18 September 2025
Newsdesk
The acclaimed National Theatre production of James Graham’s Olivier Award-winning play, Dear England, has officially begun its highly anticipated national tour. Following a record-breaking run in the West End, the production is now set to visit 16 venues across the country in a co-production with JAS Theatricals. The tour launched this week at the Theatre Royal Plymouth and will run until March 2026.
The cast is led by David Sturzaker in the role of England manager Gareth Southgate, with actress Samantha Womack as team psychologist Pippa Grange. The company also includes a talented ensemble, with Jake Ashton-Nelson as Jordan Henderson, Jayden Hanley as Marcus Rashford, and Oscar Gough as Harry Kane, among others. Together, they bring to life the inspiring and emotional story of Southgate’s revolutionary tenure as England manager.
The play explores the "years of hurt" that have long defined the England men's team and follows Southgate’s mission to change the team’s mindset. The production, directed by Rupert Goold, with set design by Es Devlin, has been praised as a "gripping, moving and funny" theatrical triumph.
In addition to the tour, the National Theatre will also launch a year-long schools engagement program inspired by Gareth Southgate's open letter to England fans. This program, expected to reach over 10,000 young people, will encourage students to reflect on their own place in history and will culminate in a unique sound archive time capsule.
With its universal themes and powerful storytelling, Dear England is set to resonate with audiences across the country, captivating both football enthusiasts and non-fans alike.
Photo credit: Marc Brenner
