Youth theatre to stage Billy Elliot

WARRINGTON youth theatre group CODYS Productions has been granted the rights to perform a specially adapted amateur version of the West End and Broadway hit musical “Billy Elliot.”
The group will also have a chance to compete to perform excerpts from their production on stage at the Victoria Palace Theatre, the London home of the West End production.
Based on the hit film of the same name, Billy Elliot tells the story of a young boy’s dream to dance, set against a backdrop of the 1980’s miner’s dispute.
CODYS chairman Nick Cupit said: “Billy Elliot has been inspiring audiences since the film first opened in cinemas in 2000.
“The heart-warming and uplifting story of a young boy who defies his family and community and battles to achieve his unlikely dream of becoming a dancer struck a chord with audiences worldwide.
“CODYS now have the opportunity to be a part of this worldwide success, which is a dream come true for many of our members.
“The fact that our production will be judged against all others being staged across the country and may provide us with the opportunity to appear on stage in the West End, makes the whole experience even more exciting for us all. We will be working with the West-End creative team who will provide advice and guidance throughout the creative process and assisting us in providing a magical experience for both our members and audiences.”
CODYS are launching a search to find a “Billy” and are looking to find two boys between the ages of 10-14 who are able to sing and dance, including tap dance, to play Billy over seven alternate performances. There are also limited places in the supporting company for boys aged 14-19.
Anyone interested should email: [email protected]
The show is expected to go on in July at a venue yet to be decided.