The Traverse Theatre Company is presenting the world premiere of Same Team, a play that follows the journey of five homeless women in Dundee who aspire to win the Homeless Football World Cup in Milan.
The Inspiration Behind the Play
Same Team is a collaboration between playwrights Robbie Gordon and Jack Nurse, and the women of the Dundee Change Centre, a project that uses football as a tool for social change and empowerment. The play is based on the real stories and experiences of the women, who shared their challenges, hopes and dreams with the writers.
The play is directed by Bryony Shanahan, the artistic director of the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester, who has a personal connection to the theme of football. In an interview with The Scotsman, she said: “Football is my cultural identity. It’s how I connect with my family, my friends, my community. It’s a language that I speak, and it’s a huge part of who I am.”
Shanahan also expressed her admiration for the women of the Dundee Change Centre, who have overcome many difficulties and shown resilience and courage. She said: “They are incredible women who have faced some of the toughest challenges that life can throw at you, and they have come out the other side with such strength and positivity. They are role models for us all.”
The Format and Style of the Play
Same Team is not a conventional play, but rather a immersive and interactive experience that invites the audience to become part of the team. The play takes place in a football pitch, where the audience can cheer, chant and sing along with the actors. The play also uses video projections, music and sound effects to create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.
The play is a mix of comedy, drama and emotion, as it explores the highs and lows of homeless football. The play also tackles some of the issues that affect homeless women, such as domestic violence, addiction, mental health and stigma. The play aims to raise awareness and challenge stereotypes about homelessness, while also celebrating the power of football to bring people together and inspire them.
The Impact and Relevance of the Play
Same Team is a timely and relevant play, as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of the Traverse Theatre Company, and the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which will take place in Australia and New Zealand. The play also reflects the growing popularity and recognition of women’s football, which has seen more investment, media coverage and fan support in recent years.
The play also hopes to have a positive impact on the lives of the women who inspired it, and the wider community. The play is part of the Traverse’s ongoing commitment to working with diverse and marginalised groups, and giving them a voice and a platform. The play also supports the work of Street Soccer Scotland, a social enterprise that uses football to improve the lives of people affected by homelessness, poverty and social exclusion.
Same Team is a play that celebrates the spirit and passion of homeless women who dream of playing football on the world stage. It is a play that showcases the talent and creativity of Scottish theatre, and the power and potential of football to transform lives.
