Production archive
Billy Elliot the Musical
Reviews
Post subject:
Re: Lee Hall Adapts Billy Elliot for Young People
Post posted:
On www.billyelliottheforum.me.uk, on Mon Jul 12, 2010, 10:43 am
Posted by:
Mike Newman
A breathtaking, stunning, and faultless production of 'Billy' by the City Youth Theatre Co at the Sallis Benney Theatre, Brighton, last week. Director, Marc Valentine, Producer, Claire Lewis. The cast rehearsed for six months, and all their hard work, and dedication could be seen "before your very eyes". To say well drilled might smack a bit of the barrack square, but that is how the ensemble moved around the stage to impressive effect, and gave a wonderful backdrop to the 'stars'. It was a great stroke of bad luck that 'Billy', Joe Wolstenholme, broke his arm during rehearsals , but on the final Saturday performances, he appeared on stage and sang his 'Billy' songs, and the dancing was done by Jake Bone, the alternate 'Billy '. Reget forgotton the name of the other sub alternate 'Billy' but the three of them were just brilliant. Joe, by the way will be appearing as the ' Dodger ' later in 'Oliver' at Drury Lane. Best wishes Joe. The two 'Michaels', Toby Joe Corner, and Brogan Webber, were both hilarious and emotionally touching. Debbie, Ellie Sothcott, was a gorgeous flouncy, pouting young lady, perfectly pitched. The other Principals, and I will not go into too many names, were all as good as you would see at the VP, a great credit to all of them
City Youth Theatre Co. are an accomplished group, and one can feel their professionalism and expertise on stage. They are a remarkable entertaining and loveable gang.
Even their programme was full of little biographies, with appropriate jokes, of all the Production Team and Cast, which in itself must have been the result of a great deal of late night candle burning.
An outstanding show, by outstanding, stimulating and inspiring young people. A hearty thank you for such a memorable and unforgetable 'Billy Elliot'.
"City Youth Theatre Co. are an accomplished group, and one can feel their professionalism and expertise on stage. They are a remarkable entertaining and loveable gang."