James Graham’s award-winning play, Dear England, has returned to the National Theatre with a fresh lens on the story of Gareth Southgate and the England men’s football team, weaving their journey through success and heartbreak into a narrative that continues to resonate with audiences. Originally launched in summer 2023, the play became a critical success, capturing the heart of the nation as it delved into the emotional depths of football, psychology, and national identity.
However, the landscape shifted dramatically when, in the Euro 2024 final, England lost to Spain, leading to Southgate’s resignation. This pivotal moment prompted a reworking of the production, allowing Graham to explore deeper themes and reflect the reality of Southgate’s journey. In its latest iteration, Dear England blends humor, emotion, and insightful commentary on contemporary masculinity.
The play is set against a striking circular stage designed by Es Devlin, which symbolizes both the football pitch and the broader spectrum of England's national discussions. The show begins with Gwilym Lee stepping into the role of Southgate, succeeding Joseph Fiennes. Lee's portrayal captures Southgate's essence with precision, particularly his understated authority and relatable demeanor. "We all have a problem with what it is to be England at the moment," Lee poignantly remarks, encapsulating a sentiment that resonates deeply with the audience.
Central to Southgate's narrative is psychologist Pippa Grange, played by Liz White, who emphasizes emotional resilience among the team. This inclusion underscores Southgate's progressive approach to team management, challenging traditional notions of masculinity in sports. The character’s introduction contributes to a thoughtful examination of what it means to be a man in today’s world, as Southgate guides his players through the psychological pressures of being in the spotlight.
The production expertly juxtaposes scenes of intense football action with the characters' vulnerabilities. The iconic penalty shootouts, vividly reimagined, serve not only as thrilling entertainment but also as an exploration of fear and anxiety faced by players. The tension mounts as players such as Ryan Whittle’s Harry Kane and Josh Barrow’s Jordan Pickford navigate these significant moments onstage, their performances drawing gasps from the audience.
As the narrative unfolds, it reflects on the external pressures that come from football’s position in England's national psyche. Among the striking moments is a low-key conversation between Southgate and his successor, Thomas Tuchel, who acknowledges that Southgate has made the "impossible job possible again." This mutual respect highlights the ephemeral nature of leadership in football and the shifting expectations of fans.
Despite the generally upbeat tone of the first part of the play, the second half takes on a more reflective quality as it grapples with England’s loss in the Euros. It cleverly intertwines modern political undertones with the narrative, contrasting Southgate’s calm leadership style against a backdrop of societal tension influenced by Brexit and the ongoing discussions around race. Graham's narrative mastery shines as he weaves these complex themes into the characters’ trajectories.
The updated ending, primarily focused on the aftermath of the Euro 2024 defeat, lends a bittersweet note to the play. Although the audience had originally anticipated a triumphant conclusion—one celebrating potential victory—the decidedly more somber reality presents a nuanced perspective on what it means to strive for success amid challenges.
The stunning production, now running until May 24, 2025, at the National Theatre and later moving to the Lowry in Salford, ensures that audiences experience the journey fully. Fans of the show and newcomers alike can expect an evening filled with laughter, poignant moments, and stirring memories of England’s football history.
James Graham’s Dear England succeeds not only by recounting the timeline of a football team but by forging an emotional connection with the audience, encouraging them to reflect on their own identities as part of the broader national narrative. As Southgate understood, there are no clear beginnings or endings—only a continuous effort to redefine oneself, much like the story of England itself.
The play's exploration of national identity through the lens of football ultimately resonates with a universal audience, proving yet again that Graham and director Rupert Goold have created a groundbreaking narrative that both entertains and enlightens.
