

Theatre
‘Soldier Field’ to pay tribute to Anthony Foley at Lime Tree Theatre
“It’s pride. Pride in place, pride in parish, pride in your friends. It’s understanding who you represent.” ‘Soldier Field’ to pay tribute to Anthony Foley at Lime Tree Theatre
‘Soldier Field’ will pay tribute to Anthony Foley and a historic rugby win in a play coming to Lime Tree Theatre on February 13th

Following sell-out runs in Dublin and Kildare, the hugely popular Soldier Field is coming to its’ spiritual home, Munster, as the play takes the Lime Tree Theatre stage this February 13, 2025.
In October 2016, Munster and Ireland legend, Anthony Foley tragically died in Paris. ‘Axel’, who captained Munster to their first-ever Heineken Cup triumph, died of a cardiac myopathy on the morning his province was due to play Racing 92, in the same competition.
A week after Foley’s death, and the day after his funeral in Killaloe, County Clare, his players took to the field at Thomond Park, defeated Glasgow Warriors and gave him a rousing send-off. Less than a month after the tragedy, four Munster players took their place at the front of a figure of 8 tribute as Ireland faced down a fearsome All Blacks Haka, at Soldier Field.
Soldier Field, written by best-selling author and playwright Pat McCarry, follows eight Irish fans and Munster Rugby players Conor Murray, CJ Stander, Rob Kearney, and Andrew Trimble, in the build-up to, and during, Ireland’s first-ever Test win over New Zealand.
The story pays fitting homage to Axel and captures what it was like to be in Chicago for one of the most joyous, emotional days in Irish rugby history.
The play is brought to life by the Sallins Dramatic Society, a group from Kildare known for their powerful and engaging productions. Having received standing ovations and critical acclaim during previous performances, the Society is thrilled to bring the play to Limerick, where it will resonate deeply with local rugby supporters.
Proceeds from Soldier Field will go to Orla’s Wild Ways, a fundraising initiative founded by Anthony Foley’s sister, Orla. To date, Orla’s Wild Ways has raised over €38,000 for charities including Mid-West Cancer Foundation, supporting cancer patients and their families; CRY Ireland, providing free bereavement counselling and cardiac screening for families affected by sudden cardiac death; Irish Rugby Charitable Trust, supporting rugby players who have suffered life-changing injuries.
“Soldier Field is an amazing play that truly encapsulates the emotion surrounding Ireland’s historic win over New Zealand while honouring my brother’s legacy,” says Orla Foley, adding, “It’s not just about rugby – it’s about connection, resilience, and the power of community.”
Orla’s Wild Ways is also holding a raffle to raise funds for charities with prizes including Exclusive Irish Rugby Jerseys—perfect for fans and collectors alike; Lions Memorial Memorabilia piece; Limited edition prints of Anthony Foley paintings, honoring the legend’s enduring legacy; a beautiful print of the victorious 2006 Munster Team, commemorating their historic triumph. by Una Heaton; Dining experiences with vouchers for top restaurants and dinners, offering a taste of Ireland’s finest cuisine; and more to be announced. Tickets are available through iDonate.