BWW Interviews: Anne Tolpegin talks BILLY ELLIOT Toronto

Billy Elliot is a smash-hit musical already on stage in London, England and Broadway. The winner of ten 2009 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, the show is finally coming to Toronto! The Canadian Premiere of Billy Elliot is already in previews at The Canon Theatre, and officially opens on March 1st, 2011.

Billy Elliot is the story on one boy's journey to make his dreams to dance come true. Set in a small town in England, the story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising talent that inspires his family and his entire community. The show features music by Elton John, book and lyrics by Lee Hall, choreography by Peter Darling and direction by Stephen Daldry.

Over the next few weeks BWW is thrilled to be bringing its readers exclusive photos, interviews and behind the scenes looks at Billy Elliot Toronto. Today we speak to Anne Tolpegin about the show, the Billys and her return to Toronto stage:

Congratulations on Billy Elliot in Toronto, how has the experience been so far?

Amazing! Previews went really well and we are thrilled to be open!

Is this your first time in Toronto? How do you find the audience reaction to the show?

This is my second time performing in Toronto, I was here with the Marius Company of Les Miserables in 1998. That was an incredible experience - we played The Princess of Wales and the amazing Colm Wilkinson was our Valjean. I'm not sure we had a night that wasn't sold out!

Is there anything on your list of "must-see" or "must-do" things while you're here?

This time round I'm focusing a bit more on non-touristy things. I have my 2 year old Labrador, Derby, with me - so we've been exploring the hiking and parks. We love Riverdale! Otherwise, I hope to get to the Shaw Festival and to Stratford for sure.

When you hear reactions to the show, are a lot of people making comparisons to the film or do you find the show stands well on its own? If you have seen the film, what do you consider the major differences?

Most people know of the film and many have seen it as well. What I find most audiences aren't aware of is the fact that Stephen Daldry directed both the movie and the musical. As a result, there is a strong line of direction and story-telling intention. Our show focuses a bit more on the political issues (the Miner's strike, Margaret Thatcher) and how they affect Billy, his family and the community they live in - whereas the movie focused more of Billy's solitary journey. I love them both though!

What has been your favourite part of the Billy Elliot journey so far?

That's tough! Either the tap dancing in a tu-tu on stage or the jumping rope while tapping and singing, I can't decide! *laughs* Just kidding - that's been more of the challenging work though. It's all my "favourite part"! The show is amazing and it is a fantastic company of outstanding performers telling a very real and rich story of courage and love, so I'm very proud to be a part of it.

Finally, playing a Mum to 4 separate Billy's must present unique challenges as I'm sure they all bring their own touches to the role. How do you tackle that as an actress?

It's such a gift! Initially I wondered if this would present a challenge as well. But instead I find that sometimes certain Billys will inspire an achingly sad moment with me where another will bring on laughter. The key - and the gift - is that you have to be really present. Each of our boys are so different, and yet they each tell their story simply and beautifully. It's a joy for me to discover and develop moments with each of them; I have someone new to play with every show! We tell the same story each night, but with a wonderful and unique boy each time.

When and Where?
Billy Elliot

The Canon Theatre

Performance Schedule
On Stage Now!

Performances Wednesday - Saturday at 7:30PM

Tuesdays at 7PM

Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday 1:30PM
Tickets can be purchased in person at the box office, by phone at 416-872-1212 or online at http://www.mirvish.com/shows/billyelliot

Lotto Details:

20 box seats (side seating) are available at each performance. Lottery seats are $25 each cash Only. Patrons can enter the lottery two hours prior to the performance, with a limit of one lottery entry per person. The draw will begin 1½ hours before showtime, at which point no further entries will be accepted.

Each winner will be able to purchase up to two tickets for that day's next performance only. All winning patrons and their guests must be present to purchase tickets and will be wrist-banded by Box Office staff (Photo ID may be required).

 

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