Starter for Ten®
A NEW MUSICAL based on the novel by David Nicholls and the HBO/Playtone filmFeel-good Brit hit that’s surely bound for the West End
Fingers on buzzers! After a sell-out run at Bristol Old Vic 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.
*Discount applies to ‘Standard’, ‘Standard with Babe In Arms’ and ‘18 and Under’ ticket types only (not ‘Open Concession’ or ‘Pay It Forward’)
Never been to Bristol Old Vic before?
There are 100 FREE TICKETS available for Preview performances of Starter for Ten for newcomers to the theatre.
Simply make an account, enter the promo code BOVNEWTIX100 and your ticket price will be taken off at checkout!
*Available on any seat and in any price band on Preview performances. Maximum 2 free tickets per person.
Truly brilliant
Showstopper musical full of joy, comedy and 80s nostalgia
Superlatives all round
Joyous, silly and hilarious
The feel-good factor is irresistible
Daily Mail
Exudes joy and comedy
Transformed for the stage for audiences to adore
Thoroughly entertaining
A very fun ride
Laugh-out-loud funny... the cast were sensational
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Dates & Times
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