Billy Elliot Review - June 21, 2009
Billy Elliot is a blockbuster. I absolutely adored this show, from the moment the curtain raised to the second it closed I was rapt and spellbound by the hypnotic, graceful and thoroughly moving elements of this incredible show.
Elton John's powerful score infuses Billy Elliot with an array of music styles, from ballads to music hall crowd pleasers. These are beautiful songs that simply soar.
The entire company is made up of top notch performers, there is not a weak link among them. David Alvarez moves effortlessly and beautifully across the stage, a virtuoso dancer who glides as magically across the stage as he does through the air.
All of the children in the show were truly spectacular, I had no idea how integral to the show their characters were they all shined equally and it was so enjoyable to focus on each of them throughout their appearances. Of special not was Frank Dolce in the role of Michael. Mr. Dolce is whirling dervish of vitality, charisma and energy, he was my favorite performer in a show that is power packed with immense talent. Dolce is a natural clown and exuded such charm while bringing down the house in the show stopping number "Expressing Yourself."
At the final curtain following the "Company Celebration" the smallest boy in the show strolled out from stage left carrying a bouquet of flowers that he presented to a beaming Frank Dolce. I hadn't realized it was his final show, but, very glad to have seen his performance. Which show is going to next, I wonder if he will return to Billy Elliot at a later date.
The entire production is simply steeped in originality. The direction is so sharp and clever and each scene seamlessly evolves and blends into the next with the precision and crispness of a ballet. Gregory Jbara was truly moving as the father, his mournful, bittersweet ballad at the top of act two was soulful and brilliant.
Carole Shelley sparkled as the grandmother particularly during "We'd Go Dancing". Haydn Gwynne embodied such earthiness, heart and spirit in her role of Mrs. Wilkinson, her scenes with Billy are so terribly powerful.
Also completely engaging was Thommie Rhetter as Mr. Braithwaite. Rhetter barrels upon the stage looking like Sam Kinison turned hoofer. He is intensely likeable and thoroughly entertaining in his stage appearances particularly during "Born to Boogie".
Billy Elliot simply transports and seduces you with tremendous waves of drama, spirit and heart. It is hard not to fall into this show's awesome trance. A truly spectacular, original show that enriches you, entertains you and roars to life. I cannot wait to see it again and again, theatrical magic, long live Billy Elliot on Broadway!
Updated On: 6/21/09 at 08:27 PM