Bank of Dave: The Musical at The Curve

There is something refreshingly unpretentious about Bank of Dave. Premiering at Curve Theatre this week, the new musical adaptation of Dave Fishwick’s real-life story contains all the ingredients of a crowd-pleasing British musical: an underdog hero, a town rallying together, a budding romance, and a soundtrack packed with infectiously catchy numbers.

Based on the true story that has already inspired two films and a documentary, Bank of Dave follows Burnley businessman Dave Fishwick (Sam Lupton), whose frustration at seeing ordinary people denied fair access to finance leads him to challenge the banking establishment by setting up a community-focused, non-profit bank. It is undeniably earnest material, leaning fully into the humour and optimism of its working-class hero.

The musical itself, with book and lyrics by Rob Madge and music and lyrics by Pippa Cleary, understands exactly why this story resonates. At its core is a community pulling together against systems that have failed them, and that spirit runs through the entire production. Rob Madge’s writing brings a playful theatricality to the production that fans of their previous work will immediately recognise.

Alongside the financial David-versus-Goliath narrative sits a romantic subplot between buttoned-up London lawyer Hugh (Lucca Chadwick-Patel) and local doctor Alexandra, played by Lauryn Redding in one of the evening’s standout performances. Redding brings powerhouse vocals to the role, particularly in Patience, the NHS-themed number that allows her to flex both her singing voice and comic timing. Chadwick-Patel also impresses vocally, and it is genuinely refreshing to hear a male-heavy cast fully pulling its weight musically. Special mention must also go to Mark Peachey, whose turns as both Cher and Clarence highlight not only his comic ability but his impressive vocal and performance versatility.

Pippa Cleary’s score is consistently bright and engaging, drawing influences from gospel, soul, hip-hop, and classic Broadway traditions to maintain the show’s jaunty energy. Fans of Operation Mincemeat will appreciate Sir Charles’ villainous numbers, such as Rich Boys Club, gleefully sleazy in Samuel Holmes’s hands. If there is one number that slightly stalls the momentum, it is the motorway song, which feels somewhat expendable. Its central joke about the cultural divide between North and South is amusing, but it is a point already conveyed moments later through Hugh’s request for a caramel latte. In a tighter version of the show, that sequence could easily be trimmed.

Visually, the production strikes a strong balance between theatricality and simplicity. Amy Jane Cook’s pub-centred set works particularly well, with the ever-present bar acting as a constant reminder of both community and Dave’s wider ambitions. The Burnley mill skyline looming in the background grounds the story firmly in its northern identity.

Not every staging choice lands quite as successfully. The cardboard car prop feels oddly underdeveloped compared to the rest of the production’s visual language, though the delightfully playful helicopter trolley earns far more goodwill. The video screen occupying the top quarter of the stage proves more divisive. Highly effective during sequences such as the press conference camera feeds, but occasionally distracting during scenes where the live action should command more attention, particularly in the driving montage.

There are thoughtful touches throughout the production too, including the gender-neutral ensemble costumes, which subtly reinforce the musical’s emphasis on inclusivity and collective identity without feeling forced. Hayley Tamaddon offers an anchoring performance as Dave’s supportive wife Nicky, a reminder of the story’s emotional core beyond the jazz hands.

Ultimately, Bank of Dave is a proudly feel-good show about ordinary people trying to make life better for one another, packed with genuine affection for the community it celebrates. Much like Dave Fishwick himself, Bank of Dave wins you over through sheer sincerity.
Bank of Dave is at The Curve until 30th May 2026, https://www.curveonline.co.uk/whats-on/shows/bank-of-dave/


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