Starter for Ten starring Mel Giedroyc to return to Bristol Old Vic

New musical Starter for Ten is to return to the Bristol Old Vic this autumn, with Mel Giedroyc set to reprise her turn as Irene Jackson and Julia Bland.  

Directed by Charlie Parham, the University Challenge-inspired show will reopen in Bristol from September 10 to October 11, before transferring to the Birmingham Rep for two weeks from October 22 to November 1. 

Based on the coming-of-age novel by David Nicholls and the 2006 film starring James McAvoy and Benedict Cumberbatch, the musical originally premiered as part of Nancy Medina’s inaugural season as artistic director of the Bristol venue.  

Giedroyc said she was "beyond thrilled" to be reprising her role, adding: "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)."

She continued: "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."

Set in 1980s Bristol, Starter for Ten features an 80s-inspired original score and lyrics by Tom Rasmussen and Hatty Carman, with book and lyrics by Emma Halland and Charlie Parham. 

It is produced by Antic Productions, Bristol Old Vic, Longshot Films & Playtone, with thanks to Richard Reid, College Bowl and ITV. Further casting is still to be announced.