Festival Pick of the Day: The Pitmen Painters




We’re talking powerful, thought-provoking theatre when you combine London’s National Theatre and Live Theatre Newcastle with Tony and Olivier Award-winning Director Lee Hall (of Billy Elliot fame).

Set in 1934, The Pitmen Painters tells the story of working class heroes bettering their lives by investing in an art appreciation class. As their thirst for art grows, The Pitmen Painters gradually abandon the theoretical side and begin painting. Combining their jobs as miners with their newly found talent, the group refuses to comply with theories or conform to expectations and gradually earns a prestigious status within artistic circles.

Inspired by the book by art critic William Feaver, The Pitmen Painters addresses politics, cultural barriers and self-made opportunity, amidst a conflicting backdrop of art and mining communities.


Promising to humour and move you while making you think, this production will help you to realize the possibilities that lie within our grasp – the perfect antidote to the current economic climate.

Winner of the Evening Standard Best New Play Award in 2008, The Pitmen Painters draws on powerful dialogue and gritty realism. Already gaining rave reviews in the UK, The Pitmen Painters is set to become a global hit.

Of Interest: Internationally renowned writer Roddy Doyle will be in conversation with Lee Hall post-show on October 7th (approx 10.15pm).

For full details, click here

Ulster Bank Dublin Theatre Festival is funded by the Arts Council