There's Only One Wayne Matthews

It’s 1979 and Viv Anderson is the first black footballer to make the England squad at a time when racism is both widespread and blatant.

Wayne Matthews is desperate to follow in his hero’s footsteps but there’s one problem – he’s rubbish at football. His friends and family are no use to him – his dad’s depressed, his best friend prefers the art class to the penalty spot and the team captain is too busy sorting out his own problems to help.

'There's Only One Wayne Matthews' is a Sheffield Theatres production that's been touring schools and football clubs in Sheffield and this week comes to the Crucible Studio for performances from Tuesday 30th March to Friday 2nd April.

The performance tells the story of a young boy battling the odds (and the bullies) to master the beautiful game. Roy Williams’ vibrant play explores friendship, forgiveness and finding out what you’re good at. All 22 parts (including those of mums, sisters and girlfriends) are played by two actors, Troy Glasgow and Roy Williams.

The play lasts about 50 minutes and is suitable for ages 9+ . Young people from the FURD-backed Kickz scheme thoroughly enjoyed seeing the show at Sheffield United's ground last week, taking the opportunity to talk to the actors after the show and have their photos taken with them.

FURD has contributed to the Teachers' Pack that accompanies the show and which can be borrowed from our library. We will also have a stall at some of this week's performances at the Crucible.