Ernie and the Sea of Ice

This festive season, Exeter Phoenix and Quirk Theatre invite audiences to step aboard the good ship Endurance for a penguintastic voyage like no other.

Returning for their 22nd annual Christmas co-production, Quirk bring back one of their most beloved productions 'Ernie and the Sea of Ice'; an inventive, hilarious and heartwarming retelling of Ernest Shackleton’s legendary expedition.

Join Ernie as his dream comes true: sailing south across stormy seas to the frozen world of Antarctica. But when the ship becomes trapped in the ice, Ernie, Shackleton and the crew - plus 69 dogs and one very chilly cat - face the challenge of a lifetime. Thousands of miles from anywhere, survival depends on determination, ingenuity and the unlikeliest of friendships (not least with the penguins who waddle right up to camp!).

Blending stage magic, spectacular design, original music and playful storytelling, Quirk transforms Shackleton’s true story of endurance into a wonderfully silly, yet deeply moving adventure for all ages. Expect belly laughs, brilliant surprise, and the warmth of a show that celebrates resilience, hope and the magic of imagination - it’s the perfect festive treat.

Over 100 years ago, in 1914, Ernest Shackleton set out to be the first to cross Antarctica. His ship was crushed by ice and the men were stranded for over a year — yet, against all odds, every single member of the crew survived. Shackleton’s courage and leadership continue to inspire today.

Quirk bring this story to life with their trademark inventiveness: mixing fun facts (yes, the explorers played football on the ice!) with theatrical magic and an onboard cabaret. Penguins, ship’s cats and sled dogs all take to the stage in a joyous family show that will leave audiences inspired by history and filled with festive cheer.

The show runs on select dates from 14 December to 28 December, with tickets from £11 and family tickets also available.