A bejewelled Elton John was at his sparkling best as he walked down the red carpet on December 13, 2007, for the gala opening of Billy Elliot the musical.

With partner and the show's executive producer, David Furnish by his side, Elton, who wrote the musical's score, charmed the crowd with his praise of the Harbour city.

"I've been here for three weeks and had the best time," he said. "I've caught up with people that I haven't seen for a long time." Sir Elton said he felt a connection with the lead character, reminding him of his own impoverished upbringing. "My dad wasn't supportive of me, so I've always been very ambitious," Elton said.

A crowd including Anthony La Paglia and Lachlan Murdoch joined Elton at the Capitol Theatre, before going to the Sofitel hotel after-party.

Back to Headlines