Willy Russell's incisive sideswipe at the Open University received a masterly workout in this absorbing production in which the star quality never diminished.
The world of disillusioned, whisky-sodden lecturer Frank is given a thorough shakedown by a jaunty Liverpool hairdresser who blasts into his cobweb-laden existence with the force of a tidal wave in search of an education. Paula Fancini-Hooper gave a towering performance as the chirpy, irrepressible Rita, tottering excitedly round her tutor's airless study and offering any number of alternative insights on the great works of English literature. Maintaining a convincing Scouse accent throughout, she delivered every nugget of her gold-plated dialogue with expert timing and precision, yet Geoff Guy as the embittered academic sinking slowly into the alcoholic abyss was equally awesome and anything but eclipsed; displaying presence, passion and power he excelled in what must be the biggest of all supporting roles.
For all its upbeat pace, wit and charm, this was a frequently moving account of two wholly different worlds colliding, yet ultimately to the common good, overcoming distinctions of class and personal perspective. Watching Rita progress from scatterbrained debutante to mature and insightful student proved a most sobering experience, thanks to this hugely enjoyable presentation. Further kudos go to Brenda Read-Brown for her deft direction, and to Martin Oakes for his judiciously inventive lighting.
TADS found a wonderful song to sing tonight, and they could not have sung it any better.
Simon Lewis for BBC Radio Gloucestershire Theatre & Arts