Dear England: A Play That Scores Big on and off the Stage
As a consultant clinical psychologist and avid fan of England's football mens and women’s teams, I had the pleasure of watching "Dear England" at the Prince Edward Theatre. This was a performance that left me thinking about it long after it ended. This engaging and smart play, written by James Graham, takes us on a journey through the reformation of the team under the leadership of the upstanding and quietly revolutionary manager, Gareth Southgate.
The play beautifully portrays the players, from the sweet and laconic Harry Kane to the impassioned Raheem Sterling and the good-natured Marcus Rashford and the other young players. There were funny lines that had the audience in stitches and moments of sheer beauty that touched our hearts. But "Dear England" goes beyond entertainment; it delves into the psychology of the team and explores themes of mindset, training, and the new culture of kind and caring masculinity in football.
One of the key messages of the play is the importance of learning how to lose better. It delves into the psychology of defeat, the psychological trauma attached with that and highlights the significance of mental resilience alongside physical training to improve performance. It's a powerful reminder that success is not only measured by winning but also by the ability to bounce back from failure - not about a new start but fresh ideas.
Furthermore, "Dear England" tackles the issue of conduct both on and off the field. It emphasises the value of sportsmanship and sets a new standard for the players as representatives of their country. The play celebrates the team's decision to take the knee before games and raises awareness about the hurt that young Black players face from racist crowds.
James Graham's writing, coupled with Rupert Goold's direction, makes for an extremely fun and thrilling show. The football scenes are truly captivating, thanks to the brilliant choreography and overwhelming sound design. The well-cast ensemble brings both humour and vulnerability to the stage, reminding us of the youthfulness of the players and the immense pressure they face.
"Dear England" is not only a celebration of football but also a commentary on the nation's expectations and the impact they have on the team's psychology. It's a timely story set in our actual reality, tackling a subject that most of us have an opinion on. The play leaves us reflecting on the power of sport and its ability to unite and inspire.
In conclusion, "Dear England" is an engaging play that captures the essence of England's men's football team under Gareth Southgate's leadership. It explores themes of psychology, conduct, and the changing culture of masculinity. If you're a fan of the beautiful game or simply appreciate a well-crafted production, this play is a winning choice.