STARTER FOR TEN - Birmingham Rep (27/10/25)

University Challenge musical proves funny, albeit formulaic and cliched

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Since its first TV broadcast in 1962, University Challenge has become nothing short of a British institution, having now run for over six decades and 54 series, spawning various spin-offs, a 2003 novel by David Nicholls, its subsequent film adaptation starring James McEvoy and Benedict Cumberbatch, and now, finally, a stage musical. First premiering in Bristol last year, this joint project between Hatty Carman, Tom Rasmussen, Emma Hall and Charlie Parham follows the same story of Nicholls' original book, and the trials and tribulations of Brian Jackson, a first year student at Bristol University with a lifelong obsession with the iconic quiz show.

Those familiar with the source material will very likely be curious about one scene in particular, and just like in the film, we feel every moment of it with Brian: the shame, the sinking feeling, sense of isolation, all masterfully directed by Charlie Parham, as the story reaches its thrilling climax. And although there were moments when the direction felt clunky, or like the pacing was knocked off course by uneven transitions, what was always clear was the distinctly and unapologetically 80s feel of the whole thing, from the staging to the costumes, and even the music by Carman and Rasmussen had us feeling like donning leg warmers and unitards.

The company of "Starter For Ten" (credit: Pamela Raith)

As distinctive as the music was in and of itself in terms of its musical makeup, it has to be said that a lot of the songs themselves were indistinguishable from one to the next, and for me lacked personality, especially in terms of lyrics, which felt like they required further development, as much of the lyrical content was fairly matter-of-fact and rather prosaic. That isn't to say there weren't some marvellously inventive musical moments, the entire act 2 televised quiz scene itself was actually superbly written and directed, for which Parham and the writing team deserve a huge amount of credit.

Lee Newby's set design is another huge plus, clearly having been influenced by the original University Chalenge set from the 1960s and 70s, with the scoreboard screens adorning the upper part of the stage an ingenious means of providing settings, dates and other useful information. Complimenting this remarkably well were costumes by Frankie Bradshaw, taking the original designs from the film and her own spin on these, retaining the subtle 80s aesthetic, but at times, such as in the second act opening, really letting loose and being given the chance to up the 80s ante.

What really sells he show though is the character work, this is an enormously talented cast who take these established characters, and splendidly put their own stamps on them. Big ticketing draw Mel Giedroic once again displays her considerable comedy chops, taking on a handful of different roles, and always makes herself known even when it's a minor part, however she also displays some beautiful serious acting in the second act, showing a touching, maternal quality as Brian's mum Irene. Brian himself is played by Adam Bregman, whose earnest naïvety endears him to the audience immediately, on top of showcasing some impressive, controlled, crystal clear vocals.

Mel Giedroic (credit: Pamela Raith)

All over the stage we were treated to dazzling performance, but the major highlight was Imogen Craig, who gives a stunning professional debut as the spoilt, entitled bombshell Alice, perfectly balancing confidence and quiet arrogance with a distinctly Monroe-esque glamour. Contrasting her was Will Jennings as the stuffy, proud, no-nonsense team captain Patrick, regularly at odds with comparable novice Brian; Jennings brilliantly portrays the character's innate Tory condescension and social awkwardness, and his tumultuous on-stage relationship with Bregman had us hooked from the word go.

Although his appearances were scattered, Stephen Ashfield delighted and elicited plenty of laughs as the late, great Bamber Gascoigne, his initial appearances used as a means of teasing his ultimate reveal, with signature catchphrases such as "I'm going to have to rush you" used to amusing effect. This was a production full of sensational acting and singing performances, but let down by its score and lyrical content; this aside though, it remains a fun, energetic and camp retro ride that will surely appease fans of both the film and the original quiz.

★★★☆☆ (3*)

"Starter For Ten" runs at the Birmingham Rep until the 1st of November, so don't miss out! (book tickets)