Billy Elliot dances into Denver

In what has been deemed “The best musical of the decade,” by Time Magazine, Billy Elliot launches performances on the Denver stage this spring. Reflecting the struggle of a young boy’s journey from boxing practice to ballet class, Billy Elliot circles around one boy’s passion for dance as he yearns for acceptance from his family and his peers. Taking place in the mid ’80s this epic musical tale chronicles the dedication of a young boy’s fervor as he seeks individual truth while inviting the audience to question their prejudices.

Billy Elliot combines the elements of fantastic direction by Stephen Daldry, flawless choreography by Peter Darling and, of course, Elton John’s unforgettable symphonic melodies and music.

As the winner of 10 Tony Awards in 2009, Billy Elliot opens in Denver with performances taking place from May 11 through June 5 at the Buell Theatre in the Denver Center for Performing Arts allowing Coloradans to witness the monumental success of this epic Broadway production.

Resident choreographer for Billy Elliot, Kurt Froman – whose work can also be seen in the films Black Swan and Center Stage – spoke with Out Front Colorado. From his personal parallels and inspiration to the emotions the audience members are left with, Froman gives us an inside look.

What is special or unique about Billy Elliot as a musical production?
Billy Elliot is special for the combination of a strong book, wonderful direction, great choreography and Elton’s music. The drama of the show never breaks once the dancing starts; rather it is a continuation of the drama. It’s a story close to my heart because it reflects the struggle that I had as a boy trying to convince my father that ballet was something I loved and had to pursue.

Was there a number or dance piece that you enjoyed working on the most?
I love coaching “Electricity,” Billy’s solo in the second act, probably the best. It is filled with emotion and some great choreography, and I love the fact that it is adjusted to each of the boy’s strengths (four boys trade off playing Billy). I like to see it become theirs, and when all the components start to come together. The struggle is to have everything going at once. Lots of plates have to spin at the same time.

Working for this production all over the country, what is special about Denver’s production?
Well, the show is the same wherever we perform it, but I am looking forward to the great Denver audiences that I’ve heard so much about. I love to feel the energy the audience gives back to the performers onstage. It makes a tremendous difference to those boys that are giving everything they have.

What led you to this production? What made you want to become a part of it?

What drew me to this show was the amazing message of dedicating yourself to your passions, the great dancing, and how much I identify with the story. I’m also grateful to be so instrumental in these boys’ development as dancers … It isn’t uncommon for me to well up with tears of pride while watching them onstage. That moment is truly my payback.

What is your favorite element of the production of Billy Elliot?
My favorite element is the boys I work with. I love all of them like they are my kids, and I look out for them. I get so much satisfaction to see how quickly they progress in such a short amount of time. In only a few months, I have turned boys that had major technical flaws into clean, exciting and dynamic dancers. That makes me extremely proud, of myself and of them.

If you could urge the public to come out to see the production, what would you tell them?
It is a show like no other. You WILL cry, laugh, witness great dancing, hear great music and be moved. This cast is really extraordinary and I am still moved to tears after seeing it hundreds of times. There is always something new that I find in it.

For more information visit the Denver Center for Performing Arts at www.denvercenter.org, www.BillyElliotTour.com or call the Buell Theatre at 303-893-4100.