Backstairs Billy Starring Luke Evans and Penelope Wilton reveals complete cast

The complete cast for Backstairs Billy, by Marcelo Dos Santos, has been revealed by The Michael Grandage Company (MGC). The performance, which will grace the Duke of York's Theatre, is slated to start on 7 November 2023 and run through 27 January 2024. Check out the Duke of York's Theatre seating plan for the best seats and discounts!

The outstanding cast features a lineup of talented actors, highlighted by Penelope Wilton as the Queen Mother and Luke Evans as the devoted Billy. Along with David Buttle, Amy Newton, Keanu Adolphus Johnson, Georgie Rhys, and Jacob Ethan Tanner, the ensemble also includes Iwan Davies, Ian Drysdale, Ilan Galkoff, Eloka Ivo, Michael Simkins, Nicole Sloane, and others who offer a variety of skills to the stage.

This project marks a reunion between director Michael Grandage and Penelope Wilton, who has collaborated on notable productions such as The Chalk Garden, John Gabriel Borkman, and Hamlet. Additionally, Luke Evans, who plays the role of Billy, has previously worked with Grandage in productions like Small Change and Piaf.

Set designer Christopher Oram, costume designers Oram and Tom Rand, lighting designer Ryan Day, music and sound designer Adam Cork, wigs, hair, and makeup designer Carole Hancock, casting director Jacob Sparrow, associate director Sophie Drake, and costume supervisor Mary Charlton make up the creative team that contributed to the production.

The story of William "Billy" Tallon

The story of Backstairs Billy centres on William Tallon the Queen Mother's longtime steward. Tallon, a gay man from County Durham, began working for the royal family at 15, eventually rising to the position of Queen Elizabeth's personal assistant. 

Directed by Michael Grandage, this new comedy by Dos Santos explores a tumultuous period in British history. As the working-class Tallon navigates a world of opulence and luxury within the Royal household, the external landscape is marked by the ascension of Margaret Thatcher to power, set against a backdrop of strikes and riots.

As the debut draws near, Backstairs Billy promises to enthral viewers with its compelling ensemble, story, and production, vividly depicting a fascinating period in British monarchy history.