MEMBERS of the award-winning production of Billy Elliot the Musical have been holding a series of workshops in the town the story was set in.

Pupils at Easington Church of England School took part in a workshop today (Friday April 22) led by Ed Burnside - resident director for the production currently being staged at the Sunderland Empire.

The theatre’s creative learning department, East Durham Creates and Easington Colliery Heritage Group have been working closely to celebrate and inspire Easington’s Spirit of Billy Elliot.

Sunderland Empire’s creative learning manager Hollie Coxon said: “It’s such a pleasure to truly bring Billy home through working to connect Easington schools and residents closer to the production.

“Everyone we’ve worked with have strongly connected and identify with Billy Elliot, and through the backing of all project partners, we’re excited to support the legacy which grows from the aspirations and ideas of this passionate community.”

Nikki Locke, Head of East Durham Creates, said: "We are delighted to be working with so many partners to develop a true legacy which celebrates the setting of this very special story and, will hopefully get more people involved in the arts, which is at the heart of both East Durham Creates and Billy Elliot."

An Easington Colliery Heritage Group spokesman added: “Our involvement in the project aims to include the wider community in Billy Elliot-inspired fun and creative activities themed around our mining and community heritage.

“We are proud that the Spirit of Billy Elliot project is created by the people of Easington for the people of Easington.”

Billy Elliot the Musical runs until April 30. Box office: 0844 871 3022.