by Willy Russell

19th to 21st September 2024 | Broadbent Theatre, Wickenby

Educating Rita is not a play to be undertaken lightly: two and a half hours of poignant drama, two actors and one set. But we never shirk a challenge, and our production of this Willy Russell classic will go down as one of our best.

That’s thanks in large part to the excellent direction of Su Toogood and to some outstanding performances by our two actors: Lincoln theatre veteran Colin Brimblecombe, appearing in a Common Ground production for just the second time, and relative newcomer Gi Vasey. They were utterly convincing as Frank, the washed up university tutor, and Rita, the working class hairdresser desperate for an education to change her life.

These two fine actors struck up a rapport and a chemistry which was plain for all to see, so that our audiences were by turns moved and amused by their growing, sometimes painful, relationship.

The stage at the Broadbent Theatre was transformed into Frank’s untidy, idiosyncratic, book-stuffed office, thanks to some sterling work by another newcomer to Common Ground, Roger Saunders, and his set-building crew.

We broke our own record for ticket sales at the Broadbent, selling out on two evenings out of three and attracting a total audience of 278. As you can see from the audience responses below, the production was very well received!

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“Amazing production. I haven’t enjoyed a play at the theatre this much in years.” – Joanne Horrocks

“It’s a sensational triumph by two incredibly gifted actors bringing immense energy to a still strongly resonant script. Thanks Common Ground Theatre Company, you continue to deliver the excellence you’re justly renowned for.” – Jason Hippisley

“Wow! What a production. We thoroughly enjoyed it. We loved the two actors – amazing.”

“A fantastic production, superb acting from both actors, I thoroughly enjoyed it.” – Anna Maria Vesey

“It was a wonderful production. Thoroughly enjoyed it!” – Gina Ashforth

“The whole experience was fantastic! Congratulations to [Su Toogood] for the talent and inspiration you have given to your team and to the actors for their stunning performances!” – Clare Lee

“Amazing. Such fun.” – Julia Hepburn

“Absolutely loved this.” – Peter Martin

“If you’re going, you’re in for a treat. Colin and Gi are so, so good.” – Cath Hayden

“Such an incredible show, both actors are so very talented and I enjoyed this so much both times.” – Ben Harris

“Absolutely amazing performances – well done everyone involved in the production. Excellent casting, fabulous evening.” – Jane White

“Wonderful show! Willy Russell would be dead proud of your production! Cast were amazing and obviously very well directed. Couldn’t believe Gi is not a Scouser! Great job all round.” – Anne

“Fantastic performance on opening night – well done all.” – Mark Bainbridge

“We did enjoy Educating Rita – outstanding acting!” – Diana and David

“Terrific performances from both actors, well done.” – Karen Ryan