THE Sherman Theatre Company presents Educating Rita from June 1 to 17, starring Ruth Jones, best known as Kelly in Fat Friends and Little Britain's barmaid Myfanwy.

Educating Rita, by Willy Russell, is the story of a young, brash hairdresser who decides to take lessons from English Literature professor Frank. As Rita discovers a passion for literature and learns to value her own insights, Frank begins to question his own understanding of his work and himself.

Director Phil Clark said: "Educating Rita is a fantastic story that remains as relevant today as it did in the 20 years ago.

"Rita is a strong, young woman who demands her right to knowledge and equality.

"We're setting the play in modern day Cardiff which will really bring Rita and Frank to life to today's audience."

Ruth Jones, who was born and grew up in Porthcawl and trained at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, has appeared in numerous television shows including Fat Friends, Nighty Night and Little Britain.

"The last and only time I performed at The Sherman was in 1984 in a National Youth Theatre of Wales production of As You like It. I played a bunny girl. Don't ask! Anyway, I'm really excited about it. And so is my mother.

"She's planning to bring a busload from Porthcawl!" Ruth says. Tickets, priced £7 to £15, are on sale now and can be booked from box office on 029 2064 6900.