Some thought the Americans wouldn’t understand. Turns out they did.

There was much debate about the opening of West End hit Billy Elliot to Broadway last year, mostly about the characters’ thick Northern dialect and the historical references in the musical. The question was asked: would a predominantly American audience get it? And would they find it relevant?

With rave reviews posted in New York and now a massive 15 Tony award nominations, Billy Elliot has proved it can transcend the Atlantic Ocean and confirms that at its heart, it is a universal story of love, acceptance and the human condition.

Billy Elliot opened 4 years ago in London and immediately became a sell out hit. Directed by Stephen Daldry and composed by Elton John, the story centres around Billy and his quest to be a ballet dancer despite disapproval from his hard working class father and brother. With the backdrop of the 1980’s mining strikes contributing to the intensity of Billy’s family life, the story embodies a critical historical time in British life.

Billy Elliot claimed many major awards in Britain 4 years ago and with the amount of Tony nominations this week, it may sweep the board in New York as well. Fortunately, you don’t have to go to New York to see the show as Billy Elliot is still playing at the Victoria Palace Theatre in London. From now until 19th June (excludes 25th to 29th May) top price Billy Elliot tickets are reduced from £60 to £39.50 Monday to Friday. Buy your Billy Elliot tickets here.