Tilley, Vesta (1864-1952), was a famous British male impersonator. She appeared in burlesque, musical comedy, and plays, but she gained her greatest popularity performing in British music halls. Tilley was a tiny woman who wore men’s evening clothes and top hat. Her repertoire of songs included many she made famous. They included “Burlington Bertie,” “The Army of Today’s All Right,” and “Following in Father’s Footsteps.”
Vesta Tilley was born on May 13, 1864, in Worcester, England. Her real name was Matilda Alice Powles. She made her stage debut at the age of 31/2 and first appeared dressed as a boy at the age of 5. At the height of her popularity, she was known as the “London Idol.” She married Sir Walter de Frece and retired from the stage in 1920, after a final emotional appearance at the Coliseum Theatre, London. She died on Sept. 16, 1952.
