**The Lost Lionesses and Their Return to the Spotlight**
A theatrical production vividly recounting the story of the rebellious, unofficial England women’s football team that competed in the 1971 Women’s World Cup is making a significant impact in cultural circles. Titled **The Lost Lionesses**, the play has garnered attention as it revives a crucial moment in women’s football history, which had long been overlooked. It highlights the struggles and triumphs of these pioneering athletes, reminding audiences that “football is coming home.”
Nicole Lockwood-West, the playwright of **The Lost Lionesses**, was inspired to bring this narrative to life through the personal stories woven into her family heritage. Her aunt, Christine Lockwood, was one of the players who participated in a historic match where they played before a staggering 90,000 fans in Mexico. Unfortunately, the team faced severe repercussions upon their return home, including being banned from playing due to the Football Association’s opposition to the unsanctioned tournament.
Lockwood-West reflects on the monumental victory of the Lionesses in the Women’s Euro 2022, emphasizing the importance of remembering those who laid the groundwork for the current generation. “The Lionesses won in such an iconic way that it changed the outcome and perception of women’s football,” she said. Her intention with the play is to honor those trailblazers who fought for recognition in a sport that has come a long way since the 1970s.
After a successful run in London, **The Lost Lionesses** is set to be performed at **The Place in Bedford** from April 15 to 19, 2025. This location is particularly poignant, as it was home to many of the original players who represented England during that turbulent time in women’s football history. Their story is deeply tied to the geography of Bedford and reflects the community’s spirit.
The production also serves as a tribute to manager Harry Batt, who faced significant backlash from the Women’s Football Association for his efforts in forming this unofficial squad. Batt’s contributions to women’s football were pivotal, even after his ban from English football, a fact that has not been widely recognized until now. The play concludes on an optimistic note, echoing how far women’s football has progressed since those early days, accentuated by the Lionesses’ recent successes.
Lockwood-West mentions how her family folklore inspired her, revealing a rich history that she feels had been unjustly forgotten. “It’s a piece of local history that had been overlooked for far too long. It’s time we bring it home; it’s coming home,” she passionately declared. This sentiment resonates with many in the community who share a similar desire to remember and celebrate their past.
Moreover, the play has sparked a wave of nostalgia among former players like 73-year-old Jan Emms, who recalls her time on the team with fondness. “I am thrilled that we are finally getting the recognition we thoroughly deserve, especially after 53 years of being hidden away,” she expressed joyfully. It is a moment of vindication for those women who fought for their right to play in an era that was largely hostile to female athletes.
**The Lost Lionesses** represents a significant cultural milestone not only as a theatrical experience but as an essential narrative that sheds light on the foundational women who supported and paved the way for the present-day accomplishments of so many. This production offers audiences a chance to connect with their local history and recognize the evolution of women’s sports. Ultimately, it celebrates the indomitable spirit of these women who transformed the landscape of football forever, encapsulating their journey with the rallying cry that echoes through the ages: “It’s coming home.”