Mining strikes revisited by new work

The Brunton is programming arts and entertainment events into alternative venues in East Lothian and The Collie’s Shed is part of the theatre programme.

Based in a local Men’s Shed in East Lothian, the work follows four retired miners as they discover how a review into the policing of the mining strikes in the 80’s by the Scottish Government suddenly affects them, their friendships and their relationships.

The audience hears how one unforgettable and violent day of striking at Bilston Glen Colliery leaves them wrestling with what they think is right, who they are now, who they once were and most importantly, where they stand on the picket line.

A Brunton spokesman said: “With dramatization of real stories and experiences, work brings a powerful and emotional call to arms over injustices and hardships that are arguably still felt to this day.”

The work is written by Lothians-based writer and theatre maker Shelley Middler. Since graduating from the University For The Creative Arts, Shelley has written for Scottish Youth Theatre, Traverse Theatre and Strange Town Youth Theatre as part of their Young Writers Groups.

The Collie’s Shed is touring, marking the 40th Anniversary of the 1984 Mining Strikes. 

EAST LOTHIAN TOUR DATES: Loretto Theatre, Musselburgh, 29 May 7.30pm, Fraser Centre, Tranent, 30 May 7.30pm, Community Centre, Prestonpans, 31 May 7.30pm, Corn Exchange, Haddington, 1 Jun 7.30pm

PICTURE: scene from the show courtesy of The Brunton