Made in Dagenham

Based on the 2010 film Made in Dagenham and the true events of 1968, the Ford Dagenham sewing machinists went on strike for equal pay. The experienced cast selected for this production certainly brought the situation to life. Battling for women’s rights this group of ladies made it clear they would not be put off by anyone, this continued throughout the show. There was definitely a militant feel about the show with chorus, both men’s and women’s, putting their mark on their performances.

Beryl (Dawn Jones) made it ‘vocally clear’ there was no messing from Management, whilst Sandra (Sadie Darby) Rita (Karen McMurdo), Cass (Emma Jones), Clare (Caitlyn Bloor) and other sewing machinists, fully endorsed what their agenda was. Great camaraderie from this group of Ladies, they worked well together.

Karen McMurdo demonstrated her excellent stagecraft as Rita O’Grady in this demanding role. Whereas Rita had been voted spokesperson by the group of machinists, she was also juggling commitments with all the problems family life brings. Karen put the emphasis on both of these aspects of the role and this contrast worked well. She led the chorus in some rousing number including ‘Everybody Out’ and ‘Stand Up’ which received the appreciation of the audience. Karen’s speech in the final scene at the TUC Auditorium was truly awesome. One could feel how she rallied the troops, and increased the volume of her speech to a superb level which gave me a lump in my throat, an excellent performance. Rob Jones was rock solid in his interpretation of Eddie, Rita’s longsuffering husband who was left to sort out all the family matters as well as the O’Grady’s two children, Sharon and Graham confidently played by Maddie Collins and James Jaques respectively. I particularly enjoyed Rob’s poignant solo ‘The Letter’ in Act 2 which made a mark with audience, a thought provoking performance. A strong performance from Justine Nelson as Connie Riley, the Union Convenor who also gave us some sad moments later in the piece. Mike Clarke enjoyed a ‘spot on’ performance portraying Harold Wilson whilst Chris Clarke revelled in her characterisation of Barbara Castle. A professional performance from Chris with her rendering of ‘Ideal World’ in Act 2 which was a highlight. We always expect an enthusiastic performance Andrew Bond, and his casting as brash American Mr Tooley was no exception. Leading the Ensemble with ‘This is America’ this was a glittering chorus number which included a nice touch from dancers from M.A. stage School as Cheerleaders. Les Skilton felt very comfortable as Mr Hopkins, Ford’s Managing Director and I must mention a sterling performance from Becky Wallbank, who stepped in at the last moment as the Managing Director’s wife, Lisa, due to an untimely case of Covid. Excellent work Becky, a real trooper!

All minor roles were well executed.

Chorus numbers and choreography were well thought out. The stage crew coped well with the large set, albeit there were one or two pauses between scenes, together with some sound issues, but I was confident these would be sorted out before the next performance. An enjoyable evening’s entertainment, greatly appreciated by all who attended. Thank you NEWTOWN MTC once again for your most excellent hospitality.

This is the opinion of the Reviewer.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.