This complex, upsetting and uplifting show began with historic film footage of the 1984-85 coal miners strike in northern England, the backdrop against which widowed miner’s son, Billy, aspires to dance lessons in place of the expected boxing lessons. The rustic, practical set below the screen echoed the real-life miners’ surroundings. (Set design Dirk Rennick, Dan Wenzlick)
Of course, choreography is key — done by both Erica Bradley and Garrett Bradley, who was also the overall director. He has a personal understanding of a boy in dance class as explained in his director’s note. I was impressed by the quality and quantity of dance and the range of emotions expressed, from total cuteness of young, silly ballerinas to some real anger and violence. I particularly liked the number where ballet and the miners' strike were literally combined.
7th grader Isaac Feldpausch was excellent as Billy, navigating some rocky emotional territory as well as dancing up a storm. Alissa Britten was both gruff and loving as the dance teacher who believes in Billy, both inspiring and evoking the memory of his deceased mother - the angelic Mary Catharine Maurer. I needed a kleenex for the lost-mother scenes/songs.
Lebowsky favorite Michael Windnagle played the full range of Billy’s Dad, angry and macho, but reachable… and Anthony Mandalari was a force as Billy's older brother. All the miners presented a believable community of threatened men, not the “ballet type” but still… Anna Owens was a fun Grandma and Micah Dahlgren was adorable as the Michael, the friend who likes to dress in women’s clothes. The clothing-partnered choreography for him and Billy was a real treat.
Billiy Elliot the Musical runs through March 5. Tickets at http://lebowskycenter.com Definitely worth the drive to Owosso!