2:49pm Wednesday 7th July 2010
By Mary Kalmus
The Billy Elliot story has all the ingredients to stir the soul, and director Marc Valentine skilfully harnesses the formula to create a superb showcase for his extensive cast, aged eight and up.
Ensemble pieces form the show’s backbone and complement its setting – a northern town during the miners’ strike where the hopes of everyone in the community become pinned on one small boy. The dancing class scenes in particular sum up the collective enthusiasm that has been poured into City Youth Theatre Company’s production.
Individuals shine, too. Jake Bone is a likeable and confident lead, injecting much energy into his dancing. And although in real life Jack Vine is only a handful of years older than Jake, he plays Billy’s gruff, affectionate father with surprising subtlety.
There are outstanding performances from Brogan Webber, whose excellent dancing, singing and comic timing bring delight to Billy’s gay best friend Michael; and Emilia Tzilios, again a true all-rounder, who breathes vocal vitality and effervescence into dance teacher Mrs Wilkinson.
A strong orchestra also provides solid underpinning throughout. However, although the word “musical” has been deliberately inserted into the title, the slight lack of emphasis on dance is a bit puzzling considering the plot. This is most noticeable during Billy’s Royal Ballet scene, when you don’t get to see his audition piece.
However, this is the only slight disappointment in what is, in all other respects, a stunning production.
*Please note: Jack Vine and Brogan Webber will be replaced by Harry Hill and Toby Joe Corner respectively during the latter half of the run.
*Call 01273 738977
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