TL;DR
- Pride musical explores LGSM activism.
- Features real-life inspiration Jonathan Blake.
- Actor Sam Barnett portrays Blake’s character.
- Show runs at London’s Dorfman Theatre.
- Celebrates queer history and resilience.
From the streets of London to the silver screen and now to the stage, the story of the Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners (LGSM) is making waves once again with the new musical, Pride. This vibrant production is set to take the National Theatre’s Dorfman stage by storm this summer, and it’s a tale that resonates deeply within the LGBTQ+ community.
Picture this: it’s 1984, and a small mining village in Onllwyn, Wales, is grappling with the harsh realities of Thatcher’s government. Just when it seems all hope is lost, a group of fierce lesbian and gay activists from London steps in to support the miners, creating an unexpected alliance that changes history. This unlikely union is not just a story of solidarity; it’s a testament to the power of community and activism in the face of adversity.
We caught up with lead actor Sam Barnett, original LGSM member Jonathan Blake, and writer Stephen Beresford to discuss the musical’s significance. Blake, who was among the first in the UK diagnosed with HIV, shares his personal journey: “It was an extraordinary experience going through it in the 1980s. I thought I was going to die of AIDS and was forced to live my life as if I might be dead in two weeks. It really was terrifying, and yet in some way it forced us to live in the moment.”
His involvement with LGSM was not just about activism; it was a way to channel fear and anger into something productive. “For me, activism was something to channel my pain and my anger into; it was a major displacement activity,” he reflects. And now, through the musical, Blake’s story is being told to a new generation, ensuring that the legacy of LGSM lives on.
Sam Barnett, who takes on the role of Blake, is no stranger to the stage. Known for his work in The History Boys, Barnett is thrilled to dive into the world of musical theatre once again. “This musical, Pride, is hands-down the most challenging show I’ve ever done, but I’m ready and I’m in great company,” he says. His excitement is palpable, and it’s clear that this production is close to his heart.
Reflecting on his own experiences growing up gay in Yorkshire during the AIDS crisis, Barnett adds, “I have a really complicated relationship with my sexuality. I remember the scary AIDS adverts on TV, and this overwhelming sense that it was wrong to be gay.” The musical not only honors the past but also serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
Directed by the talented Matthew Warchus, known for Matilda the Musical, Pride promises to be a powerful and moving experience. It runs from June 11 to September 12, 2026, at London’s Dorfman Theatre. This is more than just a musical; it’s a celebration of resilience, love, and the unbreakable spirit of the LGBTQ+ community. So, grab your tickets and prepare to be inspired!