TV STARS Matthew Kelly and Claire Sweeney will star in a production of Educating Rita at the Oxford Playhouse.

The play tells the story of the relationship between a feisty Liverpudlian hairdresser, Rita, and a jaded university professor, Frank.

As Rita grapples with the trials of education, Frank learns to believe in himself again.

Mr Kelly, who hosted talent show Stars in Their Eyes and starred in TV drama Cold Blood, will play Frank, while Rita will be portrayed by former Brookside, Chicago and Guys and Dolls star Miss Sweeney.

Educating Rita won the 1980 Society of West End Theatres’ award for Best Comedy and Best Play.

It was written by Willy Russell, whose writing credits include Blood Brothers and Shirley Valentine.

The film version, which starred Julie Walters and Michael Caine, was Oscar-nominated and won three BAFTA awards.

The production, which opened last night, runs until Saturday. For information about tickets and times, see the Oxford Playhouse website or call 01865 305305.

  • Click on the link to read Giles Woodforde's review.