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Elton: I’m just like a grandfather to my 22 Billy Elliots
Alistair FosterUpdated 12:08pm on 1 Apr 2010
Sir Elton John wept as he paid tribute on the fifth anniversary of the West End musical to the 22 boys who have played Billy Elliot.
The singer, who wrote the music
for the production, said he felt like a grandfather to the boys — 19 of whom returned to the Victoria Palace Theatre last night for a rousing curtain call.
The young actors performed what director Stephen Daldry called a “Billy megamix” after the show, before cutting a birthday cake backstage.
More pictures: Billy Elliot 5th anniversary celebration
Happy anniversay: Elton John takes to the stage with 19 actors who have played the lead role
Asked if he felt like a father figure to the stars, Sir Elton, 63, said: “I feel more like a grandfather to be honest.
“That was very emotional. I did shed a tear when I saw the three original Billys come on stage. I've known them as young kids and now look at them.
“It just brought back so many memories of how great this show is. We're like a big family.
“It's hard for a kid to be part of something for a year and a half and then have to leave. You perform in front of audiences that love you and all of a sudden you're back at school wondering what you're going to do next.
Celebration: Elton John and David Furnish attend Billy Elliot's fifth birthday
“We've always tried to provide the kids on the show with a safety net, so we can try to help them adjust to life after Billy, and they're always welcomed back. You got that feeling tonight when they all came back on stage. It was just a very human moment for me and I loved it so much.”
The show has been a huge success, transferring to Sydney, Japan, South Korea, Chicago and Broadway, where it won 10 Tonys.
Daldry said: “When we rehearsed the finale and put it all together I did cry. I don't think we'll ever be able to get all these kids back, so it was a very big deal. A big emotional step.”
Reader views (4)
Try some positive kind comments... Many of you forget the millions and millions of pounds this man donates to charity. What's with the 'real' Grandfather comment? Mickinlondon - you sound like a lovely bloke (not)!
As for the typical Aussie comment....WHY??? Why can you not just read an article....It's about a guy who has dominated the music world for what 3-4 decades but there has to be an 'We in Australia comment'... It's a no wonder this world has problems with the pathetic negativity of some people. Elton John, good for you.
- Sue, Surrey, 05/04/2010 23:15
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Everyone seems to forget that we had Billy Elliott down under with some fantastic dancers. Some of the best in the world might I add. Not only England can prduce good dancers.
- J E Brown, Notley Hills Tasmania Australia, 02/04/2010 03:28
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I wonder how my grandfathers married a lady in the 1980s then had a civil partnership with a chap 20 years later?
- Keith, King's Cross, 01/04/2010 15:40
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I am a real Grandfather to 18 kids; Sir Elton.
Try it sometime; it is real magic, most of mine sing and dance as well, and they are worth their weight in gold.
But they are all mine.
- Mickinlondon, london, 01/04/2010 14:53
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