New dark comedy comes to the Barnfield Theatre

A bold new dark comedy, Pot Licker, is coming to Exeter’s Barnfield Theatre on 21 and 22 March, bringing a gripping mix of suspense, humour, and high-stakes decision-making to the stage.

Written by Exeter-born playwright Ed Viney, the play follows three teachers who stumble upon a bag of drugs in their school’s lost property. With the school facing closure, they wrestle with a moral dilemma - should they report it or find another way to turn the situation to their advantage?

Inspired by the tension of classic heist films, Pot Licker blends drama with razor-sharp wit to explore the pressures faced by teachers and the unpredictable nature of life-changing decisions.

Viney, who attended Priory High School (now ISCA College) and Exeter College, is excited to bring his work back to his hometown. “I wanted to write a play that’s similar to a heist movie - you don’t see that much in theatre,” he said. “I’ve worked all over the country but love creating work at this scale that gives audiences a real experience of theatre. I’m thrilled we’re playing Exeter and hope to see more small-scale professional theatre touring across the South West like stand-up comedy and live music does.”

Produced by Dorchester Arts in association with Lighthouse Poole, Pot Licker stars Exeter-based actor Charlie Coldfield in the role of Kris, alongside Dan Gaisford as Rich and Monika Brodowska as Zara.

The production is part of a tour spanning venues across the South West, from village halls to major theatre spaces, including Theatre Royal Bath’s Ustinov Studio.

Mark Tattersall, Artistic Director at Dorchester Arts, highlighted the importance of supporting grassroots theatre. “We are delighted to be producing this tour, having first seen Pot Licker as part of a new scriptwriting initiative at Lighthouse Poole. With my background in music, working with indie bands like Oasis and Suede and watching them grow from small clubs to stadiums, I believe it’s just as vital to give grassroots theatre the same opportunities to thrive. Supporting emerging playwrights and performers is key to the South West’s vibrant theatre scene.”

Exeter audiences can catch Pot Licker at Barnfield Theatre on 21 and 22 March at 7.45pm. Tickets are priced at £16, with group discounts available for bookings of 10 or more. Due to adult humour and drug references, the show is recommended for audiences aged 16 and over.

Tickets can be booked through the Exeter Northcott Theatre website, and further tour details can be found here.