Made in Dagenham

Set in 1968, this story is based on real life events.  Women machinists, making car seats at the Ford car assembly factory in Dagenham were considered unskilled and felt undervalued.  Their push for a pay rise, and constant indifference from the men and management, led them to decide the only way forward was strike action.  Subsequently, their ensuing action for equal pay led to the Equal Pay Act of 1970.

As the nominated spokeswoman, Rita O`Grady, just a normal mother of two, was dropped into a world of unions and government.  Playing her, Alice Goodall gave an impressive performance, playing a warm, animated, and totally believable character.  Her speech at the TUC conference was sincere and heartfelt, delivering all numbers with conviction, especially the love duet with husband Eddie, “We Nearly Had It All”, and the rousing “Stand Up”.

Eddie, played by Michael Panichi, was “a real man’s man”, who believed that a woman’s place was in the home.  Reading “The Letter” was an emotional moment, with Michael showing a more sensitive Eddie, with him eventually coming round with great pride for what his wife had achieved.  Playing their children Sharon and Graham, were Rosie and Henry, giving lively performances.

A strong group of factory workers demonstrated camaraderie and team spirit.  Connie a staunch union representative, and Rita`s guide, was convincingly played by Alison Barrett.  Connie’s song was quite a moving moment.  The sexy Sandra was capably played by Samantha Hempsall, Kerry-Ann Roe was a rollicking Beryl, who definitely did not mince her words.  The rather slow “ditsy” Clare was well conveyed by Charli Twyford, who had excellent comic timing, and her song “Wossname” was superb.  Rebekah Street, as Cass brought out real fun and humour.

All the other main characters gave believable performances, Ron Murfin, union man Monty, showed the conflict between loyalty to the company and wanting to support the women.  The middle-class factory owner Mr. Hopkins was played in a condescending manner by Dan Goodall.  With an excellent portrayal as his wife Lisa, Amy Bradford was superb, supporting the striking women, and getting under the character wonderfully. 

Of course, politicians must be involved, and Ray Elliott, complete with pipe and mac, made a good humorous impression of Harold Wilson.  Josephine Walker characterized Barbara Castle with real sincerity in her support for the workers.  “In An Ideal World” was sung with strength and conviction. 

E. Montgomery Ashford certainly made an impact as Mr. Tooley, the loud, domineering sleezy representative sent in from America to resolve the strike. “This is America” was an impressive opening to Act 2.  Brilliantly worked and you could hear every word.

This was an energetic production, with strong choral content and real energy.  The many scene changes were smooth, and costumes and props were very much in keeping with the era.

The choreography was crisp and lively, and the small band supported the cast well, although a little on the loud side.  Set design and construction was by Barry Smith, Ron Murfin, Ray Elliott, and David Dilmore.  Lighting design by Aaron Mace.  Wardrobe by Denise Brown, Deb Weetman, and Fiona Church.

Very well done to Deb and the production team, allowing for some sound issues, a good enjoyable presentation.

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