Sheffield Theatres has announced Extra Time, a programme of free-to-attend activities and events celebrating its upcoming world premiere production of The Ladies Football Club.
Written by Stefano Massini and adapted by Tim Firth, the production is directed by Sheffield Theatres Artistic Director Elizabeth Newman and runs at the Crucible from Saturday 28 February to Saturday 28 March 2026.
Taking place throughout February and March, Extra Time invites communities to come together and explore the stories of the women who inspired the play, alongside those who have followed in their footsteps.
The programme offers a wide range of free activities designed to complement the production, from participatory sport to creative sessions and discussion-based events.
Highlights include Football in the Square on Saturday 21 March, offering a morning of informal activities following the success of previous public events in Tudor Square.
A public exhibition in the Crucible foyer will trace the rich history of women’s football in Sheffield.
A listening post project will share voices from local communities and partner groups, capturing personal memories and reflections on the impact of the beautiful game.
As part of Sheffield Theatres’ Unlocking schools programme, Our Home Teams will see participants collaborate with community partners to create football chants and scarves in the lead-up to The Ladies Football Club.
An In Conversation event will bring together Elizabeth Newman and Scott Graham, Artistic Director of Frantic Assembly and Movement Director on the production, focusing on blending physical performance with storytelling.
Extra Time also includes a life drawing session inspired by The Ladies Football Club, open to all skill levels and featuring a costumed model and shared drawing guidance.
A series of free talks hosted by Sheffield Home of Football will delve into the archives of women’s football, alongside city centre tours exploring the history of the women’s game in Sheffield.
Set during the First World War, The Ladies Football Club tells the story of Sheffield women who find strength and solidarity through football while working in factories, going on to play before crowds of more than fifty thousand before facing an uncertain future.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
