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How to cast Mary, Jayalalithaa Jayaram

Choosing Mary for the School Nativity. Plus India's iron lady Jayalalithaa Jayaram, 60 Years of the National Childbirth Trust and life after forced marriage.

Jayaram Jayalalithaa, Tamil Nadu's 'Iron lady', died and was buried yesterday at 68. She was a Tamil film star who challenged Tamil Nadu's male-dominated politics and went on to become chief minister of the state.

It's Christmas play season! Across the country, many teachers are casting children in the famous roles of the Nativity story. Traditionally, the most coveted role is that of Mary - but what difficulties are there in casting this role? Jane talks to Samira Ahmed (cast as Mary in 1971) and and Amy Cooke-Hodgson, Expressive Arts teacher at St Saviours School in West London.

We open the archive of the National Childbirth Trust at the Welcome Library to mark their 60 years. From their start with a newspaper advert to a knitting pattern for a uterus.

In 2015, the government's Forced Marriage Unit gave advice and support to 1,220 people who were at risk of being married against their will. Jane speaks to two women who have escaped forced marriages. They tell her what it was like to leave their home and family in order to rebuild their lives.

Presenter: Jane Garvey
Producer: Kirsty Starkey.

Available now

41 minutes

Forced Marriage and Honour Violence

Details of organisations that can provide help and support if you have been affected by forced marriage / honour violence are available viaΒ 
If you are experiencing you can also call our Direct Action Line onΒ 0800 066 066.Β 

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Jane Garvey
Producer Kirsty Starkey
Interviewed Guest Rohini Mohan
Interviewed Guest Yogita Limaye
Interviewed Guest Samira Ahmed
Interviewed Guest Amy Cooke-Hodgson
Interviewed Guest Elena Carter

Broadcast

  • Wed 7 Dec 2016 10:00

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