You’ve seen the movie, you’ve read the bus shelter and taxi billboard, and the Chris Jones cover story in Arts & Entertainment last month. Unless you’ve been living in a coal bin, you likely know that “Billy Elliot the Musical” is opening at the Oriental Theatre on Sunday in what promises to be the biggest show of the year. A few last-minute crib notes: The show has been in previews since March 18, so you may know someone who’s already seen it. The musical score is by Elton John (who is also playing a live concert Thursday at the Sears Centre, it turns out). Rotating in the title role of Billy are the young actors Tommy Batchelor, Giuseppe Bausilio, Cesar Corrales and J.P. Viernes. The show has been a hit in London’s West End, on Broadway and in Australia; the Chicago production is the launch of the first North American tour and is expected to head to Toronto in February. The story is set in County Durham, England, during the miners strike, where 11-year-old Billy discovers an unlikely enthusiasm for ballet. Check the Tribune on Monday for a full review. Extended run at the Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St.; $30-$100; 800-775-2000 and broadwayinchicago.com; recommended for ages 8 and up; limited $25 rush tickets are available daily at 10 a.m. (11 a.m. Sundays) at the Oriental Theatre box office.
