The Matchgirls
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The Matchgirls: A West End Tribute to Resilience
"The Matchgirls" is a spirited musical that premiered in London’s West End at the Globe Theatre on March 1, 1966, bringing to life the historic 1888 matchgirls strike at the Bryant and May factory in Bow, East London. Written by Bill Owen with music by Tony Russell and directed by Gillian Lynne, the show ran for 119 performances, closing on June 11, 1966. Rooted in real events, it captures the grit and defiance of working-class women who fought against exploitative conditions, blending Cockney humor with a powerful social message. Though its initial run was modest, its legacy endures through cast recordings and periodic revivals.
A Strike That Sparked a Story
Set in the grim tenements of Hope Court, the plot follows Kate, a young factory worker burdened by hazardous conditions, including the risk of "phossy jaw" a disfiguring disease caused by phosphorus exposure. When Kate writes to social reformer Annie Besant for help, their collaboration ignites a movement. Refusing to deny the factory’s abuses, Kate is sacked, prompting her fellow matchgirls to walk out in solidarity. The musical traces their journey from oppression to empowerment, culminating in the strike that pressured Bryant and May to improve wages and ban dangerous white phosphorus, a pivotal moment in UK labor history.
Cockney Spirit in Song and Dance
The score bursts with lively tunes like “We’re Gonna Show ‘Em,” “Cockney Sparrers,” and “Something About You,” reflecting the irrepressible spirit of London’s East End. Tony Russell’s music, paired with Bill Owen’s witty lyrics, infuses the dark subject matter with warmth and optimism. Gillian Lynne’s choreography added a dynamic flair, spotlighting the matchgirls’ unity and defiance. A 1966 cast recording preserves standout performances, offering a glimpse into the production’s infectious energy that softened its gritty narrative for West End audiences.
From 1966 to Modern Revivals
After its West End debut, "The Matchgirls" saw a cast album released and was published by Samuel French Ltd. in 1979, cementing its availability for amateur troupes. Its 125th-anniversary revival in 2013 at Wilton’s Music Hall, staged by Dumbwise with Red Ladder Theatre Company and Unite Education, featured a mix of professional and community actors, emphasizing its East End roots. This production highlighted the strike’s ongoing relevance amid modern labor struggles, proving the show’s adaptability beyond its original three-month run.
A Legacy of Labor and Theatre
"The Matchgirls" stands as more than a period piece; it’s a celebration of collective action that resonates in today’s discussions of workers’ rights. While it didn’t achieve the longevity of contemporaries like "Oliver!," its focus on unsung heroines distinguishes it in West End history. The musical’s blend of historical gravitas and theatrical buoyancy continues to inspire, with amateur productions keeping its message alive. At its core, it honors the matchgirls’ courage, ensuring their 1888 victory echoes through London’s stages.