Local boy hits big time

A local schoolboy has hit the big time in New York, starring in the US production of Billy Elliot the Musical.

Daniel Russell, 14, of Umina is currently performing as Billy Elliot to sold-out theatres across the United States.

This is the second time Daniel has been cast as Billy in the production after he performed the title role for six months at Her Majesty's Theatre in Melbourne when he was 12.

"When the Australian Production closed, Daniel was home for 12 months before he received a phone call from New York City asking him if he would be interested in re-auditioning for the same role for a US national tour," said his mother Ms Bronwyn Russell.

"Naturally, Daniel was very keen and within a few weeks was in New York City rehearsing on Broadway for three months before the tour commenced.

"Daniel is enjoying life on the road and has met many amazing people," she said.

"Daniel loves all the rehearsals, press conferences and hard work involved with playing such a demanding role but especially loves the feeling of satisfaction when the audience has a wonderful time seeing the show," said Ms Russell.

When the Gosford High School student is home, he attends a local performing arts dancing school at Umina.

"Daniel started dance lessons when he was in preschool and has continued for the past 10 years, winning many awards and scholarships both locally and in Sydney," said Ms Russell.

Daniel previously trained his voice with Joanne McMahon from Umina and has studied tap, ballet, contemporary and jazz-hip hop.

Locally, Daniel has performed in a number of musicals with Gosford Musical Society including Oliver, Alice in Wonderland and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.

Email, 4 Feb 2011 Bronwyn Russell, Umina