New musical ”Starter for Ten” to premiere in Bristol next year

A new musical adapted from David Nicholls’ novel Starter for Ten will premiere at the Bristol Old Vic next year, as part of artistic director Nancy Medina’s inaugural season.

Set in 1985, the coming-of-age story centres on Brian, who is starting his first year at Bristol University with the aim to fulfil his lifelong dream of competing on BBC quiz show University Challenge.

The show will have a book and lyrics co-written by Emma Hall and Charlie Parham, with an 80s-inspired score composed by queer, pop-punk composers Tom Rasmussen and Hatty Carman.

Running from 29 February to 30 March 2024, Starter for Ten will be directed by Parham and feature set and costume design by Olivier-nominee Frankie Bradshaw, lighting design by Jai Morjaria and casting by Will Burton for GBC.

Hall and Parham’s company, Antic Productions, will co-produce alongside Bristol Old Vic, Longshot Films – which co-produced the 2006 film adapataion – and Playtone.

“To be presenting the world premiere of a Bristol-based story at Bristol Old Vic is sincerely a dream come true,” said Hall. “We cannot wait to bring this electrifying mix of general knowledge and anthemic, 80s-inspired music to audiences.”

Nicholls, whose other works include the bestselling One Day, added: “Nearly 20 years after publication, it’s such a thrill that Brian’s misadventures are being brought to the stage, and by such a brilliant, dynamic team.”

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