In 1968, sewing machines in the Ford factory in Dagenham fell silent.
Female machinists walked out after finding out their work was classed as ‘unskilled’ and that they were being paid 15% less than their male counterparts. The strike that followed was a catalyst for the passing of the Equal Pay Act 1970.
Now, the story is being told more than 560 miles north in Inverness.
Made in Dagenham
Made in Dagenham is a musical inspired by the true story of the women of Ford Dagenham, based on the 2010 movie with the same name.
Despite the geographical distance between Dagenham and the Highlands, and the decades that have passed since the strike, Inverness Musical Theatre (IMT) has chosen to stage the show as its annual production at Eden Court at the end of the month.
“It’s still relevant in today’s society,” said Alison Ozog, a team lead physiotherapist at Raigmore and member of IMT since 2013.
“We have certainly come a long way since these women went on strike in the 60s, but we haven’t yet made it to a completely fair and equal society in any sense. It’s essential that we do not forget the people in our history who have fought hard to bring about positive change and we all need to work together to keep their messages alive.”
Relating to Rita
Alison plays the principal role of machinist Rita O’Grady. She is at the helm of a cast of 46, with ages ranging from 17 to 77 – not including four cheeky little ones who alternate playing Rita’s children.
She explained the personal journey her character goes on in the musical: “Rita is a quiet, reserved person who, along with the other factory women, is frustrated by the decision by management to re-classify her job as ‘B-grade, unskilled’. Angered by the way in which the men dismiss the women’s complaint, she starts to find her voice as the show progresses and ends up leading the strike that follows.
“I like that Rita is quite an everyday person that goes about her daily life without drawing any fuss or attention, but is able to stand up for herself when the time is right – I feel I can relate to that quite well.”
The musical also touches on the strain the strikes put on the home lives and relationships of the women involved. At Alison’s side is Matthias Kremer who plays her husband, Eddie. It isn’t too difficult for the pair to have chemistry on stage considering they are engaged to be married later this year after meeting at IMT back in 2016.
Humourous and heartwarming
Though the message at the heart of Made in Dagenham is poignant, its portrayal is bedazzled with the nostalgia of go-go boots, toe-tapping musical numbers and a flashy Ford Cortina.
Alison said: “The music is brilliant! There are so many catchy and fun songs. The humour of the show is great too, there are many funny moments, one liners and comedy characters.
“The overall message is still so important and relevant in this day and age. It’s a terrific show and one that will be sure to inspire many emotions while you watch it.”
Taking to the stage
With opening night less than a week away, Alison said the cast and crew at IMT are ready to stand up and sing out for the Ford Dagenham women.
If you have been to any of the company’s previous shows, including Legally Blonde and The Wedding Singer, you might recognise some familiar faces. If you haven’t, you might still in the likes of Barbra Castle and Harold Wilson.
“We’re running the full show now and getting ready to take it to the stage next week,” said Alison.
“It is always exciting at this point as you really start to see the show coming together, especially when you add costumes and props and musicians.”
Made in Dagenham will be at Eden Court in Inverness from March 27 to 30. Tickets are available at eden-court.co.uk or by calling 01463 234234.
