EDUCATING RITA
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by Willy Russell directed by Adey Ramsel Newmarket Stage Company at The Factory Theatre, 7 Eden Street, Newmarket, Auckland From 23 Aug 2012 to 8 Sep 2012 Reviewed by: Joanna Page; Janet McAllister; |
Winner: Comedy of the Year, West End Theatre, London
George Henare and Jodie Hillock star in this classic comedy from the author of Shirley Valentine and Blood Brothers.
Frank is a tutor of English in his fifties whose disillusioned outlook on life drives him to drink and bury himself in his books. Enter Rita, a forthright 26 year-old hairdresser who is eager to learn. After weeks of cajoling, Rita slowly wins over the very hesitant Frank with her innate insight and refusal to accept no for an answer.
Their relationship as teacher and student blossoms, ultimately giving Frank a new sense of self and Rita the knowledge she so craves. The play became a hit film with Michael Caine and Julie Walters.
George Henare and Jodie Hillock combine forces to bring this comedy to life for a strictly limited season.
Newmarket Stage Company:
Bringing Live Theatre to the Heart of Newmarket.
NSC is an initiative between business and the arts to bring high quality professional theatre to Newmarket. Supported by the Newmarket Business Association and the theatre industry the company aims to produce two to three shows a year of well known plays, revivals and classics. The company will compliment the restaurants, bars and movie complex that already exist in Newmarket. The area is well known for its quality eateries and bars and live theatre will only add to the district.
Initially operating out The Factory Theatre, situated in Eden Street, just around the corner from shopping mall Two Double-Seven, the long-term plan is for the company to have a home of its own.
For its premiere production the company is pleased to announce they have gained the professional rights for the much-loved classic comedy ‘Educating Rita' by Willy Russell, author of ‘Blood Brothers' and ‘Shirley Valentine'.
George Henare needs no introduction to kiwi audiences, having been a well-known face on stage and screen for many years, including a recent stint on Shortland St. Fresh from her triumph as Sylvia in Silo's TRIBES at The Maidment, Jodie Hillock is an actress to watch, a young star whose talent is already in demand.
Leading the company is its first Artistic Director Adey Ramsel who is a familiar face around Auckland theatres as a Director, Producer and playwright. Adey directs Educating Rita and is already planning follow up shows that will bring theatre audiences into Newmarket.
Educating Rita plays for a strictly limited season
Factory Theatre, Eden Street, Newmarket
23 August - 8 September,
7.30pm nightly except Monday;
matinees 4pm Sundays and 2pm Saturdays.
Bookings are open now: www.iticket.co.nz or (09) 361 1000
Season WILL NOT extend – 23 Aug thru 8 Sept 2012