Ashington Group anniversary gets film finale

Eliot Smith Dance's acclaimed PITMAN reimagined for the screen

PITMAN Rediscovered brings Eliot Smith Dance’s piece to the screen

Woodhorn Museum’s year-long programme of exhibitions and events celebrating the 90th anniversary of the Ashington Group is culminating with a new screen production.

PITMAN Rediscovered reimagines Eliot Smith Dance’s acclaimed stage piece, PITMAN - transforming it into an experience that brings six Ashington Group paintings to life via film and dance.

Recorded on location at Woodhorn - a site interwoven with the history of the Group, also known as the Pitmen Painters - and supported by Museum Northumberland, Ashington Group Trustees, and Arts Council England, the co-production between ESD and Jason Thompson, of Sound Ideas Media “breathes new life into the miners’ artistic legacy”.

"PITMAN is a journey through the heart and soul of a generation, and we’re thrilled to bring a new dimension to the piece," says choreographer Eliot Smith.

PITMAN Rediscovered will be available to view later this month (Jan). Credit: Darren Irwin

"It’s a piece that resonates not only with dance lovers but also with anyone who appreciates the triumphs of the human spirit."

As well as offering an enduring end to the anniversary events, the launch of the film also serves as a starting pistol for a regional tour of PITMAN, which begins at The Bowes Museum on February 6 and takes in venues including Gosforth Civic Theatre and The Maltings, Berwick.

Liz Ritson, director of programme and engagement at Woodhorn Museum said: “It's always a joy to welcome artists to Woodhorn Museum, a special place that never fails to inspire new creativity and community storytelling.

Eliot Smith Dance has worked with Sound Ideas Media to produce the film. Credit: Darren Irwin

“We look forward to sharing the results of a new creative collaboration with ESD and Sound Ideas Media that brings Woodhorn and the story of the Pitmen Painters to life as you've never seen it before.”

Jason Thompson, of Sound Ideas Media said: “It's wonderful to work with Eliot Smith Dance on such an iconic piece. What's extra special is filming at Woodhorn Museum — a place close to my heart. Bringing these elements together is a real joy.”

PITMAN ReDiscovered will be available to watch for free online at www.eliotsmithdance.com/online and on the Woodhorn Museum Facebook page from 7pm on January 23 until March 30, 2025.

For tickets, dates, and more information about the North East tour of PITMAN, visit www.eliotsmithdance.com/pitman