Olivier Theatre (National Theatre)
South Bank, London, SE1 9PX
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Dear England Tickets
This Olivier-winning play follows legendary football manager Gareth Southgate as he leads the England team towards victory.
4.9 71 reviews from 71 verified reviews- Booking until: Saturday, 24 May 2025
- Running time: 2hr 50min. Incl. 1 Interval.
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Dear England in London
James Graham's Olivier Award-winning 'Best New Play', Dear England explores the cultural significance of football in British society through a humorous and poignant drama. The play returns to the National Theatre for a limited 10-week run in March 2025, following two critically acclaimed runs.
Why you should see Dear England
- The production explores resilience, identity, and the relentless art of transformation.
- Since its opening in 2023, Dear England has been a huge hit with critics and audiences.
- The production will evolve and include new material about the England team's performance at the UEFA EURO 2024.
Dear England - The Story
Dear England explores the brilliance of the England football manager Gareth Southgate, the pressures faced by those involved in professional sport, and the role the England men’s football team played in driving the national psyche. It looks into the way Southgate changed the face of toxic masculinity in football, inspired by the famous open letter he wrote to England fans in 2021 when COVID was still raging.
Dear England cast and creatives
Dear England reunites writer James Graham (Punch, Sherwood) with director Rupert Goold (Patriots, Tammy Faye). They are joined by set designer Es Devlin, costume designer Evie Gurney, lighting designer Jon Clark, co-movement directors Ellen Kane and Hannes Langolf, co-sound designers Dan Balfour and Tom Gibbons, and video designer Ash J Woodward.
Casting is yet to be announced.
One of the most popular plays to see in London during 2023 and 2024, you don't need to be a football fan to enjoy everything that Dear England has to offer.
Dear England Official Theatre Tickets
Our central reservation system connects you directly to the Olivier Theatre (National Theatre) box office system. We provide live & full availability for Dear England tickets, from VIP and premium, to top price and discount tickets, helping you choose the perfect tickets for your budget. Pick your seats from our interactive seating plan and get your theatre tickets emailed to you instantly after your booking. Simply present your e-tickets at the door on the day and experience what London & the West End have best to offer: the magic of theatre. Buying tickets for Dear England has never been easier.
Dear England Ticket Information
- Booking until:
Saturday, 24 May 2025
- Running time:
2hr 50min. Incl. 1 Interval.
- Important Information
This performance contains offensive language, strobe lights, bright lights directly focused at the audience and loud noises throughout.
- Cancellations & Refunds
Once booked, tickets to Dear England are usually non exchangeable and non refundable as per our terms & conditions. In practice, however, we will do our best to accommodate your request as long as we are notified at least 48 hours before the performance. Please contact us for more information.
Next Performances for Dear England at the Olivier Theatre (National Theatre)
Dear England cheap tickets
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Dear England reviews
What to expect:
ActingMusic
Costumes
Story
Lighting
- Recommended for:
- Families (87%)
- Teenagers (86%)
- Couples (85%)
- Theatregoers (94%)
Latest customer reviews
All reviews are from customers who have been invited to leave a review just after seeing Dear England.
verified
Excellent show, highly recommendMy daughter saw this with her school and raved about it. She insisted her Dad and I go see it. We loved it too!
B Reviewed on 16 May 2025 by Bre-anne
United Kingdom
verified
Simply wonderfulFunny, moving and full of energy!
M Reviewed on 12 May 2025 by Megan
United Kingdom
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Thought provoking and entertaiingK Reviewed on 12 May 2025 by Ken
United Kingdom
verified
Captivated from start to finish.No advice needed. Handled perfectly by the staff.....quite a few flights of stairs to the theatre but there is a lift.
A Reviewed on 11 May 2025 by Ann
United Kingdom
verified
Entertaining, funny and seriousMost enjoyable, superbly acted, the time flew by
K Reviewed on 11 May 2025 by Keith
United Kingdom
verified
entertaining, thoughtful,funnyA fictional story based on the actual events during Gareth Southgate's tenure as England's Football manager. The wider role that football plays in England, the role of the press, the changing challenges of the players was well covered.Gareth's personal challenge following his failed penalty kick , and how it led to him developing a different the coaching style was central. My only criticism was the political leaders were too farcical.The final scene was excellent
M Reviewed on 11 May 2025 by Marilyn
United Kingdom
verified
Fabulous for football fansE Reviewed on 06 May 2025 by Emma
United Kingdom
verified
Brilliant refreshingM Reviewed on 24 April 2025 by Maximilian
United Kingdom
verified
An unforgettable theatrical experience...clever, funny, movingJ Reviewed on 17 April 2025 by Jo
United Kingdom
verified
Great play on our last night in London.Bright, entertaining, historical story appealing to all audiences, especially in sports fans.
