Woodhorn

PITMAN

The story of Woodhorn's famous Pitmen Painters is to reach new audiences through an exciting new piece of contemporary dance.

Eliot Smith Company Double Bill 2016 showcases two new works in celebration of their 5th anniversary. This double bill from Newcastle's exciting contemporary dance company includes PITMAN created and choreographed by ESC Artistic Director Eliot Smith with the kind permission of The Ashington Group Trustees. It tells the simple but inspiring real life story of a group of miners who with no formal artistic training, depicted their daily lives in a series of paintings which have become celebrated and revered in the art world, as well as providing an important visual commentary for social historians. With intimate solos, duets and dramatic ensemble dancing the work explores the hopes, dreams and determination of the Ashington Group.

The Pitmen Painters have been celebrated through exhibitions, art books and articles and Lee Hall’s hugely successful play. To the best of our knowledge this is the first celebration of these unique individuals in dance form.

Completing the programme is a new work by the award winning international choreographer Maurice Causey known globally for his original, beautiful and highly physical works.

The premiere performance at Newbiggin Maritime Centre on Thursday 10 November 7:30pm will include a post show talk by Eliot Smith (ESC Artistic Director) accompanied by two company dancers. Tickets are available at the venue or at www.eliotsmithcompany.com 

There will be a very special opportunity to see excerpts from PITMAN at Woodhorn as part of the Museum's 10th birthday celebrations in October. Look out for more details over coming weeks. 

Supported and Funded by Arts Council England, Northumberland Arts Development and Ashington Town Council.

PITMAN is in partnership with Woodhorn Museum. 

"ESC performance was electric, inspirational and absolutely mesmerising" - Billingham International Dance Festival
"Visually stunning, choreography original and technically so accomplished" - Kay Scorch, Resolutions! 2014

WHEN: Thursday, 10 November 2016 from 19:30 to 21:00 
WHERE: Newbiggin Maritime Centre - Church Point, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, NE64 6DB