Frequently Asked Questions

I’m seeing the show on (insert date). Who will be playing Billy?

The production company does not post the scheduled rotation, and even if you hear from so-and-so that a certain Billy is performing, there is always a chance it could change. For the Broadway company, you can track the rotation via twitter, and make a guess, since the same Billy will rarely perform two shows in a row (not that it hasn’t happened, it just doesn’t happen often).

What’s the running time of the show?

The show runs approximately 2 hours and 50 mins.

Where is the theatre located?

The Imperial Theatre is located on 45th between Broadway and 8th. The stage door, however, is on 46th.

The Victoria Palace Theatre is located near the Victoria stop on the Underground, and is very visible from the street. (Any UKers want to give a better description?)

Is the show going to tour?

If you're still asking this question, you obviously have missed something. Chicago, IL will be the next city to host a production of BETM. Click on their production link for more information. At the moment it is an open-eneded run that begins March 18th. No other cities have been announced at this time.

How do I find out about auditions for Billy Elliot?

Kids can find out about auditions at bebilly.com, and adult auditions are occasionally posted at playbill.com under Job Listings.

Why are there so many Billys and Michaels?

Both roles are extremely demanding, and while union rules would allow one actor for each role, for the health and safety of the actors, both roles have a rotation. There are currently four Billys in the United States, and five in the UK. The US has two full time Michaels and one understudy, the UK has three Michaels, as well as multiple Debbies.

How are the US/UK/AUS productions different?

(coming soon, its complicated)

Why is there only a London cast recording?

The London cast recording was extremely expensive to produce, and while the Broadway company has won many awards, the company has decided not to produce another recording at this time.

Where is the best place to sit?

Broadway: Premium priced seating is the front center section of the orchestra, but an argument can definitely be made for front mezzanine as well, since it is a heavy dance show. If you’re on a budget, you can enjoy the show from the partial view seats as well, but always choose house right over left, either orchestra or mezzanine. While the set is angled so that it is only fully viewable from partial view seats in house left, the staging itself favors house right, which is in some cases more inexpensive tickets.

How does student rush work? How early should I go?

Broadway: On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday performances ONLY, the box office will sell whatever tickets they have in the $81.50 range at half price ($41.50). These seats are usually in the rear mezzanine, and occasionally the partial view seats. It’s a great way to see the show on a budget if you have a current student ID. You may buy two tickets per ID, cash or credit. Currently, in the post-Tony months, the show has been selling out in advance, which means no tickets left for student rush. It is not likely to return until after the summer vacation season ends closer to the fall. No word yet as well on how the price increases will affect strush.

How old are the kids in the show?

Broadway: The ballet girls range in age from 7-18 years old and the Michaels and Billys have been 13-15 years old.  Our current Billys/Michaels are all 14 or 15.