THE PITMAN PAINTERS at MTC's Samuel Friedman Theatre

(Seen 10/2/10)

Writer Lee Hall once again demonstrates his ability to tell an engrossing story about unlikely persistence triumphing against many odds. Probably best known for his work as the writer of both the film and Broadway musical, BILLY ELLIOT, Hall has now written about a group of coal pit miners who join a union-sponsored class in art appreciation, which develops into a class of art creation.

Although somewhat predictable, and often sentimental, we see this disparate group cohere into a coterie of real artists who become famous in their native Britain. Based on a true story, Hall has fleshed out these varied 'types', and with respect and intelligence, has shown their progress from coal miners to professional artists. He has interwoven their development with a number of social, personal, and financial choices they are forced to make along the road to success.

The ensemble cast, under the astute direction of Max Roberts, brings out the passion behind the creative work of these unschooled pitmen-painters. It is a feel-good play, as we discover people rising above their original callings.