Loosely inspired by historical events, ‘Backstairs Billy’ depicts the unusual friendship between Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon (aka the Queen Mother) and her faithful, mischievous, fun-loving page William Tallon (better known as Backstairs Billy) amidst a particularly challenging time for the Royal Family and for the country at large.
During the viciously cold and stormy winter of 1979, unions across England went on strike. With labour disputes and political discord knocking at the door, the Queen Mother and Billy both will have to come to terms with the harsh realities beyond the luxurious world of Clarence House and the consequences that ensue.
‘Backstairs Billy’ marks playwright Marcelo Dos Santos’s West End debut. Tony and Olivier award-winning director Michael Grandage directs.
Don’t miss L&C’s wonderful Emily Barber starring as Annabel Maud/Lady Astlebury in ‘Backstair’s Billy’ at the Duke of York Theatre until 27th January.