The Pitmen Painters, at the National Theatre, by Lee Hall is based on the book by William Feaver. This true story tells how a small group of Ashington miners in 1930s Newcastle learnt how to paint in their spare time.

They wanted to ‘know what paintings mean’ which leads them to learn to paint themselves. In the process they learn what it means to share experiences, be ‘patronised’ by the rich and have their own exhibitions.

This really enjoyable play had the audience continually laughing but also pondering the meaning of art. If you don’t understand Geordie you will struggle.