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The Downs School Triumphs with Powerful Production of Billy Elliot the Musical

The Downs School proudly brought the spirit of determination, and individuality to life with a moving production of Billy Elliot the Musical, performed on 3, 4 and 5 July 2025.

Set against the gritty backdrop of the 1984–85 miners’ strike, Billy Elliot tells the inspirational story of a young boy who defies expectation, trades boxing gloves for ballet shoes, and follows his dreams despite all odds. The cast of students shone in every performance, with remarkable acting, singing, dancing, and musicianship that moved audiences to their feet.

Miss Jodie Duthie, Billy Elliot Director
"This story embodies everything we champion at The Downs School. Our students’ commitment, creativity, and courage have been outstanding. It has been a joy to watch them thrive and bring such a powerful story to life. I’m incredibly proud of every single one of them."

With more than 80 students involved across cast, crew, and band, the production was a true team effort. The team produced the set design, choreography with an exceptional live orchestra of students and teachers, plus a highly organised backstage crew, the performance was a testament to the school’s strong values of community and collaboration.

Leading the cast was Jack A as Billy, supported by Harry O’B (Michael), Ava E (Mrs Wilkinson), Bella M (Debbie), Tommy N (Dad), Wilf A (Tony), Layla B (Grandma), and Martha P-D (Mum). Beren R was Mr Braithwaite and Older Billy, alongside Thomas W (George), Aiden C (Big Davey), Gabriella D (Clipboard Lady), and George R (Small Boy) and James A as Posh Boy (Kevin).

The ensemble cast included standout performances from Ivy S, Miriam R, Tildy CM, Hannah R, Evie W, Rose M, Emily D, Gracie H, Hollie J, Tom R, Indie J, Anna C, Lily M, Maren W and Freda C.

Ballet Girls and Dancers wowed the audience with energy and grace, including Francesca H, Georgina G, Imogen C, Amelie R, Florence M, Emily P, Molly S, Chloe B, Megan S, and Evie H.

In the mining and boxing scenes, students including Elliot D, Tom R, Cillian C, James R, and George R who all brought grit and realism to the stage.

Behind the scenes, the production was a true community collaboration. The band, conducted by Miss Blake and Ms Anderson, included Jude K (drum kit), Gabi D (electric guitar), Ella C, Rebecca S, and Seb A (clarinets), Seb D and Elliot B (saxophones), Willow T, Erin C, and Chloe H (flutes), Oliver S, Anna W, and Ms Edwards (trumpets), Erin H (trombone), and Toby H (cello). Mr Castle, Mr Raby and Nathan L supported the keyboards, with Martha F and Nathan L as page turners.

The creative and technical teams also featured many talented students:

• Costume & Props: Luca M, Heidi W-S, Ferne B, Jenna W, Bonnie T, Hollie J, Mimi L, Florrie T, Abbie H, and Andrew B.

• Lighting, Sound & Backstage: Elliot D, Max V, Rebekah H, Hayden F, and Zaira F-B.

• Photography: Mrs Bennett.

• Choreography: Miss Duthie, Miss Duckham, and Miss Haughey

Mr Chris Prosser, Headteacher, added,
"Watching this production reminded me just how special our school community is. The talent, passion on display were truly exceptional. Our students have delivered a performance that will be remembered for years to come."

Special thanks were extended to the dedicated staff, parents, and supporters who made the production possible, as well as the Friends of The Downs for their continued generosity.

The Downs School continues to inspire through the arts, proving once again that when young people are given the opportunity to shine, they do so brilliantly.

Billy Elliot the Musical has been described as a modern-day fairy tale. It is the heart-warming story of a young boy whose life is changed forever when he discovers an unexpected passion for dance. This is the story of a young boy who reaches beyond his place in the world to follow his heart’s desire and fight for his dreams.

Storyline

‘Set against the turbulent background of the 1984-85 miners’ strike in the northern pit village of Easington, Billy himself naturally is expected to become a miner like his brother Tony, his father Jackie and his father’s father before him. Despite the ravages of the strike, the family scrape together 50p per week for Billy to go to boxing. But, left to pass the hall keys on to the leader of a dance class, the exuberant Mrs Wilkinson, Billy finds himself connecting with the power of the music which, quite literally, moves him in a way that he would never previously have thought possible. ‘