Interview: The Traitors star Madelyn Smedley on playing title role in EDUCATING RITA at Reading Rep

Willy Russell's iconic play Educating Rita is currently playing at Reading Rep Theatre for the first time, directed by Annie Kershaw and starring Madelyn Smedley and Julius D’Silva. We spoke to Madelyn, who shot to fame on BBC's The Traitors, to find out more about her new role, and to see if she's still putting her detective skills to good use!

Congratulations on your new role in Educating Rita! How did the rehearsal period go?

Thank you so much! Keep saying to myself, I can’t believe I’m doing theatre as I haven’t done it in so long. Rehearsals went well. I think my brain grew in size after all that line learning.

What drew you to the character of Rita?

Her hope and ambition. She dreams bigger than anyone and I love that! And she’s really funny and witty! One step ahead always.

Why do you think Educating Rita is still so relevant to today's society, some 45 years after it was first produced?

Oh definitely, there’s still a big class divide and everyone wants to live a better life or want something better than what they have. And how important education is to break out of it all. Also, how people can help each other become better versions of themselves.

How does it feel to see the continued success of The Traitors having been such an iconic part of the first series? Did you have any luck figuring out the Secret Traitor in season 4?

Oh, it’s amazing - I still love it! I much prefer to watch it than play the game, haha! I did think it could’ve been Fiona but thought that might be too obvious. Also Yin and Ash from Season Two came to watch the show and loved it - such lovely people - wish they were on my season.

Did you learn anything during your time in The Traitors that has helped you in the world of acting?

That people are more important than money and how to not take things too seriously.

What would you like to try next on stage or screen?

Oo I'm not sure, I like both. I’d love to do a gritty English film anything with a great story or another sitcom - I loved Small Prophets recently. However, I’m hoping Piglets gets a Series 3. Fingers crossed.

Educating Rita plays at Reading Rep until 21 March, with further info here.