Seiriol Davies’ hit musical How To Win Against History is set to return in an expanded version this summer, opening at Bristol Old Vic before heading to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
The production, a reimagining of the 2016 Fringe sensation, will run at Bristol Old Vic from 19 June to 12 July 2025 before transferring to Underbelly at Edinburgh Fringe from 30 July to 24 August 2025. This revival coincides with the 150th anniversary of Henry Cyril Paget’s birth, the eccentric aristocrat whose extravagant lifestyle and artistic ambitions form the basis of the show.
Produced by Francesca Moody Productions and Bristol Old Vic, the musical marks another collaboration between the Olivier Award-winning team behind Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder!, Fleabag, and Baby Reindeer. The original trio of Seiriol Davies, Matthew Blake, and Dylan Townley return to lead the cast, with Davies once again portraying Paget.
Directed by Lisa Spirling (Wagatha Christie), the creative team includes Set Designer Hayley Grindle (Animal Farm), Costume Designer Ryan Dawson Laight (My Son’s a Queer…), Lighting Designer Robbie Butler (Punch), Sound Designer Dan Samson (Heathers), and Musical Supervisor Leo Munby (Gypsy). Dylan Townley also serves as Musical Director and Co-Orchestrator.
How To Win Against History tells the story of Henry Cyril Paget, the 5th Marquis of Anglesey, who squandered his immense wealth on lavish theatre productions, extravagant costumes, and a lifestyle that scandalised Edwardian society. When he died at 29, his family erased nearly all evidence of his existence. The musical blends humour, music, and spectacle to explore themes of privilege, masculinity, and self-expression.
The production’s original 2016 run earned critical acclaim and won The Stage Edinburgh Award.
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