The Ultimate Guide to Made in Dagenham the Musical
When it comes to musicals that seamlessly blend heart, humour, and a message of social justice, Made in Dagenham the Musical stands out as a hidden gem in the world of theatre. It’s not just a show—it’s an experience that combines the warmth of human connection with the power of a movement that changed history. Drawing its inspiration from the acclaimed 2010 film, which in turn was rooted in the real-life events of the 1968 Ford sewing machinists’ strike, this musical weaves together themes of resilience, solidarity, and the unyielding determination of ordinary people fighting for what is right. It’s a show that reminds audiences of the impact a small group of determined individuals can have, proving that even the seemingly powerless can spark monumental change.
Erewash Musical Society took on this vibrant and challenging production with aplomb, bringing it to life on the stage of The Duchess Theatre in Long Eaton. From the moment the curtain rose, audiences were captivated by the polished performances, the infectious energy of the cast, and the sheer passion for storytelling that radiated from the stage. This wasn’t just another musical—it was a heartfelt celebration of the triumph of the human spirit. Every scene was imbued with authenticity and care, highlighting not only the historical significance of the story but also its modern-day relevance.
At the helm of this remarkable production was the skilful direction of Chrissie Oakden, whose vision brought the best out of every performer and creative element. Her ability to balance the humour, emotional depth, and historical gravitas of the story ensured that audiences were laughing, crying, and reflecting in equal measure. Under her guidance, Erewash Musical Society crafted a production that was not only entertaining but also thought-provoking, honouring the legacy of the women who fought for equality while making their stories accessible and engaging for modern audiences.
If you’re wondering what makes Made in Dagenham so special or are keen to uncover the details of Erewash Musical Society’s celebrated rendition, this ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From its empowering message to the stand-out performances and the unforgettable staging, Made in Dagenham is a musical that deserves its moment in the spotlight—and this production ensured it got just that.
Is Made in Dagenham a Good Musical?
Absolutely! Made in Dagenham the Musical may not have reached the same level of global recognition as iconic shows like Les Misérables or The Phantom of the Opera, but it is no less impactful in its storytelling and emotional resonance. This musical proves that a show doesn’t need a sprawling epic scale to deliver a powerful message. Instead, it thrives by showcasing the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people, creating a narrative that is as engaging as it is inspiring. With a book by the brilliant Richard Bean, music composed by the acclaimed David Arnold, and lyrics by the talented Richard Thomas, the show masterfully blends humour, heartfelt drama, and an empowering social message to create a unique and memorable theatre experience.
The musical’s thematic core revolves around gender equality, workers’ rights, and the resilience of individuals when faced with injustice. These universal themes make it a standout piece, resonating with modern audiences while also paying tribute to the pivotal historical events of the 1968 Ford sewing machinists’ strike. However, the strength of the show lies not only in its weighty subject matter but also in its ability to balance this with light-hearted wit, clever dialogue, and catchy, toe-tapping musical numbers. Songs like “This is What We Want” and “Everybody Out” inject energy and humour into the narrative, ensuring that audiences are thoroughly entertained while absorbing the show’s important message.
Erewash Musical Society’s production exemplified these qualities to perfection. Their talented cast and crew brought the story to life with palpable passion and energy, creating a performance that was equal parts entertaining and deeply moving. The vivid costumes transported audiences to 1968, while the lively choreography added vibrancy to each musical number, making the stage come alive with dynamic motion. Every element, from the heartfelt solos to the high-energy ensemble pieces, was meticulously executed, ensuring that the production did justice to the charm and depth of the original show.
What truly makes Made in Dagenham stand out as a great musical is its ability to leave a lasting impression on its audience. It’s a story that champions the underdog, celebrates collective action, and reminds us all of the power of standing up for what’s right. Erewash Musical Society’s rendition captured these elements with sincerity and flair, delivering a performance that was not only a joy to watch but also a thought-provoking reflection on equality, determination, and the strength of the human spirit.
What Is the Plot of Made in Dagenham the Musical?
