Kick It Out launch new play based on the life of Laurie Cunningham

This compelling new drama tells the powerful and deeply moving story of Laurie Cunningham who came to prominence with West Bromwich Albion in the late 1970’s. The first of the black footballing trio famously dubbed ‘The Three Degrees’ – Laurie Cunningham, with his swaggering style and dazzling skills forced favourable comparisons with the legendary Pele. The first black footballer to sign for the mighty Real Madrid and only the second to win a full cap for England, he inspired a whole generation of young black players to follow in his pioneering footsteps.

Getting The Third Degree was commissioned by Kick it Out to recognise the 25th anniversary of its ongoing battle against discrimination in football. In dramatising Laurie Cunningham’s meteoric rise to stardom, Getting The Third Degree also explores how he and his fellow black players – Brendon Batson and Cyrille Regis – triumphed over the racial abuse and physical threats often orchestrated by The National Front through a potent combination of footballing brilliance, charismatic style and compelling dignity.

Incorporating 1970’s funk, soul and blues, contemporary commentary and social and political speeches, Getting The Third Degree is a powerful piece of theatre that vividly recreates a tense and troubled period in the history of football and the wider society.

“A remarkable piece…The Long Walk Back deserves to be a great success.”
The Guardian on The Long Walk Back by Dougie Blaxland

“Brimming with charisma and honesty.”
★★★★ The Stage on When The Eye Has Gone

“Inspiring and mesmerising; hugely enabled by the wit and charm of Morgan’s fiercely clever vision.”
★★★★★ Theatre Bath on The Tenant of Wildfell Hall