4/5 Stars: ‘Educating Rita’ is a New Adult, Fictional Play by Willy Russell; ‘Educating Rita’, set in the 1980s, highlights the disparities between class, education and the sexes; in particular, the struggle for working-class women – to break away from misogyny and enrich themselves intellectually, by chasing a tantalisingly academic ‘get-out-of-free card’. Except that as the play develops, this golden chalice proves increasingly empty and meaningless, as the humanity of the characters and the reality of their lives alter the promise of this ultimate fulfilment. ‘Educating Rita’ is inspirational but spiky enough to retain the rough edges that keep it grounded and realistic. It explores weighty themes (Alcoholism, Social Isolation, Suicide) but never gets bogged down in them. The relationship between Frank and Rita is initially professional and then one of firm friendship, with no overt romantic connotations needed. ‘Educating Rita’ is a love letter to learning, embracing diversity, mixing outside your social circle, and following your dreams.