Set against the backdrop of 1968, Made in Dagenham brings to life the extraordinary story of the women sewing machinists at Ford’s Dagenham factory. These women, who were classified as “unskilled” and paid significantly less than their male counterparts, had endured this inequity for years. But when the company reclassified their work to further devalue it, they reached a breaking point. Unwilling to accept the systemic injustice, they decided to take a stand. What began as a small-scale workplace grievance grew into a national movement, and at the heart of it was Rita O’Grady, an ordinary woman who unexpectedly rose to the challenge of leadership.
Rita’s journey lies at the heart of the musical. Initially a reluctant spokesperson, she evolves into an impassioned activist and a symbol of hope and determination. Her character encapsulates the strength and resolve of the women she represents, as she fights to make their voices heard in an environment dominated by male executives and union leaders. Along the way, Rita faces a series of challenges that test her resolve—not just from the entrenched sexism of Ford’s management but also from within her own community. Her activism begins to strain her relationships at home, particularly with her husband, Eddie, who struggles to reconcile Rita’s growing role in the public eye with her responsibilities as a wife and mother.
As the strike escalates, the women’s fight garners national attention, drawing both support and backlash from various corners of society. Politicians, unions, and the media become involved, amplifying the stakes of their struggle. The women are inspired by Rita’s fiery speeches and unwavering determination, but the journey is not without its obstacles. Ford’s management employs manipulative tactics to try to discredit the strike, while the women themselves face internal doubts about whether they can truly succeed against such a powerful corporation. Despite these setbacks, their collective resolve grows stronger, culminating in a groundbreaking moment for gender equality.
What makes the plot so compelling is its ability to weave personal struggles with larger societal themes. While the focus remains on the women’s fight for equal pay, the narrative also delves into the ripple effects of the strike. The audience witnesses the toll it takes on Rita’s family, the solidarity it fosters among the machinists, and the wider societal impact as people across the country begin to rally behind the cause. Ultimately, their efforts paved the way for the passing of the Equal Pay Act of 1970, a landmark piece of legislation that forever changed the landscape of workers’ rights in the UK.
Erewash Musical Society’s performance captured the heart and soul of this story with precision and flair. Through heartfelt acting, period-appropriate costumes, and evocative staging, the production brought 1968 to life in vivid detail. The cast expertly balanced the humour and emotional depth of the narrative, ensuring that every scene resonated with the audience. From Rita’s transformative journey to the camaraderie of the machinists, the story unfolded with authenticity and energy, leaving audiences both inspired and thoroughly entertained. This balance of emotional gravitas and uplifting moments ensured that the audience was engaged from the very first scene to the final bow.
How Long Is Made in Dagenham the Musical?
Made in Dagenham the Musical typically runs for approximately two and a half hours, including an intermission. This runtime is perfectly calibrated to allow the story to unfold at a natural pace, giving the audience ample time to connect with the characters, immerse themselves in the historical context, and enjoy the vibrant musical numbers. The balance between narrative development and entertainment ensures that the show feels neither rushed nor overly drawn out. Instead, it strikes a harmonious rhythm that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
The structure of the musical allows for a smooth ebb and flow of emotions. The audience is taken on a journey that blends moments of laughter and joy with scenes of deep emotional resonance. The first act sets the stage, introducing the factory workers and the initial spark of their fight for equal pay. By the intermission, tensions have escalated, leaving the audience eager to see how the story will unfold. The second act delves deeper into the personal and societal stakes of the strike, building to a rousing and satisfying conclusion that underscores the importance of the machinists’ victory.
Erewash Musical Society’s production adhered to this established structure while adding its own unique flair to keep the audience fully captivated. The careful pacing ensured that every moment on stage felt purposeful and impactful. From the poignant solo performances that highlighted individual characters’ struggles and triumphs to the energetic ensemble numbers that brought the factory floor to life, the production maintained an excellent balance. The smooth transitions between these scenes prevented any lulls, allowing the narrative to flow seamlessly and keeping the audience emotionally invested.
