Maya Pope leads BSA’s Piaf

Maya Pope took the title role in BSA’s graduating production of Pam Gems’ Piaf at Bristol Old Vic’s Weston Studio in May 2024.

A live six-piece band accompanied the company through the singer’s story. Mayou Trikerioti’s design used a raised platform and hanging wine bottles, allowing the action to move quickly between the places and relationships of Piaf’s life. Daniella Fairhurst played Toine, her friend from earlier years.

Bryan J Mason’s Bristol24/7 review singled out Pope’s performance, attending to the changes in posture and presence as Piaf aged. He also praised Fairhurst and the band, while finding some supporting performances less convincing.

The production ran from 3–11 May. Its combination of acting and live music made the songs part of the dramatic work, carrying the shifts between public performance and private life.

Read more: Bristol24/7.