The new musical Bank of Dave has announced its first wave of casting ahead of its world premiere at the Lowry in May 2026. Based on the real-life story of Dave Fishwick, the production is highly anticipated for its journey to Curve later that month.

The musical Bank of Dave will have its world premiere at the Lowry from 2 to 16 May 2026, followed by a run at Curve from 20 to 30 May 2026. The production is directed by Curve’s artistic director Nikolai Foster and features a book by WhatsOnStage Award winner Rob Madge. Music and lyrics are by Pippa Cleary, known for The Great British Bake Off Musical, with Madge also contributing to the lyrics.

Bank of Dave is based on multiple sources including the BAFTA Award-winning documentary, a best-selling book, and a hit film with a screenplay by Piers Ashworth. The story centres on Burnley businessman Dave Fishwick and his efforts to set up a community bank.

The first casting announcements include Hayley Tamaddon as Nicky, Lucca Chadwick-Patel playing Hugh, Claire Moore as Maureen, and Lauryn Redding as Alex. Further casting details, including who will play Dave himself, are yet to be revealed.

The musical is produced collaboratively by ROYO, Future Artists Entertainment, Curve, and Lowry. Katie Lander acts as a consultant for Finestripe Productions.

This new musical adds to the growing interest in theatre adaptations of real-life stories and local heroes, combining factual basis with musical theatre storytelling. The announcement sets expectations for a production that blends documentary source material with new creative perspectives.