What truly made the runtime feel engaging and rewarding was the variety within the show’s content. The musical’s two and a half hours are packed with a dynamic blend of heartfelt moments, comedic relief, and show-stopping musical numbers. Songs like “This Is What We Want” and “Everybody Out” burst with energy, drawing the audience into the action, while quieter moments, such as Eddie’s heartfelt solo “The Letter,” offer a poignant counterbalance. These contrasting elements keep the performance dynamic and ensure that viewers remain enthralled throughout.
Erewash Musical Society’s execution further elevated this balance. Their meticulous attention to detail in staging, choreography, and characterisation ensured that each scene flowed naturally into the next. The cast’s ability to shift seamlessly between humour, drama, and musical exuberance showcased their versatility and kept the audience fully engaged. By the time the curtain fell, the audience was left with the sense that they had experienced a richly layered and well-rounded story, delivered with both heart and precision.
In the world of musical theatre, two and a half hours can feel like an eternity if not handled with care, but Made in Dagenham uses every minute to its advantage. Erewash Musical Society’s production exemplified this, crafting a performance that felt vibrant, purposeful, and utterly absorbing from beginning to end.
Is Made in Dagenham Funny?
Yes, and hilariously so! Made in Dagenham the Musical is a shining example of how comedy can be used to tackle weighty issues such as gender inequality and workers’ rights without diminishing their importance. The show’s sharp wit and cleverly written dialogue are peppered with laugh-out-loud moments that ensure the audience remains entertained while also reflecting on the larger social issues at play. It’s this balance of humour and heart that makes the musical so special, allowing it to connect with viewers on multiple levels.
The humour is embedded throughout the show, from its dialogue to its characterisation and even its musical numbers. Larger-than-life figures like Prime Minister Harold Wilson and Barbara Castle inject plenty of comedic flair, with their exaggerated personas providing a playful satire of political figures from the era. Harold Wilson, in particular, offers a source of constant amusement with his bumbling yet endearing portrayal. Meanwhile, Barbara Castle’s no-nonsense attitude and quick wit deliver punchlines that are both biting and empowering, making her one of the standout comedic forces in the story.
However, the comedy isn’t limited to the political figures. Much of the humour comes directly from the sewing machinists themselves. These women are written as relatable, down-to-earth characters with a knack for sharp one-liners and sarcastic banter. Their snappy exchanges not only bring levity to the plot but also create a sense of camaraderie and warmth that underscores their collective struggle. Songs like “This Is What We Want” and “Everybody Out” brim with energy and playful lyrics, highlighting the machinists’ cheeky, rebellious spirit. These moments of levity keep the tone accessible and engaging, even as the narrative delves into more serious subject matter.
Erewash Musical Society’s production embraced the humour of Made in Dagenham with expert timing and flair. The cast delivered the show’s comedy with a natural ease that resonated with the audience, ensuring that the punchlines landed perfectly. Laurie Trott, in the role of Beryl, was a comedic standout, capturing the character’s larger-than-life personality with both charm and impeccable timing. Her lines were delivered with such flair that they often brought the house down, showcasing her ability to embody a character who is both brash and lovable.
Beyond the individual performances, the ensemble work also contributed significantly to the humour. The playful choreography and spirited performances in ensemble numbers added layers of comedy to the production, creating visually engaging and laugh-inducing scenes. Moments like the machinists banding together to mock the factory’s management or Harold Wilson awkwardly navigating political negotiations had the audience roaring with laughter, yet these scenes never detracted from the show’s deeper themes. Instead, they served to make the story more relatable and enjoyable.
What sets the humour of Made in Dagenham apart is its ability to coexist with the narrative’s serious undertones. The show never loses sight of the importance of the issues it addresses, but it uses comedy to ensure the story remains approachable and uplifting. This careful balance was expertly maintained in Erewash Musical Society’s production, where the humour not only entertained but also enhanced the emotional resonance of the story. By infusing moments of levity into a tale of struggle and triumph, the production ensured that the audience remained engaged while still appreciating the gravity of the machinists’ fight for equality.
