EDUCATING RITA
The folk behind the annual summer Sydney Shakespeare Festival are bringing Willy Russell’s award-winning stage comedy to Newtown. Sydney Independent Theatre Company (SITCO) will present the student friendly show in their spanking new venue. Actor Lana Kershaw who plays Rita fills me in, “It’s a charming theatre. The area has an industrial feel but then you walk into the theatre and it’s so warm and friendly.”
Educating Rita follows zany hairdresser (Rita) who is determined to change her life, and her relationship with the disgruntled Frank, her middle-aged, alcoholic tutor. Russell’s play premiered in 1980 and has been adapted for both film and radio, and Kershaw says themes such as the value of education and breaking free of your circumstances are just as relevant today.
“Rita is a strong, brave character and risks a great deal to undertake an education,” she explains “It’s something a lot of people dream of doing.” Students will also be treated to a live Q&A after the show; something Kershaw is looking forward to. “Teenagers keep you on your toes. It’s great to feel they’re engaged and interested in what’s happening. If they’re not interested, it’s a good indication that you need to work harder.”
Jun 5-15, Sydney Independent Theatre Company, 8A/32-60 Alice Street, Newtown, $20-29, 0428 032 838, sitco.net.au/education
