Review: Dear England

Review: Dear England

01-06-25 Lowry, Salford Quays – by Jamie Griffiths

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

James Graham’s Dear England has made a triumphant transition to touring, and under Rupert Goold’s direction, this latest production feels as vital, sharp and emotionally rich as ever. Thoughtfully revised and brought right up to date, it rewards both newcomers and returning audiences, proving how successfully a piece rooted in recent history can evolve and deepen with time.

At the heart of the production is Gwilym Lee’s outstanding Gareth Southgate, measured, thoughtful, and quietly powerful. Lee captures Southgate’s inner conflict and personal demons with real nuance, showing us a leader who dares to try something different, cares deeply for his team, and reaps the rewards both on and off the pitch. The wins in Dear England aren’t just about football results, they’re about growth, connection, and leadership that lingers long after the final whistle.

Es Devlin’s set remains a marvel, bold, deceptively simple, and endlessly dynamic, with clean lines masking dizzyingly complex transitions. Combined with pin-sharp choreography from the sizeable ensemble cast, the production flows effortlessly, making for an easy and absorbing watch.

With such a large cast, there are many standouts worthy of praise, including Josh Barrow’s energetic and utterly committed Jordan Pickford, Ryan Whittle’s note-perfect Harry Kane, and Liz White’s sincere and passionate Pippa Grange, who grounds so many of Southgate’s key moments with warmth and heart. Even though you may already know the final scores, the emotional investment in these characters makes the journey gripping. You gladly sign up to take it again and again.

The Lowry provides the perfect setting, with its excellent sound design making full use of crowd noise and anthemic music to immerse the audience. Fat Les’ Vindaloo remains a rousing second-half highlight, reminding us how deeply the highs and lows of football are woven into the country’s shared experience.

This is a beautiful, meticulously crafted production that stays with you long after you leave the theatre, exactly as all great productions should.

Dear England continues at The Lowry until 29 June 2025, before embarking on its first UK tour. For more information, visit dearenglandonstage.com.