Educating Rita

Educating Rita is a play written by Willy Russell in 1980. The play tells the story of Rita, a working-class hairdresser, who is eager to improve her life by obtaining an education. She signs up for an Open University course in English literature and is assigned to Frank, an alcoholic and disillusioned university tutor.

The play explores the relationship between Rita and Frank as they navigate through Rita's journey of self-discovery and education. As Rita's knowledge and understanding of literature and the world around her grows, she begins to question her relationship with her husband, her friends, and her social class. Frank, on the other hand, is inspired by Rita's enthusiasm and starts to re-evaluate his own life and choices.

The play is a witty and thought-provoking exploration of the value of education, the complexity of human relationships and the search for identity. The characters are relatable and the dialogue is sharp and funny. The play is set in a small study room and the audience is able to witness the evolution of Rita and Frank's relationship, as well as the changes in Rita's personality and perspective.

Educating Rita is a classic play that has been performed and adapted for stage, film, and radio. It's a play that appeals to audiences of all ages and backgrounds and continues to be a popular and well-regarded work of contemporary theatre.