Billy Elliot: "The Best Gift from Britain Since Harry Potter" -- New York Post

Bill Elliot opened this weekend on Broadway, after wowing audiences in London. The New York Post says the show is "The Best Gift from Britain Since Harry Potter." Based on the 2000 film, the story examines the life of a young boy growing up in a working-class mining town in England during the 1980s. While his father and brother march to the picket lines for the historic 1984 miners strike, Billy discovers his gift for ballet and secretly begins to study the art. With the help of his liquor loving, chain-smoking dance teacher, Billy's gift blossoms and he aspires to be the first working-class boy to enter into the prestigious Royal Ballet School.

Three young triple threats play the lead role of Billy at alternating performances: David Alvarez (trained at the American Ballet Theatre), Trent Kowalik (the youngest American to win the World Irish Dancing Championship) and Kiril Kulish (prized ballet and ballroom dancer). Learn more about these 13 and 14-year-old budding stars here.

Elton John wrote the score, which should be particularly moving after listening to his work on broadway shows such as The Lion King and Aida. Helping John with the music was Lee Hall who wrote the lyrics. Director Stephen Daldry also directed the film, which was nominated for more than 40 awards worldwide. And Choreographer Peter Darling actually worked on the Lord of The Rings among other works on his extensive resume. 

This show is now on the top of my "must see" list. If you're not convinced that Billy might be worth seeing, check out the links above and below to watch videos and learn more about the musical. 

Watch the video of opening night here.