STRATFORD Musical Theatre Company is striking in aid of Shakespeare Hospice.
The company perform ‘Made in Dagenham’ from November 13 to 16 at Stratford Playhouse, following a charity preview in aid of the Shottery-based hospice on Tuesday November 12.
The British musical comedy, inspired by a true story, focuses on friendship, love and the importance of people fighting for rights.
In 1968, women from the Ford Dagenham plant embarked on a local battle for equal pay that unexpectedly brought them national attention. The musical tells the tale of the key people in the strike which almost brought Ford to a standstill.
Director Richard Sandle-Keynes said: “It’s almost 50 years since the actions of a group of East London seamstresses led to women receiving equal pay for equal work and yet, with the gender pay gap and the #MeToo movement, it still seems very relevant today.
“The show is brash, bold and comic but at the same time touching and complex. It’s great to see a musical with such strong female characters.”
The charity preview ill include a drinks reception, and a post-show talk from the director and some of the cast. Tickets are available through The Shakespeare Hospice website.
Hospice spokeswoman Caroline Lawrence said: “We are delighted to be working with Richard and the Stratford Musical Theatre Company for a special charity preview performance of Made in Dagenham.
“We are looking forward to joining our community for an evening of entrainment to raise money to support the fantastic work of the hospice.”
Tickets for Made in Dagenham cost from £16 and are on sale via the RSC box office – in person, online at www.rsc.org.uk/buy-tickets/items/44125, or by calling 01789 331111.
* RESIDENTS are being encouraged to write a will in aid of The Shakespeare Hospice.
Solicitors across south Warwickshire are giving their time for free throughout October to support the Shottery-based hospice..
Charity spokeswoman Bridget Richards said: “Writing a will is beneficial at any stage of life. This is an ideal time to make or update your will and support your local hospice at the same time.
“All donations help us to continue caring for local people living with a life limiting illness, and those who matter to them.”
Visit www.theshakespearehospice.org.uk/willmonth or call 01789 266852 for more information.
