Actor Justin Smith on Billy Elliot The Musical: ‘It’s a show all dads should see’

The boy who was once played Billy Elliott’s brother in the stage show has now returned to star in the Aussie musical — this time as Billy’s dad. Justin Smith has joined the cast of Billy Elliott The Musical, which is coming to Sydney this October.

Stars Wade Neilsen, Jamie Rogers, Justin Smith, River Mardesic, Omar Abiad will appear in Billy Elliot The Musical in Sydney in October. Picture: James D. Morgan

More than 10 years ago, acclaimed actor Justin Smith took to the stage as Billy Elliot’s brother, Tony, in the multi-award winning musical.

Now, he’s back to play the boys’ dad.

“It’s a bit strange,” Smith said.

“I’m a father of two boys as well, a 13-year-old and an almost 11-year-old. When I played Tony, my son was only one, now he’s basically Billy [Elliot’s] age.”

Billy Elliot tells the story of a young boy growing up in a small British mining town who instead of following his father’s wishes and taking up boxing, develops a passion for ballet.

The musical is coming to Sydney in October.

“[Billy’s dad‘s] journey in the show is to break through all the garbage that comes with the life he’s lead and growing up in a town that’s built around one industry,” Smith said.

“When Billy gets the opportunity [to dance], it’s a big a leap for the dad to come to terms with.”

Smith said it’s a show all dads should see.

“Dads in particular could learn a thing or two about embracing the unique qualities if their child,” he said.

“Individuality is something that should be celebrated.”

Actors River Mardesic, Wade Neilson, Jamie Rogers and Omar Abiad will alternate performances to play Billy. Picture: AAP/Bianca De Marchi

Due to strict labour laws dictating children can only work 20 hours per week, Smith is in the unique position of acting with four different stars who play his son.

“It’s a very busy schedule,” he said.

“In this case we have to do everything four times. The schedule is unlike anything I’ve seen. [The boys] have to go school, keep up to par with choreography and the acting side.

“It’s a gift really, you get four different show because you get four different responses from the boys, the ballet girls and the four different Michaels.”

Billy Elliot The Musical opens on October 10 at Sydney Lyric Theatre. billyelliotthemusical.com.au