absolutely outstanding. His reply letter to dead mum was so moving...the tears rolled down his face and dripped off of his cheek...it was so emotional..he was just excellent! His run up the wall at the end of Electricity was phenomenal, a performance he was clearly pleased with as he punched the air after, with the biggest smile across his face. Outstanding performances from all of the cast, from the main characters to the ballet girls to the little boy with the lollipop! Brilliant musical score ...a big hand to the guys in the orchestra pit too!! This truly is the best British musical I believe, ever to be made. A definite must see again and again and again!!! - 62.25.106.209) | 20 Jul 05 |
| Despite starting late on the 15th and although the staff did not change the board from the matinee when James Lomas performed surely no-one could mistake Liam Mower's assured performance. He was as outstanding as all previous reviews have claimed. I understand each boy's dance routines is different (James does a backflip off the wall, which Liam certainly doesn't). I would be interested to see James' interpretation as he is older and, like George, seems more streetwise than Liam whose appeal, other than his superb dancing, is his air of innocence of the world. - 81.152.73.92) | 20 Jul 05 |
| Saw Fri 15th.was amazed as I was the first time! James lomas is outstanding! The young actor is so profesional. Tim Healy had been changed, as well as the bloke that played george, but it was still as good. In the scene with his dead Mum, James was over come by emotion. How does someone so young do this. I was also crying at his performance. What a talent! The standing ovation at the end was well deserved. Any one who goes to see this will not be dissapointed. Long live Billy Elliot! - 195.92.168.175) | 16 Jul 05 |
| I was interested in light of "H's" comment below to see how Saturday's Matinee (July 16) compared with earlier performances (I've seen a lot). I find it difficult to believe, following a considerable number of conversations with staff at the Victoria, that they employ any 'Lazy gits' and wonder if the explanation is the same as a similar experience of my own a few weeks ago. The team ready to perform the child leads was changed only minutes before the performance and after the names had been posted in the foyer. It also caused a delay in the start time. There is always a back-up team in reserve and it's not only the character of Billy but Michael and Debbie as well who can cause a change of cast at the last minute. Saturday's Matinee was as good as any performance I've seen with no evidence of tiredness from the cast. Tessa Worsley understudied as Grandma and was perhaps not in the best of voice and didn't find as much humour in the part as Ann Emery does. The character of George was also played by an understudy but with little to chose between his performance and that of the regular Trevor Fox. (An understudy in another role the previous week had actually been better than the usual performer). George Maguire as Billy was as energetic as ever. His attempt at a "Donald O'Connor style" somersault off the wall didn't quite come off perfectly but it's the first time I've seen he do what is usually a James Lomas speciality. - 195.92.67.67) | 16 Jul 05 |
| Please can the people at Billy Elliot get there acts together as the sell out crowd last night would think they saw James Lomas as Billy but it was Liam Mower that did the show as guess some lazy git forgot to change the board! And it would be nice when the travelling gin London is so difficult at present that they could get the thing off on time, 11 mins late it was last night and understand that is the norm, those minutes can mean the difference in getting or missing a train. The show is great and have seen it twice before, but already looking a bit stale and tired ,the cast look knackered and were very much going through the motions I felt last night. - 195.93.21.100) | 15 Jul 05 |
| Attended the show on a trip from U.S. Best show I saw in London. Very moving, brilliantly staged, and performed. Only weakness is Elton John's music, but this can be forgiven, because everything else is in place, and the music sometimes works to the advantage of the narrative. This really is a joyful experience in the theatre. Bill - 207.200.116.198) | 10 Jul 05 |
| I have seen the show twice and it is fabulous. I plan to see it several more times. I thought the film excellent but the show is even better! - 195.92.168.176) | 10 Jul 05 |
| Saw the show Sat Mat 09 and was totally knocked out.. wasn't expecting such a powerful piece.. I am a teacher of drama and so I guess I will always be moved by the 'give a kid a chance' theme and throw in a good dead ghost of a mother and it's sorted!! The closing section of act one was a bit of a stunner, excellent!! I saw the George Maguire version of Billy.. and erm well he was quite astonishing.. so congratulations to the team..To Sir Elt for some excellent songs..(am looking forward to the album)... and to my mate Steve who made the snow machines!!!!!! - 86.129.27.151) | 10 Jul 05 |
| i have read some of the reviews that people have posted,i don't think thay would reconize a great show if it smacked then in the mouth, it is full of energy and Elton Johns music is lifting and he is a very talented man, and the same goes to Lee Hall who wrote the lyrics. every show is bound to have there trip up's but this show is a must and i disagree with any one who says it crap. - 81.136.97.181) | 08 Jul 05 |
| this shows is pure enjoyment, it is a breath taking musical and very inspiring. i have seen the show over 30 times and am still going. all three boys who play the npart of Billy are fantastic and each have amazing qualities. the cast are fab and i hope this shows runs for quite along time for different generations to see. - 81.148.24.182) | 05 Jul 05 |
| m, i simply felt that they required to wear jocks and so I'm very interested to hear that they do wear them. I would also like to apologise to people who have so obviously took what I said the wrong way, I did not simply stare but just found it distractive during the shorts scenes. And m, I'm extremely interested as to how you would know for certain that the boys wear jocks as that does appera to be an extremely personal fact that you know about them - 195.93.21.100) | 03 Jul 05 |
| As a person involed in the show I can tell you that the boys DO wear jockstraps! they also wear shorts under the trcksuits! Hope this makes the people concerned happier.(They also have to wear 3 pairs of footwear at once,Although you probably didnt get that far down) - 195.92.168.170) | 03 Jul 05 |
| For goodness sake Sarah....had you managed to pull your face away from the boys groin areas, you may have noticed that they are in shorts for a small part at the beginning of the show. The rest of the time they wear tracksuits and are constantly moving around! You do know you can move your head and eyes away from certain areas you find uncomfortable....you don't have to keep staring. I'm guessing that your rating indicated your love of the music as you failed to comment on the complete show, which by the way is FANTASTIC!! - 62.252.0.10) | 03 Jul 05 |
| Just scanning through previous revies posted on here an I noticed a certain review written on the undergarments of the young cast members. I would also like to agree with this comment because I also feel it may be more useful for the Billy's etc to wear jockstraps underneath clothing because I had also left the theatre slightly bemused as to why the boys groin areas were constantly on show throughout the performance - 195.93.21.100) | 02 Jul 05 |
| WOW! I've sen it today....I stil can't believe it...the best musical I've seen in years (and I see quite a lot each year in london and NY) - 80.187.144.94) | 01 Jul 05 |
| Having seen all three Billys more than once it is interesting to compare their various performances. All three are never less than superb but they do vary from performance to performance. The second time I saw George he was in markedly better voice than the first time. He also pirouetted with greater poise and grace on the second occasion though he did miss a cue he soon got back on track. Liam had a slight “off” night a couple of Saturdays ago with quite a few fluffed lines but his dancing never faltered. James seems the most consistent which is not surprising as he is the oldest. I have to keep reminding myself that we are dealing with such young performers as the standards are so high and the points I’ve made were very minor. The adults aren’t immune though. Tony (Joe Caffrey) put his foot through the scenery a few weeks ago (it was patched up with masking tape for the second act and has been replaced now). According to the radio the cast recording isn’t due until the Autumn. How about “Merry Christmas Maggie Thatcher” for the Christmas Number One? I'm so glad the film makers, who understand the material better than anyone else, had the courage to produce it themselves rather than handing it over to the sort of theatre producers who would have turned it into yet another musical that was easy on the eye, bland on the ear and totally devoid of emotion. The West End is full of them. This is something really different and much the best musical to have opened in years. - 195.92.67.66) | 29 Jun 05 |
| I was disappointed with it. It looked like a stage musical designed by film makers - curiously unengaging without the ability for a 'closeup'. Elton John's music doesn't stand up - luckily the lyrics do. The characterisation is curious - why make the dance teacher look and sound like a foul-mouthed tart? The real story of Billy Elliot was told in the film of the same name. This is a parody; the film makers should have had the courage to hand the project over to producers who know about theatre, - 212.100.250.208) | 28 Jun 05 |
| love it,love it,LOVE IT!!!The second i left i wanted to go back in again, i could watch it over and over and never get bored.it was brillaint, full of emotion tears, laughter and tantrums!!i loved james and george in the part they were both fantastic and born to play billy!!not sure which i preferred they both had scenes that were theirs eg james letter scene and georges scenes when he lashes out at the end of the first half.havnt seen liam yet but would like to.its really annoying not knowing whos going to be performing until 30 mins before the show!!im determined to force all my friends to go as they dont understand what im raving on about!!!saying that they liked the movie but didnt see why i loved it so much, i hope the musical will show them.i totally agree with the view that tony is too old, i mean why is he like thirty? he should be about 20-21!! jamie bell would be so cool in the part although im not sure he could pass off the part of a rough guy.another thing i dont like is that the billys can only play for 6 months.i just cant see anyone else other than james, george or liam in the part.anyway if you havnt seen this yet then get out there and go now or youll regret it!! - 195.218.107.152) | 28 Jun 05 |
