Backstairs Billy

Based on true events, "Backstairs Billy" is a play about the Queen Mother and her most loyal servant, who joined her household at the age of fifteen. The play explores the fifty-year relationship between the two and the consequences of their collision when the country is on the verge of changing seismically under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 16 November 2023
Publisher: Nick Hern Books

One cannot control their birth or their station in life, of course. However, the key to happiness lies in finding contentment with one's current circumstances. This is a message that I have often heard.

In 1979, I found myself at Clarence House in London, amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the Queen Mother's receptions. The champagne flowed freely, and William "Billy" Tallon, the page of the backstairs, played a crucial role in guiding the proceedings. As the keeper of the keys, holder of the royal corgis, and guardian of the royal secrets, Billy had a unique perspective on the inner workings of the royal household.

While the Queen Mother's receptions were a symbol of luxury and glamour, the outside world was a different story. Britain was grappling with a severe economic crisis, characterized by high unemployment, inflation, and industrial action. The country was on the brink of a seismic shift, and Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher was at the helm, leading a conservative government that was implementing radical reforms.

These two worlds were about to collide, with unpredictable consequences for everyone involved. Backstairs Billy delves into the fifty-year relationship between the Queen Mother and her most loyal and outrageous servant, who joined her household at the age of fifteen. Written by Marcelo Dos Santos, this irreverent comedy was first produced by the Michael Grandage Company at the Duke of York's Theatre in 2023. Directed by Michael Grandage and starring Penelope Wilton and Luke Evans, the play offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of these two extraordinary individuals.

Through Billy's eyes, we witness the ups and downs of the Queen Mother's reign, from the glamour of royal events to the personal struggles she faced behind closed doors. We also see the evolution of Billy's relationship with the Queen Mother, from a young and impressionable servant to a trusted confidant and friend. The play explores the complexities of loyalty, trust, and the power dynamics that exist within the royal household. It sheds light on the sacrifices that individuals make in service to the monarchy and the toll that it can take on their personal lives.

Backstairs Billy is a humorous and poignant portrayal of a bygone era. It reminds us of the importance of finding joy in the present and appreciating the people and experiences that surround us. It is a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit. Whether you are a royal fan or simply someone who enjoys a good story, this play is a must-see. It offers a unique perspective on a fascinating period in history and provides a glimpse into the lives of two remarkable individuals.

Dimension: 198 x 129 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839042799