Starter for Ten
A NEW MUSICAL based on the novel by David Nicholls and the HBO/Playtone filmA goosebump-inducing, ovation-provoking triumph
Heartfelt and hilarious
Beyond impressive
Theatre at its most electrifying
Some of the best musical numbers of recent years
It entertains, it charms, and it delivers
Fingers on buzzers! After a sell-out run in 2024, the bright, big-hearted and “truly brilliant” (★★★★★ Broadway Baby) new musical is back, with its “joy, comedy and 80s nostalgia” (★★★★ WhatsOnStage) dialled up to 11.
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.
“Laugh-out-loud funny” (★★★★★ Lifestyle District) 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.
Please note that we cannot guarantee the appearance of specific performers. Cast members’ performance schedules are subject to change, including unavailability, holidays or illness.
University Challenge recreation licensed from Richard Reid, College Bowl and ITV. © ITV Studios Ltd 2025. Licensed by ITV Studios Ltd. All rights reserved.
Artwork by Feast Creative
Feel-good Brit hit that’s surely bound for the West End
The feel-good factor is irresistible
Daily Mail
With thanks to Neil Adleman, Jon Bath, Katie Battcock, Max Bittleston, Diane Borger, Jack Bradley, Harry Bresslaw, Margo Broom, Jess Campbell, Vivienne Clarkson, Copperfield Rehearsal Rooms, Michelle Davis, Charly Evans, Feast Creative Ltd, Emily Forbes, David Grindrod, Peter Gwyn, Nicki Hall, Elspeth Hanna, Mel Hay, Pippa Harris, Ciara Hillyer, Rozi Hogger, Stephanie Knight, Tom Knowles, Anthony Van Laast, Nigel Lilley, Michel McCoy, Peter McKintosh, Chris Morgan, Frankie Parham, Lily Parham, Roberta Rose Parham, Julia Paskins, Jon Rasmussen, Rendac, Annette Stone, Matthew Warchus and Hugh Wyld.
Being Bamber | Who was the first host of University Challenge?
9 Sep 2025Starter for Ten | Interview with Costume & Set designer Lee Newby
9 Sep 2025
Starter for Ten | Song List
27 Aug 2025
Freshers Fun in Starter for Ten rehearsals!
20 Aug 2025
new EP just released from critically acclaimed new musical 'starter for ten'
8 Aug 2025
Full cast announced for return of ‘Starter for Ten’
9 Jun 2025
A reverie of exceptional music and brain-scrambling conundrums
Truly brilliant
Joyous, silly and hilarious
Undeniable energy and charm
A joy to watch
Transformed for the stage for audiences to adore
On Stage
Photos: Pamela Raith
Backstage
Photos: Ciara Hillyer
In Rehearsal
Photos: Pamela Raith
