Introducing THE PITMEN PAINTERS: David Whitaker
By: Gabrielle Sierra Sep. 16, 2010
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The Pitmen Painters recently concluded an acclaimed run at London's Royal National Theatre. Inspired by a book by William Feaver, and hailed by London critics as "a glorious instant classic" (Evening Standard), "a wonderful piece of theatre" (Financial Times) "a beautiful work of art that everybody should see" (The Times of London), and "a superb piece of work; warm, funny, sad, and thought-provoking" (The Daily Telegraph), the play tells the story of the Ashington Group - miners from Northumberland who became celebrated painters. THE PITMEN PAINTERS was named Best Play at the 2008 Evening Standard Awards.Max Roberts directs the British cast, which will include Christopher Connel, Michael Hodgson, Ian Kelly, Brian Lonsdale, Lisa McGrillis, Deka Walmsley, David Whitaker and Phillippa Wilson. The play begins previews Sept. 14 and opens Sept. 30 at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre.
BroadwayWorld.com is excited to present a new series where each day we'll introduce a new member of the cast.
Next up: David Whitaker
What is your home town? How long did you live there?
I was born in Durham and brought up in the coal mining village of Hetton le Hole, in the East Durham coalfield, where I lived until I was 22.
Does your family still live there? Who?
My Mum still lives there. One of my sisters and her family live nearby in the village of Sherburn. My other sister and her husband live a few miles south east of Glasgow in Lanarkshire, and my brother and his family live in the NE of New Zealand. They are all coming to NYC around the 25th of September to meet up with me, see the show, and celebrate my Mum's 80th year.
Where did you go to school and/or study and what did you study?
My scholastic career began at Eppleton Primary School, followed by seven years at Houghton le Spring Grammar School where I was put to the usual fare, (including Latin), but ended majoring in English Literature, Art (including Art History) and Geography.
Do you have any relatives in show business?
Not professionally, but all of my family are musicians (my sister Glenis teaches music, and her son David is involved in A&R work and band management); and there has been a long association with the local brass band tradition and Chester le Street Operatics Society.
Were you aware of the Ashington Group's story before your involvement with The Pitmen Painters?
Only very vaguely through my art studies. That state of affairs has now been rectified.
What are you most looking forward to about bringing the show to New York/Broadway?
The fact that when we set up the Live Theatre Company all those years ago, no one would have dreamed that a production of ours would make it across "The Pond." Unthinkable!
What quintessential New York experience are you most looking forward to?
Eggs Benedict. (Is that New Yorkish?)
Do you have any painting talent of your own?
I did gain a place at art school, but never took it up, and have not put paint to canvas since. But I do get a deal of pleasure from looking at other peoples' work.
Top three songs that are most played on your iTunes/iPod right now (or name the three songs you always find yourself listening to).
My musical tastes are many and varied, and range from Waits to Wagner; Bacharach to Bowie and many of the stops in between. However, I do have a very soft spot for material from what has come to be known as "The Great American Songbook".
Name the three TV Shows that are the highest priority on your DVR (or name three television shows on "your must" watch list)?
Depends on mood, but I am a regular for "NCIS," although I suspect that I am strongly swayed in that direction by the inclusion of the Goth forensic scientist character played by, is it Pauley Perrette... Charming lady.
What are the next three movies in your Netflix/Blockbuster queue (or name the last three movies you watched at home)?
I don't often sit down at home and watch films. I have favorites of course, and recently watched One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest again. An excellent example of ensemble playing! One of my favorite Christmas movies in recent years has been Bad Santa: crap towards the end but that Billy Bob is something else!
What's the last book you purchased for yourself to read?
A book about Newcastle in the 60's. Can't remember what it's called but well worth the £10.
Name the place you hope to visit when you go on your next vacation.
I haven't been on vacation for years, but I would like to visit the Baltic States and Scandinavia at some time. Amsterdam is a great weekend break!
What is the one role (musical theatre, straight play, television, film, opera, ballet) you MUST play before you die?
The next one.
Name one thing you want to accomplish in the next six months.
Survive the New York run, have a really good time, make new friends, and shave off the bloody moustache I have to wear for the show!
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