You can’t wipe the smile off Daniel Stoddart’s face today.
The Very Popular Theatre Company producer and artistic director is beaming following the news Newcastle’s Civic Theatre will play host to Billy Elliot The Musical for the first time in 2023.
The West End and Broadway phenomenon is scheduled for a strictly limited three-week season from 7 October.
Seen by almost 12 million people, on five different continents, since its premier in 2005, Billy Elliot remains one of the most popular musicals in the world.
Hence why Stoddart’s so delighted.
“Given its global following, we are ecstatic to finally give audiences in Newcastle and the Hunter the opportunity to relish in this funny, touching, inspiring and uplifting night at the theatre,” he said.
“After charming packed houses in Broadway and the West End, Newcastle is going to fall in love with Billy, too.
“This year, we broke box office records by selling more than 11,000 tickets to Jersey Boys – making it the most ever sold to an event at the Civic Theatre.
“We expect Billy to, likewise, attract thousands of people into the city.
“This is a significant boost for local tourism.
“It’ll also shine a spotlight on our city as a major centre for world-class musical theatre and entertainment.”
Featuring iconic music by the legendary Elton John, Billy Elliot The Musical is a coming of age story of the motherless boy who begins taking ballet lessons, only to discover an entirely new world awaiting him.
Set in a northern English town during the miners’ strike of 1984/5, the show follows Billy’s journey from boxing ring to dance class, where he uncovers a passion which unites his family, inspires his community and changes his life forever.
Brought to life by the award-winning creative team behind the hit film, Billy Elliot The Musical is an extraordinary theatrical experience, which has captivated audiences around the world.
Auditions will be conducted in February for Australian performers to join the ensemble.
“We are thrilled to begin the search for our cast,” Stoddart said.
“The show is irresistible and shamelessly enjoyable.
“But, we are confident Billy Elliot will attract some very exciting new talent.
“We’ll be casting our net far and wide to find Newcastle’s Billy.”
Early bird tickets will go on sale soon and, if the ticket sales are anything like Jersey Boys, getting in straight away to secure your seats to this spectacular event is strongly advised.
For more entertainment stories:
- Newcastle performer eyes off Star Maker title
- Kurri Kurri’s Mulletfest still a cut above the rest
- Finding your Conscious Christmas in Wallsend
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
