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We’re diving into Big Sam nostalgia with Bolton Wanderers fans to develop the first draft of a script, a song (or two) and the visual world for this slightly ridiculous concept.
We're inviting fans to get involved in a creative workshop at the Community Wellbeing Hub, Toughsheet Community Stadium. There are four sessions to choose from:
Tuesday 23 June (2–3.30pm & 6–7.30pm)
Tuesday 30 June (2–3.30pm & 6–7.30pm)
(Spaces limited to 30 per session)
These sessions will give fans the chance to share memories, stories and perspectives from the Big Sam era, helping shape the development of the musical from the ground up.
Fans can register interest here.
Allardici’s is a surreal comedy musical about football, fame and what happens when you defy expectations.
Set in a fictional Costa Blanca lounge bar owned by Sam Allardyce, Big Sam now holds a nightly residency. Backed by a house band of former players, he tells his story.
What follows is a cartoonish fever dream of footballing faces, press stings and Premier League legends.
Part comedy. Part musical fantasy. Part fan-fiction biography from a Bolton fan who grew up in the golden years.
Get Involved
The workshops will explore:
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The Big Sam era at Bolton Wanderers
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Iconic players, managers and footballing figures
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How that period is remembered by fans
Contributions from these sessions will directly inform the script, music and visual world of the show.
Fans can also take part remotely via an online form, sharing stories, photos, videos and memories if they’re unable to attend in person.
Allardici’s aims to capture the joy, energy and identity of Bolton Wanderers during one of its most memorable periods, placing fans at the heart of the storytelling.
All sessions are free, informal and open to all fans.
This is the first phase of development with more work to be done throughout the next 18 months and aiming for a full production in 2028.
The project is produced by Small Talk and supported by Arts Council England, Bolton Wanderers Football Club and Octagon Bolton.
