Willy Russel explores the beginning stages of an individual shifting into a new world and demonstrates that determination is not enough to transcend the external barriers presented during the initial stages of transition. The main barriers in these first two scenes are explored through the setting in Frank’s office and the low expectation of Rita’s family and friends. The imposed obstacles remain firmly in place, despite Rita’s clear determination to become more educated and transition into a more academic world. The initial stage direction and dialogue emphasize how different Frank and Rita’s worlds are and explores the barriers which prevents Rita from entering with ease into Frank’s world. The first stage directions provided in “A room
