World premiere of new musical STARTER FOR TEN to run at Bristol Old Vic

It has been announced that  new musical Starter for Ten will receive its world premiere at Bristol Old Vic from 29 February –30 March 2024 as part of Nancy Medina’s inaugural season as Artistic Director. 

Based on the hilarious coming-of-age novel by David Nicholls and  the popular 2006 film adaptation starring James McAvoy, Benedict Cumberbatch, James Corden  and Rebecca Hall, this tale of love, class and growing up in the 1980s is set in Bristol against the  backdrop of legendary British quiz show University Challenge. Casting for the new musical is to  be announced. 

Starter for Ten has a book and lyrics co-written by Emma Hall and Charlie Parham, Artistic  Directors of Antic Productions. The 80s-inspired original score and lyrics will be composed by  queer, pop-punk composers Tom Rasmussen and Hatty Carman. The production will be directed by  Charlie Parham, with set and costume design by Olivier award nominee Frankie Bradshaw,  lighting by Jai Morjaria and casting by Will Burton for GBC.  

Author of the bestselling novel Starter for Ten, David Nicholls, said: “Nearly 20 years after  publication, it’s such a thrill that Brian’s misadventures are being brought to the stage, and by  such a brilliant, dynamic team.” 

Fingers on buzzers! Here’s your Starter for Ten… 

What is eighteen-year-old Brian Jackson’s proudest achievement to date? His A-level results.  His idol? Kate Bush. His lifelong dream? To compete on legendary TV quiz show University  Challenge. It’s 1985 and, leaving Southend to start his first year at Bristol University, Brian  soon discovers that falling in love and growing up take a lot more than general knowledge… 

Featuring an irresistible original soundtrack inspired by the riotous student scene of the 80s,  Starter for Ten is a bright, big-hearted coming-of-age comedy about love, belonging and the all important difference between knowledge and wisdom. 

Starter for Ten goes on sale to priority bookers today (19 April) at 10am and general sale on 27 April  at 10am here.