The cast of DEAR ENGLAND UK Tour. Photo Credit: Marc Brenner
Clever, emotionally resonant and brilliantly staged, DEAR ENGLAND uses the story of an England football manager to explore themes of belief, teamwork, and legacy, appealing to fans and non-fans alike.
A play about football, more specifically, about the tenure of an England manager, might sound like something that would make you roll your eyes and sigh. But in this touring revival from the National Theatre, there’s no such theatrics on the pitch. Instead, DEAR ENGLAND is an absolute joy to watch. Under Rupert Goold’s direction, it’s inventive in its staging and completely engaging.
Blending comedy with the familiar rollercoaster of England’s footballing fortunes, the play draws the audience into the heart of the team’s journey – a story of legacy. Whether you’re a devoted football fan or someone who reaches for the remote at the sound of MATCH OF THE DAY, you’ll find something to love here. Clever use of music, political references, and real-life events adds depth, and the large ensemble cast wrings every drop of emotion from the crowd.
Tane Siah and Gwilym Lee in DEAR ENGLAND. Photo Credit: Marc Brenner
You’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat during a penalty shoot-out, angry by the media coverage, moved by the players’ reactions, or laughing at the sharp humour throughout. From inside jokes about crisps and Gary Lineker to nods to past managers’ wardrobes, everything hits the mark, never slipping into caricature or pastiche. What’s particularly enjoyable is seeing the players brought to life, with their quirks and personalities on full display: Jordan Pickford psyching himself up, Harry Maguire as the proud Yorkshireman, and Harry Kane as the quiet, thoughtful leader.
The ensemble cast is the backbone of the production, but there are some standout performances. Gwilym Lee as Gareth Southgate captures every mannerism and phrasing, and is a doppelganger. Josh Barrow is hilarious as Jordan Pickford, wearing every thought on his face. Ryan Whittle portrays Harry Kane with quiet intensity, stepping into the role of captain for this new moulded team with calm authority. Liz White impresses as Dr Pippa Grange, who encourages the team to confront their feelings and move past them in order to become a better machine.
Gwilym Lee and the cast of DEAR ENGLAND. Photo Credit: Marc Brenner
Beyond the cast and script, the staging is extremely effective. To call it “atmospheric” wouldn’t do it justice; it’s near perfect. Set designer Es Devlin and lighting designer Jon Clarke have crafted a masterpiece that evokes every ounce of tension and captures the full weight of England’s football history. Video and sound elements add to this, culminating in a powerful final backdrop, with every England player listed and Southgate reminding us all that the story is ongoing and everyone has a number.
The main cast is exceptional, and the ensemble brilliantly portrays the passing of time through well-observed characterisation. The humour is pitch-perfect, and the emotional beats hit hard. DEAR ENGLAND is a play about football, but it’s also a play about belief, teamwork, and legacy.
DEAR ENGLAND runs at The Lowry, Salford, until 29 June 2025.
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