On 7th September 1950, New Cumnock witnessed one of the biggest disasters in Scottish mining history when 129 men were trapped in Knockshinnoch Castle Colliery for three days. In one of the most remarkable and heroic rescues ever attempted, 116 of those men were saved on the third day. Tragically, 13 of the miners lost their lives in the disaster.

Knockshinnoch, a dance theatre production, focused on the experiences of the 116 miners who were trapped underground for 3 days, uncertain if they would survive or ever see their families again.

It’s a story of perseverance, hope and camaraderie in the face of disaster. 

Knockshinnoch was presented at Cumnock Town Hall and premiered in January 2023 to critical acclaim.