The Talisman Theatre and Arts Centre is inviting audiences behind the doors of the Queen Mother's official residence, serving its newest production - Backstairs Billy.

Marcelo Dos Santos' script is "brought to life" by director Steve Smith in a story of rivalries, affairs, chaotic tea parties and one unlikely friendship.

In the sheltered world of Clarence House, the Queen Mother has appointed her long-serving butler William 'Billy' Tallon as her "Page of the Backstairs"– one of the highest honours bestowed on a royal servant.

As Billy takes on a young prodigy, Gwydion, he must also fend off Mr Kerr, a jealous private secretary who will stop at nothing to see Billy fall from grace.

As events spiral out of control, this "hilarious but heartfelt play will attend to your every need".

Though set in 1979, Backstairs Billy is a "powerful comment on the political present, as well as an uplifting farce to guide us through uncertain times".

This production features a stellar cast of both Talisman stalwarts and newcomers.

Michael Seeley takes on the title role of Billy, with Gill Halford as the Queen Mother.

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They are supported by an ensemble featuring Jack Ives as Gwydion, Mike Tildesley as Kerr, Benru Greene making his Talisman debut as Ian, and many more fantastic performers.

The cast bring both the play's "unstoppable humour and deep cultural relevance to the forefront", exploring themes of freedom, etiquette, rebellion, sexuality and companionship.

Sydney-born playwright Marcelo Dos Santos is known for his impactful, comedic explorations of life as a gay man.

His Edinburgh Fringe triumph Feeling Afraid As If Something Terrible Is Going To Happen was followed up with Backstairs Billy, an instant West End hit that won him a Critics' Circle Theatre Award for "Most Promising Playwright".

His continued work for stage and screen sees him bring a vast array of "messy people and situations" to audiences across the globe.

This show comes to Kenilworth hot off the press. First performed in 2023 in a production featuring Penelope Wilton and Luke Evans, Backstairs Billy is now in the hands of the

Talisman's co-artistic director Steve Smith. Having joined the Talisman acting troupe in the late 1970s (whisper it quietly!), Steve now works tirelessly alongside Stephen Duckham to bring nine high-quality amateur theatre shows to Kenilworth every year.

Reflecting on his latest assignment directing Backstairs Billy, Steve said: "We were delighted to get our hands on this extraordinary play so soon after its release.

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"It contains everything that we as a theatre like to provide our audiences with: organised chaos, heartfelt interactions and a fair few surprises!

"Whether you love your job or are a bit more of a party animal, whether you've devoted your whole life to one thing or have just sought shelter from the world around you, I think this show proves that there's a bit of Billy in all of us."

"If you are looking for a laughter-filled evening in a tender and poignant production, then don't delay in booking your tickets," the Talisman team said.

The show is recommended for ages 15+ at parents' discretion.

Backstairs Billy runs at the Talisman Theatre, Kenilworth. Showtimes are at 7.30pm each evening, 13 to 18 April.

Tickets are available via the website or by contacting the Box Office directly on 01926 856548.

The Talisman Theatre and Arts Centre sponsors Kenilworth Nub News.

Without community-minded partners like them, we would not be able to provide clickbait-free news for the people of Kenilworth.

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