‘Billy Elliot’ scoops Oliviers
A trio of young stars from “Billy Elliot,” the musical tale of a miner’s son who wants to dance, stole the show at Britain’s prestigious Olivier stage awards.
James Lomas, George Maguire and Liam Mower, the three young actors who alternate in the title role, eclipsed “Star Wars” star Ewan McGregor to win best actor in a musical. McGregor was nominated for his turn as New York gambler Sky Masterson in an acclaimed revival of “Guys and Dolls.”
The gritty story line and energetic tunes of “Billy Elliot” have made it a critical and popular hit, and it took awards in three other categories at the lavish London ceremony Sunday. Elton John’s music and the book and lyrics by Lee Hall gave “Billy Elliot” the win as best new musical, and it also scooped up awards for best theater choreographer and best sound design.
Though McGregor lost, his American costar, Jane Krakowski, took the award for best actress in a musical for her performance as Miss Adelaide.
The Laurence Olivier Awards, Britain’s equivalent of the Tonys, honor achievements in theater, musicals, dance and opera.
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