Note: Kellan Atchley’s final show as Billy in Billy Elliot the Musical (BETM) in Joplin, Missouri, presented by the Joplin Little Theatre (JLT), was on August 11, 2024.
Debut: August 7, 2024 (Joplin, MO)
Total Performances as Billy: 5 (No partial shows)
Kellan Atchley has appeared in just one other show before BETM, but has been dancing and preparing for this lead role of a lifetime for months. Residing in Joplin, Kellan hasn’t had far to commute during his months of rehearsal for the show. And as he prepared for the role, he had plenty of support from his family. His real life mother, Michelle, and sister Tailour are appearing in the show with him — Michelle is Mrs. Wilkinson and Tailour is a member of the ensemble.
Kellan has studied dance at Karen’s Dance Studio since age two. BETM is his first show at JLT and his first performing the lead in a production. His only previous theater performance was serving in the ensemble in Descendants with Pittsburg Community Theatre in 2023. He also loves swimming, playing the piano and video games.
When he debuts on August 7th, Kellan becomes the 362nd performer in the world to bring the title role to life on stage in a professional, regional or community theatre production of the musical.
The week before BETM opened in Joplin, Living Well, a program of Joplin TV station KSNF, an NBC affiliate, featured Kellan and the actor who plays his father in BETM, Nick Kubicek, who appeared on the station to promote the show.
Credit: Video by KSNF TV
For more information about Kellan Atchley, visit:
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