Marking the 30th anniversary of the end of the British miners’ strike, COAL takes a nostalgic look at the hard hitting realities of life at the coal face. It explores the darker side of the mining industry and body wrecking demands of a working class industry now almost forgotten. This is a strong, powerful and emotive show performed by seven dancers, a local community cast playing miners wives and a live colliery brass band. COAL is an emotional, moving and relevant story of community, solidarity and survival. #COALDance

Features a live performance by NASUWT Riverside Band.

“A profound and highly relevant contribution to remembering this painful, life changing period in our history.” The Big Issue

“COAL is a gritty, gusty, visceral re-enaction of toil that is part of living memory” Metro

Gary Clarke is an award-winning dancer and choreographer with a national reputation for creating compelling dance theatre that resonates with both audiences and critics.

Find out more about the tour at www.coaltour.co.uk

Sat 30 April, 7.30pm
Prior to the evening performance on Saturday we're presenting a short performance by 'The Newcastle Kingsmen' - expert practitioners of the traditional Northumbrian Rapper Sword Dance and the Northumbrian Clog Dance. 7.30pm, Social Space.

There will be a post show talk on Friday 29 April.


Workshop Opportunities (Age 12+)
Gary Clarke and members of the company will be delivering workshops to schools, colleges, universities and community settings across the region. Aimed at beginners or advanced level.

To book a workshop or find out more contact: Vanessa on 07970 807063 or email engagementcoal@gmail.com