World premiere stage production of Death Comes to Pemberley visits Theatre Royal Bath

The theatrical world premiere of Death Comes To Pemberley, visits Theatre Royal Bath on a UK tour from Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 August.

The inspired sequel to Jane Austen’s Pride & Prejudice, written by P.D. James is adapted by Duncan Abel and Rachel Wagstaff, the acclaimed writing team behind the hit stage adaptations of The Girl on the Train and The Da Vinci Code. EastEnders star James Bye will play the role of Fitzwilliam Darcy, following his explosive exit from the iconic soap in the 40th anniversary live episode earlier this year. James Bye played Martin Fowler in the BBC’s long-running programme for 10 years and competed on Strictly Come Dancing in 2022.

Six years after Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s happy union, their idyllic life at Pemberley is shattered when Elizabeth’s sister Lydia bursts in with shocking news: a man has been murdered in the woods, and suspicion falls on her husband, the notorious George Wickham. As the investigation unfolds, dark secrets emerge, tensions rise, and loyalties are tested, casting doubt on everyone’s innocence.

Image - James Bye, Jamie-Rose Duke, Credit Pamela Raith

Audiences are invited to step into the world of Pride and Prejudice like never before in this tale of love, betrayal, and intrigue set in Regency England. This riveting new stage adaptation combines Jane Austen’s timeless romance with a gripping murder mystery imagined by master storyteller, the ‘Queen of Crime’ P.D. James.

The production is directed by Joe Harmston who has directed over 100 productions around the world and forged associations with some of British theatre’s most significant voices including Harold Pinter, Ronald Harwood, Michael Frayn, Trevor Nunn, Peter Hall, Peter Ustinov and Bill Kenwright.

Starring alongside James Bye, the cast includes Jamie-Rose Duke as Elizabeth Darcy, Celia Cruwys-Finnigan as Georgina Darcy, Sean Rigby as Colonel Fitzwilliam, Paul Jerricho as Mr Bidwell and others, Sam Woodhams as George Wickham/Will Bidwell, David Osmond as Henry Alveston and Mogali Masuku as Lydia Wickham/Louisa Bidwell.

Premiering during the 250th anniversary year of Jane Austen’s birth, Death Comes To Pemberley is produced by The Mill at Sonning and Studio RA in their first joint theatrical venture. Death Comes To Pemberley appears at the Theatre Royal Bath from Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 August. To book tickets call the Box Office on 01225 448844 or visit theatreroyal.org.uk