It’s here! The 2009 Tony Award-winning Best Musical, Billy Elliot has come to Philadelphia as part of the Broadway Season at The Kimmel Center.

Based on the international smash-hit film and featuring music by Elton John, book and lyrics by Lee Hall, choreography by Peter Darling and direction by Stephen Daldry, Billy Elliot the Musical is here!

Billy Elliot the Musical is the joyous celebration of one boy’s journey to make his dreams come true. Set in a small town, the story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising talent that inspires his family and his whole community and changes his life forever.

Billy Elliot the Musical features Ty Forhan, Lex Ishimoto, Kylend Hetherington and J.P. Viernes in the role of ‘Billy.’

Also featured are Leah Hocking (Mrs. Wilkinson); Rich Hebert (Dad); Patti Perkins (Grandma); Cullen Titmas (Tony); Joel Blum (George); Ben Cook and Jacob Zelonky (Michael); and Samantha Blaire Cutler (Debbie).

Billy Elliot is one of the most exhilarating musicals currently on Broadway and on tour. After experiencing last night’s evening show, it’s no wonder the production has been awarded 81 national and international awards including ten Tony Awards, Best Musical by the New York Drama Critics Circle, Drama Desk, Drama League and Outer Critics Circle.

Now I have to admit, I have never seen Billy Elliot the movie in its entirety. So I was essentially going into this musical blind. And after the incredible show last night, I am more than excited to not only buy the musical soundtrack but also pick up the movie to finally sit down and watch. Although I already know that I will be more of a repeat offender of the Broadway show than the film. More on the music and all that good stuff in a bit.

First… the casting… The casting for the tour is brilliant! The incredibly talented Lex Ishimoto, Original Broadway cast member, Leah Hocking (Mrs. Wilkinson) and a handful of others who toured with Billy Elliot before join this touring cast and deliver one phenomenal and unforgettable performance. The passion that these actors have for this musical shines so brightly in every word, every note, and every movement across the stage. That’s not an easy thing to do night after night, traveling from city to city each week. Bravo! And for some reason, Cynthia Darlow (Grandma) reminds me of an older version of Alice Ripley. Needless to say, I love everything about her! She brought such a warmth and a light and comedic edge to the show that is sure to continue making audience members across future city stops fall in love with her. And Rich Herbert (Dad) evokes such raw emotions throughout the show… the tension especially. Wow.

As for what I loved as the story unfolded… well the music is superb. I am so glad that I have finally found my way into the Billy Elliot world. I will cherish these sixteen musical numbers forever. And the choreography is mesmerizing. What a beautiful sight. As someone who used to take ballet, tap, and jazz, seeing these dancers makes me wish I had continued. I especially found the tap dancing and jump roping to be quite impressive. And Billy’s cross dressing friend telling him that ballet dancing is weird… what a laugh! Aside from all of the comedy (political punches included), Billy Elliot is a story about embracing who you are and what you are capable off no matter the odds that people place upon you. That’s beautiful. What an inspiration.

Everything comes together so well. There’s something for everyone to laugh about, cry about, and most importantly, learn from here. While the language might be a bit rough for a younger audience, I do recommend this show to everyone because it will change your life. It will take you to the next level and encourage you to not only be yourself but go after your dreams. Billy Elliot has dance and dance has heart and the heart has a message that you need to see. So make sure to see Billy Elliot on tour in a town near you, on the West End, or on Broadway today.

Fun Facts:
The average Billy stays in the role for 1.5 years.

During an average week, The Billys spend six to eight hours in rehearsal and up to six hours in private dance classes.

Every Billy is assigned four pairs of ballet slippers at a time – the show pair, a backup pair, a rehearsal pair, and a promotions pair.

Billy Elliot runs at the Academy of Music November 16 – 27, 2011. The show runs at approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including intermission. Tickets range from $20-$150 and can be purchased by telephone (215-731-3333), the Kimmel Center Box Office, or online. No performances are scheduled for Thurs. Nov. 24, Thanksgiving Day.