From the backbreaking darkness of the coalface to the hilarity of whippet racing, ‘Pitman’ captures the beauty, humour and humanity of Northumberland’s mining communities.
Celebrating 15 years of Eliot Smith Dance, this inventive production brings ten paintings by the Ashington Group, better known as the Pitmen Painters, vividly to life. The group of Northumberland miners began an art appreciation class in 1934 before going on to become celebrated artists.
One moment, we’re plunged into the whirling torment of the coalface; the next, we’re laughing as dancers race wooden whippets or grumpily jostle in a fish and chip queue.
The soundtrack moves from the cinematic intensity of Jóhann Jóhannsson’s ‘The Miners’ Hymns’ to the irresistible swing of a big band. Atmospheric lighting transports us from claustrophobic underground darkness to the bright yellow exuberance of a jazz band parade.
Through expressive movement, the dancers convey exhaustion, grief, mischief and joy.
‘Pitman’ is a thrilling, unexpectedly funny and deeply moving celebration of working-class creativity, community and Northumberland’s extraordinary heritage.
