A LOCAL schoolboy has stepped into Billy Elliot's dance shoes for the first UK tour of the hit musical, which opens a five-week run in Bradford tomorrow.

Matthew Lyons, 11, from Yeadon is one of four young actors taking on the lead role in Billy Elliot, which has been a favourite with audiences in London's West End for 11 years.

Set in a north east mining town, against the background of the 1984-85 miners’ strike, the show is about a boy who has lost his mother and lives with his father and brother, both miners, and his elderly grandmother. A chance encounter with a ballet class opens up a new world for Billy, who discovers a love of dance that brings him at odds with his father and the wider community.

Billy's talent shines through at ballet classes run by jaded Mrs Wilkinson, who helps him realise his potential - and re-discovers her own passion for dance in the process.

The show was brought to life by the creative team behind the hit film, including writer Lee Hall, director Stephen Daldry, choreographer Peter Darling and Elton John, who composed the score.

Actress Annette McLaughlin, who plays the dance teacher, is impressed with Matthew and the three other young actors playing Billy.

"They are amazing, and they each bring something different to him," she said.

"They can dance, sing, act and do gymnastics. They’re super talented.

"At the heart of the show is a boy with a passion and a dream."

  • Billy Elliot the Musical runs at the Alhambra until June 11. Tickets are available on 01274 432000.