The story of how white van man, Dave Fishwick took on the banking establishment to become the people’s champion has become the stuff of legend.
The Burnley businessman’s quest to open the first high street bank in 150 years has already been told as a book, a documentary and a hit Netflix film starring Rory Kinnear.
So, naturally there is much anticipation for its transfer to the stage as a musical. And the fanfare begins even before curtain-up at Lowry for its world premiere, as the man himself, Dave Fishwick arrives in his trademark white van with a Lancashire brass band.
Lowry is one of the funders and producers of this new musical alongside ROYO, Future Artists Entertainment, and Curve Leicester. There is a sense even before it starts that everyone is rooting for this home-grown musical to succeed. It is the David and Goliath feel-good tale that everyone needs right now. It feels worth the ticket price alone just to soak up these good vibes.
What we love about Fishwick is that he is fun, honest, big-hearted and a bit rough around the edges. This musical embodies that in its authenticity and tongue-in-cheek spoof numbers that see the bankers switch to Broadway slick choreography, flanked by a chorus of dancing pigs.
If you have seen the global hit musical Come From Away, this has the same feel, with a strong ensemble cast doubling roles, soaring chorus melodies and a large open stage that draws focus on the well-drawn characters.
Amy Jane Cook’s expansive set is largely static with towering mill chimneys and a Rover’s Return style local pub. But it feels like it is constantly moving with wrap around projections and director Nickolai Foster’s fast-paced action.
Rob Madge’s book and lyrics are full of wit and cheeky northern humour, brought to life with vigour and warmth by a terrific cast led by Sam Lupton as Fishwick. Lupton captures Fishwick’s determination and it would be hard not to get swept away by the passion of his plight.
There are some extra revelations in the musical too that the film glosses over, which add to the overall gutsy punch of this staging. It’s another triumphant success for this universally uplifting story.
Bank of Dave the Musical is at Lowry, Salford from 6-16 May before moving to Curve Leicester from 20-30 May 2026.