Billy leaps into action

After four years of planning, a nationwide search for new child stars and six months of gruelling rehearsals Billy Elliot: The Musical will face the critics tomorrow night - and it is still not known just who will play Billy.

Director Stephen Daldry has shared the starring role between three child actors; James Lomas, George Maguire and Liam Mower.

One will star in front of the critics tomorrow, another will take the spotlight for Thursday's celebrity opening and the third will perform at a special gala on Saturday. Just who will star on which night will not be revealed until tomorrow.

The £5 million musical is an adaptation of Daldry's hit 2000 film, which made a star of Jamie Bell. The story follows Billy's determined mission to win over his father and pursue his passion for ballet.

Music for the theatrical production has been written by Sir Elton John. The theatrical version of Billy, which is set against the backdrop of the 1984 miners' strike, is reportedly more political than the film.

Standard writer Nick Curtis, who attended a preview, said: "The show already stands up as a unique experience in London's theatreland."

Billy Elliot: The Musical is at the Victoria Palace Theatre, London SW1. Booking to 22 October on 0870 895 5577.