BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL

Palace Theatre, Manchester

Until January 28

'BE who you want to be' is something we're often told.

But sometimes, it's a notion that it is easier said than done.

Imagine then being a boy living in a northern coal mining town in the 1980s, a youngster with a passion for ballet rather than boxing like his family assumes.

Set against the background of the 1984/’85 miners’ strike, Billy Elliot is an inspirational story of hope and following your dreams — whatever they may be.

The multi award-winning hit musical features iconic music by legend Elton John, phenomenal dance and a powerful story based on the 2000 film.

While the whole cast is strong (apart from a slipped Northern accent here and there), it is the young stars who make this show.

Four boys alternate the role of Billy and the performance I saw starred Lewis Smallman in the lead role.

He is superb as the young boy who follows he dreams, inspiring his family and whole community along the way.

The show is crammed with laugh out loud moments, there's something very funny about hearing children being bolshy and swearing.

10-year-old Samuel Torpey is equally fantastic as Billy's gay best friend Michael and their dance routine to Expressing Yourself is a highlight of the show.

Joining them are the adults — Annette McLaughlin as Mrs Wilkinson, Martin Walsh as Dad, Scott Garnham as Tony and Andrea Miller as Grandma.

Acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, Billy Elliot the Musical has been seen by nearly 11 million people across five continents.

Now on our doorstep in Manchester, be sure to dance down to the Palace Theatre before the run ends on January 28.