Exeter Northcott Theatre unveils thrilling autumn/winter 2024 season

Exeter Northcott Theatre is set to return to producing original works with its Autumn/Winter 2024 season, showcasing three new productions created in the South West.

The season includes a historical drama, a family pantomime, and a fairytale adaptation, all aimed at celebrating talent and engaging the region’s audiences.

The theatre's offerings will commence in October with the world premiere of "The Commotion Time," written by South West playwright Sarah Dickenson. Directed by the new creative director Martin Berry, the play is set in the aftermath of Henry VIII's death and highlights the voices of ordinary communities who marched to Exeter. "The Commotion Time" will run from October 18-23.

"When I read Sarah's wonderful play, I knew the Northcott just had to do it," Martin said. "It is a story that says so much about this city, the community, and our plans for the coming years at the Northcott."

Following this, Exeter-based Le Navet Bete will team up with the Northcott to present the family pantomime "Cinderella," running from November 28 to January 5. Last year’s collaboration, "Dick Whittington," is a nominee for best pantomime under 500 seats, at the Pantomime Awards. Early ticket sales for "Cinderella" are already surpassing last year’s numbers by 53%.

The third production is "The Elves and the Shoemaker," which will be staged at the Barnfield Theatre from December 16-24. PaddleBoat Theatre, known for their engaging performances, will bring this classic fairytale to life with puppetry and clowning.

In addition to these productions, the Northcott will launch the Elevate artist development program. The Elevate Festival, running in October, will feature masterclasses, newly commissioned plays, and scratch nights. One local company will be given a week-long residency culminating in a public sharing.

Sam Parker, artist development producer, says: “The Northcott team are huge believers that the South-West is home to some of the country’s most exciting artists, and that our organisation has a responsibility to support them in taking their next steps. Elevate has been designed with that in mind, featuring a range of opportunities for artists of all backgrounds and experience levels to engage with us. Watch this space for more information on how to get involved.”

The season will also include the Reclaim Festival in mid-November, a week-long celebration of works by women, for women. The festival, curated by local producers Katy Danbury and Naomi Turner, will feature panel discussions, workshops, comedy, music, and more.

With over 70 events planned, the Exeter Northcott’s Autumn/Winter 2024 season promises something for everyone, ranging from dance and theatre to comedy and opera.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit exeternorthcott.co.uk or call the box office at 01392 72 63 63.