Current Production
Willy Russell’s ‘Educating Rita’
The Victoria Hall Theatre, Old Harlow, Harlow, CM17 0ED
Thursday 23rd July 2026 – Saturday 25th July 2026
“Simply a marvelous play, painfully funny and passionately serious” – Sunday Times
Rita, a sharp-witted 26-year-old hairdresser, is hungry for a change. Dissatisfied with the routine of her working-class life, she enrols in an Open University course in English Literature, seeking more than just an education—she wants choices and the freedom to forge a new path for herself.
Enter Frank, a disillusioned academic, failed poet, and dedicated drinker who reluctantly takes her on as a student to pay for his booze.
In a series of hilarious and heart-warming tutorials set entirely in Frank’s chaotic university office, the two clash and connect, challenging each other’s perceptions of class, culture, and life itself. As Rita’s raw intelligence blossoms under Frank’s cynical guidance, their lives are transformed forever.
This modern classic, originally produced by the RSC and adapted into the iconic, multi-award-winning film starring Julie Walters and Michael Caine, remains as powerful and relevant today as it was 40 years ago.
Bursting with heart and sharp humour, Educating Rita is a feel-good comedy about the transformative power of knowledge and the belief that it’s never too late to start again.
Previous Shows
Thompson Promotions has been producing shows since January 2011 with it’s inaugural play “Teechers” by John Godber. Since then there have been music tributes, comedies, heart-wrenching dramas and spooky original new writing.
You can see the full list and check out some photos and reviews.
Fundraising
Since the very beginning, Thompson Promotions has proudly supported many local charities over the years through shows and events. Charities from Livability, Streets2Homes, PACT for Autism and others have been supported through my productions.
The last big event was my insane challenge of singing karaoke for 27 hours straight, trying to raise £27,000 for St Clare Hospice. Learn more about my story by clicking the button below.