Billy Elliot set to leap into Seattle, and our hearts, on March 22 for 16 performances!

Giuseppe Bausilio, one of four "Billy's" coming to Seattle in "Billy Elliot: The Musical" at The Paramount presented by "Broadway Across America"

It was a hit movie then Elton John added some tunes and it became a hit stage musical and now Billy Elliot: The Musical is primed to hit The Paramount Theatre for 16 performances beginning next Tuesday, March 22. The heartwarming story of a working class British boy who yearns to dance classical ballet, the musical won 10 Tony Awards in 2009 including a joint Best Leading Actor in a  Musical award for the three young actors that alternated in the leading role of Billy, (the huge demands of the role and child labor laws require multiple actors to play the 11 year old character; four young actors currently alternate in the touring production coming to Seattle). And, in a special treat for Broadway theater fans, Tony Award winner Faith Prince stars as Billy’s tough but devoted ballet teacher, Mrs. Wilkinson, the role originally played by Julie Walters in the film.

This show is a world wide phenomenon, still playing in New York and London, with tours all over the world including two North American companies, (the other is settled in for a long run in Toronto), and Seattle scored a stop relatively early in the tour (which is booked through the fall of 2012), so the cast should be fresh and invigorated. (Note to San Francisco readers: You’ll get PLENTY of opportunities to enjoy Billy Elliot…the show is spending the summer in the Golden Gate city starting June 27.) And, Portland readers probably already know, the company heads to the Rose City following the Seattle run, for performances April 5-17.

As for Seattle fans, book tickets NOW…this is a hot show and good seats are going fast. Unless you enjoy nosebleed seats, (or miss out altogether) you’ll want to book your tix ASAP! It’s the must see touring Broadway event of the year! (followed by Mary Poppins, which comes to The Paramount May 12-29!)