Luke Evans, Penelope Wilton to star in new comedy 'Backstairs Billy'

The pair both return to the stage to portray the relationship between the Queen Mother and Billy who served the royal household for half a century.

Penelope Wilton and Luke Evans will star in the world premiere of Marcelo Dos Santos new comedy play Backstairs Billy.

This new production opens on 7 November and runs until 27 January at the Duke of York's Theatre.

Michael Grandage directs this show that looks at a defining moment in the 50-year relationship between the Queen Mother and her loyal servant William "Billy" Tallon.

“It is always a great moment to celebrate the birth of a new comedy in the West End and particularly from an important new voice such as Marcelo Dos Santos." Director Grandage said in a statement.

Luke Evans is returning to the stage for the first time in over fifteen years in his role as Billy. His television and film appearances during that time include The Fate of the Furious, Disney's Beauty and the Beast, Echo 3, and The Girl on the Train.

Penelope Wilton is an Olivier-Award winning actress that has starred in a wide range of productions, both on stage and screen, with a career that spans five decades. Her previous work includes theatre such as Hamlet, A Delicate Balance, and The Chalk Garden; and television such as Downton Abbey, Doctor Who, and The BFG.

Director Michael Grandage leads the creative team that includes set designer Christopher Oram, costume designer Christopher 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.

Further casting will be announced shortly.

Check back for information on Backstairs Billy tickets on London Theatre.

Photo credit: Luke Evans and Penelope Wilton (Photo courtesy of production)