Newly released rehearsal images offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the upcoming production of Starter for Ten, which returns to Bristol Old Vic from 10 September to 11 October 2025, before transferring to Birmingham Rep from 22 October to 1 November 2025.
Starring Mel Giedroyc, the musical is adapted from David Nicholls’ bestselling novel and the 2006 film of the same name. It was nominated for Best Musical Production at the UK Theatre Awards 2024.
Starter for Ten features a book and lyrics by Emma Hall and Charlie Parham, Artistic Directors of Antic Productions, with an original 80s-inspired score by Hatty Carman and Tom Rasmussen.
The musical is a coming-of-age comedy about love, belonging, and the all-important difference between knowledge and wisdom.
Mel Giedroyc reprises her roles as Irene Jackson and Julia Bland. Adam Bregman returns as Brian, Miracle Chance as Lucy, and Will Jennings as Patrick.
New cast members include Stephen Ashfield as Bamber Gascoigne and Dave Jackson, Asha Parker-Wallace as Rebecca, Rachel John as Dr Bowman, and Christian Maynard as Spencer. Imogen Craig makes her professional debut as Alice.
The ensemble also features Michelle Bishop, Luke Johnson, Kwamé Kandekore, and Laura Dawn Pyatt.
“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…
Directed by Charlie Parham, the production features choreography by Alexzandra Sarmiento, set and costume design by Lee Newby, lighting design by Zoe Spurr, and sound design by Rob Bettle and Sam Clarkson for Sound Quiet Time.
Casting is by Will Burton for GBC, with fight direction by Kate Waters, music supervision and vocal arrangements by Nick Barstow, and orchestrations by Tom Kelly.
The show is co-produced by Antic Productions, Bristol Old Vic, Longshot Films & Playtone, with thanks to Richard Reid, College Bowl and ITV.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
