BLOWN AWAY BY ELTON JOHN'S BILLY ELLIOT

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THE WEB GOSSIP
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The guy or girl that writes this column is a very big industry insider who wishes to remain anonymous, but wants to write about all the headlines happening in Hollywood and the Music Industry.

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Elton John

BILLY, MY BILLY --- I just saw Broadway’s “Billy Elliot” on Broadway … and, was totally blown away. I don’t know how it escaped me for this long. I’ve seen snippets of it on the Tony’s and others snippets here and there, but was totally captivated, moved and thrilled by the show. Based on the 2000 movie, directed by Stephen Daldry and Lee Hall, the play adapts a much more focused stage presentation and the character of “Billy,” played this performance by Liam Redhead was flawless. Channeling Rudolph Nureyev and Michael Jackson, he was a whirling dervish onstage. Several people told me before seeing the show that a complete knowledge of Margaret Thatcher during those halcyon times in the U.K. was necessary. Not really. The basic premise is that “Billy,” from a family of miners, wanted to dance. And, the more than people said no … the more he got into it. Philip Whitchurch plays his father and really delivered quite a performance; from the angst of first seeing him dance, to finally coming around and getting him what he needed, it was just terrific. Kate Hennig, who plays his teacher “Mrs. Wilkinson” was really spot-on too. It’s interesting to note that in the original movie, Julie Walters played that role. Waters is an absolutely terrific actress. The music, written by Hall and Elton John, is really standout and to me, features some of John’s best work, like “Solidarity” and “Electricity.” John’s music has really evolved into that area where the lyrics and music really speak volumes. I love him, always have, and though his output at times seems like he’s on overload … he’s really delivered here. A special shout out must go also to Donnie Kehr, he of the “Rockers On Broadway” shows, for performing at least three roles here. He’s terrific. He sings, plays accordion, and dances with the best of him. A terrific journeyman actor he is. Everyone mentioned the tutu to me and in the end, what happens is that the cast during the second curtain call, each come out in a tutu ... and, it works. Really well! Really a wonderful night out on the Great White Way. If you haven't seen this show … do yourself a huge favor and go. Outstanding!

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Sandra Bullock

SHORT NOTES --- The Eagles will be touring this summer (yes, we're talking summer already!) with The Dixie Chicks. Should be a great show … I just watched yesterday’s Tiger Woods interviews with the Golf Channel’s Kelly Tilghman. You've got to admit, Woods seemed a lot of more focused and passionate than he did just a month ago during his so-called mausoleum press conference. You got to hand it to the guy; he didn't blame anybody but himself and said several times, he was taking complete ownership of his problems. We've all made errors in judgment … some more than others, but maybe now is the time to forgive and move on …. On the other hand, what about Sandra Bullock? Can this really be happening to her so soon after winning her Oscar? She is America’s sweetheart and this all seems so unfair especially after all she said about her husband. Even Donald Trump (never one to miss a PR-op) said James was cunning and not so trustworthy. Hmmm! So sad …

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David Hyde Pierce

BLEEKER STREET--- We found ourselves Friday night back at Le Poisson Rouge on Bleecker Street for the performance of The Runaways tribute band, the Stay-at-Homes. If there was ever any question as to The Runaways enduring legacy in the annals of contemporary music, this band certainly dispelled it, and the bio-pic of the original group that also opened this day. I haven't seen the movie yet, but hear it is great and intend to this week. This show was produced by our friend Peter Abraham, late of The Cutting Room, and he told us he has a number of shows coming up here and at the Highline Ballroom. Talk about your affable individual …. knowledgeable and funny, it is Abraham. We also bumped into singer/songwriters Larry Stevens and Victor Kastel possibly plotting a joint project … How about Kelsey Grammer in the upcoming Broadway production of “The Birdcage?” Personally, we can't wait. We've always loved Grammar and know he'll be masterful. And, how about David Hyde Pierce as his partner for the play? ...

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Joseph Fiennes

FLASH FORWARD --- Just a brief mention that last week’s two-hour return of “Flash Forward” was, for the most part, terrific. The first hour did a masterful job of bringing everything and everyone up to the present, while spotlighting some of the terrific set-pieces from its earlier run. I for one love Joseph Fiennes and think he brings a nice majesty to the show. The second hour focused on the terrific Dominic Monaghan (“Lost”) and on the character “Uncle Teddy,” essayed with true flourish by Ricky Jay. His character didn't quite make it to the end, but he was just terrific. I don't know if this show will survive to next season, but it was a way-worthy endeavor and everyone involved should be properly congratulated ... Actor Armand Assante will be a special guest in Vincent Pastore and Vincent Curatola's Monday, April 12 "Big Pussy's Rat Pack Revue" at the Gramercy theatre ...Good stuff … I'm off to Spain for a short five-day excursion ... talk to you all next Monday!
Photos By: Sara De Boer/Walter McBride/Retna