Terry Pratchett's Men At Arms

Many of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld Series books have been adapted for the stage, and have somewhat of a cult following. The seventh Pratchett directed by Bradley Towton features many familiar actors, characters and even a familiar set.

Set on a street in Ankh Morpork, a multi-level pseudo-Tudor set with lots of surprise entrances and hidey-holes has been designed by Dan Randell, Will Hults and Bradley Towton, with a dynamic sound design by Vivienne Gallagher and Bradley Towton. With 26 scenes, a lighting design by Dan Randell, Bradley Towton and Rachel Wright helps establish locale as well as building tension.

A fine central performance by William Darlington as Carrot anchors the show well, and his likability is an asset to the story. Likewise, Ian Banks works well as Captain Sam Vimes, and Benjamin Cooke as Sergeant Colon. All three men are reprising their roles from Guards! Guards, offering continuity for the Pratchett regulars in the audience.

Other members of the guard include Aaron O’Neil, expertly physicalising Cuddy, Candice Preston, a fabulous love interest as Angua, and Caitlyn Boyle, funny as Nobby Nobbs. Brett Katz-Little steps into the huge Detritus the Troll costume superbly created by Gary Wetherilt (think wearable muppet costume and you’re on the right track) and voices him well.

Lilly Litchfield lends her superb fencer’s posture to The Patrician, gender flipping with aplomb, while Sam Barnett is superb as the villainous Dr Cruces, and voices Death.

Kelly Kranz-Little plays the Footnote, giving us extra information, as is traditional in the novels, while Yvette Drager Wetherilt is lovely reprising Lady Sybil Ramkin.

With a cast of over twenty, it is impossible to mention everyone, but all were working hard and giving their best performances, often in multiple roles.
Costumes were especially good, with Sarah Boyle doing an excellent job, as well as pulling double duty playing “The Other Footnote”. Costumes were supplemented with excellent wigs, makeup and postiche from Yvette Drager Wetherilt.

Great to see a show attracting huge crowds and a unique following of irregular theatre-goers!

Kimberley Shaw