Exeter Chiefs’ rise to rugby glory brought to stage at Northcott Theatre

The rise of Exeter Chiefs from relative obscurity to champions of England and Europe is being retold on stage in a new play at Exeter Northcott Theatre this October.

Exe Men explores how the club went from unfashionable outsiders to double winners, charting the personal sacrifices, determination and local pride that drove the team’s success.

The play is based on the book of the same name by Robert Kitson, rugby union correspondent for The Guardian.

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The stage version has been adapted by Emmy award-winning writer Ashley Pharoah, known for Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes.

It will be directed by Northcott’s creative director Martin Berry and performed by a professional cast alongside a community ensemble.

The production also features music by Steve Knightley, including The River and the Hills and The Rolling Sea.

Exeter Rugby Club chairman and chief executive Tony Rowe CBE said: “This play is a funny and entertaining representation of the history of Exeter Chiefs and I look forward to watching it live.”

The Northcott has also confirmed a range of access performances. A BSL-interpreted performance will take place on Thursday 9 October at 7.30pm. 

A captioned performance will follow on Saturday 11 October at 3pm. 

An audio-described show with a touch tour beforehand will be held later the same day at 7.30pm.

A relaxed performance is scheduled for Saturday 18 October at 3pm.

Tickets are available through Exeter Northcott Theatre’s box office.