Men At Arms

In this Discworld, the formation of the Thieves and Assassins Guilds has made The City Watch almost redundant - no more than a gang of thugs and bullies. However, our attention is mainly focused on the Night Watch which was reduced to a handful of undesirables and thieves who have very little to do. This changes when Carrot, with a simple and naïve vision of justice, joins the watch team and also when the Patrician orders that new recruits from ethnic minorities can join. As the play progresses, we learn that those minorities range from Werewolves to monsters and every type in between.  The difficulty in a dramatic interpretation of a Pratchett novel is to present the play so that the long, complicated storyline is absorbing to all in the audience, not just the Pratchett fans.  Unfortunately it was not always the case in this production.

Sally Daly, who first directed this play in 2001, has made good use of a cast that improved markedly as the play progressed, excellent costuming and use of stage. At times the pace could have been improved but she had our attention for the night. Outstanding was John Grey as Havelock Vetinari, while  David Robinson, as Corporal Carrot, stood out as the inspirer of justice. His portrayal was even better in Act 2 when he had more consistent stage time. Daniel Grey (Captain Sam Vines), was clear in his role while Sasha Barclay, John O’Connor and Amanda Lay brought strength to their characters.

The Arts Theatre has developed a following of Pratchett readers  with  their annual performances of his stories. This  was a solid production that will keep the faithful happy.

William Davies