Educating Rita
It was a joy to return to Pateley Bridge Dramatic Society for their first post COVID production, albeit not in their home at the Playhouse – the refurbishment is taking far longer than they had hoped – but at the nearby Memorial Hall.
Educating Rita, by Willy Russell, was an inspired choice of play in the current environment – it is relatively uncomplicated, just one set and two actors, thus minimising the risks created by COVID.
Originally set in 1983, but now updated by the author to the current time, demonstrating that the storyline resonates with a timeless message about the quest for self-improvement. The play is a two hander with Jerry Harvey as Frank, the professor and Carol Bailey, as Rita who both successfully filled the large shoes of various skilled actors who have played the roles of Frank and Rita before. They both rose to the challenge admirably, instilling their own originality into the well-drawn roles.
Jerry encapsulated the life of the alcoholic academic rising above his disillusionment with his students to teach Rita against his better judgement. Carol captured Rita’s nervous energy - her effervescence and enthusiasm and, above all, convincingly showed the character’s determination to succeed, all the while maintaining a very believable Liverpool accent. Obviously much credit for the play’s success lies with Willy Russell and his clever and funny script; none of which works without talented actors such as these.
The open stage depicted Frank’s study in which the entire play is set. This was an excellent set, beautifully dressed. Lots of bookcases - and books - with various seating areas and props. A real academic fellow’s set, every bit of it was well-used by the actors. Full credit to the Stage Manager, Justin Enthoven, and his set building and props team. The set was complemented by appropriate lighting, courtesy of Steve Hunt – quite an achievement I gather under the circumstances.
The choice of music between scenes was suitably apposite and complimented the whole production. Costumes were appropriate, and plentiful. They perfectly reflected Rita’s changing lifestyle. Well done to Wardrobe Mistress, Ruth Dodsworth, and to Carol Bailey on the fast changes.
Sue Hickson directed this production with great skill ensuring we appreciated each scene as it developed both in time and in Rita’s metaphorical journey.
Pateley Bridge Dramatic Society gave us a very strong production which was hugely entertaining from a duo who did excellent justice to Willy Russell’s time-honoured script treating us to a real tour de force.
Thank you to all involved for an excellent evening of theatre.
Bryan Craven, NODA North East Regional Representative
Photographs by Chris Iredale
