Critically acclaimed one-man play I Am Steven Gerrard is set to open the Epstein Theatre’s highly anticipated autumn season, running from Thursday 11 to Saturday 13 September.
Written by Huyton-born playwright Sean McLoughlin and performed by rising star Joe Cowin, the bold and heartfelt production tells the story of Shane – a young man whose dream of becoming Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard spirals into a deeper exploration of identity, masculinity and the pressures of fitting in.
Back by popular demand after previous sell-out runs at the Hope Street Theatre and Liverpool’s Royal Court Studio, I Am Steven Gerrard blends humour and heartbreak in a sharp, emotionally charged performance that resonates far beyond the football pitch.
Produced by Tip Tray Theatre – a disabled-led company based in Knowsley – the play is a powerful example of Liverpool’s grassroots theatre scene making waves. The show was originally developed through Tip Tray’s What Happens Next? writing initiative and marks McLoughlin’s debut, drawing on personal experience to tackle themes of loneliness, ambition, and what it means to feel like an outsider.
Sean McLoughlin said: “This show was born out of years of feeling on the outside. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t belong – especially in a city where football is a second religion.”
Actor Joe Cowin, from Kirkby, returns to the Epstein Theatre a decade after making his first appearance on its stage at age 10. Now a graduate of Rare Studio, his performance has been praised for its honesty, warmth and comic timing.
The production marks a significant moment for the newly reopened Epstein Theatre, now under fresh management and promising a season full of local talent, national tours, music and comedy.
Epstein Theatre General Manager Anthony Proctor said: “When I saw I Am Steven Gerrard last year, I was bowled over by the depth and quality of the show. It’s the perfect production to launch our new autumn season and highlights exactly the kind of bold, local storytelling we want to support.”
As part of its commitment to Liverpool’s creative community, the Epstein is providing rehearsal space and marketing support to Tip Tray Theatre, helping the company grow and reach new audiences.
I Am Steven Gerrard runs from 11–13 September, with evening performances at 7.30pm and a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets are £22.50 / £20.50 concessions and available via epsteintheatre.com.
