Cambridge Community Players makes comeback with Educating Rita

The Cambridge Community Players Theatre is ready to welcome audiences back for its first full-blown season since COVID-19, with Educating Rita, opening on Sept. 16.

A much-loved story made famous by Michael Caine and Julie Walters, Educating Rita, a 1983 British comedy drama features the relationship between a 26-year-old 'Liverpudlian' working class hairdresser and a middle-aged lecturer during the course of one year.

Playwright Willy Russel entwines themes of change, class distinction, and self-worth with humour, affection and poignancy throughout the play.

“Educating Rita is based on the film. With only two actors, Darcy Welch playing Rita, and John Settle playing Frank, it’s such a great show,” says Gilberta Patrick, vice-chair of Communications at the Cambridge Community Players Theatre.

“And director, Michelle, DiTomasso is so talented. We are very excited that she is directing this one for us.”

For Patrick, it’s been a long time coming, to finally be able to present a full season of productions.

Theatre goers are happy to be back for the 2022/2023 seson but for those still leery, Patrick says the theatre is big enough where everyone can spread out so people can feel safe.

“Cleaning protocols are still in place and masks are always available,” Patrick says.

“We feel lucky though, that even through the pandemic, we managed to put on at least one production each season through it all.”

The reason why, Patrick says, is that the Cambridge Community Players Theatre wanted to continue and to keep its distinction as the oldest continuously running community theatre in all of Ontario.

“Some theatres might be older. Some could not continue throughout Word War II. But we have managed to keep going and we are very proud of that,” she says.

The Cambridge Community Players, formerly the Galt Little Theatre, has been entertaining audiences since 1933.

The company first performed at other venues including the Galt Public Library and the Delta Playhouse. In 1982 the City of Cambridge purchased and renovated Water St. Baptist Church and created the Cambridge Arts Theatre where the Cambridge Community Players Theatre still resides today.

The theatre has a long history of supporting local artists with a vision to foster them and offer a safe space to express their skills and creativity.

With the support from experienced theatre volunteers and members, the theatre strives to inspire and educate.

The Cambridge Community Players Theatre is currently taking submissions for next season, which will mark the theatre’s 90^th year, a special milestone for many past and present members.

Patrick has been with the theatre since the 80’s and has worn many hats including producer, costume designer and wardrobe mistress and says that the theatre is planning big things for next season.

“We are hoping for a great season along with plans for an open house, and a banquet and awards dinner for volunteers. And we have so many long-term members who have been with us for many years,” Patrick says.

“Some of them are into their 80’s and 90’s. We are planning to do a YouTube blog and interview some of these members. This is so people can see who has been behind the theatre all of these years.”

In November, Patrick says people can also look forward to the production of Lunenburg by Norm Foster.

“Norm Foster is something everyone can enjoy,” Patrick says.

“He is Canadian, and everyone likes him because his plays are funny and heartwarming with Canadian content. Sherry Miller, a long-term member for many years, has returned and is directing the play. It’s great to have her back so we have some fresh blood directing this year which is wonderful.”

The 2022/23 season will wrap up with two productions, Five Women Wearing the Same Dress in January and Clarence Greco Owns a Volvo in March.

“We are really excited about our upcoming season,” Patrick says.

“It's been almost 90 years. We would like to keep it going for another 90.”

Educating Rita will be showing Sept. 16, 17, 23, 24 at 8 p.m. and matinees will be on Sept. 18 and 25 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for students.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.cambridgecommunityplayers.com or call (519) 623-4070.