Billy Elliot Example Essay Example
Billy Elliot Example Essay Example

Billy Elliot Example Essay Example

Available Only on StudyHippo
  • Pages: 3 (688 words)
  • Published: July 12, 2017
  • Type: Article
View Entire Sample
Text preview

Witness an engaging performance of Billy Elliot at Victoria Palace by Remove drama sets on Thursday, 7th June. The play narrates a heartening story of a working-class young boy who uncovers his inclination towards dancing.

Billy Elliot, an eleven-year-old boy whose father is a miner, accidentally finds a ballet class while on his way to boxing lessons. Knowing that his family would not be accepting of his interest in the class, Billy joins in secret. With the help of Mrs. Wilkinson, his teacher, Billy's talent becomes apparent. However, when his father learns of his son's ambition, Billy has to fight for both his dreams and his fate. It is worth mentioning that Billy's grandmother was a personal favorite actress in the show.

Ann Emery's portrayal of a comical character added depth to Billy Elliot's story. Her character had a unique personality a

...

nd her absent-minded wandering across the stage stood in sharp contrast to Billy's determined father, who exuded a cold energy that permeated the theatre. Eventually, James Gaddas' performance as Billy's father showed his realization that he couldn't protect his son and his dreams from the world. He ultimately assisted Billy in achieving his goal of attending the Royal Ballet School in London, eliciting empathy from the audience and revealing his caring, warm side as a parent who would always support his son.

The character of Billy's dance instructor, portrayed by Jacky Clune, possesses a strong-willed nature and a distinct perspective on life that greatly differs from that of Billy's father. She subscribes to the notion of motivating her pupils to reach their maximum capability and expresses animosity towards Billy's father through annoyed facial expressions an

View entire sample
Join StudyHippo to see entire essay

lackluster body language when in his presence. Her dynamic movements exude an aura of dominance.

The Proscenium arched theatre in Billy Elliot showcases an elaborate stage and set design that is cleverly utilized to make the most of the available space. At the beginning of the story, Billy's only source of genuine support comes from his friend, who he also has affection for. Despite being a woman, her smoking habit likely contributes to her deep voice.

The stage had a plane black backdrop, with backstage exits on either side. The Set included two trap doors, one containing a dining table and chairs, and the other a flight of stairs leading to Billy's bed, attached to a small kitchen. These were utilized for scenes in Billy's home. In addition, two sidewalls rolled in for the boxing and ballet area, with chairs aligned on either side. These chairs also served as balancing poles for the ballet girls and Billy.

The outfit worn by the characters in the play varied according to age and wealth. The play was set in the 1980s, a time when bright, eye-catching colors dominated fashion. However, since Durham was a mining county with a predominantly working-class population, not many people could afford fancy clothes. Consequently, all the miners wore grubby overalls with jeans underneath.

Mostly, Billy wore a tracksuit or ballet outfit, while Mrs. Wilkinson, being more affluent, had the means to wear new clothes including pink legwarmers, black ballet tights, or bright dresses. The stage lighting tended to be brightly lit, with the most striking lights being used in the Police raid scene, incorporating blue-tinted lights and smoke machines.

During moments of intense anger

and frustration, such as when Billy's family forbade his ballet pursuits, the stage lighting would turn red to signify his rage. Although special effect sounds were minimal, they were employed during police raids. The majority of the music in Billy Elliot was reserved for dance scenes and Billy's practice sessions. Efficient use of space and levels was evident throughout the production, with high positions reserved for the most dominant characters. This was particularly demonstrated when Billy used a harness to fly upwards after completing a dance, symbolizing his unwavering pursuit of his dreams despite opposition. I thoroughly enjoyed the show, especially due to the spectacular dancing performances.

The stage setup was fascinating and the actors delivered an impressive performance.

Get an explanation on any task
Get unstuck with the help of our AI assistant in seconds
New