| went to see billy elliot twice and thought it was brillaint!! i love it so much im going to make another trip from ireland just to see it. saw george and james and thought both were brilliant esp james during the letter scene.Nicky - 195.218.107.204) | 27 Jun 05 |
| Better than the movie and a 'must see' for everyone who loves the magic of the musical theatre. Yes it is gritty; yes it does project a political view from the miners' end of the telescope but it also provides a balanced opinion and a snapshot of a way of life which has all but disappeared.. The music is very appropriate and avoids being cloying and agonised. The book and its inate humour kept my interest and Hayden Gwynne's performance was a revelation. - 62.253.64.18) | 26 Jun 05 |
| Congratulations Stephen Daldry, for a fantastic and memoriable show. I agree with other reviws, spectacular viewing. Funny, Heartwarming and produced with a very talented and professional cast, the choices could not have been portrayed better. Applause to all concerned, but must agree with other reviewers, certain memories adhere to you. Mr. Braithwaite a laugh a minute, he acts out the part fantastically.Michael (Ryan)his talent brilliant, loved the duet with Billy(Liam)still laugh when telling friends about him, he has a very cheeky face, one to remember. Mrs Wilkinson(Haydn)common as muck but beautiful, heart of gold. And yes Billy (Liam)a boy every one is going to want, his talent I must agree was born within, his acting and singing will come with time but his dancing, enormously has to be his strong point, street, robotic, modern, tap, ballet perfectly done. The next Fred Astaire / Carlos Acosta, a definate ovation to him alone,a special memory not to be forgotton. - 212.50.160.44) | 23 Jun 05 |
| I could not agree more with your comments StanT. I went Friday night and Liam was again brilliant. I assume your comment refers to Stephen Daldry(director) and the fact the Billys can only act for the 6 months of their contract. Whether this is governed by stage law I do not know but if there was a petition to whoever to keep Liam and Michael on in there roles for a further six months then I would sign it tomorrow like a shot they are so good (This is not to undervalue the other excellent Billys either). Liam's voice will still be unbroken so let him please continue to 'live and dance the dream' after his present contract ends if at all possible. - 62.6.139.13) | 22 Jun 05 |
| Went to see the show on 18th June Sat Matinee, I agree with all other reviews, it was fantastic.Funny, sad and very enjoyable, I did not want the show to end, could of sat there forever, was definately entertained and so was the rest of the audience, amid the crowd at one point all you could hear was a little girl laughing out loud, so much for the critics that say it is not for children because of the swearing involved, the children that attended the show I was at absolutely loved it.The cast were brilliant to say the least, all portraying a different memory. Haydn Gwynne the part definately belongs to you, Joe and Tim, loved the father and son duet,I cried. Mr,Braithwaite very funny when dancing with Mrs Wilkinson and Billy, still laughing when telling people.The miners when the strike is over and they sing whilst going back down the pit, tears again, very emotional.The Maggie Thatcher song is very catching, still singing it to myself.Michael (Ryan Longbottom)what an amazing actor this boy is going to be,very funny, the expressions on his face are incredible, not bad for an 11 year old . savouring the best till last Liam Mower (Billy Elliot) was never off the stage, his energy and his obvious love for dancing drew every breath I had, this small boy is incredible, amazing and will stay within my mind for a very long time,No wonder he passed for the Royal Ballet School, for one so young his talent is a gift born to him, when he was lifted on the wire performing to Swan Lake his grace in his movements made it look as though the wire was not there and your breath was taken from you. The dance routine when auditioning for the Royal Ballet to the song Electricity, incredible, words expressed by his feet and body movements, his tap excellent to say the least. His family must be so proud of him, as I am just expressing my views, and I hope and wish him further success for his future,A choice you had to take eh Stephen. Thankyou for a very entertaing show, it deserves whats to come. - 212.50.160.44) | 21 Jun 05 |
| Superb - possibly the best stage show I've ever seen. - 81.130.125.252) | 21 Jun 05 |
| Saw the show again last night. OMG...those kids continue to 'shine' beyond belief !! Their timing when delivering their lines is absolutely spot on. How they keep straight faces is beyond me, they must be dying to laugh along too. What stars. James Lomas(Billy) and Emma Hudson(Debbie) make me cry with laughter...as does Ashley Lloyd (Michael)with James....loving the lipstick!!. Didn't manage to catch George in yesterdays matinee, but a friend did and thought he was fantastic!! A HUGE thanks to all of the cast....especiallly the kids, for never failing to entertain, night after night. There are no words that could describe how incredible they all are. The show is simply the best in all round entertainment. If you dare to miss it then your lives will simply be like 'Mrs Wilkinson....Unfulfilled' lol. - 62.25.106.209) | 17 Jun 05 |
| I just wanted to say that I think it's so true what Stephen Daldry has said about the three boys in performance. It was essential for the show that it would be plausible to an audience that they had just witnessed the growth and discovery of a new star, within 2 and a half hours! I completely agree, the audience takes a different and exciting journey with each 'Billy, something that some people may not have been able to do with film - although I did identify with it greatly. After seeing all three boys in performance,and watching the film at least 100 times, I think that each of the boys contributes from his own personality to the stage a different aspect of Bill's character, aside from their obvious individual talents. Liam: He brings out the soul of the show, and provides the audience with Billy's innocence and naivety to the world. He conveys the sense of not being altoghether in this world whilst he dances. He seems to be like an adult's soul trapped in a child's body, like Billy, who has to struggle against the traditions of his community and family and grow up too fast. He shows that spark, the X factor which Jamie Bell had in the film, something, that I do not think anyone will be able to put their finger on. He encapsulates all that is indescribable about Billy. James: He portrays Billy's rugged determination and motivation, and thirsty desire to perform and shows that this is all he wants to do. This is true of James himself who wants to continue in films and on the stage, I have no doubt he will go far. He shows a passion to pursue his dreams, something which is so crucial to the role of Billy. George: Well what can you say! As a comedian, and an allround great lad, George brings out Billy's character as a fearless boy withe heart of a child, but with an adult presence. His sharp attitude and edgy movements take over the stage! Finally I wanted to mention how I thought that these boys have superbly taken away the spoiled brat image of stage kids. They convey all that is true of perfoming, a passion and a love, which cannot be shown through false smiles and glitzy costumes. None of them are desperate for the limelight, thye share the role equally because they truly love what they are doing, and get joy from this experience. They've replaced an unnecessary ruthless attitude of the show business world, with a youthful and poignant quality, which no one can take away from them. They are true stars, and I wish them all the luck in the world! - 195.92.168.173) | 14 Jun 05 |
| Nicely said Graham....I agree entirely with best 'Billy'. They are all fantastic every single one of them. Looking forward to the soundtrack Stephen! abv - 195.92.40.49) | 14 Jun 05 |
| The reviews are in and the critics’ message is clear, this is a show worth seeing! For those doubting the ravings of those who have experienced the ‘electricity’ and vibrant energy of this musical – have no fear, you will be entertained and the 3 hours spent in the theatre goes so fast you wont want it to stop. After being taken on an emotional rollercoaster by each of the Billy’s, I submit the following reflections: Overall absolutely brilliant, a terrific display of true British values and humour. You laugh and cry in equal measure, so make sure you have some tissues handy, you’re most likely need them. From the believable ensemble, no Chippingdale macho male dancers, just regular guys ‘expressing themselves, to charming and delightful ballet girls of all shapes and sizes, this is any town England, such is the realism of the show. Individually: Grandma (Ann Emery). Witty throughout, she’s everyone’s senile granny who you love so much. There’s a passion for dance in her past that ignites inside of Billy and inspires him to follow his dream. When success looms it’s grandma whom Billy confides in over his fears. All of this loving support is so true to life you have to admire Ann in the way she relates to all 3 Billy’s with equal admiration. Mrs Wilkinson (Haydn Gwyne): Archetypal “unfulfilled” teacher, accurately depicted. A stirring, moving portrayal of the forgotten mentor – oh how so true! Tony (Joe Caffrey): realism is a little stretched. Most siblings are pretty close in age and now that Billy’s age has crept up to 12 (from 11 in the previews), a brother of 19/20 is more feasible than a thin on top 30 something? Two possible solutions: Tony becomes “Uncle Tony” and is dead Mum’s brother or you recruit a younger actor. Someone around 19 who can identify with the story – my inspired suggestion being: ask Jamie Bell to play the part! Casting Jamie in the role would create a definable link with the film that can only enhance the appeal of the musical, provided he can sing! Currently the