Clash: 1. Chances

Joan Craig meets Bloomsbury socialist Tony Dacre while supporting her union in the discussions leading up to the General Strike.

Ellen Wilkinson's political romance, set during the 1926 General Strike, explores the clash between North and South, work and life, tradition and emerging roles. Joan Craig bridges all these divides with energy and talent, but ultimately has to choose whose side she's on.

Written by Ellen Wilkinson.

Dramatised for radio by Sharon Oakes.

Joan Craig …. Kate O’Flynn
Tony Dacre …. Paul Ready
Gerry Blain …. Luke Nunn
Mary Maud Meadowes ….Jane Whittenshaw
William Royd …. Roger Ringrose
Helen Dacre …. Emma Handy
Harry Browne …. Stefan Adegbola
Factory worker …. Charlotte East
Chemical Worker …. Ian Dunnett Jnr

Directors: Ciaran Bermingham and Jessica Dromgoole

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 2020.

Ellen Wilkinson was an all too rare working class, female voice from early 20th century literature. As one of the first ever women MPs and cabinet members, she is better known as a political pioneer. Joan's story echoes Wilkinson's own life. A woman with major personal and political dilemmas: Joan is born into a working class family, fights for social equality but is enchanted by world of ease and luxury represented by Mary Maud Meadowes and Tony Dacre.