After attending press night, I went in with high expectations — and I can honestly say I was not disappointed – I fell in love with this cast!
This production has firmly entered my top five shows of all time, and I left the theatre feeling like I could have immediately sat through it all again. Written by James Graham, directed by Rupert Goold and with set design by Es Devlin, the vision of telling the story of Gareth Southgate — and that infamous 1996 penalty miss — is brought to life in a production that is both stunning and deeply heartfelt. Yes, it is ultimately about football, but it is so much more than the game itself. It’s about England’s resilience in the face of adversity, about understanding that football is as much a mental battle as it is a physical one, and about a team learning who they are, where they’ve come from, and how to be proud of both themselves and their country.
Gareth Southgate & Pippa Grange
At the heart of the story is Gareth Southgate, portrayed with extraordinary authenticity by David Sturzaker. This casting is nothing short of perfection — at times it genuinely feels as though you are watching the real Gareth on stage. Sturzaker captures his quiet strength, vulnerability and moral compass beautifully, allowing us to fully understand the weight Southgate carried after 1996 and how that moment shaped the leader he became. Alongside him is Dr Pippa Grange, played by Samantha Womack, whose performance brings warmth, intelligence and emotional clarity to the role. As the psychologist brought in to help the England team talk openly about their feelings — much to the disgust of some players — Pippa becomes a crucial catalyst for change. Her work with Gareth reframes the team’s mindset, challenging outdated notions that “men don’t talk about their feelings, they just get on and play,” and helping to build something far more meaningful than results alone.
The England Team & Standout Performances
The ensemble cast is sensational, and it’s hard not to fall in love with every single one of them. One of the most unexpectedly emotional moments comes when the team line up in their England suits and kit — a surge of pride washes over you, reminding you just how much representing your country really means. Two performances stood out in particular. Jack Madigan as Jordan Pickford is utterly spot-on — his physicality, mannerisms and energy are so precise that it feels like watching Pickford himself. Equally brilliant is Oscar Gough as Harry Kane, a wonderfully likeable and endearing portrayal of a man who “talks a bit posh” and seems genuinely baffled by being handed the captain’s armband. His unassuming nature and quiet leadership add depth and humour in equal measure. The production takes us through soaring highs and crushing lows — I smiled constantly, and there were more than a few moments where tears threatened. There are also some brilliant local nods, with a couple of mentions of Milton Keynes thanks to Dele Alli’s character appearance, which sparked audible reactions and knowing laughs from the audience. It powerfully highlights the relentless pressure placed on the team, the abuse and racism faced by black players when things don’t go to plan, and the unbearable tension of penalty shoot-outs.
Set Design & Staging
The set is deceptively simple but incredibly effective. Lockers and chairs form the core of the design, yet they are moved around the stage with such precision and intention that the space constantly evolves. In perfect formation, these elements become dressing rooms, tunnels, press rooms and moments of isolation, proving that sometimes less really is more when it comes to impactful storytelling.
Special Mentions
A special mention must go to Ian Kirkby, who plays multiple roles throughout the show with remarkable versatility — including Sven-Göran Eriksson, Matt Le Tissier, Thomas Tuchel and, of course, Gary Lineker. His appearance as Lineker, casually walking on stage with a bag of Walkers crisps, is a moment of pure joy.
Whether you love football or not, Dear England is an absolute must-see. I found myself willing the team on until the very end, fully aware of the truth, fully knowing the outcome — and yet still hoping, against all odds, that this time it might be different.
On till Saturday 24 January at Milton Keynes Theatre - Book Now!
Age guidance: 10+ This performance contains offensive language, strobe lights, bright lights directly focused at the audience and loud noises throughout.
