Mining rescue performance to be showcased at historic South Shields venue

A historic South Tyneside building is set to be turned into a stage for a dance production depicting one of the world's most famous rescues.
TRAPPED will be performed at St Hilda's Pit HeadTRAPPED will be performed at St Hilda's Pit Head
TRAPPED will be performed at St Hilda's Pit Head

TRAPPED aims to bring to life the story of 33 Chilean miners who were trapped underground for 69 days in 2010 following the collapse of the San Jose copper goldmine.

The show has been performed underground across the UK in caves, mines and caverns and from today is being showcased at St Hilda’s Pit Head, in Henry Robson Way, South Shields until Saturday.

TRAPPED will be performed until SaturdayTRAPPED will be performed until Saturday
TRAPPED will be performed until Saturday
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The historic building, from the borough’s coal-mining past, has been revamped and re-opened as a community space by Tyne and Wear Building Preservation Trust. 
The performance will feature live music by composer Hayley Youell and filmed footage by Experiential Dance Company’s Artistic Director Rachel Johnson.

Rachel said: “I created the piece to be performed underground and in caves, disused mines and collieries; the atmosphere is tense, charged, dramatic and, ultimately, hopeful. I’ve designed the performers’ physical movement to reflect the confined space in which the miners were trapped, but also the camaraderie and the hope that drove them to survive.

“We’ve designed miniature lighting rigs which sit on the front of the hard hats worn by each member of the audience so that they can follow the performers and go on the journey with them.”

The show will be performed by Joseph Delaney, Luke Rigg, and Alex Rowland, at various times tomorrow and Saturday. There will be a 7pm performance tonight.

Tickets, priced £12, are available on the door ahead of each showing or by visiting www.capne.org/events