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Award-Winning Play Returns to the National Theatre Before Touring to Salford

The National Theatre has announced that Gwilym Lee (Bohemian Rhapsody, SAS: Rogue Heroes) will take on the role of former England manager Gareth Southgate in the highly anticipated return of James Graham’s Olivier Award-winning play Dear England.

This captivating exploration of football, identity, and leadership will be performed at the Olivier Theatre from 10 March to 24 May 2025 before embarking on a four-week run at The Lowry in Salford from 29 May to 29 June 2025.

A Story That Resonates Beyond Football
Originally premiering in 2023 to sold-out audiences and rave reviews, Dear England has been updated to reflect Gareth Southgate’s final chapter as England manager, following the 2024 UEFA EURO tournament. Written by acclaimed playwright James Graham (Sherwood, Ink), the production is directed by Rupert Goold, Artistic Director of the Almeida Theatre.

Dear England cast at the National Theatre. Photo by Marc Brenner

Gwilym Lee, known for his standout performance as Brian May in Bohemian Rhapsody, expressed his enthusiasm for the role:

“I am thrilled to return to the stage after seven years and to the National Theatre after nearly twice that. Gareth Southgate’s leadership and the excitement his team created sparked a conversation about identity, leadership, and Englishness that James Graham captures so powerfully. I can’t wait to step into his shoes and continue this conversation.”

The Creative Team
Dear England features a stellar creative team, including set designer Es Devlin, costume designer Evie Gurney, lighting designer Jon Clark, video designer Ash J Woodward, and co-movement directors Ellen Kane and Hannes Langolf. The production also boasts original music by Max Perryment and co-sound designers Dan Balfour and Tom Gibbons.

A Smash Hit That Made History
Dear England has cemented its place in theatre history. Following its world premiere at the National Theatre in 2023, the play enjoyed a record-breaking run in the West End and was screened across the UK through National Theatre Live. A BBC adaptation of the production is currently in development as a four-part drama for BBC One and iPlayer.

Performance Details

  • Olivier Theatre, National Theatre, London: 10 March – 24 May 2025
  • The Lowry, Salford: 29 May – 29 June 2025

Further casting announcements are expected soon. For tickets and more information, visit www.nationaltheatre.org.uk.

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Elena Leo is the Arts & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.