The unlikely inspiration behind Jade Franks' groundbreaking play 'Eat the Rich (But Maybe Not Me Mates x)' is far from glamorous – it's down to dirty dishwashing duties at Cambridge University. A working-class student struggling to juggle her demanding course load with a part-time cleaning job, Franks drew on these experiences to craft a biting satire of wealth and privilege.
As she recounts the time her sister was turned away from a college dinner by a condescending professor, it's clear that class disparities were not just theoretical for Franks. Her own struggles to access theatre education due to financial constraints only added fuel to the fire, as she eventually worked multiple jobs to make ends meet while honing her craft.
With its razor-sharp wit and incisive commentary on elitism and inequality, 'Eat the Rich' has won widespread acclaim – including a coveted Fringe First award. Yet, despite its commercial success, it's Franks' commitment to using her platform to challenge the status quo that truly sets this play ablaze.
The road to success was far from smooth, however. Franks faced setbacks at every turn, including a private investor pulling out just days before the Edinburgh festival fringe and a producer refusing to allow the show to lose money. It was a stark reminder of the harsh realities facing many in the theatre industry.
As 'Eat the Rich' now takes its place alongside other landmark shows like Fleabag and Baby Reindeer, Franks is determined to use her newfound success to make a lasting impact on the world of theatre. She's set her sights on creating a more inclusive and equitable industry, with plans for freelance creative consulting and even a new business model that guarantees good seats at the West End for underprivileged audiences.
With 'Eat the Rich,' Franks has proven herself to be a true firebrand, refusing to be silenced by the obstacles in her path. As she continues to push against the barriers that have held her back, it's clear that this is only the beginning of an extraordinary journey – one that will leave its mark on the world of theatre forever.
As she recounts the time her sister was turned away from a college dinner by a condescending professor, it's clear that class disparities were not just theoretical for Franks. Her own struggles to access theatre education due to financial constraints only added fuel to the fire, as she eventually worked multiple jobs to make ends meet while honing her craft.
With its razor-sharp wit and incisive commentary on elitism and inequality, 'Eat the Rich' has won widespread acclaim – including a coveted Fringe First award. Yet, despite its commercial success, it's Franks' commitment to using her platform to challenge the status quo that truly sets this play ablaze.
The road to success was far from smooth, however. Franks faced setbacks at every turn, including a private investor pulling out just days before the Edinburgh festival fringe and a producer refusing to allow the show to lose money. It was a stark reminder of the harsh realities facing many in the theatre industry.
As 'Eat the Rich' now takes its place alongside other landmark shows like Fleabag and Baby Reindeer, Franks is determined to use her newfound success to make a lasting impact on the world of theatre. She's set her sights on creating a more inclusive and equitable industry, with plans for freelance creative consulting and even a new business model that guarantees good seats at the West End for underprivileged audiences.
With 'Eat the Rich,' Franks has proven herself to be a true firebrand, refusing to be silenced by the obstacles in her path. As she continues to push against the barriers that have held her back, it's clear that this is only the beginning of an extraordinary journey – one that will leave its mark on the world of theatre forever.