Blackburn solicitor plays iconic politician Barbara Castle in musical

We all know Barbara Castle as an influential trailblazer for women everywhere.

As a town, Blackburn is hugely proud of its former MP.

So much so, that a lasting memorial to this inspirational, fiery and determined woman was unveiled in October 2021.

The statue aims to educate people about Barbara Castle and inspire the next generation to find out more about the formidable character.

Barbara was passionate about women’s rights and fiercely campaigned for equal pay.

A new musical is now bringing to life just how much of an impact Barbara had. Inspired by a true story and based on the hit movie, ‘Made in Dagenham’, the British musical comedy is about friendship, love and the importance of fighting for what is right.

Blackburn solicitor Julie Fisher is turning thespian to play the iconic Barbara in the Skipton musical. Julie is a Regulatory Prosecutor in the Litigation Team at Blackburn with Darwen Council.

She has been involved in musical theatre for over thirty years with various societies and is a trained vocal coach and volunteers with youth theatre groups.

Julie said:

I’m delighted to be playing Barbara Castle in this show – she’s an iconic figure, a significant Labour Party politician who made her mark in what really was a man’s world at that time.  The musical ‘Made in Dagenham’, highlights her intervention in the Ford Dagenham strike –speaking out in support of the women strikers and going on to introduce the Equal Pay Act.

Barbara was often described as ‘radical’ and ‘outspoken’, yet she paved the way for women in politics.

Council Leader, Cllr Phil Riley said:

It was great to see the cast of ‘Made in Dagenham’ visit Blackburn to see our Barbara Castle’s bronze statue.

It is an iconic memorial and shows the lasting impact of Barbara’s legacy.

Julie playing Barbara is wonderful and I wish the cast lots of luck for the play.

Funny, touching and timeless with some great songs, Made in Dagenham shows how ordinary people can do extraordinary things when they stand together.

The show will be performed at The Mart Theatre in Skipton and runs from Thursday 27^th to Saturday 29^th October at 7.15pm. There is also a matinee on the Saturday at 2.15pm.

More information and tickets can be purchased via the link below:
The Mart Theatre – What’s On

Also see:

Barbara Castle’s statue praised for its lasting impact on the town

Children learn how to #BeMoreBarbara to celebrate Jubilee Sq memorial