Terry Pratchett’s Monstrous Regiment

Terry Pratchett shows are very popular and almost their own genre in their style. There is a dedicated fan-base, but they can often be tricky for people who are not fans of the Discworld novels to understand. Not so Monstrous Regiment, a stand-alone story that is easy to watch, entertaining and fun.

It tells the story of Polly, who dresses as a boy to join the Borogravian Army - an act that is against the law - in order to try to locate her missing brother. She ends up in the titular “Monstrous Regiment”, a ragtag group of recruits which includes a vampire, an “Igor” and a troll - every one of which is hiding a big secret.

The role of Polly is a big one - possibly the Pratchett Hamlet, and we are in great hands with Michelle Ezzy, giving an excellent performance as this plucky young woman trying to hide her femininity. There’s very little down time in this show, and Michelle’s anchoring, energetic performance keeps this show rollicking along.
Her fellow recruits include Jess Lally, so glamorous in her last Pratchett appearance, delightful in the very unglamorous role of Igor (the makeup - one of many excellent makeup jobs is managed by Yvette Drager- Wetherilt). Candice Preston has wonderful poise, excellent characterisation and looks superb as vampire Maladict. Elizabeth Croft is scary-tough but loveable as Tonker, with Josie Walsh solid as Tonker’s very close friend Lofty. Elise Kelly gives nuance to the chef who can’t swear, Shufti, while Niamh O’Hehir charms as youngest recruit Wazzer - who is extremely devout.

The final member of the regiment is Carborundum - played by the most impressive puppet I have ever seen on a Perth stage. Gorgeously constructed by Garry Wetherilt, with gorgeous eyes by Connie Wetherilt, full body puppet Cabrorundum has the most exquisite expressions, and gives an outstanding verbal and non-verbal performance throughout. Kudos to puppeteer/actor Zac Skelton and his teamwork with designer Gary and director Brad Towton.

Leaders of the regiment include Sgt. Jackrum - given depth by Ian Banks, Cpl Strappi - a fun portrayal and nice sword-work from Drew Humphreys, while James Hunt’s ineffectual Lt Blouse brings great fun to the tale - a surprising hero of sorts.

A large supporting cast work very hard throughout - with quick changes and larger than life characters abounding. Particularly memorable performances include Alan Gill (who has only just finished a run at Marloo) excellent and very different as both Sam Vimes and enemy captain Horentz, Genevieve Wilson’s nicely played Werewolf Otto, Sarah Boyle’s forthright Mrs Enid and Jen O’Hehir’s interestingly layered General Froc. Great teamwork and verve from the remaining cast.

Simply set, with a well painted background serving multiple locales, well thought-out costuming (co-ordinated by Becky Hunt), some great props by Ron Birch and atmospheric lighting, help the show look good - and scene changes swift.

This show has some really interesting things to say about the flimsiness of gender identity and the pointlessness of war, but mostly it is simply a well performed, fun, little show.  

Kimberley Shaw