L Reviewed on 15 April 2025 by Larry
United States Of America
verified
BrilliantR Reviewed on 14 April 2025 by Rebecca
United Kingdom
verified
Outstanding
D Reviewed on 13 April 2025 by Denise
United Kingdom
verified
Absolutely brilliant. A must see!I’m neither English nor a fan of football but I LOVED this. The production is fantastic and gripping from the outset. It was great to see men showing vulnerability and depth of character. I felt very emotional a number of times and although I knew the overall outcome of Southgate’s tenure, I couldn’t help but hope for a win! This is a fantastic piece of theatre and it was a joy to see that it was a full house with a richly deserved standing ovation at the end.
J Reviewed on 12 April 2025 by Janine
United Kingdom
verified
Wonderful!Took my two sons (13 and 9)- one a football fan who usually detests the theatre and the other the absolute opposite - both loved it! The language and some of the themes were a bit choice for the younger one but it was absolutely worth it overall!
R Reviewed on 11 April 2025 by Resham
United Kingdom
verified
FANTASTIC. Important for nowadays societyVibrant play! Everything is beautiful in this play... costumes, scrips, actors... the vibe. Secondary schools should see it.
S Reviewed on 10 April 2025 by Silvia
United Kingdom
verified
This is a fantastic show, I'd highly recommend to anyone. You don't need a huge footballing knowledge to enjoy
J Reviewed on 05 April 2025 by Jan
United Kingdom
verified
Absolutely loved it!I’m not a football fan but I would recommend this show to anyone. It was funny at times, occasionally sad, uplifting and moving. If you need any further indication why Gareth Southgate is so deserving of his knighthood then this play is it.
M Reviewed on 02 April 2025 by Marjorie
United Kingdom
verified
Brilliant showVery engaging story, great sets, sound, lighting. Excellent performances all round especially Gareth Southgate. The show includes humour, tension, emotion and engagement.
P Reviewed on 02 April 2025 by Penny
United Kingdom
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A fantastic and moving evening.P Reviewed on 02 April 2025 by Pauline
United Kingdom
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It was an original productionR Reviewed on 31 March 2025 by Roz
United Kingdom
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Fantastic show!V Reviewed on 30 March 2025 by Victoria
United Kingdom
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brilliant entertainmentmy other half has no interest in football and found the whole show uplifting
P Reviewed on 23 March 2025 by Paul
United Kingdom
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Brilliant play, continues Gareth Southgate’s legacy of making the country feel good about itselfJ Reviewed on 21 March 2025 by Judith
United Kingdom
verified
Fast, dynamic, insightful.Suitable for the family but more for the teens than the little ones. There is lots of F-ing language which some may find offensive but is probably subject-appropriate. We sat in the back row of the circle and to one side but could see and hear practically everything so don’t hesitate to buy a cheap seat.
Y Reviewed on 18 March 2025 by Yusof
United Kingdom
verified
Fabulous show for anyone who has followed English football even just a little bitJ Reviewed on 15 March 2025 by Joanne
United Kingdom
Please note the reviews below are from an old production of Dear England.
verified
Fantastic storytelling!Really enjoyed this show! Football fans would love it, not sure about anyone without an interest in the sport though. Really interesting insight into the change in the culture of the England team! Only negative was the swearing.
J Reviewed on 13 January 2024 by Jennifer
United Kingdom
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Brilliant!P Reviewed on 13 January 2024 by Paola
United Kingdom
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Breath of fresh airLovely to see the West End showcasing the national team in this way. humorous, lovely, topical and will attract a lot of people to come to the theatre who would not normally go.
K Reviewed on 11 January 2024 by Kirsten
United Kingdom
verified
Superb emotive outstanding
G Reviewed on 31 December 2023 by Gary
United Kingdom
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Must see . FantasticC Reviewed on 30 December 2023 by Catriona
United Kingdom
verified
Dear EnglandGreat show and really entertaining, just a little bit too long!
