‘Dear England’ hits the spot on Newport’s big screen

Soccer drama will hit the big screen in Newport on Wednesday, July 17, when the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts presents “Dear England.”

Starring Emmy Award-winner Joseph Fiennes and Gina McKee, James Graham’s Olivier Award-winning play examines the pattern of loss that England’s football team has faced, despite the UK being the birthplace of the sport. Heading up a team with the worst track record for penalties in the world, manager Gareth Southgate realizes he needs to face up to years of failure in order to take the team and country back to the promised land.

Directed by Rupert Goold, “Dear England” was commissioned by the National Theatre and opened on June 20, 2023 at the Olivier Theatre where it had a sold-out run. It then transferred to Prince Edward Theatre, in London’s West End, where it broke box office records. The BBC recently commissioned a four-part drama, based on the stage production.

“Dear England is a captivating examination of football, leadership, and English identity that has already resonated with so many people,” Graham said, “a living, breathing play that cuts straight to the heart of our nation’s psyche.”

“Dear England” contains offensive language, strobe lights, bright lights and loud noises throughout.

The production will be screened in ultra-HD at the Newport Performing Arts Center, 777 W Olive Street, at 7 pm. Ticket prices range between $16 and $22. For more information or to purchase tickets call 541-265-2787, or go to coastarts.org/events. The Newport Performing Arts Center box office is open for ticket purchase Tuesday through Friday, 10 am to 5 pm.