The play, inspired by a book by William Feaver, revolves around the lives of a group of ordinary men who do extraordinary things. In 1934, a group of Ashington miners hired a professor to teach an art appreciation evening class. Rapidly abandoning theory in favor of practice, the pitmen began to paint – prolifically. Within a few years avant-garde artists became their friends and their work was acquired by prestigious collectors; but every day they continued to work, as before, down the mine.

The West End run is being presented by Bill Kenwright. It is directed by Max Roberts, with set and costume design by Gary McCann, lighting by Douglas Kuhrt and sound by Martin Hodgson, and features original Newcastle, National Theatre and Broadway cast members Trevor Fox, Michael Hodgson, Ian Kelly, Brian Lonsdale and David Whitaker, alongside Joe Caffrey, Joy Brooks and Viktoria Kay.

To book tickets, contact the box office on 020 7452 3000, or visit www.nationaltheatre.org.uk.