film link comes via George (Trevor Morgan). Totally amusing and believable throughout, enjoy his adlibbing at the start of the second half. In May, with the election just over, Tony Blair was due to give a talk on “How to win a general election when you’re the most hated person in the country”. The timing of the comment drew loud applause and rueful smiles from the audience (Trevor played the policeman at court in the film in case you’re wondering). Thoroughly undaunted by the magnitude of what they are achieving, are the Billy Elliot house tenants. Their sense of energy and enthusiasm hits you face on.”Debbie” has no solo or duet and is really just one of the ballet girls with a few lines and an apparent interest in Billy, so individual comment is muted. Michael is as diverse in portrayal as Billy is in talent. Ashley: Great timing, no joke or emotion missed, wonderfully exhibiting the confusion of his own character’s sexuality compared to ballets stereotyping. Ryan: So funny, has you in stitches, charisma and charm, sensational with the audience – ask for more and he delivers his own adlibs. Brad: Very sensitive, delivers a heartfelt array of emotional expression cumulating with his final choked words,” bye Billy”, add a tear in the eye and you really feel his sense of loss. Finally, Billy is perfection personified from opening number to final curtain. Liam Mower: The favourite son – is to ballet what David Beckham was to football, natural talent that transfixes you. He is Billy Elliot in every way. Slight weakness with his shallow voice. George Maguire: Duracell battery supplied! Keeps on energising, exhilarating in everything he does and what a voice! Suggestion? Drop the accent and let him “sing” the songs. His slight lapses with the accent when singing reveal a hint of a young pop idol. His future desire: to be a drummer in a rock and roll band – watch out Roger Taylor! Saving the best to last– James Lomas: Seasoned pro going on 15. An alternative Billy. Natural talent replaced by sheer desire and determination to succeed. Gritty reality and personnel fulfilment, exhausting just watching him. James is an inspiration to us all. The Jude Law of his generation? (Even has the same initials, J.L.). The chemistry with Ashley is phenomenal - wins my vote for “Best Billy”! Graham - 84.66.195.137) | 12 Jun 05 |
| The television programme "The Real Billy Elliot Diaries" mentioned by Katie below is available on the second DVD in the new reissue of the film which has been released to coincide with the opening of the musical. There's also another programme called "From Stage to Screen" which contains more interviews and audition scenes which is very interesting. - 195.92.67.71) | 11 Jun 05 |
| Hi Billyfan .Go to the stage door. That is where I met Liam and to my surprise James and George were there also. Be patient though as they will be pretty tired and if there are a lot of autograph hunters it will be very wearing for them. Glad you liked the show. It is Brilliant. - 80.46.33.244) | 11 Jun 05 |
| Saw it again last might! Nothing can fault this show at all, an absolute work of art! When I go and see it again I would like to meet the cast, especially the boys! Does anyone know where I have to go to see them? The pub next door, or the stage door? Thanks, and to everyone, go and see this show, you'll not be disappointed at all, its incredible!!!!!! - 195.92.168.176) | 10 Jun 05 |
| I also saw the musical last Saturday night.Liam was in the lead role and this young lad gets better and better!! I have seen the show 4 times now Liam (2), George (2).I was very struck by how George manages to capture the raw emotion that Jamie Bell brought to the film.Your acting George is first class. This week in 'Time Out' magazine Jamie says he is not jealous of James, George and Liam but how thrilled he is to pass on the baton of 'Billie' to such talented boys who sing,act,and dance their hearts out. A very gracious and magnanimous comment Jamie and good luck with your three films this year. The audience went wild over Liam's brilliant dance routines particularly his Swan Lake scene which brought tears and gasps of awe from those around me in equal measure at its absolute beauty. I bought one of the limited edition photos on sale (of Liam) and asked him later at the stage door to sign it for me which he did without hesitation.(A very classy signature for a thirteen year old as well). Liam you are a star and if you read this, a big thanks to you and when framed it will have pride of place in my house as a memory of this fabulous show, your exquisite dancing, and the emotional joy you have brought to so many peoples' hearts so far. If anyone is still debating whether to go and see this show, do not hesitate as you will be in for an absolute cracking three hours of first class entertainment. - 80.46.33.244) | 09 Jun 05 |
| I went to see Billy Elliot for the first time for my birthday in April....best present ever!!!! I was at a preview performance with Liam Mower taking the stage as Billy. I am now obsessed!! I have just booked to see it again in September before the boys are replaced, as I would love to see the talents of the other boys. When Liam danced, I started crying and couldn't stop, the boy is a genius and only 12!! I can't believe it. For whoever says this show isn't all that the reviews crack it up to be, then you're sooo wrong. The boys are stars and I'd love to see any of you critics try and do what they do! I can't wait to see it again, and I can safely say that this show has changed my life. I am definitely going to work in the West End now in a theatre, as director or stage manager because the talents of Stephen Daldry and Lee Hall seem to go unnoticed by everyone, but the man is a legend! Any show which can tug at your heartstrings, make you want more, and become the only thing on your mind day and night has to be something special! Billy Elliot is truly my inspiration and I wish the 3 boys all the luck in the world, they are ultimately the most talented and motivated boys in the world. By the way did anyone catch the 'Real Billy Elliot diaries' on ITV a couple of months back, because I taped it, and now I'm hooked, I wathc it everyday, for my little bit of inspiration and determination! - 195.92.168.166) | 09 Jun 05 |
| i went to see this show and it was soooo fantastic i am 16 years old and 2 fink dat george (who was my billy!) was only 14. i cried wen they sang the letter song and i cant get the songs out of my head i would love to have the confidence to do wat they do, and to think dat george had never really had ballet lessons he was fabulous i am plannin on goin 2 c billy eliot again very soon. you wud b a fool not to go and see it charlotte xxxxxxx - 195.93.21.68) | 07 Jun 05 |
| I saw Liam Mower again last night (Saturday 4 June) and he was amazing. The audience reaction was even more enthusiastic than the first time I saw him. I've never been to a show where there is so much emotional response from the audience. You could hear people crying in the sad bits and one chap in front of me was sobbing his heart out. I don't know of any other show, musical or straight drama, that has the power to illicit such a response. The upbeat ending and humour throughout makes it an uplifting experience quite unlike anything else on in London. The actor playing George (Trevor Fox) is adlibbing extra material in his speech to introduce the Christmas concert with a remark about Europe on the day of the French referendum and last night a rather long and rambling joke that hadn't been there before. See Liam Mower for the dancing, James Lomas for the acting and singing, and George Maguire for the best accent and comic timing. - 195.8.75.113) | 05 Jun 05 |
| How sad to make such a poor comment on make up? you must have a better telly than us! Yes the show is fantastic! Iv seen James Lomas and George Mguire These kids are fantastic. The ballet girls tonight with james looked like they had a brilliant time. Go and see the show, James lomas is an amazing actor with a great voice. - 195.92.168.165) | 04 Jun 05 |
| What a major mistake by the producers of this company to choose the scene that they did to be shown on Strictly Dance Fever on BBC1 tonight. I have seen this show in the west end and thought it was phenomenal yet I feel the wrong number has been shown for advertisement, I felt it did the outstanding cast no favours by showing what I and other members of my family had felt was the poorest scene of the show. It showed the musical of Billy Elliot to be much more unprofessional than it actually is and I did not feel that tonight showed the true quality of the show. Also, I think whoever did the make-up for tonight's show needs to be given a severe ticking off, as with all the make-up, James Lomas as Billy looked more like a drag queen. I'm sorry to say all of that but it just upset me seeing the musical shown like this, as the real thing is superb and the best thing to grace a British stage for years. - 195.93.21.100) | 04 Jun 05 |
| I cannot believe that this musical has gotten the good reviews that it did. Yes, the acting is phenomenal--Liam Mower has a bright future ahead of him and he is amazing, but the show is completely uneven, the scenic elements are amateur and the music is okay. - 195.93.21.100) | 03 Jun 05 |
| what a show!! if you haven't seen it then why not. The night i went, the Billy (George Maguire) was fantastic. I couldn't believe the passion and energy that went into the angry tap number, what a pro. I could feel the pain that he was going through. The adult cast were amazing. Hayden Gwynne brought tears to my eyes. I didn't realise Tim Healy had such a wonderful voice! I will never forget what joy i felt after seeing this show. Garry - 212.139.92.227) | 02 Jun 05 |
