Tilda Cobham-Hervey to head up the stage adaptation of Pip Williams’ book The Dictionary of Lost Words

Tilda Cobham-Hervey reveals why she can’t wait to tread the boards in the highly-anticipated stage adaptation of a New York Times best-selling book.

I am Woman star Tilda Cobham-Hervey will head up the highly-anticipated stage adaptation of The Dictionary of Lost Words.

The 28-year-old old – who will next be seen in Prime Video’s The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart in August – will star as Esme Nicoll in the co-production from SA’s State Theatre Company and Sydney Theatre Company of Australian author Pip Williams’ international best-selling novel.

The avid reader is beyond excited to be starring in the stage version of one of her favourite books.

Tilda Cobham-Hervey stars as Esme Nicole in the highly-anticipated stage adaptation of Pip Williams’ international best-selling novel, The Dictionary of Lost Words, in Adelaide and Sydney this year. Picture: Supplied

Tilda Cobham-Hervey leads a star cast. Picture: Supplied

“I had been recommended this book by most of my female friends before I became involved with the play,” Cobham-Hervey said.

“I really loved it – I am fascinated by the power of language and this book so beautifully articulates the importance of words, all words, for all classes, backgrounds and experiences.

“I love the way Pip – and Verity (Laughton) in her beautiful adaptation – have woven in so many important ideas and political viewpoints within a delightful coming-of-age story.”

The play – set in 1886 and based on true events, takes audiences from Esme’s formative years in the Scriptorium right into adulthood where she navigates love, loss and the power of language – will have its world premiere at Adelaide’s Dunstan Playhouse in September, before heading to the Sydney Opera House in October.

Tilda Cobham-Hervey with her partner Dev Patel, who she met on the set of Hotel Mumbai. Picture: Supplied

The Hotel Mumbai actor, who met her partner, Hollywood star Dev Patel, on the set of the movie based on the 2008 terror attacks on India’s Taj Hotel, can’t wait to inhabit the character of Esme, a young girl who takes it upon herself to preserve the “women’s words” being neglected by the male lexicographers creating the first Oxford Dictionary.

“I have been watching State Theatre shows since about age five, so to be stepping on that stage means a huge amount to me,” Cobham-Hervey said.

“Growing up in Adelaide, I’ve had the pleasure of being so transformed by so many works produced by this company and have had some of the most meaningful moments in my artistic career working with them.

“I am also excited to be working with Sydney Theatre Company for the first time and to be able to take this work to Sydney.

“The last time I performed at the Opera House, I was 12 years old.”

Pip Williams, New York Times bestseller and author of The Dictionary of Lost Words and The Bookbinder of Jericho. Picture: Supplied

Adapted by playwright Laughton and under the direction of Jessica Arthur, the play will also feature Ksenja Logos as Ditte and Mabel, Brett Archer as Harry Nicoll, Christopher Pitman as Dr Murray, Rachel Burke as Lizzie, Angela Mahlatjie as Tilda and Raj Labade as Gareth.

The Dictionary of Lost Words was an instant hit for author Pip Williams in 2020, selling more than 500,000 copies worldwide and going on to become a New York Times bestseller. It was the first Australian work chosen for Oscar winner Reese Witherspoon’s highly sought-after Book Club in 2022. It’s also set to be adapted as a TV series.

The Dictionary of Lost Words; September 22-October 14; Dunstan Playhouse, Festival Centre and October 26 – December 16, DramaTheatre, Sydney Opera House.