Cast Revealed for Marco Bielsa Play: Through It All Together at Leeds Playhouse

PlaysRegional

24 Apr

Leeds Playhouse has announced the cast for its upcoming production of Through It All Together, a new play by Chris O'Connor, described as a love letter to Marcelo Bielsa, the former manager of Leeds United.

Artwork for *Through It All Together* supplied by Leeds Playhouse.

About the Play and Its Themes

Through It All Together explores themes of dementia, love, and football fandom. The story follows Sue and Howard, a Yorkshire couple, as they navigate the challenges of dementia while supporting their beloved Leeds United during Bielsa’s glory years. The play brings together heartfelt family drama with a tribute to Marcelo Bielsa, who led Leeds United to their return to the Premier League and inspired the club’s passionate fanbase.

Chris O'Connor, the playwright, said: "This play is a culmination of two things I felt compelled to write about. It tells a story of dementia that isn't just about loss but also about hope and how people can still live well despite it. It’s also a tribute to Bielsa and the values he brought to football."

The Cast of Through It All Together

Leading the cast of Through It All Together are Shobna Gulati as Sue and Reece Dinsdale as Howard. Gulati, known for her roles in Coronation Street and Doctor Who, brings her personal experience with dementia to her role, while Dinsdale, a celebrated actor with credits such as Emmerdale, adds depth to the character of Howard.

They are joined by Natalie Davies, Dean Smith, and Everal A Walsh, who complete the ensemble cast.

Creative Team Behind the Production

Director: Gitika Buttoo
Set and Costume Designer: Amanda Stoodley
Lighting Designer: Jason Taylor
Sound Designer and Composer: Annie May Fletcher
Movement Director: Neil Bettles
Casting Director: Lucy Casson
Theatre and Dementia Consultant: Dr. Nicky Taylor

A Powerful Tribute to Bielsa and Leeds United

The play not only tackles the personal impacts of dementia but also highlights the shared love of Leeds United and how football can help people navigate life’s challenges. O'Connor credits Marcelo Bielsa for bringing hope to a struggling fanbase, saying, "Bielsa was a man of principle and integrity in a money-driven world of football."

Shobna Gulati shared her enthusiasm for the project, saying: "This story captures the emotional journey of a family dealing with dementia, with football as the backdrop to keep their connection strong."

Reece Dinsdale added: "Even as a Huddersfield Town fan, I understand the deep, unwavering love that fans have for their teams. The passion Leeds had for Bielsa is truly extraordinary."

Community Collaboration and Development

Through It All Together has been closely developed in collaboration with Leeds’ Dementia Engagement and Empowerment Project (DEEP), a project co-run by Leeds Playhouse and Dementia Friendly Leeds, ensuring the production authentically represents the experiences of those living with dementia.

Performance Dates and Ticket Information

Through It All Together will run at the Leeds Playhouse Courtyard Theatre from 23 June to 19 July 2025, with a press night scheduled for 30 June.

Tickets for the production are now on sale, and audiences can expect an emotionally powerful and unique theatrical experience that celebrates love, football, and resilience in the face of adversity.