Universal Pictures Stage Productions, Working Title Films and Old Vic Productions in association with Weinstein Live Entertainment announced today that Tommy Batchelor has joined the rotation in the role of 'Billy Elliot.' Tommy joins Broadway's original Billys David Alvarez, Trent Kowalik and Kiril Kulishon stage at the Imperial Theatre.
Tommy Batchelor, 13, is from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. He began his dance training at age 4 at the Dance Factory in Minnesota, and by age 12, Tommy was dancing in the final rounds of the international ballet competition YAGP (Youth America Grand Prix). Before joining the rotation as 'Billy Elliot," Tommy was an understudy for the role.
Going forward, the role of 'Billy Elliot' will be played by the four actors.
A hit in London and one of the most highly anticipated shows of the season, Billy Elliot officially opened at Broadway's Imperial Theatre on Thursday, November 13th, 2008.
With music by Elton John, book and lyrics by Lee Hall and directed by Stephen Daldry, this joyful musical lights up Broadway eight times a week!
Directed by Stephen Daldry, Billy Elliot has played over 1,300 performances and recently celebrated its 3rd anniversary in London. Billy Elliot the Musical opened at London's Victoria Palace in May 2005 to unanimous critical acclaim.
The production went on to sweep London's nine awards for Best Musical, including the Olivier, Evening Standard and Critics' Circle Theatre Awards. In London, Billy Elliot has now been seen by over 1.5 million people and has grossed over £65 million.
The musical opened to equal acclaim at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney, Australia in December 2007. The two current productions have played to over 2.3 million people.
The production features choreography by Peter Darling, scenic design by Ian MacNeil, costume design by Nicky Gillibrand, lighting design by Rick Fisher and sound design by Paul Arditti. Musical supervision and orchestrations are by Martin Koch.
Billy Elliot the Musical is produced by Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Jon Finn and Sally Greene. Angela Morrison and David Furnish are Executive Producers.
Billy Elliot is playing at the Imperial Theatre, 249 West 45th Street, between Broadway and 8th Avenue, New York, NY 10036. The running time is 2 hours 45 mins, with one intermission. Shows times are Tuesday 7pm, Wed through Saturday at 8pm, Wednesday and Saturday at 2pm, Sunday at 3pm.