| A HUGE welcome to the west end and to the Victoria Palace!!! This show is a must see, its a true british musical, that doesn't go out of it's way to amaze, it just comes naturally!!! The cast are truly outstanding giving it there all throughout. You will laugh and you will cry. Few people have commented on the bad language, but like the film this is not a family show, if you want that tottle off to the Prince Edward and gasp at Mary!!! Last night we were treated to an amazing perfromance by Liam Mower who we all took to our hearts as the fantastic Billy Elliot!! He is a true star whos dancing is nothing short of amazing. The swan Lake routine with his older self played by Isaac James is outstanding. special mention must go to Ryan Longbottom for his perfromance as Michael, i don't think I have laughed so much for a very long time. Tim Healy makes a very good appearance as Billys dad, Ann Emery as grandma is fantastic as is a wonderfully casted Haydn Gwynne who does the role of Mrs Wilkinson alot of justice. The set is just perfect and works incredib;y well, the score is what we can only expect from Sir Elton brilliant. The dancing amd choreography is just incredible especially with the mix of the ballet dancers with the police. Billys frustration dance along the backdrop of police with riot shield is suberb! I'm guessing that they have now solved the problem with the ending because in my eyes it was wonderful! Amention about the theatre staff, extremly friendly and helpful! The programme a steal at only £4 which has some lovely pictures in and all the information that you could wish for!! All I can say is go go go to this show! I would be very suprised if you hate it! - 62.253.64.18) | 01 Jun 05 |
| Billy Elliot is the best musical or show of any kind that I have ever seen and I go back to the original production of Jesus Christ Superstar. It made me cry and laugh in equal measure. It has a real raw energy that is infectious. I've now seen all three Billys and they are all marvellous with Liam Mower's dancing being the highpoint for me. It was just amazing and his pirouettes in the finale were astonishing. James Lomas is perhaps the better actor and singer. But I wouldn't want to take anything away from George Maguire who is also splendid. I was disappointed by 'The Producers' and Andrew Lloyd Webber's dreary 'Woman in White'. Billy Elliot came as a very welcome antidote and tonic. - 195.92.67.75) | 31 May 05 |
| In response to George...funny how in all the reviews posted so far, you are the only one to mention about the boys in their shorts! - 62.252.0.10) | 31 May 05 |
| In response to your comment Victoria, you are very wrong. I am no pervert, I simply felt that some scenes became rather offputting because of it. All I wanted to do was give my advice to the company because I felt that it was noticeable and something that could be improved upon within the production. - 195.93.21.100) | 30 May 05 |
| Ive seen the show three times now. It is fantastic! well worth the money! The cast are all fantastic. Tim Healy plays a brilliant part.I didnt know he could sing.The music is brilliant. The dancing is fantastic. I saw James Lomas as Billy, What a pro! I saw them all on the royal Variety and was amazed at there skill. As for the last comment,why would anybody notice boys parts like that, other than a perv. Did you not see Issac James?Wow! As for being technical Im sure they wear jockstraps for safety anyway! Well done to the brains behind this spectacular show! - 195.92.168.164) | 30 May 05 |
| just seen the show and what can I say apart from fantastic, marvellous, awesome, unbelievable. Words just can't describe this show, simply superb! saw james lomas as billy and he was fantastic, for a child he was very professional. However, I do feel there is something for the company to think about. As a father of a male dancer myself I happen to know the technical terms and I must say that I couldn't help but notice that James might be more appropriate with a jockstrap underneath his clothing as I felt in the scenes just in shorts it was very noticeable and offputting. Just something for you to think about. - 195.93.21.100) | 30 May 05 |
| What a fantastic piece of theatre: manages to marry the "feelgood" elements of the very best of musical theatre with uncompromising grit and social realism. The result is beautifully staged, brilliantly performed, heart-warming, funny, genuinely moving, challenging and truly original. When can I go again??! - 195.82.123.181) | 28 May 05 |
| I have loved the film and collected memorabilia about it over the years and viewed the Musical initially with some trepidation.I need not have worried. I went on the 20th May and was completely bowled over by the music,dance,humour,political pathos, all rolled together into an unforgettable three hours of entertainment. The lead that night was Liam Mower and I am lost for words in trying to describe the gravity yet boyish impishness of his acting coupled with his sublime dancing. the scene with his dance to the music of Swan Lake with his alter ego moved me to tears it was so beautiful. The critics were absolutely right about young Liam and he must have a brilliant future ahead of him. The two standing ovations he received (along with the excellent cast) barely did him justice. A special mention also for Ryan Longbottom (Michael) as well who had me in stitches of laughter. A brilliant production (as one would expect from the incomparable Stephen Daldry) and I look forward very much to my next visit. This show is an absolute must-see if you are in London. - 62.6.139.13) | 25 May 05 |
| Seen the show twice...loved it...The whole cast are brilliant...especially the miners and police...Normal looking blokes- not your typical sun tanned, gym loving chorus boy look! ..brilliant dancers and excellent stage presence.. Looked like your brother and your dad up there! Great new show with a feel all of its own..Tim Healey made me cry..Brilliant!On a par with the film but different.. Elton John is a brilliant musician.GO AND SEE IT!- Even if you don't agree with the politics you'll be entertained for a few hours! - 84.67.87.249) | 21 May 05 |
| Apart from all the glorious things in this show - what about the GORGEOUS Isaac James, playing the adult Billy. He bounds onstage like a THUNDERBOLT. What a shame that this occurs only in the first half and that the end is basically a downer. - 81.101.65.82) | 19 May 05 |
| This was the best show that I have ever seen. The cast were brilliant. So much energy and enthusiasum.Left me and my 62 guests going home on a high. Could of watched it again and again. Hope to see this amazing show again. Hope it wins lots of awards - 195.93.21.98) | 18 May 05 |
| How wonderful to have a musical that is SO British and SO good. Everything about it is unlike the 'typical' musical. It has a serious historical / social backdrop and is packed full of social comment and satire. It's ensemble aren't dolls, they're real people like the rest of us. The production isn't glamourous, it serves the story and the period. It would be wrong to single out any performances because they are all wonderful. The staging is craftsmanship the like of which you rarely see and the attention to detail astonishing. The ending is joyous. Get the feeling I like it? You'd be completelly bonkers not to it. - 81.134.196.124) | 18 May 05 |
| Just seen the show. Magnificent kid called George played Billy, with really edgy physical presence and great dancing. The first act outweighed the second, especially with the magical concept of Billy dancing with his future, so to speak, in the shape of the elder Billy. There's also a great cross-dressing sequence with Billy's TV friend Michael - kidos to both kids in this. The ballet classes etc. were wonderful. Because of the social and political messages the second half is necessarily much darker in feel, but also not as compelling material-wise. Haydn Gwynne seemed unused as the dancing teacher; a solo number for her would have been nice. And the bows sequence is abosultely AWFUL...please re-jig. Half the people in it didn't even get decent bows. - 81.103.146.13) | 17 May 05 |
| What a first rate show. Went on Friday and was so impressed especially with the utter all round professionalism of James Lomas as Billy that I went back on Saturday and was once again blown away by this young man's ecstatic performance. What a future for this young man. The film transfers brilliantly to the stage and it made me laugh and cry with the raw gutsy script. The music by Elton John is still running through my head 3 days later. My favourite scene has to be where Billy and Michael(played by Ashley) dress up and dance together. So camp and yet the understanding and obvious differing sexual orientation of these two boys is quite touching and hilarious. A must see. - 195.92.168.165) | 17 May 05 |
| went to see liam mower (my bro) and ryan thought they was EXELLENT! did really well and the rest of the crew Debbie, Dad, Tony, nanna!! its a mut see show - 213.249.178.172) | 15 May 05 |
| Billy elliot was funny and sad all at the same time, great acting and great dancing from all the cast. The show has a fair bit of swearing just like the film but works well. This show is a must to see. - 194.60.85.4) | 13 May 05 |
| Last night's opening of BILLY ELLIOT, with incredibly gifted Liam Mower (one of the three alternating stars) in the title role, was an evening of high energy but disappointing predictability. The last time such an overly sentimental 'message' musical hit the stage is the (why, oh why?) long running BLOOD BROTHERS. The rhymes in that relic ("I need to go, Like Marilyn Monroe") are matched by Elton John (why does one wear sunglasses INSIDE the theatre at one's opening night Elton?) and Lee Hal's insipidly uninspired songs as in the embarrassing BORN TO BOOGIE: "We were born to boogie. It ain't a puzzle, cos we're blood and muscle" The evening begins with a rallying socialist cry for justice for the miners of Durham: 'And though our hands are bruised and bleeding, And our lungs are full of dust, And our hearts are near to breaking, We will not forgo the trust' (THE STARS LOOK DOWN). While noble in it's sentiment, it only, unfortunately, begins a relentless drive of Mr. Daldry and co. to hammer home the message, i.e.'Workers good; Tories evil'. This theme reaches it's zenith in the epitome of bad taste in the opening of Act 2 with MERRY CHRISTMAS MAGGIE THATCHER: "…we all celebrate today, Co's it's one day closer to your death." While many, if not most, of the audience may share the sentiments that the Conservatives were ruthless in the handling of labour disputes is this really the place (or time, as Margaret Thatcher is quite ill and possibly nearing the end of her life) to have 12 year old children vocalizing such a death wish? All credit for any hope this show may have goes to the children. The girls in the dance class scenes, led by Mrs. Wilkinson played by the energetic Haydn Gwynne, are perfect: two rotund girls battle with their bodies, gum is chewed incessantly, arms fly, hair is twisted, chocolate stains the chins, and arms are all akimbo. These misfit ballerina-wannabees do get to prove their abilities in the crowd pleasing 'tutus-r-us' curtain call. One electrifying wonderful bit of the evening is down solely to the magical performance of Brad Kavanagh as the tranny-in-training pal to Billy. A bit