Panto giants return to Exeter stage

Exeter Northcott Theatre has announced its 2025 pantomime will be the much-loved tale of Jack and the Beanstalk – and it's shaping up to be a giant-sized festive treat.

Reuniting for a fourth year, the theatre has once again teamed up with local comedy favourites Le Navet Bete to bring their signature humour, energy and heart to the stage. Following sold-out runs of Dick Whittington and Cinderella, the creative team promises a spectacular, laugh-packed show for the whole family.

Exeter Today reviewed last year’s Cinderella panto - and we’re still talking about it! Click here to read more.

With over 50 performances scheduled from Thursday 27 November to Sunday 4 January 2026, Jack and the Beanstalkwill offer all the panto magic we know and love: big laughs, bonkers special effects, dazzling costumes and giant-sized fun.

The production will include audio-described, BSL-interpreted, captioned and relaxed performances, alongside four special No Kids Allowed adult-only shows.

Creative Director Martin Berry, who will also co-write and direct the production, said: “We’re busy brewing up our most brilliant and bonkers pantomime yet, made by and for our local community. Last year, over 23,000 people saw Cinderella, and to my mind, there's no greater privilege for us at Exeter Northcott than the chance to create magic and memories that families will cherish for many years to come.”

Audiences can expect a hilarious take on the age-old tale. Down on their Devon farm live Dame Trott, Daisy the Cow, Jack and his sister Jill, all dreaming of better things when a chance encounter with a mysterious bean-seller sends their world sky-high.

Le Navet Bete’s Nick Bunt, Al Dunn and Matt Freeman said: “We are delighted to be teaming up with Exeter Northcott for the fourth(!) time to create a brand-new modern panto. As with all of Le Navet Bete’s work, we will champion collaboration with the Northcott’s creative team and all of the brilliant people behind the scenes to make something truly memorable – a version of Jack and the Beanstalk that celebrates Exeter and the beautiful South West!”

Thanks to sponsorship from Bernaville Nurseries, early-bird bookers can enjoy 20% off selected performances until Sunday 1 June using code ‘BernaVille’.

Partner Tony Jackson said: “This timeless tale of adventure and magic beans resonates deeply with our commitment to nurturing growth and bringing communities together.”

Exeter Northcott will also continue its Pay It Forward initiative, gifting hundreds of free tickets to local families who wouldn’t otherwise be able to attend, working with South West charities. Supporters can contribute to the fund when booking tickets.

Additional support for the scheme comes from the Quay Climbing Centre, who will collaborate with the theatre on themed climbing activities at Clip ‘n Climb and Boulder Exe.

Tickets are on week-long pre-sale for Exeter Northcott members, with general sale opening Thursday 24 April at 10am.