Tip Tray Theatre is proud to announce the return of I Am Steven Gerrard, the critically praised one-man play that captured the hearts of audiences across Liverpool. Following sell-out performances at The Hope Street Theatre and Liverpool’s Royal Court Studio, the show now takes centre stage at The Epstein Theatre from 11th – 13th September 2025, officially kicking off the venue’s opening season.
Written by Huyton-born playwright Sean McLoughlin, directed by Amy Roberts and performed by Kirkby’s Joe Cowin, I Am Steven Gerrard is a deeply moving and comedic tale of masculinity, loneliness, and the strange places ambition can take us. Produced by Tip Tray Theatre, a disabled-led company based in Knowsley, the production brings together a powerhouse team of emerging Liverpudlian talent, and continues its mission to spotlight underrepresented voices.
“I know that it does sound weird to say, yeah? But I proper envy Steven Gerrard. You know, the football player?”
The play follows Shane, a young man with a dream not just to be like the Liverpool legend – but to become him. But as the layers peel back, it’s clear this isn’t just a football fantasy. It’s a search for identity, belonging, and meaning in a world that doesn’t always make space for sensitivity.
A Local Story with Universal Relevance
I Am Steven Gerrard was born out of Liverpool’s vibrant grassroots theatre scene. Originally developed through Tip Tray Theatre’s What Happens Next? writing competition as Sean McLoughlin’s debut play, it has quickly grown — now stepping onto its biggest stage yet at the iconic Epstein Theatre.
McLoughlin, a YEP Writers graduate from the Everyman Theatre, uses his personal experience to challenge traditional notions of what it means to be a man – and to feel lost in the place you’re supposed to call home.
“This show was born out of years of feeling on the outside. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t fit in – especially in a city where football is a second religion. I’m so excited to be given the opportunity to have the show on at such a respected theatre as The Epstein.” says McLoughlin.
About Tip Tray Theatre
Led by Evan Byrne and Maisy Gordon, Tip Tray Theatre is a Knowsley-based, disabled-led arts organisation dedicated to supporting early-career and underrepresented artists across Merseyside. Through writing competitions, developmental labs and socially engaged productions, the company is committed to creating bold, high-quality work that inspires, challenges, and sparks change.
Since launching in 2021, Tip Tray Theatre has supported over 250 creatives through events, workshops and productions, and continues to remove barriers for marginalised artists.
Event Details:
The Epstein Theatre, Liverpool, 11th – 13th September 2025
Tickets available now via The Epstein Theatre Website
Age guidance: 15+