Following a record-breaking run at Bristol Old Vic in 2024, the critically acclaimed new musical Starter for Ten has announced its full cast and creative team for its highly anticipated return this autumn.
Based on the bestselling novel by David Nicholls, Starter for Ten features a book and lyrics by Emma Hall and Charlie Parham, with music and lyrics by Hatty Carman and Tom Rasmussen.
Returning to the stage are Adam Bregman as Brian, Miracle Chance as Lucy, and Will Jennings as Patrick. They are joined by Mel Giedroyc, who reprises her roles as Irene Jackson and quiz show sidekick Julia Bland.
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 is completed by Michelle Bishop, Luke Johnson, Kwamé Kandekore, and Laura Dawn Pyatt.
The production is directed by Charlie Parham, with choreography by Alexzandra Sarmiento, set and costume design by Lee Newby, and lighting design by Zoe Spurr. Sound design is 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.
Starter for Ten is co-produced by Antic Productions, Bristol Old Vic, Longshot Films, and Playtone, with support from Richard Reid, College Bowl, and ITV.
Set in 1985, the musical follows eighteen-year-old Brian Jackson as he leaves Southend for Bristol University, dreaming of competing on University Challenge. But he soon discovers that growing up takes more than general knowledge.
Adapted from the 2006 film and Nicholls’ novel, Starter for Ten is a coming-of-age comedy musical about love, belonging, and the all-important difference between knowledge and wisdom.
The show runs at Bristol Old Vic from 10 September to 11 October 2025, before transferring to Birmingham Rep from 22 October to 1 November 2025.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
