Billy Elliot at the Edinburgh Playhouse Review
Billy Elliot
Edinburgh Playhouse
17 September to 22 October 2016
Reviewed by Debbie Douglas
The Edinburgh Playhouse is a fabulous venue and is easily accessible from Waverly Train station, by bus and of course by the infamous trams. There is off street parking just minutes away or a pay by the hour car park just practically next door. The Playhouse is a perfect venue for a trip to the theatre with excellent shopping, pubs and restaurants close by.
Last night we visited to see a fantastic musical. If you don’t know already the basic story of Billy Elliot it is set against the bitter miners’ dispute of 1984-85. It tells of a family already struggling with a personal tragedy who have to face yet another of life’s hardships and how something good can come out of the darkness.
I was young during this strike and I found it interesting to be reminded of this and how it affected individual families and communities. It made me grateful for what myself and my family have in life.
The show is brilliantly put together slick costume and set changes. The sound effects were used to maximum effect and the darkness of the time was brilliantly reflected in the mood lighting and I particularly like the use of shadows.
The whole cast are amazing but special mention must go to Billy Elliot, apologies to whichever Billy it was last night as they rotate the role but he was absolutely fantastic. All the kids did such a good job, so professional and excellent at delivering their one liners. The language could be a bit much for anyone of a really sensitive nature but it was all part of the culture at that time.
I laughed, I cried and I cringed – it was a roller coaster of emotions and I was exhausted by the end. The song with the dance teacher, Billy and his dead mum (Nikki Gerrard) had the tears pouring down my face. Special mention to Billy’s Dad (Martin Walsh) and his dance teacher Mrs Wilkinson (Annette McLaughlin) both were brilliant.
While I remember this show does have a longer running time than most of the theatre shows I have been to see lately, every minute is superb, but don’t get caught out and miss your bus or train home.
I really don’t want to give too much away as I think what I enjoyed most about this show was its originality and the unexpected. I will say there is a superb number involving a Maggie Thatcher puppet and another with some dancing dresses but I will say no more, be prepared to be thrilled in person. The final number is a ballet ensemble which is heart- warming and shows the cast members full potential and talent.
The Edinburgh Playhouse was on its feet at the end, it is a long time since I have witnessed this and it was so well deserved.
“Bloody marvellous” was the consensus around the theatre when the curtain came down and I wholeheartedly agree. Get your tickets booked now!!!
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £20 to £68 (plus £4 transaction fee).
Billy Elliot is at the Edinburgh Playhouse until 22 October 2016. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 3014.
Edinburgh Playhouse, 18–22 Greenside Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3AA | 0844 871 3014
