The Pitmen Painters extends booking at Duchess Theatre

The booking period for The Pitmen Painters, by Lee Hall, inspired by a book by William Feaver,has been extended by three months to 14 Apr 2012.

The play, which opened at the Duchess Theatre, 11 Oct 2011, following previews 5 Oct, is directed by Max Roberts, designed by Gary McCann, lighting by Douglas Kuhrt, costumes by Gary McCann.

The cast includes Ian Kelly (Robert Lyon), Michael Hodgson (Harry Wilson), David Whitaker (Jimmy Floyd), and Brian Lonsdale (Young Lad/Ben Nicholson).

In 1934, a group of Ashington miners hired a professor to teach an art appreciation evening class. Rapidly abandoning theory in favour of practice, the pitmen began to paint. Within a few years the most avant-garde artists became their friends and their work was acquired by prestigious collections; but every day they worked, as before, down the mine.

The Live Theatre Newcastle and National Theatre Co-Production, is presented by Bill Kenwright.