The beauty of human resilience

2016 marked the 60th anniversary of the horrific Aberfan tragedy in Wales, where the catastrophic collapse of a colliery spoil tip due to excess water swept through the town and killed 116 children in their classrooms. This touching new play follows the mothers of those lost children eight months on, as they meet up weekly at their local hotel to grieve, talk and even laugh without being shamed. One day, they secretly arrange for a makeup rep to visit them to give beauty tips. This is their story.

Based on a true story, the play celebrates the resilience of the town's women, whilst commemorating the scale of the tragedy, the repercussions of which can be felt even now in the region. Neil Anthony Docking's play takes place on a drizzlyTuesday afternoon at the hotel, and is helmed by Maxine Evans; this acclaimed production by Pontardawe Arts Centre premiered in 2016 and was praised for its sensitivity and well-balanced poignant humour.