Wow, is all I can say to Rita, Sue and Bob too! We went to see it on the opening night at the York Theatre Royal. There were signs up to warn that there was nudity, swearing and smoking involved in the production. I smiled when I saw it as I thought they were being a little overcautious for the easily offended. Now, it has to be said, I wasn’t offended, but I was rather taken aback!
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Before I go any further, let me tell you that I thought it was brilliant. The set, costumes and music (great music!) really set the play firmly into its 80’s roots. I might mention that I also sported bat winged jumpers and ra-ra skirts back in the day! The acting was excellent, but that leads me back to why it was so shocking I suppose…
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Rita and Sue are two fairly streetwise 15 year old girls who babysit for Bob and Michelle every week. Afterwards Bob drives them home via the moors and then gives each a ‘jump’ in turn while the other waits making snarky comments. It’s funny, gritty and sad in turns. The girls are wonderfully pithy and scathing with Bob even though they both seem to love him.
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The initial scenes are the most outrageous as we see the first time Bob seduces the girls. It’s quite graphic and you do see an awful lot of Bob’s bare bum as he gets into his stride (more than his bum if I am being honest..!). Let’s just say, I am very glad I didn’t take my Mum with me! My friend turned to me, her eyes wide and whispered ‘awkward!’, and it was but so very memorable too. Go see it, you won’t be able to stop talking about it in the pub afterwards!
The York Theatre Royal invited us to attend, but as always, all the views expressed are my own.
Have a look at my other theatre reviews too.