If you’re a Groundhog Day fan you’ll be all too familiar with Phil Connors – the self-centred weatherman with a cynical outlook who changes his ways. But what about the woman who inspired his moral transformation? With the musical returning to The Old Vic stage this summer, we take a look at the character of Rita Hanson – and the actors who have taken on the role.
Author The Old Vic
Published 03/04/2023
Rita is quick-witted and kind-hearted. She doesn’t let Phil get his way – something he’s not used to. Stranded in small town Punxsutawney in a blizzard, Rita enjoys getting to know the locals, being kind to strangers and soaking up the community’s kookiness.
She’s ambitious, and refuses to be held back in life by people like Phil, who are only looking out for themselves.
‘I’m not picky, I just ask
That he likes me, and I like him
And I’d rather be alone
If the only other option
Is succumb and settle down
With some condescending clown’
But, after getting stuck in a loop of the same day over and over again, Phil eventually lets himself truly know Rita – her loves, hates, and of course, her quirks.
‘You like boats, but you don’t like deep water
And you are afraid of clowns, and the end of the world,
And you like films, but as a rule you think they should be 10 minutes shorter…
I know everything about you’
Phil, Groundhog Day the Musical
In a story centred around a man, it’s Rita whose strength and heart shines through.
First to play Rita Hanson was Andie McDowell in the BAFTA-winning 1993 hit film, written by Harold Ramis and Danny Rubin.
When the musical version was staged at The Old Vic in 2016, Carlyss Peer took on the role – and the show went on to win Best New Musical at the Olivier Awards.
Over on Broadway, it was the turn of Barrett Doss to play Rita in the five-time Tony Award nominated show.
And now, as the musical sensation returns to The Old Vic from 20 May 2023, Tanisha Spring (Moulin Rouge, The Prince of Egypt) joins Andy Karl on stage as Rita.
