The world premiere musical adaptation of Markus Zusak’s best-selling novel The Book Thief begins previews September 17 at the U.K.'s Octagon Theatre in Bolton, England. Featuring a book by author Jodi Picoult (My Sister’s Keeper) and Timothy Allen McDonald, and a score by Elyssa Samsel and Kate Anderson, The Book Thief will open September 22 and run through October 15.
Taking place in 1930s Nazi Germany, the story follows young orphan Liesel as she enters a dangerous game of book thievery. The role of Liesel is shared by Bea Glancy and Niamh Palmer.
Starring in the cast are Daniel Krikler as Max, Danielle Henry as Rosa, Jack Lord as Hans, Ryan O'Donnell as Narrator, with Charlie Murphy and Alfie Corbett sharing the role of Rudy. Also starring are ensemble members Victoria Brazier as Ilsa, Matthew Heywood as Alex, Benjamin Mundy as Tommy, Andrew Whitehead as Wolfgang, Katy Clayton as Max's Mother, Duane Gooden as Mayor, Purvi Parmar as Barbara, and Ida Regan as Nurse.
Octagon Artistic Director Lotte Wakeham directs the production, which features choreography by Tom Jackson Greaves, musical direction and orchestrations by Matthew Malone, design by Good Teeth's James Perkins and Victoria Smart, lighting design by Nic Farman, puppet design by Samuel Wilde, and sound design by Andy Graham.
Also serving on the creative team are music consultant Daniel Green, casting director Jacob Sparrow, and production manager Dan Turner.
This production is sponsored by Boo Coaching & Consulting.
For tickets and more information, visit OctagonBolton.co.uk.
Get a first listen of a song from the musical below.
