David Copperfield: A Life

 News 

BSU students and alumni join community company for ‘David Copperfield’ at Theatre Royal Bath

Thursday, 22 January, 2026

For the past year, BSU students and alumni from across the University’s Music and Performing Arts courses have been working on a brand-new community production of ‘David Copperfield’ at the iconic Theatre Royal Bath.  

This version of the Charles Dickens novel, titled ‘David Copperfield: A Life’, has been written by Mike Akers and is being directed by Olivier Award winner, Sally Cookson. This community project is being led by Theatre Royal Bath’s participation programme, Engage, and is the company’s first community production on this scale since 2010. The cast consists of over one hundred Bath locals, including BSU students and alumni, who are getting the chance to harness their BSU training in an industry context. 

Talking about the production, director Sally Cookson said: 

“At the heart of our production is the power of the ensemble - discovering how a large group of people can connect not only with each other on stage but with an audience to unite and delight in the power of storytelling.” 

Evie Williams, a second-year Drama (Musical Theatre) student has taken on the role of ‘Young Agnes’, one of the title character’s main love interests. Evie described working on the production as ‘wonderful’, and went on to say: 

“Working with someone as influential within the industry as Sally Cookson has allowed me an insight into the true functioning of a theatre company. The company is so supportive in everything they do, creating a space that is safe and welcoming, allowing everyone to make choices and offers during rehearsals without fear of shame or judgement. 

“This is an opportunity I would not have had without the support from the BSU drama faculty.” 

Phoebe Graham-Dobrowolny, BA (Hons) Acting and MA Creative Producing graduate, is working as the Production Coordinator for ‘David Copperfield: A Life’. Phoebe shared an immense gratitude for her involvement in the community production and said that the process has been “a very wholesome and inspiring experience.” 

As a community-based project, Theatre Royal Bath have ensured that accessibility is at the forefront of their work, with all performances include creative British Sign Language Integration. Speaking on this, Evie Williams shared that members of the cast and crew had “access to resources, such as lessons in BSL, in order to create a space that welcomes everyone.” 

‘David Copperfield: A Life’ will run from 20-22 February 2026 in the Main House at Theatre Royal Bath, with a special charity gala performance taking place on 21 February in support of Venue 4, the new Community theatre space being created in the heart of Theatre Royal Bath.  

Tickets for both the regular performances and charity gala can be purchased on the Theatre Royal Bath website.  

 

Image credit: Helena M Photography