Made in Dagenham

Made In Dagenham recounts the struggle for equality and fair play for the female machinists at Ford’s Dagenham plant, when they learn that the management is planning to downgrade them to unskilled workers whilst their male counterparts are to receive an increase in wages. Reluctantly, Rita O’Grady finds herself leading the campaign for equal rights. Gillian Hewitt gave an excellent, moving performance in this role, portraying the family stress as well as the determination to see the battle through, to first class effect. As Rita’s husband Eddie, Tony Livingston gave an equally strong performance, his rendition of “The Letter” being delivered with the passion required for this character. Rita was ably supported by her fellow workers. Karen Richards took full advantage of the humour in the part of foul-mouthed Beryl. Together with shop steward Connie (Lorraine King), Cass (Lynsey Stuart) and the strong-willed Sandra (Steph Baillie), this utterly believable team of plant workers formed an integral part of the plot. Lastly, the team would not be complete without the hilarious scatter-brained Clare (Rachel Nee) easing the mood at each appearance with her forgetfulness and misunderstandings.

Before we get the impression that this is a female dominated show (which it is!) mention must be made of the excellent male principal line-up. Howard Stevens as Mr Hopkins, MD of Ford UK, and his Union Rep, Monty, played by Derek Langley, both successfully personified the antiquated male attitude towards their female counterparts, while Andrew Doig as Mr Tooley gave his usual sterling performance as the loud, arrogant Ford Executive from the States.

When it comes to well-known political figures such as Barbara Castle and Harold Wilson, impressions thereof must be accurate, and here they were most certainly that. Elinor Hay and Gordon Taylor made the most of the humour in the characters – Gordon appearing complete with mac and pipe! - whilst still delivering the rather dark political sentiments  Mr Hopkins wife, Lisa, sympathetic adviser to Rita, was given the necessary edge by Sharon Cairns.

With a whole host of supporting characters – many of whom demonstrated their own individual characterisations very well – and an ensemble to be proud of, LAMA has put together a fine evening of musical entertainment dealing with subject matter that many of the audience will remember only too well.

Final congratulations go to two very important persons. Director and Choreographer, Fiona Gallacher Stewart whose use of the multilevel set and presentation of innovative dance routines, brought the whole show successfully together, and Musical Director Robert Nee whose control of the ten piece band and excellent vocal training of the cast, placed Made In Dagenham amongst the highlights of Leven AMA’s long list of productions.

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