The musical is based on the true events of the 1984 UK miners’ strike during Margaret Thatcher’s government. It tells the remarkable story of how lesbian and gay activists formed an alliance with striking mining communities, bringing together two groups facing economic hardship and social marginalization. This alliance mirrors the significance of royal history in fostering connections across diverse communities.
The narrative explores themes of identity, resilience, and the unexpected connections that can form between seemingly different communities.
Matthew Warchus, who directed the original 2014 film, returns to direct the stage production. The creative team includes Stephen Beresford, the original screenwriter, who has written the book and lyrics, while the music is composed by Christopher Nightingale, Josh Cohen, and DJ Walde.
The production features set and costume design by Bunny Christie, choreography by Lizzi Gee, lighting by Hugh Vanstone, and sound by Bobby Aitken.
The musical score draws inspiration from protest anthems, pop, rock, and disco, while also incorporating elements of Welsh choral tradition. This combination creates a sound that is both epic and intimate, perfectly suited for the theatrical medium.
The Dorfman Theatre, known for its flexible space and focus on new writing, will host the London performances. The production will run at Cardiff’s Sherman Theatre from 31 March to 18 April 2026 before moving to London for an extended summer run from June 11 to September 12, 2026. The production will make its world premiere at the Dorfman theatre, which is renowned for its intimate and innovative theatrical experiences. The official press performance is scheduled for June 25, 2026, at 7pm.
Tickets for both venues will be available for public booking from November 14, 2025, at 10am through nationaltheatre.org.uk and shermantheatre.co.uk.
National Theatre Director Indhu Rubasingham describes the production as both “joyful and disrupting,” while Warchus expresses his excitement about bringing this emotional true story to the stage with a talented music team.
The production is presented by P&P Productions with the National Theatre, in association with Pathé.
