Lords and Ladies

Roleystone Theatre commenced their temporary residence at the Roleystone Hall with this very popular adaptation of Terry Pratchett’s Lords and Ladies. A full house braved the cold (take a blanket and dress warmly) for a fantasy filled evening.

The set is very simple, which is not surprising given the company needs to strike and reset mid-production, but some excellent carry on set pieces (Daniel Ramsell and Brad Towton), gorgeous costumes (co-ordinated by Penny Ramsell) and highly stylised make-up (Yvette Drager-Wetherilt) brought magic to the show. Lighting and sound are always a challenge in a new and non-purpose built venue, but have been expertly realised by Ellie Vance.

With a cast of two dozen it is impossible to mention everyone, but there were some impressive performances. For those vaguely familiar with the Pratchett Canon, this is a “witch” story. Granny Weatherwax was played by Jen O’Hehir, in only her second appearance on stage and her first appearance outside the ensemble - a very promising break out performance, with Kathleen Nyland also in her first lead role, delightful as Nanny Ogg. Michelle Ezzy was a gorgeous Magrat, in an excellent performance, in this show set in the lead-up to her wedding.

Jess Lally was an imperious and glamorous Elf Queen, leading a squad of hard working elves with excellent focus (Veronica Bonnar, Evie Madeleine, Niamh O’Heir, Bailey O'Hehir, Kaelyn McLean and Daniel Rowe).

Particularly memorable characterisations in a hard working ensemble included Callum Presbury’s expertly crafted Jason Ogg and Seren Mould’s loveable and believable Shawn Ogg. Billy Darlington was an appropriately unflashy King Verence, and Sam Barnett showed there are no small parts as Casanunda. Paul Treasure made a brief but very impressive appearance as The Long Man, in a brief but very impressive costume.

Roleystone have made the new venue work well for them, and the welcoming atmosphere remains the same. The quirky and episodic nature of the Pratchett plays,mean that they will chiefly appeal to friends, family and Discworld fans, but as there are plenty of these, I expect full houses for the season.

Kimberley Shaw