‘Bank of Dave: The Musical, based on the inspiring rise of Dave Fishwick from Burnley builders’ labourer to multi-millionaire bank owner, will visit the Lowry next year.
The BAFTA-winning documentary, and hit Netflix film, tells the “true-ish” story of Dave Fishwick, a self-made millionaire from Burnley who challenged the banking system by starting his own community-focused bank.
Based on the Sunday Times best-selling book, Bank of Dave is a brand-new British musical that is “bursting with northern grit”.
With lawyer Hugh by his side, Dave takes on London’s financial elite in a feel-good tale of perseverance, fairness, and community spirit. The musical features original songs by Pippa Cleary and Rob Madge, capturing the humour and grit of Dave’s journey.
Dave Fishwick said: “I left school at 16 with no qualifications and started as a builder’s labourer. Years later, I built the first new high street bank in Britain in over 150 years. Then came Hollywood, twice! And now, the world of theatre has arrived. From Burnley to Broadway, via Salford and Leicester first, of course.”
“I’m just an ordinary lad from Burnley doing extraordinary things. If I can make it happen, you can too. Always have the courage to follow your dreams”.
Joining the creative team behind Bank of Dave: The Musical is acclaimed performer and writer Rob Madge, currently starring as the Emcee in Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club in London’s West End.
As a writer, Rob has contributed to productions like Charley’s Aunt and hosted the NHS 75th anniversary gala, With All Our Hearts, at the Adelphi Theatre. Named one of The Stage’s Rising Stars of 2024, Rob brings a unique blend of humour, heart, and theatrical magic to this new musical.
Madge said: “I am deeply proud to be telling this special tale of community, hope and perseverance. In a world that seems more fractured every day, I am so thrilled to be offering an alternative where our Dave and his brilliant”
Award-winning composer and lyricist Pippa Cleary joins the creative team of Bank of Dave: The Musical, bringing her signature wit, warmth and musical brilliance to the production. Pippa is the first female British composer to have had three musicals produced in the West End.
She also made history by writing the first original opening number for the 2023 Olivier Awards, performed by Hannah Waddingham at the Royal Albert Hall.
Speaking about the new musical, Pippa said: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to be developing this brand-new musical with the amazing Rob Madge. The whole process has been filled with laughter and a real sense of purpose, just like Dave’s story itself”.
Nikolai Foster is the Artistic Director of Curve, Leicester — one of the UK’s leading regional theatres. Born in Copenhagen and raised in North Yorkshire, he trained at Drama Centre London and the Crucible, Sheffield.
Nikolai has directed major productions across the UK and internationally, including Kinky Boots, My Fair Lady, Billy Elliot, Evita, Grease, and Sunset Boulevard. His work has been described as “world-class” by The Telegraph, and in 2024, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by De Montfort University for his contribution to theatre in Leicester.
The Lowry, proudly rooted in Salford, is a registered charity dedicated to spreading the joy of art and creativity. Every penny earned goes back into the community, supporting local talent and future creatives. Welcoming over 900,000 visitors annually, The Lowry’s vibrant programme spans theatre, dance, comedy, music, visual arts and more.
Recent commissions include Operation Mincemeat, Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead, Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby, Police Cops: The Musical, and The Children’s Inquiry. The Lowry also co-produced 42 Balloons and will premiere High School Musical in August 2025.
Bank of Dave: The Musical is more than just a new show — it’s a celebration of resilience, community, and the power of ordinary people to do extraordinary things. With a creative team led by Rob Madge and Pippa Cleary, and support from leading institutions like The Lowry and Curve, this production promises to bring Dave Fishwick’s inspiring story to life with humour, heart, and unforgettable music.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of the journey at The Lowry.
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