Billy Elliot the Forum

Neo Del Corral & Sam Duncan, Stars of the award winning musical “Billy Elliot” join Steve and Andrea to talk about their experience playing such a big role and their history as young actors.

Billy Elliott Triumphs at the Paramount

Aurora’s Paramount Theatre has once again demonstrated its prowess in delivering captivating and socially resonant theater with its latest production, “Billy Elliot: The Musical.” Already Jeff-Nominated, the production is set against the backdrop of the famed 1984 coal strike in the north of England when Margaret Thatcher’s Tory government broke the miner’s unions and threw the entire north into extreme poverty, where much of it remains today. It is nearly impossible to talk about this production without talking about that, because the parts that are actually about the miners’ struggle are among the most compelling with great soaring anthems delivered with heart by the talented cast.

The magnificent musicals and plays produced by Jim Corti’s extraordinary Paramount Theatre are always West End and Broadway quality. This glorious show is no exception. It’s a musical that generates its own “Electricity” by all the creatives involved in the production. Be ready to cheer until you’re hoarse and clap until your hands turn red. But also bring plenty of tissues with you because I guarantee you may shed a few tears as Billy Elliot dances into your heart. This British-based musical story is filled with meaningful, universal truths and is a show not to be missed, especially if you’ve ever nurtured a dream to bust loose, create art or to simply be true to who you are.

The sheer grandeur of the closing moments of this production left me in awe and ranks as the most beautiful visual tapestry I have ever—repeat, ever—seen in a theatre. I am still thinking about it and how Paramount's stunning production of "Billy Elliot" will now occupy a permanent place in my memory box of this show.

Gobsmacked….

That was my feeling after seeing this new production of Billy Elliot at the Paramount Theatre. It runs through March 24. The book and lyrics were written by Lee Hall. The amazing score was written by Sir Elton John. The original 2005 stage musical was inspired by the 2000 film.