Life's too short not to shine. The extraordinary story of drag pioneer Stan Munro.

Join writer and broadcaster William Brougham for a captivating author talk about Secrets of a Showbiz Dame, the remarkable memoir he co-authored with legendary Australian performer Stan Munro after spending a decade recording his life story.

From the grey streets of Wales to the glittering stages of Sydney's Kings Cross, Stan Munro's career spans more than 70 years in entertainment. Arriving in Australia as a Ten Pound Pom, he became one of the original stars of the iconic Les Girls, before performing across Australia, Europe and Asia. Along the way, he helped shape Australia's drag and cabaret scene, breaking barriers and entertaining audiences with humour, glamour and resilience.

In this special event, William will share the fascinating journey of bringing Stan's extraordinary memories to the page. He'll discuss the decade-long collaboration behind the book, the art of capturing someone's voice, and the rich history of Australian drag culture that forms the backdrop to Stan's life.

Secrets of a Showbiz Dame is much more than a showbusiness memoir. It is a powerful story of survival, reinvention and authenticity. Born into hardship and heartbreak, Stan refused to be defined by his circumstances, transforming adversity into art and becoming one of Australia's most enduring entertainers. Told with warmth, wit and honesty, the memoir celebrates resilience, queer history and the courage to live life unapologetically.

The event will include an audience Q&A.

Photographer Jodie Harris took the photo on the front of the book. Originally a standalone photoshoot, the image was a finalist in the National Photographic Portrait Prize.

About the Book

Secrets of a Showbiz Dame traces Stan Munro's remarkable journey from a child performer in Wales to the dazzling stages of Sydney's Kings Cross. Over seven decades, Stan has witnessed, and helped shape, the evolution of drag performance in Australia. Filled with unforgettable stories, humour and hard-won wisdom, the memoir preserves an important chapter of Australia's cultural and queer history while celebrating a life lived with courage, compassion and unmistakable flair.

About William Brougham

William Brougham has worked as a writer, journalist and broadcaster in the UK and Australia for almost 30 years. Originally from London and now based in Sydney, he studied journalism at the London College of Printing and the University of Technology Sydney. Alongside his freelance writing, he hosts the nationally syndicated music program It's Time on the Community Radio Network.

William spent ten years interviewing Stan Munro to create Secrets of a Showbiz Dame, preserving the memories of one of Australia's pioneering drag performers for future generations.

About Stan Munro

Born in Wales in 1941, Stan Munro has enjoyed a showbusiness career spanning more than seven decades. After migrating to Australia in the 1960s, he became one of the original performers at Sydney's iconic Les Girls before leading the Melbourne troupe and performing throughout Australia and internationally.

His career has included television, film, live theatre and cabaret, with recent appearances on ABC's Backroads and Queerstralia, SBS's Tell Me What You Really Think, and his acclaimed live show Vintage Drag in Mint Condition. In 2024, he received an ACON Honour Award recognising his contribution to Arts & Entertainment.

"Life's too short not to shine, darling - so grab your heels, your crown, and your courage, and get ready to strut."

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