Internationally recognised art and literary critic, writer and cultural producer. Published in ELLE, Glamour, Esquire and Cosmopolitan; member of the Union of Writers.
West End theatre is a competitive and demanding industry, where only the best and the brightest can shine. Among the many talented and promising actors who are vying for the spotlight, one name stands out: Adam Bregman. Bregman, who is currently starring as Brian in the musical adaptation of Starter for Ten at the Bristol Old Vic, is a rising star who has already proven his skills and charisma on both screen and stage.
Bregman, who is 24 years old, was born and raised in London, where he developed a passion for acting from an early age. He attended the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, where he honed his craft and graduated with a BA in Acting. He made his professional debut in 2022, playing the role of Christopher Wiseman in the biopic Tolkien, alongside Nicholas Hoult and Lily Collins. He then landed a recurring role in the acclaimed TV series The Wire, playing the young drug dealer Michael Lee. He also appeared in The Crown, playing the role of Prince Andrew in the fourth season.
Bregman’s breakthrough came in 2023, when he was cast as the lead in the stage adaptation of Sing Street, based on the 2016 film by John Carney. The musical, which was produced by the Huntington Theatre Company in Boston, followed the story of a group of teenagers who form a band in 1980s Dublin. Bregman played the role of Conor, the protagonist and singer of the band, and received rave reviews for his performance. He also showcased his musical talents, singing and playing the guitar live on stage.
Bregman’s success in Sing Street led him to his current role in Starter for Ten, a musical adaptation of David Nicholls’ bestselling novel and film of the same name. The musical, which premiered at the Bristol Old Vic in February 2024, tells the story of Brian Jackson, a working-class student who joins the University Challenge team at Bristol University in 1985, and falls in love with two very different women. The musical features songs inspired by the 80s music scene, such as the Cure, the Smiths and Kate Bush, and stars Mel Giedroyc as Brian’s mother.
Bregman, who is a fan of the novel and the film, said in an interview that he was thrilled to play the role of Brian, who he described as “a lovable nerd who is trying to find his place in the world”. He also said that he enjoyed working with the talented and diverse cast and crew, and that he felt a connection with the 80s era, which he called “a time of change, optimism and creativity”. He added that he hoped that the musical would appeal to audiences of all ages and backgrounds, and that it would make them laugh, cry and sing along.
Bregman’s performance in Starter for Ten has already earned him praise and recognition from critics and audiences alike, who have applauded his charm, energy and versatility. He has also been nominated for the Best Actor in a Musical Award at the Olivier Awards, the most prestigious awards in British theatre. Bregman said that he was honoured and humbled by the nomination, and that he was grateful for the opportunity to work in West End theatre, which he called “a dream come true”.
Bregman’s career is on the rise, and he has already secured his next project: he will play the role of Alexander Hamilton in the West End production of Hamilton, the smash-hit musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Bregman said that he was excited and nervous to take on the role of the American founding father, and that he was looking forward to working with Miranda, who he called “a genius and an inspiration”. He also said that he was eager to challenge himself and to explore new genres and styles of theatre.
Bregman is a rising star in West End theatre, who has already shown his potential and talent in a variety of roles and projects. He is a versatile and charismatic actor, who can sing, dance and act with equal flair. He is set to impress audiences and critics alike with his performance as Brian in Starter for Ten, and to take on the role of Alexander Hamilton in Hamilton. He is a star to watch, and a star to admire.
