The Pitmen Painters

Real theatrical excellence bears a second viewing and I could watch this superb drama again and again. Beautifully written and delivered by a fine ensemble cast this is unmissable stuff. In this true story a group of colliers, seeking betterment, discover art and the art world discovers them. Playwright Lee Hall crafts a fine discourse on the nature of art and its appreciation but also about society, the class system with the play poignantly ending with the nationalisation of the coal industry. For those of us who lived through Thatcher’s regime this strikes a very bitter note. The balance of humour against serious debate is perfectly pitched, dramatic chiaroscuro of the highest standard.

Theatre Royal Brighton, 24 June 2013
Rating:
Andrew Kay