Chris Connel Photo

From: Introducing THE PITMEN PAINTERS: Chris Connel

The Pitmen Painters recently concluded an acclaimed run at London's Royal National Theatre. Inspired by a book by William Feaver, and hailed by London critics as 'a glorious instant classic' (Evening Standard), 'a wonderful piece of theatre' (Financial Times) 'a beautiful work of art that everybody should see' (The Times of London), and 'a superb piece of work; warm, funny, sad, and thought-provoking' (The Daily Telegraph), the play tells the story of the Ashington Group - miners from Northumberland who became celebrated painters. THE PITMEN PAINTERS was named Best Play at the 2008 Evening Standard Awards.Max Roberts directs the British cast, which will include Christopher Connel, Michael Hodgson, Ian Kelly, Brian Lonsdale, Lisa McGrillis, Deka Walmsley, David Whitaker and Phillippa Wilson. The play begins previews Sept. 14 and opens Sept. 30 at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre.