Digital Media and Radio Lecturer Gavin Orr is an expert at delivering his lines in class to his Forth Valley College students, but he is gearing up to hit the high notes himself with Stirling and Bridge of Allan Operatic Society (SABOS), in their production of Made In Dagenham, later this month.
He plays Eddie O’Grady, one of the lead roles in the musical version of the hit movie at the MacRobert Arts Centre in Stirling from Tuesday 28 March until Saturday 1 April.
Gavin plays the husband of lead character Rita O’Grady who in 1968 is merrily juggling her responsibilities as a mother, wife and factory worker. But life takes a dramatic turn when the girls in the stitching room of Ford’s Dagenham car plant have their pay downgraded.
The story follows Rita as she and her colleagues battle the massive Ford Motor Company and a corrupt union, all the while trying to keep her family together. Inspired by a true story and based on the hit movie, ‘Made in Dagenham’ is an uplifting celebration of love, friendship and the extraordinary courage of ordinary people.
Gavin said: “I was contacted at the start of the year, from a friend in the company, asking if I’d be interested in auditioning for the role. I knew very little about the show so was intrigued. In such a quick turnaround, I had been contacted, sent the audition pieces, auditioned and got the part in less than a week.
“Made In Dagenham is a very heartwarming and poignant show with themes still very relevant today. It’s got a great mix of musical numbers, comedy and serious moments, which cover this amazing snapshot of history.
“As far as I’m aware some Art and Design lecturer colleagues already have their tickets, the Media/Sound Team are planning a night out to come along and see it and I think some of my students are curious to see if I can sing and act - let’s not talk about dancing! - so they will all be there. No pressure then!”
Suitable for everyone over the age of 12 years of age, tickets are priced at £19 / £17 concession and can be bought via the MacRobert Centre website.