In the end, Made in Dagenham succeeds in being both hilarious and heartfelt, a combination that makes it a joy to watch. Erewash Musical Society’s cast brought this humour to life with such energy and authenticity that the audience was kept laughing throughout the performance, all while remaining deeply invested in the story’s powerful message. It’s a testament to the brilliance of the musical and the skill of the cast that the laughter never overshadowed the story’s emotional depth but instead enriched the overall experience.
Who Is the Main Character in Made in Dagenham?
Rita O’Grady is the heart of Made in Dagenham the Musical. As a sewing machinist turned activist, Rita’s character embodies courage, resilience, and an unwavering sense of justice. Her journey from a quiet, unassuming factory worker to a national symbol of the fight for equal pay is deeply inspiring and serves as the emotional core of the show.
In Erewash Musical Society’s production, Rita was portrayed by Rebecca Charnley, whose performance was both heartfelt and powerful. Her nuanced portrayal captured the character’s vulnerability, strength, and growth, earning well-deserved praise from the audience. Standout moments included her stirring solo numbers, which left a lasting impression.
Erewash Musical Society’s Production: A Closer Look
Erewash Musical Society’s rendition of Made in Dagenham was a triumph of energy, enthusiasm, and meticulous craftsmanship. Under the expert direction of Chrissie Oakden, the production balanced humour and drama with precision, making for an unforgettable experience.
Made in Dagenham Cast
- Rita O’Grady: Rebecca Charnley delivered a compelling performance as the show’s central character, showcasing both strength and emotional depth.
- Eddie O’Grady: Simon Parker portrayed Rita’s husband with nuance, bringing sincerity and pathos to his solo “The Letter.”
- Connie: Maria Lawrence embodied the role of union representative with warmth and conviction.
- Beryl: Laurie Trott provided much of the show’s comic relief, delivering her lines with perfect timing and charm.
- Sandra, Clare, and Cass: Lydia Page, Emily Oaken, and Clare Kay respectively brought their characters to life with flair and personality.
- Harold Wilson: Keith Butcher played the bumbling Prime Minister with comedic brilliance, balancing humour with authenticity.
- Lisa Hopkins: Louise O’Boyle’s portrayal of Lisa Hopkins was both elegant and heartfelt, adding depth to her scenes.
- Barbara Castle: Fiona Wright brought gravitas and charisma to the formidable politician.
The male cast members, while secondary to the female-driven narrative, provided strong support. Richard Comfort, Richard Dawson, and Ross Lowe delivered memorable performances, enhancing the ensemble dynamic.
Made in Dagenham Production Team
- Choreographer Alex Tavener created period-appropriate yet exciting routines that perfectly complemented the music.
- Musical Director Dave Dallard ensured each song was performed with precision, blending vocals and instrumentation seamlessly.
- Chrissie Oakden’s direction brought clarity and vision to the production, expertly balancing the show’s lighter and heavier moments.
- The attention to detail in costumes, props, and lighting brought the 1960s setting vividly to life, immersing the audience in the era.
Why Erewash Musical Society’s Production Stood Out
What truly set Erewash Musical Society’s Made in Dagenham apart was the palpable passion and dedication of everyone involved. The cast’s chemistry, the creative direction, and the evident care taken in every aspect of the production made it a standout performance. Chrissie Oakden’s ability to draw out authentic, engaging performances from the cast ensured that the audience connected deeply with the story and its characters.
From the joyous ensemble numbers to the quiet, heartfelt solos, every moment felt deliberate and impactful. The production was a celebration not only of a pivotal moment in history but also of the power of community theatre to tell stories that matter.
Whether you’re drawn to Made in Dagenham for its historical significance, its toe-tapping numbers, or its empowering message, this musical has something for everyone. Erewash Musical Society’s production proved just how impactful and entertaining this show can be, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. If you ever have the chance to see this musical—or better yet, experience another Erewash Musical Society performance—it’s not to be missed!
Made In Dagenham in 2025
Simon Parker is travelling back to the sixties, this time as the Director for LEOS Musical Theatre Group’s production of Made in Dagenham. The show takes to the stage on the 8th of April 2025 and will also feature our Made In Dagenham choreographer Alex Tavener – but this time on stage!
