News

Billy Elliot the Musical welcomes some new cast members this winter. From 29 November 2010, 13 year old Scott McKenzie from Dumbarton, Scotland will join the four boys currently alternating the role of Billy. Meanwhile, 12 year olds Reece Barrett from Exeter and Connor Lawson from County Durham will join the cast as Michael.

Since the shows premiere, 24 boys have played the title role in London and 44 boys, including film star Jamie Bell, have performed the part worldwide.

Boys Graduate From Billy Elliot Academy

Scott joined UK Theatre School when he was five years old and then took classes at the Jan Sutherland School of Dancing. At the age of 10 he gained a place at Scottish Ballet Juniors where he continued to study and take part in song and dance festivals around Scotland. He auditioned for Billy Elliot the Musical in February 2009, and has since been working at the Billy Elliot Academy.

Connor started drama classes when he was six years old and went on to join the Shotton Hall Theatre School. After his performance at the Billy Youth Theatre West End Gala earlier this year, Connor attended Newcastle auditions for Billy Elliot the Musical and was invited to London to meet the Billy Elliot creative team, after which he was offered the role of Michael.

One Boy's Passion For Dance

Based on the Oscar nominated film, Billy Elliot the Musical tells the story of one boy’s dream to pursue his passion for dance, set against the background of the 1984 miners’ strike that threatens to tear his working class community apart.

Billy Elliot the Musical features music by Elton John and a book and lyrics by screenwriter Lee Hall. Playing at the Victoria Palace Theatre, the show has won four Lawrence Olivier Awards including Best New Musical and Best Choreographer for Peter Darling.