New Musical, Starter for Ten is coming to Bristol Old Vic

The musical will run from 10 September to 11 October

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…

Adapted from the hilarious novel by bestselling author David Nicholls and the popular 2006 film, Starter for Ten is a coming-of-age comedy musical about love, belonging and the all-important difference between knowledge and wisdom. Featuring an irresistible original soundtrack inspired by the riotous student scene of the ’80s, it was nominated for Best Musical Production at the UK Theatre Awards 2024.

Mel Giedroyc reprises her roles as Brian’s mum Irene and Bamber Gascoigne’s irresistible sidekick Julia Bland.

Book and lyrics co-written by Emma Hall and Charlie Parham, with original score and lyrics by Hatty Carman and Tom Rasmussen. Directed by Charlie Parham.