M Reviewed on 16 December 2023 by Margaret
United Kingdom
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Fantastic performances and Joseph Fiennes is Gareth Southgate!!! Amazing cast. Superb.
K Reviewed on 07 December 2023 by Kim
United Kingdom
verified
insightfulexcellent all round performance all round
M Reviewed on 30 November 2023 by Maureen
United Kingdom
verified
Thoroughly entertainingA great show. Tempo, emotion, soundtrack. Mesmerising slow mo and freeze frames from an outstanding cast. Loved it. Exceeded all expectations.
C Reviewed on 18 November 2023 by Claire
United Kingdom
verified
Dear England 16th NovemberThe show,acting,lighting and everything about the show was brilliant,as a football fan it portrayed a great story which we know about but great to see.
I Reviewed on 17 November 2023 by Ian
United Kingdom
verified
So good, so good, so goodAs a visitor from across the pond who has cheered on England through heartbreak after heartbreak, this show really provided a better glimpse into the English football psyche. As an avid theatre-goer, I was awestruck by the acting and the technical precision. The lighting, in particular is outstanding, but every element of this production works magically together. I think even a non-football fan (like my husband) would leave Dear England with a warm heart and carry with them the important social message that is at the core of it. Be nice, everyone. Be nice.
S Reviewed on 16 November 2023 by Shelly
United States Of America
verified
Very well executed, full of humour, emotive. Realistic similarities to the authentic people, especially Gareth Southgate. Thoroughly enjoyed it, even though I’m not a football fan.
M Reviewed on 11 November 2023 by Maria
United Kingdom
verified
The English Football StoryAs a foreigner, I found it a bit informative about the behind scenes of English football. I enjoyed the play, but it's really a horror show, because England lose. I don't understand how people can be happy about it. It's like how in the Titanic where all the men die & people call it romantic.
S Reviewed on 11 November 2023 by Shaun
Australia
verified
football under the spotlightReally enjoyed the show whilst having absolutely no interest in football. Well worth a visit
R Reviewed on 09 November 2023 by Richard
United Kingdom
verified
Great funDidn't know what to expect. Can't believe the emotions i felt on reliving these football moments. Brilliantly written and acted. Even if u aren't a football fan you'd enjoy this!
C Reviewed on 09 November 2023 by Claire
United Kingdom
verified
More than a football showDear England is a wonderfully entertaining show. Joe Fiennes is a veritable doppelganger for the England manager, and is ably supported by an excellent cast. Yes it's focus is on football, but the scope is broader than that. Funny, informative, and not a VAR review in sight.
A Reviewed on 05 November 2023 by Anderw
United Kingdom
verified
SurprisingReally enjoyed the performance. Brought back memories to me. Made me feel nostalgic about the past but positive for the future.
T Reviewed on 28 October 2023 by Teresa
United Kingdom
verified
Wonderful, a must see!As a regular theatregoer, this is one of my best shows I’ve seen in a long time. It has everything, great storyline, humour and coverage of topical issues which leave you thinking. The cast was amazing too. My 15 year said it was his favourite show, high praise indeed!
H Reviewed on 27 October 2023 by Harsa
United Kingdom
verified
If you love football this show is for you.
J Reviewed on 26 October 2023 by Jean
United Kingdom
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The best show in LondonThis is an amazing show, and I don’t like football!! The acting is brilliant and will be going to see it again. There is nothing not to like.
L Reviewed on 21 October 2023 by Lilian
United Kingdom
verified
Loved it!Loved it!
V Reviewed on 20 October 2023 by Vijay Jacob
India
verified
Brilliantly acted play . Well staged .R Reviewed on 18 October 2023 by Roberta
United Kingdom
verified
BrilliantL Reviewed on 14 October 2023 by Lyndsey
United Kingdom
verified
It's coming homeThis show convinced me that we are going to win the bloody thing!! The characters were very believable especially Gary Southgate
W Reviewed on 14 October 2023 by William
United Kingdom
2025
New production images released of DEAR ENGLAND, National Theatre
by Emmie Newitt | Monday, March 17 2025, 15:39
The National Theatre's acclaimed production, penned by James Graham, has made a triumphant return to London for a limited engagement before embarking on a UK tour.
wilym Lee (Gareth Southgate) in Dear England (2025) at the National Theatre. Photo by Marc Brenner
2025
New London theatre shows to watch in March 2025
by Emmie Newitt | Monday, March 10 2025, 14:15
Need inspiration for what to see in London this March? With incredible productions hitting the stage, we’ve rounded up seven must-see shows you should grab tickets for right now!
