AUDITION CALL
FIRST PRODUCTION OF THE 2026-27 SEASON – EDUCATING RITA by WILLY RUSSELL.
We are looking for a lively and confident young actor, between about 20-35, who can master the Liverpool accent, to play the eponymous character. Rita is intelligent but not well educated and wants to find herself through an education in literature. She will not only be a hairdresser, but will have diversified into beauty therapy and nail art. She will still, however, be locked in a culture that has low opinions of schooling and limited expectations of her, as well as a husband who pressures her to have children, despite her busy working life. Through the play, Rita gains not only an education, but a sense of herself in a much wider, more cultured world. But the journey is not an easy ride.
Frank, the jaded and alcoholic tutor, could look anything from 45 or so upwards. The actor who takes this role will need to demonstrate and wallow in a huge range of emotions from anger and frustration, through disdain and resentment, to love and admiration. He finds himself in a situation that he detests: hating his students, disparaging of his own creative work and disheartened by the state of education. His private life is no better. Rita gives him something that animates him again and that he wants to guard in her.
A one set, two handed play will be demanding for the actors and total commitment will be required. Once cast, a clear rehearsal schedule will be agreed and this will take the form of stage time mostly, but also meeting time and online sessions in the first instance. By early August, you MUST be available to rehearse in person at the theatre at least twice a week. This is during summer holidays time, so please factor this into your decision making. The show runs from 5th – 12th September.
There will be a familiarisation meeting at the theatre on 15/06/26, followed by auditions on 22/06/26
It would be lovely to see anyone there who wishes to participate, either on stage or in a supporting role.
If you are interested in finding out more or would like to audition please email info@oldburyrep.org with your contact details and the director will be in contact with you.
Please note that Oldbury Rep is an amateur theatre and all acting and back-stage roles are unpaid.