David Nicholls added Bristol University to an esteemed list of ‘campus novels’ when he wrote ‘Starter for Ten’. The alumnus has since gone on to become one of Britain’s great modern writers – with ‘One Day’, ‘Us’ and ‘You Are Here’ among his works – but his debut novel about ‘University Challenge’ remains beloved by many in Bristol.
This love only deepened with a movie adaptation in 2006 (filmed in Bristol, too) and a stage musical in 2024. Now, following a record-breaking run at Bristol Old Vic last year, ‘Starter for Ten’ will return to Bristol Old Vic (September 10 to October 11, 2025), followed by two weeks at Birmingham Rep Theatre (October 22 to November 1, 2025).
‘Starter for Ten’ is a coming-of-age comedy musical about love, class and the legendary British quiz show ‘University Challenge’. Set in the 1980s, the new musical features an original soundtrack inspired by the riotous student scene of the era – composed by queer, pop-punk composers Tom Rasmussen and Hatty Carman.
Following the story of eighteen-year-old Brian Jackson, leaving Southend to start his first year at Bristol University, Mel Giedroyc will reprise her roles of Brian’s mum, ‘Irene Jackson’ and Bamber Gascoigne’s irresistible sidekick ‘Julia Bland’. Further casting for the musical is yet to be announced. ‘Starter For Ten’ was nominated for Best Musical Production at the UK Theatre Awards 2024, so expect greatness!
“Buzzers at the ready— I’m beyond thrilled to be reunited with Starter for Ten!” Mel Giedroyc said. “Our first run in Bristol was glorious—the audiences, the energy, the sheer joy —and to be returning to Bristol Old Vic feels like coming home (again). And then, to be taking it to Birmingham as well? Let’s crack open the Babycham IMMEDIATELY PLEASE!”
“We’re bringing back the nail-biting competition, the romance, the wild 80s-inspired original soundtrack that will have you throwing on a legwarmer, back-combing your hair till it’s as big as Thatcher’s and dancing like nobody’s watching. I am genuinely so proud of our show and cannot wait for even more people to see it!”
Tickets for ‘Starter For Ten’ go on priority sale on Thursday, March 13, before they go on sale to the general public on Thursday, March 20. To learn more about this new musical head here.