St. Louis audiences have the chance to see Leah Hocking, one of the original Broadway cast members of Billy Elliot The Musical, at the Fox Theatre through November 13. Leah plays Mrs. Wilkinson, Billy’s inspiring and spirited dance teacher, in the national tour. You may remember seeing Leah as Ado Annie in Oklahoma! at the Muny, and Leah is excited to be visiting St. Louis once again and to explore the city. Read on for Leah’s answers to our Five Fabulous Questions and be sure to see her outstanding performance in Billy Elliot The Musical at the Fox.
What was the first show you ever saw on Broadway?
I moved to NYC in the mid 80s and my friend finally made me see a Broadway show, which I longed to do but thought it was too expensive. I didn’t realize there were discount tickets. I saw Bernadette Peters in Song and Dance. It was thrilling.
Many of the touring shows and artists that have visited the Fox have left their mark by painting murals backstage. Even though Billy Elliot The Musical will have a backstage mural, what would your personal backstage mural look like?
Wow, that’s a hard one. Growing up, the theatre was my sanctuary. It always has been. It’s like home. I’d probably paint a mural of…backstage. Or the view of the house from the stage.
If you could see any performance at the Fox, (any artist alive or dead; any show past or present) what would you choose?
Judy Garland
Do you have a hidden talent other than what you do in the show?
I have double-jointed fingers, I can belch on cue, and I’m very good with power tools.
What are you most looking forward to seeing in St. Louis?
I didn’t get downtown when I worked at the Muny. I’m looking forward to seeing the city. But I really enjoyed the neighborhood I stayed in. Lots of galleries and restaurants and music. I was lucky enough to be in town during a street fair. And of course I spent way too much money.
Thanks, Leah! We hope you have a fabulous time in St. Louis!