By Maxine Peake
Directed by Bryony Shanahan
“WE ARE WOMEN AGAINST PIT CLOSURES AND WE’RE OCCUPYING THIS PIT”
Anne, Elaine, Dot and Lesley. Four ordinary women, facing the closure of their community. It’s 1993 and the Parkside Colliery pit may be winding down, but they’re not giving up.
Their bras stuffed with contraband, they take a tour of the pit and refuse to come up. Settling into the depths of the mine, making tissue roses and walking imaginary dogs, they face bribery and threats. But as they dig in, those up top start to realise these ladies are not for turning.
This powerful play full of Northern wit by Maxine Peake follows on from the critically-acclaimed Beryl, and tells the true story of four women taking a stand in the face of a changing world.
This play contains some swearing and brief smoking.
Please note: Due to cast illness, the role of Elaine will now be played by Lucy Tuck.
Friday 7 September–Saturday 29 September 2018
Cast & Creatives
Photo Gallery
Image by Andrew Billington
Reviews
"Furious, funny and full of fire..."
— Sam Marlowe, The Sunday Times
"It's hard to pick out a stand-out performance. The four women are equally superb...."
— Emma Yates-Badley, Northern Soul
"It's a great story, told beautifully, about how normal, everyday people, can make a difference..."
— Craig Archer, Bury Times
"Moving, humorous, poignant and powerful..."
— Saiqa Chaudhari, Bolton News
"A play full of Northern wit which is reminiscent of that of Victoria Wood..."
— Frankly My Dear
Latest News
PIONEERING DOCUMENTARY MUSICAL GOOD GOLLY MISS MOLLY RETURNS TO MARK NEW VIC’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY
The pioneering documentary rock musical that helped define the New Vic Theatre’s signature actor-musician style will return to the theatre this April…
Read Article >
NEW VIC BORDERLINES MARK EMOTIONAL HEALTH AWARENESS DAY WITH PERFORMANCE OF THINGS WE DON’T SAY, UNTIL NOW
To mark Emotional Health Awareness Day, New Vic Borderlines’ Next Chapter and Chapter 2 groups present Things We Don’t Say, Until Now…
Read Article >
NEW VIC HOLD VIGIL TO MARK FOUR YEARS SINCE THE START OF THE UKRAINE WAR
In association with local Ukrainian groups, New Vic Borderlines will hold a vigil in the New Vic’s Peace Garden on Tuesday 24 February 2026…
Read Article >