National Theatre announces James Graham’s new play DEAR ENGLAND

Photo credit: Gary William Ogle

The National Theatre have announced that Dear England, a new play by James Graham telling the story of the England men’s football team under Gareth Southgate, will play in the Olivier Theatre from 10 June-11 August, directed by Rupert Goold and starring Joseph Fiennes (The Handmaid’s Tale).

It’s time to change the game. The country that gave the world football has since delivered a painful pattern of loss. Why can’t England’s men win at their own game?

With the worst track record for penalties in the world, Gareth Southgate knows he needs to open his mind and face up to the years of hurt to take team and country back to the promised land.

Playwright James Graham said: “To tell this story of the national game on the stage of the National Theatre is just the greatest thrill, if an intimidating responsibility. The experience of working on This House at the National Theatre 10 years ago changed my life as an emerging writer. Now, with Dear England, to be given the opportunity to shine a light on another public institution in the form of the England men's football team is, I know, an exciting opportunity.

“What Gareth Southgate has attempted in his quiet cultural reform of England football I find epic and deeply moving. And I'm so grateful to be surrounded by some of British theatre's most exciting creative talent to unite around this new show.”

The production has set design by Es Devlin, costumes by Evie Gurney, lighting by Jon Clark and video design by Ash J Woodward. Further casting is to be announced.

Tickets go on sale to the public on 9 March here.