The award-winning play about Gareth Southgate embarks on a national tour, captivating audiences.
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Dear England: A nationwide tour of the acclaimed play about Gareth Southgate
The much-anticipated play Dear England, which chronicles the journey of Gareth Southgate as the England football manager, is set to embark on a nationwide tour across the UK.
Following its successful run at the National Theatre and its transfer to the West End, this production has garnered critical acclaim, including the prestigious Best New Play award at the Olivier Awards.
From the National Theatre to the West End
Written by the talented playwright James Graham, Dear England had a remarkable sell-out run at the National Theatre before moving to the West End in 2023. The play’s narrative, which intertwines the emotional highs and lows of the England football team, resonates with both theatre enthusiasts and football fans alike. Graham expressed his initial concerns about whether a football-themed production could translate effectively to the stage, but the overwhelming response from audiences has proven otherwise.
A journey across the UK
The tour will kick off in Plymouth on September 15, 2023, and will span 16 venues, including major cities such as Newcastle, Liverpool, and Birmingham. The final performance is scheduled for March 14, 2026. Graham emphasized the importance of taking the play beyond the capital, stating, “The England football team belongs to everybody nationwide, and to take it out of the capital felt really, really important to me.” This sentiment reflects a broader commitment to making cultural experiences accessible to all.
Connecting with diverse audiences
Graham’s approach to theatre is rooted in a desire to connect with a wide audience. He noted, “I’ve always gone through my career with that populist mindset, just going ‘What will connect with people who are non-traditional theatre goers and traditional theatre goers at the same time?’” This inclusive vision has been a driving force behind the play’s success, as it appeals to both football fans and those who may not typically engage with theatre.
A compelling narrative
Dear England is not just a play about football; it is a fictionalized account of the struggles and triumphs of England’s national team, based on extensive research and interviews. The narrative captures the essence of Southgate’s leadership and the emotional journey of the players. The play’s world premiere took place on June 20, 2023, and it has since received nine Olivier Award nominations, further solidifying its status as a significant work in contemporary theatre.
Upcoming performances and adaptations
Before the nationwide tour, Dear England will return to the National Theatre from March to May 2024, followed by a four-week run at the Lowry in Salford. The play will feature Gwilym Lee in the role of Gareth Southgate. Additionally, plans are underway for a four-part BBC TV drama adaptation, with Joseph Fiennes reprising his role as Southgate. This adaptation aims to bring the compelling story of Southgate’s tenure as England manager to an even wider audience.
A commitment to cultural accessibility
Graham’s dedication to ensuring that theatre is accessible to all is evident in his remarks about the current cultural climate. He highlighted the challenges of touring, stating, “The cultural climate we’re in at the moment, touring is very, very expensive. It’s not always feasible.” Despite these challenges, the commitment of the National Theatre to take Dear England on tour is a testament to the importance of making quality theatre available to audiences across the country.
