Dick Knittington appeal

Exeter Northcott Theatre is appealing for knitters to help prepare for its Christmas pantomime.                                               

The theatre would like volunteers to create knitted cupcakes that can be used during the 60 performances of Dick Whittington, which takes place from Saturday 2 December until Sunday 7 January.

As a thank you for the support the Northcott hopes to receive through the appeal, it has teamed up with Home-Start Exeter and Devon & Cornwall Housing Association to offer 500 free pantomime tickets to families who may not be in a financial position to come to the theatre this Christmas.

“We are delighted to be partnering with the Exeter Northcott Theatre on projects to benefit local families.” Lea Dempster of Home-Start Exeter and East Devon said. “We are a voluntary organisation offering friendship and support to families with young children. Our unique service is provided by local volunteers, who are parents themselves, who give non-judgmental practical and emotional support to parents in situations such as depression, isolation, bereavement, multiple birth, illness or disability.  Through our partnership with the Northcott we hope to raise awareness of our organisation, as well as provide opportunities for children who might not normally be able to attend the theatre.”

Paul Marshall of Devon & Cornwall Housing added “We are keen to work with our partners to benefit our customers. We know that having cultural opportunities is really important in broadening horizons and people's general wellbeing. To work with the Northcott in this way gives us the chance to open up opportunities, get communities active and people coming together - it's another great way we are showing that we are about so much more than houses.”

Exeter Northcott Theatre is grateful for Debbie Judd at community fibre arts space, Wool on the Exe, who is also supporting the appeal and will be providing donated yarn for free to any interested knitters.

Cupcake patterns are available to pick up in the Exeter Northcott box office or by visiting the Dick Whittington page on the theatre’s website.

Lisa Hudson, Exeter Northcott’s Education Officer said “We are delighted to be offering 500 free tickets to deserving families in our community. To ensure these tickets get to the right places, we are indebted to DCHA and Home Start for their support. We’re grateful in advance for Devon communities who are prepared to come together to create an important part of our pantomime”

Finished cupcakes can be handed in or posted to Exeter Northcott Theatre, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QB, by Wednesday 1 November.