‘Made in Dagenham’ is a 2015 musical which is based on the 2010 film of the same name which in turn is based on the ford sewing machinists strike of 1968. The show centres around Rita O’Grady a worker in the ford car factory in Dagenham. When the women are informed that they are to be re-graded as unskilled workers (which would reduce their pay further) they object to their union leaders. As a means to confuse the women, the factory owner convinces their union rep to get the girls to lodge a grievance which would be inevitably thrown out. The girls agree to register their grievance and select Rita to represent them. When Connie starts teaching Rita more about Union politics, she urges Rita to go further and fight for equal pay; Rita does this and convinces the girls to strike and fight for equality. ‘Made in Dagenham’ is a show that champions the power and strength of women and celebrates a life changing milestone in history.

After the success of the film in 2010, it was revealed in 2011 that a musical adaptation of the film was happening. In the coming year read throughs and two workshops happened which included actress Gemma Arterton playing the lead role of Rita O’Grady. In august of 2013 producers revealed their intent for Arterton to stay on as the lead, and also find a London theatre for the following year. The show was confirmed on March 3rd, 2014 with a view to open in London in the autumn of that year. The production was to be directed by Rupert Goold, choreographed by Aletta Collins, with scenic and costume design by Bunny Christie, sound design by Richard Brooker, and lighting by Jon Clark. The musical had a book by Richard Bean, with music and lyrics by David Arnold and Richard Thomas.

The show began its preview on the 9th of October at the Adelphi Theatre, opening on the 5th of November. The opening night cast included Arterton as Rita, Adrian Der Gregorian as Eddie O’Grady, Mark Hadfield as Harold Wilson, Sophie-Louise Dann as Barbara Hardcastle, Sophie Isaacs as Sandra and Isla Blair as Connie. The musical opened with mixed to positive reviews, but despite the fact that show opened to a good reception, unfortunately ticket sales weren’t strong enough to ensure a successful run and the decision was made to close the show on 11th April 2015.

In 2016 the Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch and Ipswich’s New Wolsey Theatre co-produced a new actor-musician version of the show to run at both venues. The show received favourable reviews after playing at both venues.

‘Made in Dagenham’ is a cracking example of high class original British musical theatre. I was so impressed with it I saw it four times in the West End and I miss it every day.

Given it a listen Besties, it’s well worth it!

Cast recording available on Spotify and Apple Music

FACTS:

Music: David Arnold

Lyrics: Richard Thomas Book: Richard Bean

Theatre: The Adelphi Theatre

Run: 9th October 2014 – 11th April 2015 (Around 200 performances)

OLIVIERS

(NOMINATED) Best actress in a musical – Gemma Arterton, Best scenic design – Bunny Christie

WHATSONSTAGE AWARDS

(NOMINATED) Best new musical, Best actress in a musical – Gemma Arterton, Best scenic design – Bunny Christie, Best lighting design – Jon Clark