Distinguished theatre maker and researcher Tony Lidington, is developing and writing a new intimate revue called ‘Shuff & Byng’: an exploration of the lives, work, and enduring legacy of Douglas Byng and Mrs. Shufflewick, who were two iconic figures who pioneered the art of female impersonation long before the era of RuPaul’s Drag Race. It is a celebration of the unique genius of both Rex Jameson and Douglas Byng. Following a research grant from the Bunnett-Muir archive held at the V&A, Tony is reaching out to STR members for any memories or anecdotes of these two performers that they could share – if so, please send to Tony at info@prom-prom.com

Douglas “bawdy but British” Byng was the UK’s notorious king of double entendre, enjoying a 70-year career as a cross-dressing society entertainer, gracing film, stage, variety, and cabaret. His friends, lovers, and acquaintances spanned royalty, aristocracy, and celebrities, and his work led to both BBC acclaim and being unceremoniously banned

In contrast, Mrs. Shufflewick, a working class char lady and semi-resident of her local pub, The Cock and Bull, was the glorious creation of Rex Jameson. With his impeccable timing Jameson brought Mrs. Shufflewick to life, becoming one of variety, tv & radio’s most original and brilliant talents.

Tony said:-

“Mrs Shufflewick and Dougie Byng represent two very different drag personas with contrasting, yet equally brilliant, careers. Between them, they provide a proud, complex, lineage of male cross-dressing that predates RuPaul’s Drag Race by a century! I knew Dougie in his last years and wrote a BBC Radio 4 series from his memoirs, which was performed by Julian Clary, whilst Shuff’s earthy humour and sozzled character remains an enduring influence on many more recent drag artistes such as Lily Savage.”

Joining Lidington and producer Matthew Linley on this exciting journey are Kinny Gardner (Lindsay Kemp Company, Rocky Horror Show) as Douglas Byng and Billie Bottle as Musical Director. Further casting announcements will follow.

“A comic genius. Even in his cups Rex was gloriously funny.” – Roy Hudd on Mrs. Shufflewick

“A dazzling performer, a theatrical legend.” – The Times on Douglas Byng