Producing Company: The Menier Chocolate Factory and Theatre Royal Bath Production
Educating Rita
By Willy Russell Directed by Tamara Harvey
A gem of British theatre, Educating Rita is the unforgettable story of the relationship between a feisty Liverpudlian hairdresser and a jaded university professor. Rita has a passion for literature and is intent upon self-improvement. Frank's disillusionment with life has driven him to the bottle. As Rita grapples with the trials of education, Frank learns to believe in himself again.
Originally commissioned by the Royal Shakespeare Company, the show won the 1980 Society of West End Theatres award for Best Comedy and Best Play. The film version, which starred Julie Walters and Michael Caine, was Oscar-nominated and won three BAFTA awards.
Educating Rita stars Matthew Kelly and Claire Sweeney. Olivier Award-winner Matthew Kelly is one of the UK's best-loved actors, widely acclaimed for his performance in the television drama Cold Blood, as well as his recent stage roles, which include Waiting For Godot with Ian McKellen. Claire Sweeney has extensive credits from stage and screen including Chicago and Guys and Dolls.
Willy Russell is one of the UK's most successful playwrights. His repertoire includes Blood Brothers and Shirley Valentine.
A truly great play...a succession of blissful one-liners. Daily Telegraph
...a funny and thought provoking piece of theatre that re-ignites your appreciation of the arts. Whatsonstage
Venue: Main Stage | Category: Drama Comedy | Running Time: : 2hrs 15min