Following a sell-out run at the Menier Chocolate Factory, Willy Russell's Educating Rita transfers to the West End for a limited 16 week season at the Trafalgar Studios.
Commissioned by the RSC, the play premiered at The Warehouse in 1980 starring Julie Walters and Mark Kingston and later transferred to the Piccadilly Theatre. It was also adapted into a successful film in 1983 starring Michael Caine, Maureen Lipman and Michael Williams alongside original cast member Julie Walters in her feature film debut.
Set in Liverpool, Educating Rita charts the relationship between Rita, a brash working-class hairdresser, and her tutor, Dr Frank Bryant, a middle-aged University lecturer, during the course of a year. Much to the dismay of her husband Denny, Rita has recently discovered a passion for English literature and decides to better herself by enrolling with the Open University. As she struggles to fit in with her new peers, her refreshing approach to the great classics challenges Frank's attitudes, and he begins to question his own understanding of his work and himself.
The current production stars Tim Pigott-Smith and Laura Dos Santos.
Running Time
1 hour and 40 minutes
Address
Trafalgar Studios
The Whitehall Theatre
14 Whitehall Street
London
SW1A 2DY
Travel
Nearest Underground: Embankment
Nearest Rail: Charing Cross
Bus Routes: 3, 11, 12, 24, 29, 53, 77, 88, 159, 170, 172
Access
There are unfortunately no spaces for people who need to remain in their wheelchairs. Transfer seating is available to aisle seats in the Royal Circle, but this is up 14 steps. Wheelchair users must therefore bring 2 companions to help negotiate the steps.
Guide dogs are not allowed into the auditorium, but staff can dog sit for a maximum of 2 dogs per performance.
Book Tickets for Educating Rita
