Educating Rita

Educating Rita, written by Willy Russell in the early 1980s, was originally a stage play. It later became widely recognized as a successful screenplay and film featuring Michael Caine and Julie Walters in the lead roles.

Production of a well-known play demands an experienced director, Suzy Peterson, skilled actors, Leah Grayson and Richard Wilshaw, and a dedicated support team - all superbly provided by Rotherham Rep.

Rita, played by Leah Grayson comes from a working-class background. She is married and working as a hairdresser but now wants to move on from her basic education and better herself. After leaving school without completing her exams, she decides to enrol at Open University to study literature, hoping that further education and knowledge will fulfil her dreams

She is assigned to Dr Frank Bryant, played by Richard Wilshaw, a middle-aged academic whose failed writing career and troubled marriage have left him emotionally drained. He has become dependent on alcohol and thoroughly disheartened with the way higher education is going. Frank is initially reluctant to teach Rita, unsure if she understands what she wants but, as the play unfolds, both characters change. Rita grows in her understanding of literature and determination to improve herself, while Frank becomes more empathetic and realizes he now cares about something for the first time in years.                                                                        

As the story unfolds, both Rita and Frank experience changes in their outlook on life and their relationship with each other. Rita’s sense of humour, persistence, and interest in self-improvement have an impact on Frank, who supports her as she prepares for the final exams. The narrative presents both lighter moments and instances of conflict or emotional expression, including arguments and moments of tenderness, while also suggesting that Frank’s feelings toward Rita may be evolving.   

The two actors gave phenomenal performances in their respective roles, handling extensive dialogue with accurate timing and pace. Their understanding of the characters and the dynamic between them was evident. Leah Grayson's Liverpudlian accent enhanced Rita's humour and character, delivering many comedic moments - perfect. Richard Wilshaw superbly portrayed Frank with depth and understanding. The only time the actors left the stage was to signify the passage of time, with quick costume changes and all enhanced by clever lighting and musical interludes.

In the final scene, Frank’s heavy drinking leads the University to send him to Australia, and he invites Rita to join him. Rita’s grasp of literature has opened a new way of life she always desired and she declines his offer. As the play ends, we see Rita giving Frank a haircut, something she wanted to do from the very first time she met him. The set was carefully designed to resemble a university professor's space, complete with bookcases, papers, lighting and sound.

What was notable was the quietness of the audience, which was down to the standard of acting and the need for us not to miss any of the dialogue. At the end of the play the applause said it all. 

Again, congratulations to everyone involved in this very brilliant and  professional production. 

Thank you for the invitation and a thoroughly enjoyable evening at the theatre.

Sue Cox   NODA Rep  (N.E. Region 14)

 

 

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