A trailer has just been released for the stage musical Starter For Ten, based on the novel by David Nicholls and the hit movie of the same name.
Antic Productions, Bristol Old Vic, Longshot Films and Playtone revealed the promo for the new British musical Starter for Ten following its highly anticipated return to Bristol Old Vic (on until 11 October), followed by a run at Birmingham Rep from 22 October – 1 November.
The 1980s-set story is as follows:
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…
In the current 2025 production, Mel Giedroyc (The Crown Jewels, Garrick Theatre) reprises the role of Brian’s mum, Irene Jackson, and Bamber Gascoigne’s irresistible sidekick Julia Bland, Adam Bregman (Chariots of Fire, Sheffield Crucible) returns as Brian, Miracle Chance (Heathers, The Other Palace) reprises the role of Lucy, and Will Jennings (Les Misérables, Sondheim Theatre) returns as Patrick. They are joined by new cast members including Stephen Ashfield (The Book of Mormon, The Prince of Wales Theatre) as Bamber Gascoigne and Brian’s dad, Dave Jackson, Asha Parker-Wallace (Burlesque, Savoy Theatre) as Rebecca, Rachel John (Hamilton, Victoria Palace Theatre) as Dr Bowman and Christian Maynard (Midnight Cowboy, Southwark Playhouse) as Spencer. Imogen Craig makes her professional debut as Alice. The cast is completed by Michelle Bishop, Luke Johnson, Kwamé Kandekore and Laura Dawn Pyatt.
Here’s the trailer.
