Educating Rita

The Evergreen Playhouse in Centralia, Washington presents Willy Russell's two person quirky romantic comedy "Educating Rita."  John Pratt, former Professor of English at Centralia College, plays the burned out disillusioned English tutor, Frank.  Enter Rita, an energetic young adult hairdresser, hungry for knowledge, played by Kaaren Spanski-Dreffin.  After weeks of frustration over how to write essays, Rita finally wins over the hesitant Frank with her insight and refusal to quit.  The relationship grows between the two, giving Frank a new sense of self-respect and Rita the knowledge she so desperately craves.  The play became a hit film with Michael Caine and Julie Walters.  Nearly half of Pratt's sixty some roles took place on the Centralia College stage, where he first met Spanski-Dreffin in the late ninties.  The two worked together in five or six productions.  Art imitates life: Pratt was her teacher in an English Composition course.  Kaaren Spanski-Dreffin, a graduate of Centralia College and The Evergreen State College in theatre also spent eight months at the University of Ulster studying theatre as part of her Baccalaureate degree. "Educating Rita" runs from June 22, 23, 24 and 28, 29, 30 and July 1.  June 28 is a 7:30 pay-what-you-will night.  Sunday matinees are at 2:00, and the rest at 8:00 p. m.  For reservations, call 360 736-8628.  Tickets can also be purchased at the door.  Address 226 West Center Street, Centralia, Washington.