Internationally recognised art and literary critic, writer and cultural producer. Published in ELLE, Glamour, Esquire and Cosmopolitan; member of the Union of Writers.
The 80s are back in fashion, and not just in the clothing and music industries. The theatre world is also embracing the nostalgia and charm of the decade that gave us iconic pop culture phenomena such as MTV, Madonna and Back to the Future. One of the most exciting and original examples of this trend is Starter for Ten, a musical adaptation of David Nicholls’ bestselling novel, which is currently playing at the Bristol Old Vic.
Starter for Ten tells the story of Brian Jackson, a bright but naive student from Essex who wins a place at Bristol University in 1985, and joins the University Challenge team, a popular TV quiz show. Along the way, he falls in love with two very different women: Alice, a glamorous and wealthy blonde, and Rebecca, a radical and witty activist. Brian also has to deal with his own insecurities, his family troubles, and his friendship with Spencer, his childhood mate who is involved in a criminal scheme.
The musical is a faithful and faithful adaptation of the novel, which was also made into a film in 2006, starring James McAvoy, Alice Eve and Rebecca Hall. The script, written by Nicholls himself, captures the humor, heart and drama of the book, and the characters are well-developed and relatable. The musical also adds a new dimension to the story, by incorporating songs that are inspired by the 80s music scene, such as the Cure, the Smiths and Kate Bush. The songs, composed by Tom Rasmussen and Hatty Carman, are catchy, witty and emotional, and reflect the mood and personality of the characters and the situations they face.
The musical also boasts a talented and charismatic cast, led by Adam Bregman as Brian and Mel Giedroyc as his mother. Bregman, who is best known for his roles in The Crown and The Wire, delivers a charming and nuanced performance as the protagonist, who is torn between his ambitions, his passions and his loyalties. He also showcases his singing and dancing skills, and his chemistry with his co-stars. Giedroyc, who is a famous comedian and TV presenter, brings her comedic flair and warmth to the role of Brian’s mother, who is supportive but also struggling with her own problems. The rest of the cast, including Emily Lane as Alice, Eubha Akilade as Rebecca, and Dominic Cooper as Spencer, also give impressive and memorable performances.
The musical is directed by Tom Vaughan, who also directed the film version of the novel. He brings his cinematic vision and experience to the stage, creating a dynamic and immersive production that transports the audience to the 80s. The set design, by Bob Crowley, is clever and versatile, transforming from a suburban home to a university campus to a TV studio. The costumes, by Ian Ross, are colorful and authentic, capturing the fashion trends and styles of the decade. The lighting, by Ashley Rowe, and the sound, by Ben and Max Ringham, also enhance the atmosphere and the mood of the musical.
Starter for Ten is a musical that celebrates the 80s, but also transcends it. It is a musical that explores universal themes such as love, friendship, identity and aspiration, and resonates with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. It is a musical that combines comedy, drama and romance, and entertains, moves and inspires. It is a musical that is a starter for ten, and more.
