Theatre / jayde adams
Jayde Adams to make professional stage debut in Treasure Island at Bristol Old Vic
Bristol Old Vic has announced its first cast member for Treasure Island, its Christmas production for 2025.
Actor, comedian and Bristol royalty, Jayde Adams, will make her professional stage debut in the roles of Benita Gunn and Jim Hawkins’ mother.
The show is a brand-new musical adaptation of the Robert Louis Stevenson tale from Jake Brunger and Pippa Cleary, who have previously had success with The Great British Bake Off Musical and The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole the Musical. It will be directed by Paul Foster.
is needed now More than ever
Jayde Adams stands outside Bristol Old Vic
Adams is familiar to Bristol Old Vic audiences through her award-winning standup, as well as her memorable roles in the BAFTA-winning BBC comedy drama series, Alma’s Not Normal, The Outlaws (BBC), and her own South Bristol-based sitcom Ruby Speaking (ITV).
Her Amazon Prime comedy special Serious Black Jumper has received over 300 million views to date, as well as an Emmy long-listing.
As to this new direction, Adams is brimming with enthusiasm. “After years of banging on their doors, Bristol Old Vic have finally let me on stage”, she says “– and I couldn’t be prouder that my debut is happening at a theatre I’ve loved my whole life”.
Jayde Adams cites Bristol Old Vic as an inspiration since she was a child
“I’ve been staring at that building since I could walk, and now I get to perform in it this Christmas. Standup always felt like a stepping stone to my real goal: acting on stage.
“And now I’m in Treasure Island – give me a parrot and a pirate ship too? All my Christmases have come at once!”
More casting is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Treasure Island, 2025 – photo: Bristol Old Vic
Treasure Island (age recommendation 7+) is at Bristol Old Vic on December 4-January 10 2026; times vary. Tickets are available at www.bristololdvic.org.uk.
Main photo: Barbara Evripidou
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