Made in Dagenham

This production had been postponed for about two years because of covid restrictions but the wait for its arrival on stage was worthwhile for two reasons. First of all, the quality of production was what we have come to expect from the society and secondly it coincided with the society’s return the newly refurbished Assembly Rooms.

It is a powerful story based on true events with plenty of action and changes of scene. I must commend the thoughts behind the use of the set and the professional way in which the changes were made. At no time was the audience left waiting and wondering what was going to happen so well done to the cast and crew for making it happen.

Jane James made an excellent Rita O’Grady and handled the transition from a housewife bringing up two children to the powerhouse behind the changes to employment law superbly. Her singing and acting were a credit to her. Her husband, Eddie, struggled to come to terms with the growing confidence of his wife and the effect on his marriage. Callum Beckett was entrusted with this role and he rose to the challenge and put in a convincing characterisation portraying what many must have felt at the time. There were some strong performances from Rita’s friends at the factory played by Lauren Hart (Clare), Demi Williams (Beryl), Justine Matthews (Sandra) and Michelle Gregory (Cass). Their ensemble singing and dance routines were a delight. There was a touching performance from Laura Whitehouse (Connie) as she came to accept what the women were fighting for but didn’t live to see their success. Andrew Gilman gave an amusing performance as Harold Wilson complete with mannerisms and accent. His aides (Ant Gifford, Jon Mason and Steve Mortimer) were involved in some humorous routines with the Prime Minister. Barbara Castle was pivotal to the outcome of the struggles in the late ‘60s and Nik Ellis provided us with a sympathetic portrayal of her support for the women at Dagenham. She also demonstrated her fine singing voice in the song ‘Ideal World’. Will Lock gave a sterling performance as Tooley, the overbearing American, determined to break the resolve of the works. This involved him in a colourful rendition of ‘This is America’. There was more humour from Peter Wilkes (Mr. Hopkins) and Debbie Gill (Lisa Hopkins) as she tried to break away from her lifestyle. I must mention Caitlin Dodds and Connor Dodds as Sharon and Graham, the two O’Grady children. They were confident both in singing and speaking. The future of Tamworth MTC is assured with that sort of talent. There were important contributions from many cast members in cameo parts essential to the story, including Director, James Gorton, as Cortina Man. The dance routines from ensembles and chorus were slick and there was some confident singing throughout. The costumes were appropriate to the era and complimented the action. The whole performance was underpinned by the quality of the set, lighting plot and sound balance. The cast were well supported by sympathetic from the very competent orchestra under the leadership Tim Robinson.

Congratulations to everyone involved!

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