Made in Dagenham

I really don’t know where to start on this review of an outstanding production. 

Based on the real-life events over fifty years ago in 1968 it tells the story of the strike by women for equal pay at Fords Dagenham plant and this was brought to life with a passion. You could tell, from an audience point of view, how much all of the cast enjoyed staging the production, which was slick and very energetic.  

Heather Smith 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. Sam Whitby 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 Charley Sutton (Clare), Tracey Whitby (Beryl), Paige Williamson (Sandra) and Stephanie Paul (Cass). Their ensemble singing and dance routines were a delight. There was a touching performance from Sally Lightfoot (Connie) as she came to accept what the women were fighting for but didn’t live to see their success. Barbara Castle was pivotal to the outcome of the struggles in the late ‘60s and Stephanie Wilson 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’. Tim Cater 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’. I must mention Eliza Waddilove and Freddie Cathan as Sharon and Graham, the two O’Grady children. They were confident both in singing and speaking.  

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. Musical Director Alex Wood ensured that the orchestra did not overpower the wonderful singing from the company.  Gemma Carracher as choreographer ensured that the dancing was first class.  

The director, Becca Pooley did a sterling job in this her debut production. 

Well done to you all, a first-class performance. 

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