Chocolate Factory Pairs Rita with Shirley???

The Menier Chocolate Factory, best known for its acclaimed revivals of classic Broadway musicals, looks set to shift its gaze to Liverpool later this year when it revives Willy Russell‘s award-winning 80s comedies Educating Rita and Shirley Valentine.

If confirmed, the productions, which will likely run in rep, would coincide with the 30th anniversary of Educating Rita, the two-hander that centres on an under-privileged hairdresser who goes to University and develops a special relationship with her tutor. Originally commissioned by the RSC in 1980, it was made into film, starring Julie Walters and Michael Caine, in 1983.

Shirley Valentine (1986) covers similar thematic territory, comprising a monologue delivered by a bored middle-aged Liverpool housewife who seeks escape and adventure abroad.

Neither of the plays have received major London outings in recent years. The Chocolate Factory has a strong association with comedy revivals, with recent examples including productions of Ben Travers‘ Rookery Nook and Victoria Wood’s Talent.

Currently at the Chocolate Factory, Matthew White‘s acclaimed revival of Sweet Charity, starring Tamsin Outhwaite in the title role, continues until 7 March prior to a rumoured West End transfer (See The Goss, 19 Jan 2010).