Eliot Smith Dance announces it's Autumn '24 and Spring '25 Season, PITMAN

Following a sell-out run in 2016, and to mark the 90th anniversary of the Ashington Group, Eliot Smith Dance (ESD) is excited to announce the return of Eliot Smith’s most popular dance work, PITMAN. PITMAN 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.

The opening performances will take place at the Alnwick Playhouse on Friday 06 and Saturday 07 December 2024. With intimate solos, duets and dramatic ensemble dancing the work explores the hopes, dreams and determination of the Ashington Group also known famously as the Pitmen Painters.

Eliot Smith, the choreographer and creative director says, “The wait is over, I am excited for the return of PITMAN. This particular dance work is very special to the ESD repertoire. The work speaks volumes to people living in the North East and beyond. PITMAN always reminds me of the my fasciation of art and working class and what art form does the artwork belong. Expect a memorable and powerful performance at the Alnwick Playhouse”.

Damian Cruden, the artistic director of Alnwick Playhouse says, “We are delighted to be hosting Pitman by ESD. This work has its roots in the Northumbria landscape. The Pitman painters have been a constant source of creative activity, giving voice to those who went unheard and unnoticed. Eliot's response is passionate, truthful and beautiful. We look forward to welcoming our audience to this exceptional evening of Northumbrian dance”.

Liz Ritson, Director of Programmes and Engagement at Museums Northumberland says, “We look forward to welcoming ESD and PITMAN back to Woodhorn Museum, the home of the Pitmen Painters. It’s incredible that the extraordinary story and work of the Ashington Group of artists continues to inspire creative practitioners and audiences today, 90 years after the group formed in 1934. We’re thrilled that PITMAN will return at Alnwick Playhouse and excited to be hosting pop-up PITMAN performances at Woodhorn later this year”.

Tour dates for spring ’25, casting, and opportunity for public participation to be announced in the autumn. Tickets go on sale for the Alnwick Playhouse on 19 July 2024 at www.alnwickplayhouse.co.uk. To find out more about PITMAN visit, www.eliotsmithdance.com/pitman.