Bringing Grit, Grace, and Glorious Vocals to Garboldisham with Made in Dagenham
Bringing Grit, Grace, and Glorious Vocals to Garboldisham with Made in Dagenham
This October, the Palgrave Players are set to raise the roof at Garboldisham Village Hall with their latest production — Made in Dagenham, a musical that blends humour, heart, and history in a powerful celebration of working-class courage.
Running from 23rd to 25th October 2025, the show is inspired by the real-life events of the 1968 Ford sewing machinists’ strike, when a group of women from Dagenham stood up to one of the world’s largest car manufacturers — and the British Government — to demand equal pay. What began as a local dispute became a landmark moment in the fight for gender equality, and Made in Dagenham brings that story to life with toe-tapping tunes, sharp wit, and unforgettable characters.
At the centre of the action is Rita O’Grady, played by Nicola Diggins, a working mother who finds herself thrust into the role of activist. With her husband Eddie (Matthew Corry) and children Sharon and Graham (Scarlett Carter and Thomas Hutson) by her side, Rita’s journey is one of transformation — from reluctant leader to fierce advocate. The O’Grady family offers a poignant glimpse into the everyday struggles of 1968 households, where love, loyalty, and the occasional kitchen-table rebellion fuel the fight for a better future.
But Rita isn’t alone. The ladies of Made in Dagenham are stepping into the spotlight — and they’re bringing grit, grace, and glorious vocals with them. From Beryl’s no-nonsense sass to Clare’s wide-eyed optimism, this ensemble of strong, spirited women is ready to raise their voices and demand change… with a killer soundtrack to boot. Their camaraderie, clashes, and courage form the emotional backbone of the show, reminding audiences that solidarity starts with speaking up.
Of course, no strike story is complete without a bit of workplace tension — and the men of Made in Dagenham deliver it in spades. From union bosses to factory-floor banterers, they bring drama, charm, and comic timing to the stage. Whether they’re stirring the pot or trying to keep the peace, this talented bunch adds depth, humour, and a dash of chaos to the story of solidarity and change. They may not be leading the charge, but they’re certainly not standing still.
The production also features Douglas Porter as Prime Minister Harold Wilson and Vicky Tofte as Barbara Castle, the Secretary of State who ultimately helped push the Equal Pay Act forward. Will Charsley plays Mr. Tooley, the brash American boss from Ford, whose transatlantic arrogance clashes with the realities of British labour. Sebastian St John Clarke takes on the role of Mr. Hopkins, the conflicted local manager caught between corporate pressure and personal conscience, while Lisa Solden portrays Mrs. Hopkins, whose quiet dignity and growing empathy offer a glimpse of change from within.
Directed by Cathal Prendergast and Hannah Wells, Musical Direction by Michael Benton and produced by the Palgrave Players’ dedicated team of volunteers, Made in Dagenham promises an evening of laughter, tears, and toe-tapping tunes — all wrapped in a story that still resonates today. It’s a celebration of courage, community, and the power of ordinary people to shape history.
🎟️ Tickets are available now on Ticketsource. Early booking is recommended.
Information about Palgrave Players
Palgrave Players are a relatively young musical theatre group but our roots are deep within the local community. Our goal is to create shows that resonate with audiences and provide a platform for local talent of all ages and backgrounds. In May we won Best Musical and Best Production in the East Region at the prestigious NODA East Awards 2025 for the musical “Once”. This incredible achievement marks a huge milestone for such a recently formed group.
For press enquiries, interviews, or group bookings, please contact: Ppsecretaries@gmail.com
