The last thing I expected from Made in Dagenham - the Musical, was that it would be funny.

Actually, the last thing I would have expected was the idea of turning a story about female workers in a car factory striking for equal pay into a musical.

Turns out it works and works and works well.

At least the Maryport Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society's production of it does.

The society is one of the first amateur companies to get the rights to this relatively new musical and I would urge people not to miss this chance to see it.

There are so many laugh out loud moments - not always polite but funny nevertheless.

There are also some very moving moments as a very ordinary wife, mother and factory worker, Rita O'Grady (Zoe Robertson) finds herself thrust into the spotlight of history as she begins  fight for equal pay for women.

The toll is takes on her family life and the reaction of her otherwise loving husband, played by Luke Matear, provided some of the most tender and moving parts of the show.

Congratulations to Stuart Evans for his wonderfully funny portrayal of then Prime Minister, Harold Wilson. The American song, sung by Jon Anderson, was hilarious.

Stand Up, Made in Dagenham and Everybody Out are the rousing songs that will leave the theatre with you.

I am not sure this is a musical I would have thought of going to but I am more than glad I did.

It is another triumph for director and choreographer Clark Wilkinson, who is joined this year by musical director Alex Clarke.

The show runs at the Carnegie Theatre in Workington from next Wednesday to Saturday.

Tickets are available from the Carnegie or by calling 01900 602122.

Parental guidance is advised due to strong language.

VIV PATERSON