The Ladies Football Club – World Premiere at Sheffield Crucible

A powerful Sheffield story of football, friendship and forgotten history

Set against the backdrop of Sheffield during the First World War, The Ladies Football Club is a bold new production that brings to life the extraordinary true story of women who changed the game — both on and off the pitch.

With men sent to the front line, the women of Sheffield take their place in the factories, forging bombs, bullets… and unexpected freedom. When they begin kicking a football around on their lunch breaks, it becomes clear they’re not just filling in on the factory floor — they’re discovering talent, teamwork, and joy on the football pitch too.

What starts as a casual kickabout grows into something remarkable, as these women go on to play in front of crowds of more than 50,000 people — all while unaware that forces beyond their control are about to bring their beautiful game to a sudden halt.

Creative team

Written by Stefano Massini, the internationally acclaimed writer of The Lehman Trilogy, and adapted by Tim Firth(Calendar Girls), this brand-new Sheffield Theatres production explores sport, solidarity and social change — reminding us that the final result isn’t always the one on the scoreboard.

As the play puts it:
“We felt the love from the very first kick.”

Why this show matters

• Celebrates Sheffield’s hidden sporting history

• Explores women’s labour, visibility and resilience

• Connects football, war and social change

• A story rooted in Sheffield, told on one of its greatest stages

This is a moving, rousing and timely piece of theatre — about who gets remembered, who gets erased, and what it means to play for something bigger than the scoreline.

Audience & access information

• Accessible performances available

• Suitable for theatre-goers interested in history, sport and Sheffield stories

🎟 Tickets & full details:
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/the-ladies-football-club