Terry Pratchett’s The Truth – A Delight for Discworld Fans

As a longtime fan of the Discworld series, I had the pleasure of experiencing the stage adaptation of Terry Pratchett’s The Truth. The production, presented by Roleystone Theatre at the Don Russell Performing Arts Centre, successfully brings the vibrant world of Ankh-Morpok to life.

The storyline revolves around William de Worde’s bold steps into the role of Discworld’s first investigative journalist. And it is a baptism of fire as scandalous charges of attempted murder and embezzlement against the esteemed leader of Ankh-Morpok, Lord Havelock Vetinari, emerges.

The cast is large, with highlight performances from Lord Vetinari(Lilly Litchfield), Gangsters Mr Pin(Aaron O’Neill) and Mr Tulip(Peter Carr), William De Worde(William Darlington) himself. However, due to the large ensemble, keeping up with the frequent scene changes can take a lot of work, and every cast member gets their chance to shine.

For avid Terry Pratchett fans, this stage adaptation is an absolute treat. It encapsulates the unique humour and charm that Pratchett’s writing is known for. However, those unfamiliar with his work or who have yet to read The Truth might sometimes find the storyline a bit demanding to follow.

The production stays faithful to Pratchett’s style and includes his signature quirky commentary on contemporary life through the lens of Discworld’s foray into journalism. William’s frustrations with the public’s blind acceptance of information and reluctance to believe the truth resonate strongly in today’s society. The play cleverly satirises the willingness of some individuals to believe falsehoods while rejecting the truth.

Roleystone Theatre deserves commendation for taking on this ambitious endeavour. The adaptation captures Terry Pratchett’s brand of humour and seamlessly weaves it into the narrative.

In conclusion, Terry Pratchett’s The Truth on stage is a must-see for fans of his Discworld series. The production effectively brings Pratchett’s beloved world to life with solid performances, creative staging, and the infusion of his distinctive humour. While it may be slightly challenging for newcomers to grasp the storyline fully, the overall experience is a delightful tribute to Pratchett’s legacy and satirical take on truth and journalism.

Terry Pratchett’s The Truth only has three sessions remaining. Book a session for Friday at 7:30 pm 7th, July or Saturday at 2 pm/7:30 pm 8th July.

This review also appears in On The House

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Thought Provoking Journey into the Heart of Darkness

The Goodwill Club, nestled in the historic Rechabite Hall, once a symbol of an international temperance movement, served as the backdrop for an intriguing performance during the Perth Comedy Festival. Could stand-up comedian Anthony Locascio deliver on a show titled Heart of Darkness? On arrival, one came with a sense of wonder, anticipation and curiosity.

Anthony, the comedian, welcomed the audience with open arms, exuding an inviting and vibrant energy that made us feel instantly at ease. With his likable persona, he delved into some challenging and controversial topics, navigating them with finesse and skill.

Addressing sensitive subjects is no easy feat, akin to a circus performer embarking on a highwire tightrope walk without a safety net. However, Anthony succeeded, showcasing his profound understanding of how to approach such material in a manner that both entertained and engaged without causing offence.

The slippery slope is real, yet it was evident that Anthony had invested considerable thought into his performance, crafting his delivery to ensure the material was not only funny but also thought-provoking. As an audience member, I admired the risks he took and the expertise with which he set the stage.

Anthony Locascio – The Thinking Man’s Comedian

“Heart of Darkness,” the show’s centrepiece, invites audiences to explore their own inner depths with Anthony fearlessly leading the charge as he launches into his personal journey into his own heart of darkness, sharing deep and personal accounts with the audience. Yet, even within the darkness, he skillfully finds moments of levity, seamlessly weaving laughter into his narratives.

While many comedians rely on whimsical and absurd scenarios for laughs, Anthony fearlessly embraces the heart of darkness and delivers an enjoyable performance that leaves a lasting impact. It was refreshing to witness a comedian who not only entertained but also provoked introspection long after the curtain fell.

Anthony embodies the thinking man’s comedian, prepared to traverse the publicly taboo and unexplored recesses of the human psyche. I genuinely hope he continues to nurture this distinct aspect of his comedy, as it serves as a genuine point of differentiation, allowing him to stand out amongst his peers.

In conclusion, Anthony’s thought-provoking journey into the heart of darkness successfully engaged the audience, leaving us with a delightful blend of laughter and contemplation on our own hearts of darkness.

Keep an eye out for Anthony Locascio for all upcoming shows to find out when he is next sharing a dark, funny, introspective journey to your town.

This review also appears in On The House

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