Made In Dagenham- The Musical

 

It was great to see TAOS back on stage with their lively production of Made in Dagenham. Being  an Essex girl myself, this musical had immediate appeal. The New Hall in Tiverton is an ideal venue  as it is suitably equipped to enable simple staging and effective lighting. The back projection  worked well, each scene providing authentic images of 60s home and factory interiors as well as  original press photos of the striking women. 

The main storyline focuses on the 1968 Ford factory women’s strike for equal pay with men. The  opposition between the men and women was established early on with the “Made in Dagenham”  number, together with clear characterisation of the main characters, such as the hilarious sweary  

Beryl and ditsy Clare. Great vocals were evident, in particular from Sandra and Connie. Rita’s  increasing confidence was demonstrated in her fight to gain equal pay and commitment to the  strike.  

There were many highlights throughout the evening: Harold Wilson and his Laurel and Hardy  inspired civil servant sidekicks provided a wonderful satirical jab at the government. Cortina Man  was hilarious in his Austin Powers take-off. Eddie’s poignant rendition of “The Letter” was  particularly moving and the shop steward’s tongue twister grievance gained a well-deserved round  of applause!  

I know that there were many challenges faced by TAOS during this production. Covid struck more  than once. However, this society galvanised their resources, many members doubling up and  stepping in at the last minute to ensure that the show truly did go on. The collective spirit was  clearly present and I would like to acknowledge all those involved in this production for continuing  to keep musical theatre alive.  

Particular thanks go to your President, Edna Browning, for making me feel so welcome. Her  passion for TAOS is quite infectious and I look forward to seeing you all again next year.  

Any observation made by the reviewer can only be based on what they see at the performance in question.  The  reviewer may have received information in advance of the performance, and it is inevitable that their assessment will be  affected by that knowledge.  

The N.O.D.A. Representative’s intention is to give an objective critique of the overall production and in particular the  performance viewed.  It should be remembered that any review of this nature can only be objective as far as the  techniques used during the performance observed.  Any criticisms expressed may not have been valid at other  performances and are only made to encourage higher standards in Amateur Theatre.  

It is hoped that the audience’s appreciation of your efforts will have given everyone a lift and encouraged you to greater  achievements in the future and that the observations made by the reviewer will prove helpful in improving future  productions.

 

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