We sat down for an exclusive interview with Chiara Sparkes, who is playing Maggie Wallace in ‘Stand and Deliver: the Lee Jeans Sit-In’, telling the remarkable true story of the landmark industrial action when the Greenock Lee Jeans factory workers staged a 7 month long sit-in in 1981, fighting to keep their jobs.
Stand and Deliver is touring Scotland until 10th June – Tickets here.
How aware were you of the Lee Jeans strike before becoming involved in Stand & Deliver?
I honestly had no idea about the Lee Jeans strike, which feels crazy now because it’s such an amazing story in Scotland. One of my hopes from the show is that it helps educate more people about the strike and these women, because I’m so proud to be part of telling their story.
What was it like to work with Maggie Wallace and the other strikers during the making of the show?
Working with Maggie and the other strikers was brilliant. I was nervous to meet her at first because I’d heard such amazing things and really wanted to do her and the piece justice. But meeting them made the whole experience even more special. The first day was actually really emotional.
What is it like to perform as a real, living person as opposed to a character?
Playing a real, living person is a real honour, although there’s definitely pressure because you want to do them justice. At the same time, you also have to bring something of yourself to the role, and that’s been one of my favourite parts of the process. Plus Maggie Wallace is some woman so that’s a really plus!
How does the music play a role in the show and how is it performing live?
The music plays a huge role in the show. I’ve always seen it almost like a soundtrack to a documentary. Performing those 80s classics live with the band every night is such a brilliant part of being in the piece, and all the different musical styles make it a real journey. “Stand and Deliver” is probably my favourite!
What is the importance of recognising the strike in 2026?
I think we’ve lost a lot of community in the world. Their story is such a powerful example of people using their voices and standing up for what they believe in. There’s still a lot we can learn from them about resilience and not giving up.
To what extent do you think we still have the capability and capacity to show the solidarity and determination shown by the strikers in 1981?
I definitely think we still have the ability to show the same solidarity and determination as the strikers did in 1981. It comes down to belief, courage, and people standing together when something matters.