Following the five-star success of The Commotion Time, Exeter Northcott Theatre continues its return to producing original drama with the world premiere of Exe Men, running from 7–18 October 2025.
This brand-new play tells the remarkable true story of how the Exeter Chiefs rose from obscurity to become double-winning champions of England and Europe.
Exe Men marks the stage debut of Emmy award-winning screenwriter Ashley Pharoah, known for Life on Mars, Ashes to Ashes, and Around the World in 80 Days.
The play is adapted from the award-winning book Exe Men: The Extraordinary Rise of the Exeter Chiefs by Robert Kitson, rugby union correspondent for The Guardian.
Directed by Exeter Northcott’s Creative Director Martin Berry, the production features a professional cast supported by a community ensemble of local performers.
Exeter Northcott Joint Chief Executives Emma Stephenson, Kelly Johnson, and Martin Berry said:
“Exe Men is the perfect play to continue our return to producing shows. We’re so excited to be bringing together the Exeter Chiefs, Ashley Pharoah, and a first-rate cast and creative team, to enjoy the story of how rugby put our city on the map. It is a hugely entertaining and uplifting underdog tale full of regional pride, local heroes, personal struggles, and a lot of laughs. If you love a great night out, then this is the show for you.”
Ashley Pharoah added:
“I had already read and loved Rob Kitson’s book Exe Men, so when I was asked to adapt it for the brilliant Exeter Northcott I was absolutely thrilled. As a rugby-mad, theatre-loving writer from the South West, it has everything — rags and riches; scrums and beers; laughter and dreams. I can’t wait for people to see it.”
Exeter Rugby Club Chairman and CEO, Tony Rowe CBE, commented:
“I never imagined the story of Exeter Chiefs would become a stage play but I think it perfectly demonstrates just how special the journey of our club has been. From the origins of my involvement with the club, to ‘The Originals’ and the double-winning champions — it is all integral to our story. This play is a funny and entertaining representation of the history of Exeter Chiefs and I look forward to watching it live.”
Performances of Exe Men will include audio-described, BSL-interpreted, captioned, and relaxed options. Tickets start at £18, with discounts available for under-18s, Exeter Northcott members, and Exeter Chiefs supporters.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
