Remember the Coal

Remember coal mining? Come and listen to the story of the mining industry, told in original songs, all written and performed in folk style by Alan Wood, one of Yorkshire’s finest singer/songwriters, supported with a spoken narrative by John Snook.

The show highlights the changes that took place in society throughout that period and, whilst it inevitably mentions the disasters and tragedies that accompanied coal mining, it also has lighter moments, and illustrates how mining influenced wider changes within other industries and society in general.

The bar will be open before the performance and the drinks will be available throughout. 

About the Show

It would be almost impossible to over-estimate the importance and influence that coal, and the mining of coal, had on the society of Great Britain and arguably the world.

The Industrial Revolution would not have developed without the use of coal. Steam powered engines in transport, manufacturing, shipping, even modern warfare, would not have been possible without the power of coal. In order to obtain the coal, mining – both open cast and increasingly deep mining, required labour and this became a major employer in Britain from the 17th century right up to the end of the millennium. The storyline runs from child labour underground, through to the eventual closure of the last of the deep mines.

“Remember the Coal” is a development of an earlier work written by Alan Wood, the presentation of which raised a significant contribution to the funding of the “Oaks Memorial” sculpture in Barnsley, commemorating the Oaks Colliery Disaster of 12th December 1866. The memorial can be seen in the accompanying photograph, together with Alan and John.

Reviews

An emotional and thought provoking passage through the dark days of the industry and a grim reminder of the many lives lost through the years.” – Dave Minich – Festival Director, Cleckheaton Folk Festival

“Using an effectively balanced combination of music and spoken narrative, Alan Wood and John Snook have created an evocative, moving and at times heartbreaking tribute to the Mining industry, skilfully sharing its story from conception to its tragic demise.  The lilting and melodic Welsh accent of the narrator John and the haunting, powerful lyrics and music of Alan unify perfectly to create a very fitting, emotional eulogy for the forgotten mining communities of Britain whilst celebrating the bravery, uniqueness and camaraderie of the hard life the miners endured. Not to be missed!  – ‘Joanna’ ; Holmfirth Folk Festival

“What a fantastic and moving evening. The story of  coal was beautifully brought to life through original music and compelling narration, creating a truly unique and atmospheric experience. We  have  already had requests for a return visit. A truly memorable night!  Joy Esau, Machen British Legion club, S.Wales