BAFTA Award-winning playwright John Godber tackles the world of women’s rugby in his new comedy Muddy Cows, which opens at Newcastle-under-Lyme’s New Vic on Tuesday (3 September).
The play tells the story of former England international rugby union player Maggie Deakin who is about to step down as coach of the Muddy Cows.
Her team has a final crunch match to play: against the unbeatable New Zealand side, the Black Ferns.
Personal battles play out on the pitch as a team of nurses, students, receptionists, lawyers and housewives fight to excel in what was once a man’s world.
Godber is no stranger to writing about sport and his work includes the rugby league comedy Up ‘n’ Under.
He said, “Women’s rugby union is in every way the poor relation to the man’s game.
“The women who play for no money—indeed it often costs them in terms of subscription and travel costs—have a real passion for the sport in a truly amateur fashion.
“Many of the women I spoke to said they weren’t even bothered if they won or lost—it was playing the game with friends and colleagues that was the most important feature.
“I hope to convey the passion and enthusiasm these women have for the game.”
The cast features Elizabeth Carling, Claire Eden, Una McNulty, Hayley Tamaddon, Amy Thompson and Abi Titmuss.
Muddy Cows runs at the New Vic until Saturday 14 September.