Talented young cast breathes new life into Billy Elliot
Full of heart, authenticity and integrity, Billy Elliot is back in Melbourne and better than ever, with a hugely talented cast and brilliant production values.
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Billy Elliot
Regent Theatre
4.5 stars
Billy Elliot was groundbreaking when it opened here 11 years ago but it’s still kicking as a heavyweight masterpiece of musical theatre.
It may not be a musical that froths with glamour but it is full to bursting with heart, authenticity and integrity.
This is how to do a touring production. It never looks cheap or scaled down.
The intricacy of this brilliant piece is respected in every scene and it has so much to give to contemporary audiences.
Even though it’s set in the turmoil of mid-1980s Britain, it speaks about the power of a community faced with losing their livelihood and finding strength through solidarity.
But it’s the young boy, Billy, who unwittingly becomes their beacon of hope because of his sheer talent and determination to just be himself.
Melbourne’s River Mardesic, takes the role on opening night and he’s an incredible discovery. At only 11, he conquers this role in every way. As an actor he has the disgruntled edge needed to play Billy who’s struggling to find his place in the world and as a dancer he is outstanding.
Poised, self-assured and endearing, he is rightly the star of the show.
But the ensemble here is equally strong and bravo for mastering the accents.
It’s lovely to see Vivien Davies, who was Debra Byrne’s swing in Les Miserables years ago, playing Grandma with northern England style sweetness.
Lisa Sontag is great as Mrs Wilkinson, Billy’s dance teacher, Justin Smith is both sensitive and torn as Billy’s dad, Ella Tebbutt is a treat as Debbie and Oscar Mulcahy brings down the house as Michael.
There is some blasphemy but the show’s themes also have a lot to teach children – to chase your dreams, honour yourself and the people who are always there for you.
It is guaranteed to touch the hardest of hearts in a deeply rewarding, entertaining theatrical experience, carried all the way through by Elton John’s masterful score.