of Liza, a bit of Gwen Verdon with a lot of self discovery and confidence are brought to the number EXPRESS YOURSELF: "Everyone is different. It's the natural state." The two boys should have been allowed to carry this song and dance routine on their own (which they were very capable of doing) without the introduction of the incredibly embarrassingly undercooked dancing costumes bit. The choreography sometimes very inventive, as in the dreamesque chorus boys in WE'D GO DANCING (with Billy's grandma, the 'I'm still here' Ann Emery - great legs in the curtain call!), and in SOLIDARITY where the miners and riot police filter through the girl's dance class. The Swan Lake (hey, at last some good music!) young/old Billy dance becomes disturbingly paedeophilically-erotic; the flying should be banned from this show- it ain't MARY POPPINS after all. Billy is metaphorically flying; we don's need to see him wired up and swinging through the proscenium. Ian McNeal, the incredibly gifted designer of contemporary classics such as Daldry's INSPECTOR CALLS, MACHINAL and FESTEN, does not suitably rise to the challenge of creating a world for Billy. While the dark and broody brick and steel back wall creates a sense of foreboding what flies, raises and trucks in front of this beauty is rather disappointing. The dance hall walls, arbitrarily sheared off at the top, lumber on an off the stage. A 'Rupunzel tower' bedroom and stair set dizzily spirals up and down. The (presumably expensive) Royal Opera set flits on for only a few minutes. The clothes, by Nicky Gillibrand, ring true to the working class grime of the miner's life. It was an inspired decision for Grandma to shed her housecoat (in WE'D GO DANCING ) to reveal her glittering 40s ball gown. Mrs. Wilkinson's skin tight lycra, while being correct for the period of the show, are really too hideous to look at; they steal from Ms. Gwynne's bravado. Stephen Daldry and Lee Hall clearly enjoyed raking through every scene of their movie version of BILLY ELLIOT but didn't completely let it find its own voice for its new incarnation on the stage. At times it felt a bit like 'well it was in the film, so we better get it onto the stage'. In crazed, angry Billy dance ending the first act an outdoor loo rises, momentarily from the floor, to allow the intimate banging on the walls scene from the film to happen on stage. The '… I'll show you my fanny' scene between Billy and one of the girls is intimate and revealing in the film; on stage it seems forced and inserted unnaturally into the piece. BILLY ELLIOT - go if you must. Expect sentimentality, hard hammering of political points (does a young Tony Blair really need to be mentioned?), and some exceptional dance numbers; don't expect stimulating music, lyrics or storytelling. bd-london - 81.152.158.129) | 12 May 05 |
| Like a few of the other people to leave comments, my favorite musical up until now is Les Mis. I must say that Billy Elliot is now up there with Les Mis for me, I have seen Les mis 4 times and enjoyed it a little more each time, I cannot wait to see Billy Elliott again and again. I saw George and he was FANTASTIC. He lit up the stage and he is an outstanding talent, I cried and laughed and had the hairs on the back of my neck sticking out like needles. Tim Healy was also outstanding as the Dad. My favorite scenes were the ballet scene with little Billy and the grown up Billy. The dance scene with Billy & Michael (Ashley Lloyd superb) The angry scene George just cannot do any wrong, he went wild and had the audience cheering mid scene, and of course the tape finale was magnificent. I did not want this show to end, Bravo to all concearned!!! - 82.34.145.140) | 11 May 05 |
| WOW!! What an amazing, thrilling, exciting show. Done with such proffesinalism from liam mower, This show is well worth seeing and you will want to see it over and over again. The music is amazingly brilliant by sir Elton John and scenery is so cleverly done. The best bit that i liked was the tap bit with billy and michael this was very funny and extremly well choreographed by peter darling. This is a fantastic show and well worth seeing. Brilliant director!-Stephen Daldry - 81.178.201.163) | 11 May 05 |
| I have seen the show about 14 times now. I have seen Liam once, George 3 times and James the rest. What a bunch of great kids.They all have exceptional talent and different strengths. Overall, if I had to choose I would say James Lomas and Ashley Lloyd (Michael) come out on top. Fantastic duet together with giant dresses on hangers..WOW!!! They really gel together when performing...brilliant! Haydn, Tim, Joe and all the other characters were/are just great Not forgetting Mr Braithwaite and his 'primordial means of expression' hahahaha! To add to the humour were the group of ballet girls who were just so comical in places. Yes there is swearing, anger and frustration but it is cleverly balanced with lighthearted humour, compassion and sensitivity. As for the music 'hats off to Elton'....it leaves you buzzing with 'Electricity'...beautifully sung by James Lomas, I might add. May this show be a phenomenal success!!!!! - 62.252.0.10) | 11 May 05 |
| This is what musical theatre is all about - good music, great performances by the entire cast and fantastic choreography. This story transfers brilliantly to the stage and it certainly exorcised the ghost of the dreadful 'burlesque' which I regrettable sat through a couple of weeks ago. This show I am sure will run and run. Congratulations to everyone involved. - 195.93.21.71) | 11 May 05 |
| This is a show NOT to be missed....It is both raw and incredibly sensitive. It will make you cry with laughter and sadness. Absolutley wonderful...Bravo!! I will certainly be going to see it again. - 62.25.106.209) | 10 May 05 |
| Alexander Green must have had his eyes shut and his hands over his ears throughout this show. brilliant. (Liam Mower excellent) - 62.255.32.15) | 08 May 05 |
| to alexander if the 92 year old next to you enjoyed it and the mini - markovas in the audience, doesn`t it show the wide appeal of this musical to everyone. and the tap finally is sheer delight. - 62.255.32.15) | 08 May 05 |
| You can see from other reviews - with their use of swear words, bad spelling and cocked-up grammar,to whom some aspects of this confused show appeal to. The first act is superbly structured and performed, except for a mind-numbing semi-finale reprise of police whacking their shields as percussion which we've already previously endured, and the solo dancing in this scene although energetic consists of too much floor rolling and arm waving, neither modern dance nor balletic. The first 20 minutes of the second act are so full of dated and irrelevant vulgarity, with an obscene Father Christmas and Gnome greeting the audience as if at a cheap panto - with jokes about Tony Blair (!!!) and an irrelevant unfunny song insulting Maggie Thatcher (who?)- it takes time for the show to get back to the plot and engage our serious interest and willing emotion with the main double plot ( miners' strike and Billy's determination). Vulgarity reappears with the subtle actor Tim Healy looking very uncomfortable in a panto dame's outfit for no reason other that to get cheap laughs , and the brilliant Haydn Gwynn ( Billy's tutor) hating appearing in a badly fitting leotard of sorts. The music is often surprisingly thrilling and the dancing by Billy and especially by the mini-Markovas amazingly wonderful. A brilliant show with offkey misjudged sections ( the first two crude scenes of the second act should be excised immediately!) that appealed to the 92 year old next to me as well as the teeny-tot aspiring ballerinas filling the auditorium. - 81.158.131.200) | 08 May 05 |
| Refering to Angel Baby's comment at the bottom of the page, you dont know what you are talking about, and obviously dont know the first thing about dancing. Went to see the show personally and the dancing performed by all especially Liam Mower was OUTSTANDING, he is EXCEPTIONAL, I suggest Angel Baby shouldn't comment on areas not understood ! Liam is a star born. - 213.249.247.8) | 07 May 05 |
| those people who gave 'billy elliot' less than 4 stars really do not know a quality show when they see it, and those people blinded by the price. iv seen it 3 times and loved every single second. some people just don't have a clue. annoyed - 62.255.32.15) | 07 May 05 |
| words cannot describe how good this show is. miles better than the film. liam mower was breathtakingly good. 12 years old!!!!!!!!!!!! Tim Healy: he can sing! :) and dance (at end(with suspenders)) haydn gwynne bloody great. every scene was done to absolute perfection. this show contains everything: sadness, anger, comedy. everything. im going again!! You have to see this show. it is all worth it. (also the italian restaurant ASK near victoria palace theatre was great) Fu*kin brilliant, excellent, fantastic. my whole family loved it. go to the STAGE pub nxt to da theatre after the show to meet the performers. i got Tim Healy's autograph an liam mowers. wel nice guys. that liam's gona go a long way!!!!! 10/10 i bloody loved it. words cannot describe how good this show is.its gonna be big. trust!! jonathan 15 - 62.255.32.15) | 07 May 05 |
| the best show eva. really. we got front row tickets. there is a tap dance finale. btw. evry performer was perfect. liam mower was amazin. (got his autograph:) ) also got tim healy's auto. really was the best show i have ever seen in my short life! might try an go again! you gotta see it! jon 15 - 62.255.32.15) | 07 May 05 |
| Went to see it on the second preview night (April 1st) and even though it was very much work-in-progress, emotionally it was electrifying. It would be interesting to know what changes have been made already since the first preview. It has been said that the ballet sequence (with the young/adult Billy) now occurs later in the show with the father looking on. The original ending had Billy climbing off the stage having said goodbye to Michael - now, according to another review, there is a big tap-dance sequence as the finale. Can anyone confirm any of this? If they can give the second act as much impact as the first, this is going to be a huge hit - with many people wanting to see it more than once. And another interesting development...a lot of Americans who have been to see it seem to love it. Now who would have thought that? You get the feeling this show has got something... - 80.5.160.9) | 05 May 05 |
