Pride, a brand-new musical inspired by the remarkable true story of a small group of gay men and lesbians offering support to a village in South Wales during the 1984 miners' strike, will come to life on the National Theatre’s Dorfman stage from 11 June - 12 September 2026, following preview performances at the Sherman Theatre in Cardiff from 31 March - 18 April 2026.
This timely and uplifting story of real-life events – where two communities united and overcame their differences – is set to an original score inspired by protest anthems, pop, rock, disco and the Welsh choral tradition.
Summer, 1984. With miners striking across the country, 24-year-old activist Mark Ashton rallies a diverse group of gay men and lesbians to form a support group for the strikers. Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners (LGSM) soon find themselves connected with a small pit village in South Wales. What follows is the extraordinary true story of two marginalised communities joining forces – and discovering they share more than they ever imagined.
Director Matthew Warchus said: "Directing the film version of Pride was one of the greatest joys and privileges of my career. I’m thrilled to be working with Stephen again – alongside Chris, Josh and DJ – to bring this hugely emotional and inspiring true story to the stage and let it sing."
Writer Stephen Beresford added: "Bringing the true story of Pride to the screen was an incredible experience, and it’s equally thrilling to now adapt it for the stage. The epic nature of this story feels tailor-made for musical theatre – and collaborating with Josh and DJ, and reuniting with Matthew and Chris, has been nothing short of a joy. I can’t wait for audiences to see it."