The idea
The Other Neville tells the rarely heard story of Tracey Neville - often overshadowed by her famous footballer brothers. It explores ambition, setbacks and the personal sacrifices of a woman forging her own legacy. Blending sharp storytelling and sport choreography, it brings the vibrant world of netball to the stage like never before.
Rehearsing and premiering at Horse + Bamboo in Rossendale (Sept–Oct 2025), this show is created by a Rossendale-based writer and actor.
Accompanied by post-show Q&As led by NetballHER, the play invites critical discussions about women’s health in sport.
Funding supports rehearsal space, director remuneration, staging, technical assistance, costume, props, and marketing, ensuring this moving story resonates with local audiences and the greater netball community.
What we'll deliver
- Rehearse and perform two live performances of The Other Neville at Horse + Bamboo Theatre on 16 & 17 October 2025
- Post-show Q&A sessions with NetballHER experts on women’s health and sport
- Professional set, costumes, props, lighting, and sound to create an immersive experience
Why it's a great idea
This project will benefit local audiences - especially women and girls in sport - by putting their stories centre stage and opening up honest conversations around women’s health and the physical and mental cost of ambition. It offers a female sporting narrative often missing from mainstream theatre.
Teaming up with NetballHER to host post-show Q&As with women’s health experts, these sessions will create space for open, honest dialogue rarely seen in sport or theatre.
Women’s sport is at a pivotal moment. With England Netball’s 100th anniversary in 2026 and new funding focused on access for girls in grassroots sport, this play arrives at the right time.
Staging it at Horse + Bamboo supports Lancashire’s growing cultural and sport scene and brings vital conversations into the community.
The Other Neville can spark lasting impact in netball and women’s sport communities - celebrating progress while spotlighting the challenges that remain.
Steps to get it done
- 28 Aug: Marketing & Promo Kick‑off (Digital comms, posters, flyers, and netball‑club outreach)
- 29 Sept - 13 oct: Rehearsals begin at Horse + Bamboo (actor, director, designers, stage manager)
- 14 & 15 Oct: Dress & tech rehearsals (with final lighting, sound, set and costume runs)
- 16 & 17 Oct: Public Performances at Horse + Bamboo with post‑show Q&As led by NetballHER
