Audiences are set to be transported back in time with Cromer and Sheringham Operatic and Dramatic Society's latest production.
It steps away briefly from the timeless classics of musical theatre to present Made in Dagenham, based on the hit film of the same name, at Cromer Pier from May 27 to June 3.
Set in the 60s and inspired by true events, it tells the story of a group of women at the Ford car factory in Dagenham fighting for equal pay, who take their plight to the very top of the political establishment.
They are led, reluctantly at first, by Rita O'Grady, who is played by Annabelle Culley, who grew up in Sheringham. She acts as a spokesperson for the women despite her husband Eddie's protestation. Eddie is played by Cromer-based Josh Hinds.
With witty script and fresh new songs and a vibrant score, Made in Dagenham highlights the plight of these factory workers, the actions of which which eventually leads to the introduction of the Equal Pay Act in 1970.
The story also includes contributions from the Prime Minister at the time, Harold Wilson, and his Secretary of State, Barbara Castle.
CSODS chairman Robin Taylor, who is also the show's director, said: 'It's a big show with a big heart, so it deserves a big announcement! It is the first time that this fresh British musical, which is based on the the hit film of the same name, has been performed in Cromer and we also believe it is the first non-youth production of the show anywhere in Norfolk.
'We have a cast of over 40 actors drawn from the local area, with some very familiar faces among the ranks too.
'A brand-new set has been built especially for our production, and our costume requirements are such that our usual supplier cannot provide the quantities that we need so we have had to source an addtional stockist. We will have a live band who will perform wonderful new songs that evoke the 60s era in which the story is set.'
Tickets are available online at www.cromerpier.co.uk or from the booking office by calling 01263 512495.
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