Gammage Goers

Pamela's Billy Elliot The Musical Review

I went to see Billy Elliot at ASU Gammage opening night. Let me just say that if you have not been out to Gammage this season to see a show, this is the show to go to! Everything from the music, to all the unbelievable dancing is a must see. If you are not familiar with the film Billy Elliot, it is a story of a young boy with a natural ability and passion for dance. The story is the turmoil and ultimately triumph he experiences while discovering his new found talent. The story takes place in a small mining town in England experiencing its own turmoil do to Margaret Thatcher. There is a strike going on with the miners throughout the show, along with Billy’s fight to do what he loves. These two conflicts parallel each other to create a moving story.

The reason you have to get tickets to the show is because the show will blow you away. How they have presented this young boys story will make you laugh, cry, and be in awe. Let me start off with what the show is mainly known for; dance! The cast of the show is split between adults and children, all of which are incredible dancers. Billy of course being the most magnificent of these will keep you at the edge of your seat with some of his stunts and perfect moves. Particularly there is a moment where they use a fly system and this young boy is doing perfect dance moves while in the air. I must admit I was a little scared for a moment, but the beauty of it quickly turned my fears into inspiring awe. In addition to Billy’s incredible solo performances, the entire cast puts on top of the line routines, from tap to ballet, which will not disappoint you.

The music went perfectly with the story and created the perfect mood to support the story. Written by Sir Elton John, I didn’t expect anything less! The set design was innovative in ways. For the most part it as stagnate set, which transforms with additions rolled on during certain scenes. There are also some moments where the set is completely transformed into a magnificent “put-on-a show” type of design. There is one particular moment involving haze and lighting that took my breath away. It was a moment in which Billy is dancing to Swan Lake, and the effects could not fit it more perfectly. It was by far one of my favorite dances in the show.

Billy Elliot is a great show which is comical yet dramatic. It’s a great show for any art enthusiast and anybody looking for great entertainment. In other words, go get yourself tickets to this show, it will not disappoint!