Thursday 22 October saw a new generation of Billy Elliot’s take an educational trip to the original North East film locations of the acclaimed 2000 film, including Seaham and Easington Colliery, ahead of Billy Elliot The Musical’s launch in Wearside this November.
The four young stars, Noah Mannion (13 years old from Stockport), Rafferty Smale (12 years old from Leigh-on-Sea), Spencer Collins (13 years old from California) and William Gurney (13 years old from Berkshire) took time out of their rehearsal schedules to tread the same streets of Jamie Bell, who originated the role of Billy on screen, to inspire the boys as they recreated famous movie scenes and dance poses in the setting of the beloved film.
The boys, who were cast in the iconic role after a global search, brought energy and excitement as they explored the hometown of ballet dancing Billy including Angus Street, Crawlaw Avenue, Ashton Street and Londonderry Terrace in Easington Colliery as well as Dawdon in Seaham.
The boys were also joined at Easington Social Welfare Centre by Wallsend’s own Deka Walmsley, who returns to the unforgettable role of Billy’s dad having played the part to great acclaim in both the West End production and on screen in Billy Elliot the Musical Live.
The production returns to the stage after a 10-year hiatus and will premiere in its home theatre of Sunderland Empire on Wednesday 4 November where it will run until Saturday 28 November 2026 ahead of a limited UK tour and a West End Season at the Adelphi Theatre in February 2027.
The original story created by Geordie writer Lee Hall is set in fictional Durham mining town Everington and follows young Billy’s journey from the boxing ring to the ballet class against the background of the 1984/’85 miners’ strike and how his passion for dance inspires his family and community changing his life forever.
Acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL has been seen by just over 12 million people across five continents and is the recipient of over 85 awards internationally, including ten Tony Awards and five Olivier Awards. In total, over 125 boys have now played the iconic title role on stage worldwide, and now it’s Noah, Rafferty, Spencer and William’s turn.
BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL is brought to life by the multiple award-winning creative team behind the film including writer Lee Hall (book and lyrics), director Stephen Daldry and choreographer, Peter Darling, joined by Elton John who composed the show’s score.
Tickets for BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL are available online now at ATGTickets.com/ Sunderland *
* A transaction fee may apply to online bookings.
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