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MONSTROUS REGIMENT
Unseen Theatre Company
Bakehouse Theatre
Until 02 Oct 2010

Review by Fran Edwards

Pratchett fans will love this, and rightly so. The sets, although simplistic (necessary in the confines of such a small space), work well and the lighting helps create the atmosphere. This production seems to find most of the available humour and develops the, always present in Pratchett, social comment.

The cast is comprised of experienced actors and some new blood but puts in a very even performance. Kahlia Tutty is very believable as Polly who joins the army (as a man) in order to find her brother, and there is a strong performance from Paul Messenger as Sergeant Jackrum. As always, Philip Lineton is solid, but this time as a female Igor pretending to be a male! His other role as Prince Heinrich is more the Philip we know.

Trolls are difficult to play but David Geddes, with the help of a fun costume, does a fine job. Samm Blackmore, Catherine Moore and Kate Hall make a great group of “lads” and Tom Crisp hits the target as Lieutenant Blouse.

Kristofa Cassono is every inch the vampire Maladict, whilst appearing very differently as Clarence; likewise Paul Berger is very different as Sergeant Lipschitz to when he plays Commander Vimes. This Vimes may be a bit gentle for hardened fans. David Dyte and James Loader also put in varied performances in their various roles.

This is definitely one of the better presentations of a Pratchett story by Unseen. It won't appeal to everyone but it’s worth a look, if only for the message that women can do whatever they put their mind to!

Adelaide Theatre Guide