Written by
Billy Elliot The Musical consists of a gripping story that explores the relationship between the strife of the working class and the desires of a child trapped by circumstance. The show consists of two acts. The music is done by Sir Elton John. The story was written by Lee Hall and is set during the coal strike of 1984 which lasted until 1985.
Billy is a boy raised by his coal miner father and brothers while the family is embroiled in the consequences of an active miner’s strike. Billy stops attending boxing lessons in favor of ballet lessons. The boxing instructor tells Billy’s father about Billy’s absences. Billy’s father acts to prevent Billy’s dancing.
The dance instructor Mrs. Wilkinson offers Billy free dance lessons and offers encouragement helping him develop a try out routine to audition for the Royal Ballet School. The day of Billy’s audition arrives. The events of the day force a reveal of Billy’s actions which upsets his family. Billy’s family responds abusively which enrages Billy who rejects his dream. This closes the first act.
The second act opens at a Christmas gathering. Mr. Elliot deals with his grief over his deceased wife by becoming drunk. Billy’s best friend Michael reveals his homosexuality and his feelings for Billy. Billy’s father departs the gathering as does Michael. Billy dances. Mr. Elliot sees the dance routine. He approaches Mrs. Wilkinson to discuss Billy’s future. They speak about the cost of tuition for Billy which is beyond the father’s means to afford.
Knowing the best way to assist Billy at this moment requires funds, Mr. Elliot crosses the picket line. This prompts a conflict with Billy’s miner brother Tony. Father and son argue about which is more important, Billy’s dream or the unity of the miners. The conclusion draws in the other miners. In the end Billy acquires the funds for his dream which leaves Tony in despair.
Billy with his father sets out to audition. The scene contrasts the differences of the working class miners with other families from different social classes. Billy auditions. The Elliots return to their home and continue their lives. Billy receives a letter from the school but tells his family he didn’t pass the trials. Tony discovers Billy’s deception.
The last act closes with the strike’s end and shows Billy’s response to those who supported him before he departs for the Royal Ballet School.
