Historical Staging Of Pitmen Painters: Your Chance To Star

For The Cultural Thing

By Ryan Pilot

The People’s Theatre in Newcastle has secured the exclusive rights to stage the first ever amateur production of the Pitmen Painters as part of its centenary celebrations next year.

The play, based on the true story of a group of Ashington miners who become the toast of the art world recently played Broadway and was penned by Billy Elliot writer, Lee Hall.

People’s Theatre venue manager, Steve Robertson explained how to get involved.

He said: “You do two pieces in front of the production committee and the director of any show can go up and watch.

“We have what we call a new members night where people come along – next one’s the first of December.

“I would say that if you’re joining the theatre just because of Pitmen Painters – not a great way to go about it because we have roughly a 350 membership.

“But if you want to join to be part of the People’s Theatre that’s great.

“And if you want to get a part in Pitmen Painters, go for it – but there will be a lot of people going for six parts.”

Technical staff, such as stage designers, sound engineers and security staff are also encouraged to get involved. See www.ptag.org.uk for more details.

The Pitmen Painters will play June 13 to June 18 next year.