Details

Vesta Tilley was music hall's greatest male impersonator. Vesta's role in recruiting thousands of men made her the darling of the establishment but as the brutal reality of the First World War became known, whose side was she really on? Sitting in her dressing room on her farewell tour she reminisces on her role as Britain's Best Recruiting Sergeant and the lives she touched. Through her stock-in trade of impersonation and songs Vesta explores her role in the war and the impact of her choices on those left behind. This one woman, twelve character play features many of Vesta's most well-known songs such as Jolly Good Luck to the Girl Who Loves a Soldier and I've Got a Bit of a Blighty One. England Expects is a fascinating exploration of a controversial time and character.

Cast/Performers

Teresa Jennings

Creatives/Company

Author: Tom Glover
Company: Off the Fence Theatre Company (in association with Curve)
Director: Gary Phillpott
Design: Kathy Boat
Lighting: David Hately
Music: David Hately (musical arranger)
Sound: Douglas Finlay
Costume: Sianne Shepherd
Stage Manager: Gina Holroyde
Other: Marie Neville (make-up)