Initial casting has been announced for the Bristol Old Vic world premiere of the new musical Starter for Ten, based on David Nicholls' coming-of-age novel and the 2006 film adaptation starring James McAvoy, Benedict Cumberbatch, James Corden, and Rebecca Hall.

Co-writer Charlie Parham will direct the tale of love and class, which is set in 1980s Bristol against the backdrop of British quiz show University Challenge. Performances are scheduled for February 29-March 30, 2024.

The company will be led by Adam Bregman as Brian, Eubha Akilade as Rebecca, Stephenson Ardern-Sodje as Spencer, Miracle Chance as Lucy, Emily Lane as Alice, and Will Jennings as Patrick with additional casting to be announced.

Starter for Ten has a book and lyrics co-written by Emma Hall and Parham and an '80s-inspired original score and lyrics by Tom Rasmussen and Hatty Carman.

Hall and Parham said in a joint statement, “It is so exciting to be working with a new generation of extremely talented young actors. In exactly the same way that the film Starter for 10 was instrumental in launching the careers of so many young British stars … we have seized this opportunity to champion and showcase the stars of tomorrow.”

The production will also have choreography by Shelley Maxwell, set and costume design by Olivier nominee Frankie Bradshaw, sound design by Gregory Clarke, music supervision by Nick Barstow, and casting by Will Burton for GBC.

Antic Productions, Bristol Old Vic, Longshot Films, and Playtone produce.

For ticket information click here.