Based on the 2000 feature film of the same name, Billy Elliot: The Musical opened in London in May 2005. It was praised by most critics, including Charles Spencer of the Telegraph, who called it "the greatest British musical" he ever saw.Telegraph: Billy boy, this is the greatest musical yet (May 12, 2005)

The musical, which features songs by pop-rock singer Elton John and Lee Hall, began previews on Broadway on October 1, 2008, at the Imperial Theatre.Playbill: "Born to Boogie": Billy Elliot Readies for Broadway (August 2, 2008) It was nominated for a Best Musical Tony Award on May 5, 2009.Tony Awards: Nominations

"[T]he whole cast is blessed with a freshness and sincerity I have rarely seen equalled, and one leaves this triumphant production in a mist of tears and joy."—TelegraphTelegraph: Billy boy, this is the greatest musical yet (May 12, 2005)

"Instead of winking condescendingly at the sentimental clichés that drive its plot, ['Billy Elliot'] finds the eternal life in them. For all its conscious craftsmanship, it's the most unself-conscious musical in decades."—The New York TimesThe New York Times: A Miner's Son Who Dreams, Then Dances (June 20, 2005)

"Stephen Daldry's 'Billy' is an infinitely more affecting package, wrapped up with an extended, all-singing, all-dancing showcase finale."—VarietyVariety: Billy Elliot the Musical Review (January 1, 2008)