York Stage Musicals presents David Copperfield, Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, February 21 to 25 (From York Press)

York Stage Musicals presents David Copperfield, Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, February 21 to 25

11:01am Friday 3rd February 2012 in Theatre

CHARLES Dickens’s 200th birthday falls on Tuesday.

What perfect timing for York Stage Musicals to launch their Yorkshire premiere of Dickens’s David Copperfield at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York.

Directed by Robert Readman, assisted by Gilly Adam, the YSM production will run from February 21 to 25.

“Charles Dickens said that, of all his heroes, ‘I have in my heart of hearts a favourite… and his name is David Copperfield’,” says Robert. “Like a Dickensian Harry Potter, David leads you on a magical journey, encountering villains and challenges that will have you on the edge of your seat.

“It’s a story filled with adventure, excitement and wonder, and our show will have all the tradition of a Charles Dickens classic but with much more.”

The Rowntree Theatre stage will be transformed into a magical playground as David sets sail on the high seas in a world full of puppets, donkeys, music and invention.

“All your favourite characters are there, Mr Micawber, Betsey Trotwood, Uriah Heep, Steerforth, Peggotty and Emily, in a wonderful new version, specially adapted for audiences of all ages by Deborah McAndrew and first performed at the Octagon Theatre, Bolton, last Christmas,” says Robert.

“It also features music by Northern Broadsides actor and director Conrad Nelson, based on traditional sea shanties and Victorian music hall songs, from which he creates a beautiful musical landscape to illustrate Dickens’s tale of life and love based firmly on the author’s own experiences.”

Robert’s principal players will be Alex Gordon and Jack Armstrong as the older/younger David Copperfield; Jonny Holbek as Mr Peggotty/Mr Dick; Juliet Waters as Peggotty/Mrs Micawber; Martin Rowley as Mr Micawber/Mr Murdstone; Adam Sowter as Uriah Heep/Miss Murdstone; Robyn Grant as Dora; Sandy Nicholson as Betsey Trotwood; and Peter Fisher as Steerforth.

The cast will number 44, including 20 children, plus Robyn Grant’s dog Harley in the canine role of Jip, backed by an actor-musician band of ten.

Tickets for the 7.30pm evening shows and 2.30pm Saturday matinee are on sale at £9 to £12 on 01904 623568 or online at yorktheatreroyal.co.uk