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Musical Banks on Burnley's Feel-Good True Story
10 May
Summary
- A musical based on Dave Fishwick's true story of starting a community bank.
- The show features bright songs that blend gospel, soul, and hip-hop genres.
- It highlights a David vs. Goliath struggle against the traditional banking sector.
A new musical brings the inspiring true story of Burnley businessman Dave Fishwick to the stage, focusing on his initiative to create a community bank. This production dramatizes Fishwick's efforts to provide financial support where traditional institutions failed, framing it as a significant challenge to the self-serving banking industry.
The musical features energetic and engaging songs by Pippa Cleary, drawing inspiration from diverse genres like gospel, soul, and hip-hop, alongside classic Broadway styles. While the narrative sometimes overemphasizes the north-south cultural divide, it ultimately champions the power of community and the potential for positive transformation.
Directed by Nikolai Foster, the show is characterized by its ebullient numbers and a set design that evokes Lancashire's industrial heritage. The story, mirroring the 2023 Netflix film, includes a romantic subplot that adds another layer to the narrative, reinforcing the themes of hope and solidarity.
