Photo Flash: Elton John Hosts Billy Elliot Gala

Sir Elton John, composer/lyricist of the multi award-winning West End hit, Billy Elliot The Musical, hosted a special charity Gala performance of the show on November 22nd as the musical celebrated with it's one millionth patron through the doors at the Victoria Palace Theatre.  

Due to outstanding public demand, Liam Mower - one of the original young boys who created the role of Billy Elliot on stage –  returned to play the title role for one night only.  Stephen Daldry, Director of Billy Elliot The Musical, created a unique performance for the evening.

The one millionth patron, David Llewellyn, his wife Julie, their daughter Jade (15) and son Bryce (11), travelled from Warrington to see the show.  As well as meeting Sir Elton and Liam, they were congratulated by Sharon, Louis and Simon and received Billy Elliot goodie bags.

This special Charity Gala was in aid of the Easington Branch of The Children's charity, The Place2Be.  BiIly Elliot is set in the North East and is a funny, heart-warming and feel-good celebration of one young boy's dreams.   The multi award-winning Working Title fillm, was directed by  Daldry, written by Lee Hall and starred Jamie Bell and Julie Walters.  Billy Elliot, which is Broadway bound, is also due to open in Australia in Jan. 2008.

Visit www.billyelliotthemusical.com for more information.

Photos by Craig Sugden

 Elton John and Liam Mower with "X Factor" Judges (from L to R) Simon Cowell, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh

Curtain call – Simon Cowell, Elton John, Liam Mower, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh

 Curtain call (with cast) - Simon Cowell, Elton John, Harry Taylor, Liam Mower, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh