Since childhood, my biggest stumbling block to fully embracing musicals — besides all that singing — has been my dogged inability to imagine that a mob of people could possibly burst spontaneously into perfectly synchronized song and dance.
Saturday, we’ll all get the chance to be part of such a mob.
Dance faculty and students from Arizona State University will teach a crowd the steps to “Solidarity,” the final, rousing number in the Tony Award-winning “Billy Elliot The Musical,” coming April 26 to ASU Gammage. They learned the steps via a Skype lesson with Aaron Kaburick, choreographer of the national touring show.
The story of a small-town boy who stumbles out of the boxing ring and into ballet class, “Billy Elliot’s” acclaimed score is by pop legend Elton John.
Granted, the steps won’t be impromptu and, sure, this may be a skill you’ll never use again. But it could be fun, especially for fans of the genre and for kids. (The show features a cast of dancing children and is recommended for kids 8 and older.)
Besides, there will be gift bags for the first 100 dancers, and everyone will receive an offer for discounted tickets to the show. One lucky pupil will win four tickets to opening night.
Broadway, here we come, in all our tutu-wearing glory.
• Contact writer: (480) 898-6818 or azajac@evtrib.com
