Lee Hall (playwright)

Lee Hall (born 20 September 1966) is an English playwright, screenwriter, and lyricist, best known for writing the screenplay and stage play Billy Elliot.

Hall was born in Newcastle upon Tyne and educated at Cambridge University. His early career involved writing for radio, including adaptations of novels by Catherine Cookson and short stories.

Hall's breakthrough came with Billy Elliot, initially a film released in 2000, which he adapted into a highly successful stage musical, Billy Elliot the Musical, with music by Elton John. The musical premiered in London's West End in 2005 and has since enjoyed international success, winning numerous awards.

Hall's other notable works include the plays Cooking with Elvis, Spoonface Steinberg, and The Pitmen Painters, the latter of which won the Evening Standard Award for Best Play in 2008. He also wrote the screenplays for films such as War Horse, Rocketman, and Pride and Prejudice (2005). He has frequently collaborated with director Stephen Daldry.

His work often explores themes of working-class life, social mobility, and the power of art and self-expression. He is noted for his use of humor and pathos to portray complex characters and situations. Hall continues to work in theatre, film, and television.