| It presses all the right buttons, turns on the tears at the right moments and sends you home with a Number 10 feelgood factor! Not sure it will appeal to some Americans though who will find it not glitzy enough or not understand its British social/political background (as per the NYC nerd far below). Of course it has been improving during previews and by opening night it should deserve as big a cheer as the (altogether different! Producers. - 82.43.174.167) | 05 May 05 |
| Wonderful!- I went to see the matinee on Saturday 30 April and can't stop thinking about it 5 days later. I adored the film and was concerned that the musical would not meet expectations, but I couldn't have been more wrong. The show had a rawness about it that I have not experienced before, and the small theatre gave the experience real intimacy. I was slightly concerned about the swearing as I took my Mother for her birthday, but we both agreed that it gave a realistic edge and helped create the atmosphere of the era. Liam has so much charisma and talent, we couldn't take our eyes off him - he's a star! His duet with Michael was hilarious and so natural for such young performers. This show will make you laugh and cry, but above all it is a truly magnificant experience which will take you on a nostalgia trip - for those old enough to have been growing up during that time. Thank you to all the cast and team and good luck for 11 May, if the critics don't love you, they don't know the meaning of entertainment. I am about to book again to take the whole family next month - can't wait. - 194.75.133.240) | 04 May 05 |
| I too am seeing this one again next week. The lyrics and music are excellent - capturing the essence of the community it depicts without being depressing. - 213.2.158.163) | 02 May 05 |
| Definitely the best musical I have ever seen - I have seen it three times now (all in preview) and am booked in for another 3 - call me crazy if you like but they create magic every night!! - 62.25.106.209) | 02 May 05 |
| I went to see the show and immediately booked to see it again.I try to see every musical in the West End and not since Les Mis in the 80`s have I been so profoundly moved.I have seen both Liam and George so far, obviously the search was worth the wait.Only James to see. It is stunning! - 217.154.246.110) | 02 May 05 |
| This show is on par with Les Meserables for intertainment and should run & run - 62.252.64.30) | 01 May 05 |
| Absolutely fabulous show! We saw the matinee 28th April. I think it was James Lomas who played Billy - he was truly superb in every way. A couple of slight considerations: perhaps Mrs Wilkinson could appear not quite so 'low class' but more like the film version where she appeared a bit more classy but had fallen on hard times. Also the grandmother's song about her husband didn't seem really so relevant and could be cut. Otherwise absolutely magnificent. My wife and I will book tomorrow to see it again in June! Malcolm. - 195.92.67.78) | 29 Apr 05 |
| What an enjoyable musical, Fab storyline, Politically funny (sorry Maggie, and Mr. Hestletine )but that is what the miner's thought of you back in the eighty's.Haydnne Gwynne an incredible actress, common as muck ! but lovely with it. Tim Healy didn't know you could sing like that after watching Auf Weidersein Pet for all them years, what a surprise ! Joe Caffrey another incredible actor, what a temper and emotion you can give all at the same time. Mr. Braithwaite your soooo funny in the dance routine,and savouring the best till last, Liam Mower (Billy Elliot)absolutely first class dancer at 12 years old, the star of the musical with out no doubt what so-ever, could make your hair stand on end, bring goose pimples, make you cry and stare in amazement all at the same time, no wonder It's a fab musical.Worth going to see.Please ladies if your going to watch Liam, take plenty of tissues with you.Definately a 5 score for me. - 212.50.160.44) | 28 Apr 05 |
| I'm a frequent London visitor from midwestern USA. My visits nearly always focus on West End Theatre and the marveloulsy gifted pool of talent that performs there. Only once have I chosen to squander London time in a movie theatre. That was to see Billy Elliot the film. I'd like to turn around a line used by another reviewer here-----if you like this musical, you'll loooove the movie. Please find a way to see it if you haven't. As we all grow up, much of who we are as unique human beings is gradually revealed to us through one-on-one interactions with others. Some of this is picked up in the musical, but inevitably not with quite the delicacy or sensitivity that pervades the movie. Movie commercial aside, I will go to see Billy Elliot the stage musical again----partly because it takes me more than one viewing to fully appreciate a musical endeavor of this magnitude and even more to watch George Maguire (or one of his two similarly-praised colleagues) dance. The performance I saw was on 22 April, and though there's still room for the show to get even better with additional fine-tuning, I'd go along with the implied verdict of a 70% standing ovation that the show IS quite ready for prime time and the critics now. It must be gratifying to the talented and accomplished team behind this production to see the great momentum it has built merely during previews, and to read in places like this how moved so much of the audience is. - 138.49.216.126) | 27 Apr 05 |
| The most exciting and gripping evening I've spent in the theatre for many years.The casting is superb, a more gritty and realistic ensemble, from a visual point of view, would be hard to envisage. But when it emerges that these authentic-seeming miners can not only sing with a Welsh-like fire and fervour but dance with a verve and vigour which (for most) belies their years it's a real revelation. Haydn Gwynne's performance as Mrs Wilkinson is sheer perfection; she doesn't make the mistake of playing it purely for laughs but can make us cry in equal measure. Brad Kavanagh in the role of Michael displays an amazingly mature grasp of comedic/pathetic timing coupled with an endearing quality which is irresistible. But of course, the achievement above all others is that of George Maguire who played Billie on the night I saw it. A breathtaking, soul-searching, heart-rending, utterly complete interpretation, impossible to fault. This is a performer who inhabits his role like a second skin, carrying the audience along on such a flood tide of his emotional highs and lows it almost seems intrusive to watch. The sets are impressive, Philip Bateman's musical direction is immaculate; an impassioned production in all aspects. My thanks and admiration to all concerned, it was a privilege to share your dream. - 212.32.47.42) | 26 Apr 05 |
| Has the makings of a good musical, George macguire is a fabulous dancer, he needs to help the tubby ballet girls with there skills, although I think they are there to make us laugh. wouldn't go again untill it is cut shorter and polished as it is just not ready. - 84.65.106.107) | 26 Apr 05 |
| A GOOD SHOW BUT NOT A GREAT SHOW YET, DANCING SCENES ARE GREAT BUT THE ENDING NEEDS LOOKING AT, THE ENDING FROM THE FILM SEEMS TO BE HALF WAY THROUGH THE SHOW, WOULD BE BETTER AT THE END WITH THE OLDER DANCER BEING BILLY. THE SET IS OK BUT NEEDS TO BE A LOT QUIETER AS BANGS AS IT MOVES. I WILL DEF GO SEE THE SHOW AGAIN AS WITH A FEW TWEEKS IT WILL BE A GREAT SHOW. - 213.120.114.16) | 25 Apr 05 |
| An amazing show, and true to the reality of the miner's strike. Still stunned 4 days later! NH - 195.93.21.100) | 24 Apr 05 |
| Scores 5 stars for me too! I saw Thurs mat. James lomas was brilliant at playing Billy.He played the scenes with his friend michael brilliantly and mother with such emotion. The dancing in the show is first class, and quite breath taking in places. I am sure he will go on to do many things. The whole show is a master piece. Well done to all the little ballet girls, they were so funny. Elton john has done a great job on the music side. I am still humming the tunes. - 195.92.168.177) | 22 Apr 05 |
| This show is essentially about a 12 year old boy of impoverished background, who accidentally discovers his natural talent for dance, when arriving late for his usual boxing lesson one day,is encouraged to join an all girls ballet class. But it is so much more than that....... I have never known a show that attempts to work on so many different levels, as follows: 1.Rags to riches - poor young boy makes good. 2.Historical document - the Miner's strike of '85. 3.Relationships - a young boy seeking the approval and acceptance of his bereaved father. 4.Bereavement - Billy's struggle to come to terms with the death of his mother. 5.Friendship - Billy's acceptance of his best friend Michael's apparent homosexuality. 6.Comedy - Downtrodden Nothern humour at it's best. 7.Dance - Always wonderful,and at times,simply breathtaking. 8.Music - A thrilling and uplifting original score. The fact that the show more than succeeds on all these levels,without being over sentimental,is the reason for my five star rating. "Billy Elliot" has something for everyone,and richly deserves the acclaim that must surely be coming it's way. - 81.174.236.209) | 22 Apr 05 |
| Liam was absolutely brilliant as Billy, should be given an oscar for his performance. Best production I have ever seen, I take my hat off to all the crew and cast. Seen Fri 16th April. - 82.152.39.240) | 19 Apr 05 |
| I saw George Maguire as Billy. It was his first performance in the role--actually, it was his professional debut--but you'd never have known. He was extraordinarily good. The musical itself is less consistent. The score is serviceable, but the lyrics are frequently and painfully banal. Scenes with inspired direction are followed by aimless moments that bring everything to a halt. The bedroom tower set is effective when it works smoothly (which isn't often). Perhaps Stephen Daldry can pull it all together by opening night. - 12.107.15.2) | 19 Apr 05 |
| Fab show! It will be a big hit! One of my most amazing experiences in the theatre (of which there have been many) ever! Go see! - 217.43.227.244) | 18 Apr 05 |
| I can highly recommand this musical. If you liked the movie you'll loooooove the musical - 84.130.170.198) | 18 Apr 05 |
| It's really awesome... a must see! - 84.130.133.199) | 18 Apr 05 |
| I'm afraid they will have to cut atleast another 1/2 hour out of this show to get rid of the rubbish. Maybe as much as 45 minutes would make it watchable. Where's the dance! - 193.82.16.50) | 18 Apr 05 |