2025
London Theatre Week 2025 - Best Plays to see in London
by Emmie Newitt | Monday, February 24 2025, 10:15
London Theatre Week is well underway and it’s the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of the West End at fantastic prices. Today we’re sharing the 10 best plays to see in London as part of the promotional offer.
2025
Further casting announced for return of DEAR ENGLAND
by Emmie Newitt | Wednesday, January 29 2025, 18:58
The Olivier Award-winning play makes its highly anticipated return to London this March for a limited run, before transferring to Salford for an additional four weeks.
Dear England production image. Photo by Marc Brenner.
2024
Plays to look out for in London in 2025
by Emmie Newitt | Tuesday, December 17 2024, 10:33
With 2025 on the way, we are sharing with you 10 of the plays you need to look out for across the city in 2025 including My Neighbour Totoro and Second Best.
The plays to watch in London during 2025.
2024
Gwilym Lee to play Gareth Southgate in return of DEAR ENGLAND
by Emmie Newitt | Tuesday, December 17 2024, 10:41
James Graham's Olivier Award-winning 'Best New Play' returns to the London stage for a limited run in Spring 2025.
Gwilym Lee. Headshot provided by production.
2023
10 Shows To See In The West End Before The End of 2023
by Emmie Newitt | Tuesday, December 19 2023, 11:21
Wondering what shows to see in the West End before the end of the year? Our guide has some of the best shows on offer in the West End to make the most of what 2023 has left to offer.
2023
Extra performances added for DEAR ENGLAND this festive season
by Emmie Newitt | Friday, December 15 2023, 10:19
The National Theatre's smash-hit production completes its critically acclaimed run in January.
The cast of “Dear England". Credit Mar Brenner
2023
Best Immersive Shows In London
by Emmie Newitt | Thursday, December 14 2023, 16:57
Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of the city’s most enthralling theatrical productions with this round-up of the best immersive shows to see in London.
2023
November Monthly Roundup
by Emmie Newitt | Wednesday, November 29 2023, 14:05
This month brought some very exciting London theatre news; including a long-awaited cast announcement for one of the biggest shows coming in 2024 and a West End transfer that we are so excited for! Here’s our November Roundup for you:
Hadestown, The Witches and Opening Night.
2023
Review: DEAR ENGLAND at Prince Edward Theatre
by Stuart King | Friday, November 17 2023, 09:16
Joseph Fiennes proves himself something of a shapeshifter in James Graham’s DEAR ENGLAND as he assumes the guise, voice and mannerisms of Gareth Southgate, from his appointment as England’s underestimated caretaker manager, through his time as a waistcoat-clad guru and onwards to Qatar 2022. But this is a play with more on its mind than mere parody.
The cast of Dear England in the West End. Credit Marc Brenner
2023
Best London plays to see in Autumn 2023
by Emmie Newitt | Tuesday, October 10 2023, 11:34
Autumn has arrived, even if records of 29 degrees across the UK in recent weeks has made it feel like Summer has hung around for a little longer recently. Now the nights are drawing in slightly earlier, instead of heading straight home for an evening on the sofa - why not spend your time with a trip to one of London’s theatres.
The Mousetrap, King Lear and Flip!
2023
Full cast announced for West End transfer of DEAR ENGLAND
by Emmie Newitt | Wednesday, September 13 2023, 10:44
The National Theatre's hit sold-out production will transfer for a strictly limited 14-week run.
Dervla Kirwan, Joseph Fiennes and Denzel Baidoo.
2023
August Monthly Roundup
by Emmie Newitt | Wednesday, August 23 2023, 14:55
It's time to say goodbye to the summer because Autumn is just around the corner. Over the last month we’ve had some great announcements, reviewed some great shows and so much more. Here’s our August monthly roundup for you:
Spirited Away, Rachel Tucker and Heathers the Musical.
2023
DEAR ENGLAND to transfer to the West End
by Emmie Newitt | Monday, August 7 2023, 09:10
The National Theatre's hit sold-out production will transfer for a strictly limited 14-week run.
Dear England artwork.
Your e-tickets for Dear England at the Olivier Theatre (National Theatre) will be emailed to you just after your reservation.
