Death Comes to Pemberley to Embark on a Nationwide UK Tour
The highly anticipated stage adaptation of PD James’s sequel to Pride and Prejudice, Death Comes to Pemberley, is set to tour the UK following its world premiere at the Mill at Sonning. Featuring EastEnders star James Bye in the role of Mr Darcy, this riveting production promises to deliver a fresh take on a classic tale of love, mystery, and betrayal.
About the Production
Adapted by Duncan Abel and Rachel Wagstaff and directed by Joe Harmston, Death Comes to Pemberley is set six years after the events of Pride and Prejudice. The story follows Elizabeth and Mr Darcy as their serene life at Pemberley is shattered by a shocking murder. When Elizabeth’s sister Lydia arrives in distress with news of a mysterious death in the woods, suspicion falls on her husband, George Wickham. As the investigation unfolds, long-hidden secrets emerge, challenging the stability of Pemberley and the legacy of its inhabitants.
James Bye, fresh from his tenure on EastEnders, expressed his excitement about the new chapter:
“After a decade of gritty storylines, it’s going to be quite a switch to put on period clothes as one of literature’s romantic leading men. I can’t wait for this new chapter to begin.”
Artwork supplied by the production
Cast
The tour boasts an impressive cast, including:
Mr Darcy: James Bye
Elizabeth Darcy: Jamie-Rose Duke
Georgina Darcy: Celia Cruwys-Finnigan
Colonel Fitzwilliam: Sean Rigby
Mr Bidwell: Paul Jerricho
Lydia Wickham: Mogali Masuku
George Wickham: Sam Woodhams
Henry Alveston: David Osmond
Further casting details are to be announced.
Creative Team
The production’s creative brilliance is driven by a top-notch team:
Set Designer: Sean Cavanagh
Costume & Hair Designer: Natalie Titchener
Lighting Designer: Mike Robertson
Musical Director: David Osmond
Casting Director: Kate Plantin
Director Joe Harmston, known for his work on acclaimed productions at the Donmar Warehouse and Belgrade Theatre, ensures that every element— from intricate set designs to the nuanced performances—immerses the audience in the world of Pemberley.
Tour Dates & Venues
After its run at the Mill at Sonning (1 May – 28 June 2025), Death Comes to Pemberley will embark on a nationwide tour:
Theatre Royal Windsor: 22 – 26 July
Cardiff New Theatre: 29 July – 2 August
Bath Theatre Royal: 5 – 9 August
Guildford Yvonne Arnaud Theatre: 12 – 16 August
Bromley Churchill Theatre: 19 – 23 August
Wycombe Swan: 26 – 30 August
Brighton Theatre Royal: 2 – 6 September
Richmond Theatre: 9 – 13 September
This production marks co-producer Mill at Sonning’s first national tour and their first venture with co-producers Studio RA. The Mill at Sonning, a renowned dinner theatre with a rich history and multiple accolades—including the UK Theatre Award for Best Musical Production for Gypsy in 2023—is a family-run venue now co-managed by Sally Hughes and film producer Adam Rolston.
Book Your Tickets Today
Experience the intrigue and drama of Death Comes to Pemberley as it brings PD James’s timeless mystery and the world of Pride and Prejudice to life on stage. With its compelling narrative, star-studded cast, and innovative production values, this tour is set to be one of the must-see theatre events of 2025.