| This musical is so sweet... one of the best shows I've ever seen. I wonder what they've all cut, because I saw a preview wich was 3 and a half hours. Now only 3 hours left... I hope they won't cut the final version less than 3 hours. Does anyone know if (and WHEN) there will be a CD of the musical Billy Elliot available? - 84.130.156.196) | 18 Apr 05 |
| Can you give a "0"? I would. I expected so much more from the team and they fail on every level except the ballet and Billy. AT 3 hours and 5 minutes there's so much fat here to be cut so there still is a chance. 1) Cut out the grandmothers song it's awful and doesn't tell us anything we done already know or could in one sentence. 2) recast the father and brother they are both too old and poor singers. 3) the bedroom set is a mess and to bring it up and down slows down the show and gives us a moment to look at our watches. 4) Why do brits loves to cross dress? It's not gay but oh so queer. 5) I want to see Billy audition, Stephen you really f*ck this one up. - 193.122.47.178) | 17 Apr 05 |
| Only seen this, Lion King and Blood Brothers and all three of them are fantastic. May not be qualified to give an educated opinion, but as for an uneducated opinion from someone who just went to be entertained rather than analise I though it was fantastic with James Lomas (Billy), Ashley Lloyd (Michael) and Haydn Gwynne (Mrs Wilkinson) all giving fantastic performances. If you want an honest view "GO AND SEE IT !!!!" - 82.38.123.202) | 14 Apr 05 |
| In response to the last person. Its suprising how people see things differently.I went on Sat night.I loved the humour.I dont think people will want to feel too depresed going to see a musical.As for the emotion, I cried a couple of times when Billys mam appears and also at the end when Billy says goodbye.I thought the part where billy sees his friend Michael in a dress fantastic. The way those boys struted there stuff tap dancing was brill, real uplifting. The grandma scene with the lifting of chairs I thought was clever. It was obviously in her imagination,she is senile after all. The party with the miners could have happened,they did like making fun about Maggie. For me the show was great. James lomas the boy who played Billy was so professional, his acting skills were very good. The dancing was brilliant. How they find all that energy god knows! I think a reduction on the full price for the previews would have been good.I can understand the confusion with the scenery, and I would like to see the "fanny scene with Debbie" and Billys Dad seeing him when hes older. I will go to see it again after the previews, they may change some things. Other than that we all had a great night. Wayne Sleep was in the audience and hed cried.(we saw him leaving) I wonder what he thought about the referral to him! - 195.92.168.163) | 11 Apr 05 |
| I went to see Billy Elliot last night, I understand that I was watching a “Preview Performance” however as the tickets were full price (£50 for the front of the stalls) my expectations were as high as if I was seeing it after opening night. The front of the stalls is not a good place to watch the show from, as the stage is too high so you can’t see the actors’ feet – in a play not an issue, but in a musical with dance, a major consideration. I didn’t realise the show had started, no overture and a very messy first scene, my initial reaction to the set was a “wow”, however it soon became frustrating and over complicated, at one point the Elliot’s house had a trampoline, two kitchens and the “Working Men’s Club” chairs, which the family actually sat on! It became more and more difficult to focus on the action as I was constantly wondering which piece of set was going to move next and more importantly why? I enjoyed the music, I thought the tunes were good and the singing fine, however none particularly stood out, but that isn’t unusual as it was for me the first time hearing them. The dancing was energetic and watchable, with Billy (James Lomas) giving it everything he had, his dancing and singing were very good, however the key to my disappointment in this piece starts with Billy – I didn’t believe in him. I didn’t see any passion for dance, any hardship in his life, or anything to indicate the struggle with his father and brother for him to follow his dream. On the whole the piece has very little emotion, it seems to have been directed as a comedy – especially the dancing policemen (I thought at one point they were all going to bend their knees and say “evenin’ all). In the film you feel for the plight of the miners, whole communities were destroyed, the police were the anti-christ and the hardship the Elliot’s suffered was soul destroying. However in the play this is lost completely. A key point in the film where Billy’s Dad sells his wife’s jewellery to pay for the coach trip to London is replaced with a “scab” giving Billy the money, however because the picket line scenes aren’t stirring enough, this doesn’t work as the whole closure of the pits has become an insignificant part of the piece. Some scenes are just plain bizarre – when Grandma describes to Billy how she met his Grandpa, strange men appear on stage lifting chairs for no apparent reason and then leave through the windows – why? At the beginning of the second half there is a Christmas Party scene with a giant Maggie Thatcher and the miner’s all wear Maggie masks – a fabulous idea, but the miner’s are all happy, this scene would make far more of a statement if performed with the venom and loathing the miner’s and lots of the population had for Maggie. I sat and thought about the show at the end – well there isn’t actually an end, Billy just jumps off the stage and walks out through the auditorium, (no future glimpse of him in Swan Lake in this production – how amazing was the end of the film? I used to re-wind it to get the look on Billy’s Dads face at the Ballet.) Anyway, I thought about it and have decided that it will probably be popular and successful, the whole audience stood on it's feet and cheered at the end, so they must have loved it, (or perhaps they were relatives of the cast), however it has the chance to be great – if the set, some of the choreography, the characterisations are improved, and most importantly the emotions and passions of the era are installed and the comedy policemen ditched. I read Stephen Daldry’s biog, I honestly thought this was his first time directing theatre, I had no idea what he has achieved in the past – I cannot believe this comes from the hands of the man that has directed so many amazing plays, unfortunately he was the wrong choice for this, too many ideas fighting with each other. Perhaps my expectations are just too high, and I have been spoilt by seeing Mary Poppins – I may re-visit Billy Elliot later in the year and be pleasantly surprised, as I said it has amazing potential, and I honestly hope that it does reach it. - 62.252.64.30) | 10 Apr 05 |
| Saw the musical Thursday night and had to go again for the Sat Matinee.My family and I really enjoyed the show,we applaud all the production team concerned.A special thankyou to the cast for outstanding performance.Liam Mower (Billy Elliot) was a genious, his dancing is amazing at just 12years of age, we all used the tissues watching him,his dance with dad was outstanding,also the ballet dance with the older Billy was brilliantly performed,especially loved the dance duet with Michael (Ryan Longbottom)they both made us laugh and they performed very well together,well done on your tap routines.Not only did we enjoy the dancing in the show,the comedy,and the general storyline about the miners were very brought to mind.Steve Elias (Mr.Braithwaite)you were Brilliant and so funny in your dance routine with Mrs.Wilkingson and Billy Elliot,Will be definately going to see the full performance sometime in May (carn't wait). - 212.50.160.44) | 10 Apr 05 |
| As one of the songs in this musical aptly puts it - Billy Elliot ’ Shines ‘. And so does Director Stephen Daldry who has another hit on his hands. Many have wondered and now it can be said - the stage version is every bit as good as the film. For me it has been at least ten years since I’d heard such a great score from a British musical. The credit goes to Lee Hall who wrote the book and to Elton John who wrote the music (the perfect guy to write a song about dressing up). The score has me very excited for the release of the CD. I went to see the show on the 2nd preview night. Liam Mower played Billy Elliot. He danced and sang throughout the whole show with such professionalism that it was hard to believe he is only 12 years old. I am sure the other two boys who play Billy - James Lomas and George Maguire – are just as good and I will be able to confirm that when I go back to see the show again and again. I am very proud of this new generation of performers who bring such promise of great things for the West End. The entire cast is tremendous. Haydn Gwynne was brilliantly cast as the teacher Mrs. Wilkinson. Her acting is so touching and real, and she has such an amazing voice, that one wonders where she has been hiding all these years. Tim Healy was perfectly cast as Billy’s dad and proved a wonderful dramatic actor. Ann Emery played the Grandma. I am glad to see a musical giving more mature artists the chance to shine in solo spots. Grandma Elliot sang a very humorous song about her past and her husband (which tips you off as to where Billy gets his dancing genes). During Previews, changes often are made to the production. I can only say, please don’t cut Grandma’s song! Perhaps a bit of tidying up the last goodbye scene between Billy and Grandma might be in order though. Another thing I like about the show is that everyone has a show stopper moment. Who can forget the cross dressing kid Michael ( Brad Cavanaugh ) whose comic timing and tap dancing are astounding for an actor so young - wow what a pro! Peter Darling, who choreographed the production, did so with pizzazz. There were so many wonderful dance scenes. I particularly liked the dream sequence of Billy and the grown up Billy ( Isaac James ). It has a little touch of ISO style with Billy dancing/flying up and down the stage. And the dance scene with Mrs. Wilkinson and all her plump little girl dancers in their tutus and feathers was quite funny and very entertaining. Speaking of tutus, great costumes designed by Nicky Gillibrand; as well as marvellous lighting by Rick Fisher and a fabulous set by Ian Macneil. Every bit of the set design is just right, not a bit over the top. One favourite set piece of mine was the revolving stair case which I thought very effective and versatile. One last note on the production – the £4 spent on the programme is a steal. It’s mega-size and full of page after page of detail and fantastic photos of this unforgettable musical theatre experience. I have a feeling we will all be seeing Billy Elliot many times and it is destined for a world tour. Just don’t forget it started here in the UK - 100% British made! From a Chinese audience point of view www.londonupdate.co.uk - 217.43.18.79) | 07 Apr 05 |
