‘Dear England’ announces West End transfer

The National Theatre’s critically acclaimed play Dear England about the men’s national football team will kick off their next match in the West End this autumn.

Kate Riley
Kate Riley

James Graham’s dramatisation of Gareth Southgate’s inspirational leadership of the England men’s football team will transfer to the West End for a strictly limited 14-week engagement at the Prince Edward Theatre.

Dear England, directed by Rupert Goold, will start performances at the Prince Edward Theatre on 9 October and run through 13 January.

“To put the National Game on the stage of the National Theatre has been an utter dream and, in particular, to see the subject matter draw in new audiences to watch a play.” Graham said in a statement, “It fills me with such excitement and joy to be bringing Rupert's euphoric and entertaining production to the West End, with all its incredible movement and music and — what seems to be, for audiences so far — a deeply moving story inspired by the incredible journey of the men's England football team.”

Joseph Fiennes (The Handmaid’s Tale, The Mother) will reprise his role as Gareth Southgate, with further casting to be announced.

The creative team includes set designer Es Devlin, costume designer Evie Gurney, lighting designer Jon Clark, and movement directors Ellen Kane and Hannes Langolf.

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Photo credit: The cast of Dear England (Photo courtesy of Marc Brenner)

Frequently asked questions

What is Dear England about?

Joseph Fiennes stars as Gareth Southgate in the National Theatre's West End transfer of Dear England. Directed by Rupert Goold and penned by James Graham, the play is a fascinating look into the nation's beloved national football team under a new style of management. Book your tickets on London Theatre today.

How long is Dear England?

The running time of Dear England is 2 hours 50 min (Incl. interval)

Where is Dear England playing?

Dear England is playing at Prince Edward Theatre. The theatre is located at 28 Old Compton Street, London, W1D 4HS.

How do you book tickets for Dear England?

Book tickets for Dear England on London Theatre.

Who wrote Dear England?

James Graham wrote the play Dear England. He is known for his work on Tammy Faye, Best of Enemies, and Quiz.

Who directed Dear England?

Dear England is directed by Rupert Goold. He is also the artistic director at the Almeida Theatre.

Is Dear England appropriate for kids?

Those of all ages can enjoy Dear England. An adult must accompany children under the age of 16. Children under the age of 3 will not be permitted into the venue.

Is Dear England good?

Dear England follows the inspirational story of Gareth Southgate’s leadership of the England men’s football team.

Is Dear England based on a true story?

Dear England is based on real events, depicting Gareth Southgate’s time as manager of the England men’s football team. You can read more about the real people featured in the play.

Who plays Gareth Southgate in the West End?

Joseph Fiennes will reprise his role as Gareth Southgate from the National Theatre when Dear England comes to the West End.

Originally published on

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