International theatre producer to launch Exeter play premiere

A FORMER Kirtonian, now one of the most experienced, loved and well-respected Executive Producers/General Managers within the live entertainment genre, joins with others to launch the world premiere of a new play at Exeter Northcott Theatre next year.

Julian was a former member of CODS way back in his teenage days. He went to Landscore School, and was then a student at Queen Elizabeth’s School.

He began his career in the 1980s with work experience at the Northcott and has worked extensively in the world of Theatre and Theatrical Events.

Exeter Northcott Theatre, Julian Stoneman and Robert Mackintosh for Made in Liverpool Productions Ltd recently announced the world premiere of “Made in Liverpool”, written by Gerard McCarthy and directed by the Northcott’s Artistic Director, Martin Berry, will run at Exeter Northcott Theatre from June 16 to July 4, 2027, with a press night on June 24, 2027. “Made in Liverpool” tells the story of Stuart Sutcliffe, the “fifth Beatle”, the young man John Lennon loved and the artist who died at just 21, and his mother’s struggle to remember her son for the person he was, rather than the legend that grew around him.

The announcement follows the Northcott’s return to producing its own work and a series of five-star “Made in Devon” productions.

Following its premiere in Exeter, “Made in Liverpool” is intended to tour to other UK venues ahead of a London transfer, in collaboration with Julian Stoneman and Robert Mackintosh for Made in Liverpool Productions Ltd. Further venues and dates will be announced.

The premiere also marks a milestone for the theatre. Exeter Northcott Theatre opened its doors in 1967, the year The Beatles released Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, which spent 27 weeks at number one in the UK album chart.

On June 25 that year, The Beatles performed All You Need Is Love live on Our World, the first global satellite television broadcast.

Robert Mackintosh said: “I was so intrigued by Stuart Sutcliffe’s biography and was determined to turn it into a play.”

Julian said: “In 1960, five young lads from Liverpool were preparing for their first gig with little more than their instruments and a belief in each other.

“Night after night they played, learned and grew, until they became something the world had never seen. We see that same spirit at the Northcott today.

“This team has worked tirelessly and believed wholeheartedly, and together they have brought the theatre back to making its own work.

“Made in Liverpool is about a young man who dared to follow his art, and it feels right that it begins here, in a theatre that has launched so many.”

Patron of The Crediton Heart Project, Julian is Managing Director of Media Productions and Solutions International Ltd.

Julian and his company MPSI Ltd are based in historic Somerset House, in London’s world-renowned West End theatre district.

Casting and creative team to be announced shortly. Age guidance: 14+.

Tickets are on sale now. Book via: www.exeternorthcott.co.uk or call 01392 726363.