| Its just not ready yet and a disgrace it is previewing at full price,people who like it but be pleased easily or be connected with the show. It should not be allowed what they are doing,the ending is not even in the show yet. But one thing that will not improve is the awful songs,Elton John and all concerned should be ashamed of themselves - 195.93.21.100) | 06 Apr 05 |
| Saw this preview on 1st April, and boy what a treat it was :-) I was in tears with laughter then saddness, it is so moving. It certainly is one of the best musicals I have ever seen. I agree with other reviews that it was a long performance, but I did not feel as if I had been sat in my seat for 3 1/2 hours. The whole cast were amazing, in particular Liam Mower (can't comment on the other Billy's, but I'm sure thsy will be as fantastic). It was worth every penny, and the best birthday I have ever spent. Definetley a must to go and see. - 212.100.250.225) | 05 Apr 05 |
| was interested how the film was going to be made into a musical.saw sat night performance of liam mower and ryan longbottom,INCREDABLE KIDS!their tap number was amazing,and loved the dance billy did to his dad and his solo tap,well done liam! money well spent great show - 213.249.248.95) | 05 Apr 05 |
| Terrific! Went to the 2 April matinee and both my 12yr old son and I enjoyed it tremendously. I thought it was a wee bit long and a couple of numbers could be removed especially Nana's number (about "lifting a finger") to speed it up, and the Maggie Thatcher number for the US edition if there will be one. The Billy at my show (James Lomas) was AMAZING and Michael (unfortunately I don't remember his name) was wonderful too. This has to be a huge hit! - 138.220.30.129) | 05 Apr 05 |
| Saw it Saturday 2 April. Excellent choreography, music and dancing. Will definitely go again. Absolutely a "Must See". - 194.128.85.8) | 05 Apr 05 |
| Went to Thursdaynight preview,thought the show was funny and emotional.The cast were excellent and professional considering a few hiccups.Billy and Michael were outstanding in their duet,express yourself,great acting,for two so young.We was mesmerised by Dance for Dad,those feelings were put into words through Billy's feet.Well done Liam you certainly made me reach for the tissues.As did the miners when going back down the pit.Who cares if the tickets were £50,money well spent We say.Congrats to all the team,carn't wait till May to spend another £50. - 212.50.160.44) | 04 Apr 05 |
| Saw Saturday evening performance which, considering it was only the 4th performance, was fantastic. A bit long still - the start to the second half was a bit long-winded so could be reduced. Liam Mower & Ryan Longbottom were superb as Billy & Michael. Haydn Gwynne as Mrs Wilkinson was a revelation to me as well. Two small criticisms - I thought that there was too much swearing & the ending was a bit weak. - 84.67.175.116) | 04 Apr 05 |
| saw first preview, with exemption to a couple of prop errors the show was superb,I laughed and I Cried,the storyline is true to life,Little Billy(LIAM MOWER)is an amazing dancer he stole the show for me,keep an eye on this kid, he is not to be missed.What a star.Well done on the Choreography. - 212.50.160.44) | 04 Apr 05 |
| Loved the film, loved the musical! Very funny,sad,and gritty. Saw Sat Mat James lomas was superb his duo with michael was hilarious, his dancing is amazing.Cant wait to see the other boys The Grandma scene is well acted her dancing is great. The police line up is catchy and funny. Alot of swearing in it, but it works well with the show. Music is brill especially the electricity song. Go Billy!! - 195.92.168.171) | 04 Apr 05 |
| Spectacular. A must see. Strong cast, superb music, and a great use of comedy to alleviate the bleaker moments. - 24.162.10.191) | 04 Apr 05 |
| Oh dear wanted to love it,but sadly it is truly awful and not surprised Elton is off on tour and not in seems having a hands on role with this show,he is probably embarrased at the dreadful tunes he has written for it,not a decent song in the over 3 hour bore fest that is BILLY ELLIOT the musical,not a patch on the movie and not surprised they give free cd's at the end to see how good it could have been. If this tripe is the best daldry,hall and John could come up with they should have left well alone. It is full of bad language and a disgraceful portrait of life in the north east as if to say all they can do is swear up there! Avoid this over priced rubbish with its £50 previews,at least Acorn antiques had a few reduced previews at £20 as no way was this show ready for paying customers ,but doubt 6 months of work will make any difference,they should dump all the songs if they want a good show and keep and add more of the traditional music,the only time the show works at all. - 81.102.15.210) | 04 Apr 05 |
| Saw the first night whilst accompanying a group of California theatre students; at the end of a week of West End plays, this was everyone's favorite. The cast was believable, the kids were amazing and real, the multi-layered and un-Disneyfied plot thought-provoking, and the music and dancing superior to most of what we'd seen (particularly to Chitty and even to Mary Poppins). Billy's angry tap-dance was astounding. Even our foreign ears were able to understand the bulk of the dialogue and "get" the humor. We were delighted to be part of the process and, while we can see that cuts will be necessary, are looking forward to watching the finished product take the world by storm. - 207.200.116.198) | 03 Apr 05 |
| Elton John's music lets down this show,the set coming out of the stage is clever,but northern clunky actors are very drab and sick of Tim Healy playing his usual down on your luck Geordie,most of his speech is unaudible. Little Billys dancing is of course the gimmick and main attraction to this show,but for £50 in the horrid Victorian Palace it is a rip off and The Producers and Mary Poppins is a much better and interesting night out. - 195.93.21.100) | 03 Apr 05 |
| Absolutely brilliant - saw the second performance on April 1st and if this was just one of the previews prior to the actual live date on the 12th of May then the final product should be incredible. The storyline follows that of the film with variations to allow it to work on stage but this is by no means derogatory to the final performance. What is even more amazing is the performance of the young people on stage (in particular for Liam/George and James) not only having an immense amount of dialogue and standard stage performance – a feat rarely achieved by some of our more prominent actors in the West End - but to couple that with the skills required to perform ballet at the level of a gymnast - incredible. Lee Hall’s lyrics with and Elton John's arrangement conveys a message fitting to the entire performance (don't know whether a certain former PM would appreciate a certain number dedicated to herself though!!) please release of the soundtrack soon. Regarding the language – yes it does get a bit thick in places but to appreciate the situation and the real roots of the story it - like the smoking- is all part of the scenario. My family and I feel privileged to have witnessed this show. It is truly British and born of truth, not idealism. Laughter and tears throughout - many thanks to the people who had the vision to turn Billy Elliot into an Inspiration!!!! - 81.139.131.76) | 03 Apr 05 |
| If what I saw on Saturday evening is anything to go by, this show is likely to be a treasured West End classic. I have never been to a show where the audience were moved so much - for god's sake take some tissues. The dancing was amazing throughout but Liam Mower as Billy was outstanding. It does still need some tweaking but I wouldn't envy the producer's decision for what to cut - I'd maybe suggest the one-word insults which keep cropping up as they loose humour after the first few times or the spoken beginning to the 2nd half. The songs are good but not especially memorable - this show is more a credit to the amazing child performances, the brilliant adaptation of the screenplay (not just to stage but lyrically) and the visionary direction. My only disappointment was that Ryan Longbottom who played Michael didn't get the opportunity to be properly acknowledged by the audience at the end as he was superb and the tap dance between him and Billy was definetly my highlight. I'll be going again to see the finished article but I didn't feel 'cheated' by a preview whatsoever. - 81.77.72.183) | 03 Apr 05 |
| This has the makings of a great show, although it's still a long way off! The show started about 7:35 and finished about 11:10 last night! The first act is about 1 hour 40 mins which is far too long. There's an awful song for the grandma that does nothing for the story in Act 1 and Billy sings a song to his grandma in act 2 as he leaves that's not really of any use IMO. A lot of text can be made tighter too. That said the dancing is great. Liam was amazing in his 3 big dance number. Very talented youngster. Can't wait to go again and see the other two. The music reminded me of Spend, Spend, Spend and suits the show perfectly. Once they iron out the kinks and make some cuts I would imagine it will be a big hit. I do think the producers were VERY cheeky charging full price for what seemed like a dress rehearsal! - 213.78.149.11) | 01 Apr 05 |
| I think the show is going to be the best show in the west end - 195.93.21.100) | 21 Mar 05 |
| just wanted to even out the ridiculous 5 star given in the comment below! - 83.151.209.80) | 15 Mar 05 |
| Just like to say that I can't wait for this production to begin! I really think this show is set to take the West End by storm. For fans of the award-wining 2000 film they will be pleased to learn that the musical is reuniting the talents of director Stephen Daldry, writer Lee Hall and producer Jon Finn With the music score by Sir Elton John the choreography by Peter Darling this will surely be the show to catch this summer. The only problem I had for the opening night was locating reasonably priced accommodation as hotels are filling up fast already. Managed to find some at www.superbreak.com - just encase you get stuck too! - 217.30.116.158) | 17 Feb 05 |
