Vesta Tilley, WW1
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Vesta Tilley, WW1
Vesta Tilley (1864-1952), born Matilda Alice Powles, later Lady de Frece, music hall actress whose speciality was male impersonations. During the First World War, she earned the nickname, Britains best recruiting sergeant, with a number of patriotic war songs she performed at various shows and revues. She is pictured in the role of Tommy home from the front at the London Coliseum where she delighted audiences with the song, Six Days Home on Leave. The Tatler wrote of her, Miss Tilley is undoubtedly the best male impersonator the Halls have ever seen, and is a great favourite practically all over the world. Posed here admiring a German pickelhaube helmet. Date: c.1915
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Media ID 14159294
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Actresses Coliseum Drag Dressed Dressing Entertainer Entertainers Impersonation Impersonations Impersonator Impersonators Patriotic Patriotism Recruiting Recruitment Revue Revues Role Tilley Tommies Tommy Vesta Shows
EDITORS COMMENTS
Vesta Tilley: Britain's Beloved Entertainer and Recruiting Sergeant during World War I This photograph captures the essence of Vesta Tilley (1864-1952), an extraordinary music hall actress renowned for her male impersonations. Born as Matilda Alice Powles, she later became Lady de Frece and enchanted audiences worldwide with her unparalleled talent. During the First World War, she earned the moniker 'Britain's Best Recruiting Sergeant' due to her inspiring war songs performed at various shows and revues. In this image, Vesta Tilley is depicted in the role of a soldier, 'Tommy,' fresh from the front lines. The London Coliseum stage serves as the backdrop, where she delighted audiences with her rendition of the popular war song, 'Six Days Home on Leave.' The Tatler praised her as 'the best male impersonator the Halls have ever seen,' and her fame extended beyond the British shores. Vesta Tilley's cross-dressing performances were a sensation, and her drag costumes and theatrical acts were a significant contribution to the morale-boosting entertainment during the war. Her impersonations were more than just a spectacle; they embodied the spirit of patriotism and served as a powerful recruitment tool. This photograph, taken around 1915, encapsulates the essence of her captivating stage presence and her role as an iconic figure during a pivotal moment in history. Vesta Tilley's legacy continues to inspire, and her unique blend of entertainment and patriotism remains an intriguing chapter in the annals of show business history.
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