Phoenix gearing up for Dagenham musical
THE 1960s inspired musical Made in Dagenham comes to Blyth this week, bringing with it a message of love and fighting for what is right.
Taking place at the Phoenix Theatre from Wednesday until Saturday, the musical comedy is based on the true story of the women’s strikes at the Ford plant in Dagenham in 1968 as they fought for equal pay and to be recognised as skilled workers.
A smash-hit film in 2010, Made in Dagenham was then made into a musical in 2014 and it is being staged by Blyth Music and Theatre Company.
Fictional character Rita O’Grady, played by North East actress and musical theatre graduate Rebecca Sian Currie, leads the Ford sewing machinists strike at the Ford Dagenham plant making worldwide news.
“It will be 20 years since my first lead role with Blyth Music and Theatre Company as Annie, so this will be an extra special production for me and all involved,” said Rebecca. “The music in the show is fantastic and will make you want to jump out of your seat and `stand up’. Rehearsals couldn’t be going any better and I’m lucky to be surrounded by a very talented cast and production team.
“Rita is caring and good natured with a strong sense of right and wrong. Initially, she is not a leader but finds the strength to lead the fight against the management for equal pay for women.
The 1968 strike began when the machinists – who predominantly made car seat covers – were informed their jobs were considered `less skilled’, while men at the plant were considered skilled workers. That inequality was reflected in pay: women were receiving 15% less than rate given to the men.
It was a landmark moment for industry and the actions of those women continue to play their role in history.
Tickets for Made in Dagenham are priced from £13. GORDON BARR What’s On Editor