Show leans into the ‘wyrd’, wonderful

Ever since she took on the Globe Theatre’s production of Wyrd Sisters in 2018, multi-talented Dunedin actor, director, costume and set designer Sofie Welvaert has been itching to bring Sir Terry Pratchett’s Discworld fantasy stories back to the stage.

So, she is delighted to be directing and taking charge of costumes and sets for the Globe’s adaptation of another popular Pratchett tale, Lords and Ladies, which opens tonight.

Staged by special arrangement with Samuel French Ltd and Play Bureau NZ, this community production of Lord and Ladies leans into the "wyrd" and wonderful.

A major challenge for Welvaert has been wrangling a huge cast of 19 actors, who between them play 30 roles — from witches, wizards, elves and trolls, to Death itself.

"Apart from two actors, everyone is depicting two or three characters in the show, which is a lot of fun and a lot of work," Welvaert said.

"And, as we only have one stage manager and no extra crew, the cast are also doing a lot of other jobs as well — it’s all hands to the pump."

Leading cast members include the the infamous witches of Lancre — the setting of the show — with Laura Wells taking on the role of the eccentric Nanny (Gytha) Ogg and newcomer Brenna Fields playing Magrat Galick.

For the role of Granny (Esme) Weatherwax, there were big shoes to fill, as the late Brenda Jones had performed the role in Wyrd Sisters.

"Brenda was a much-loved part of our theatre community until her sudden passing in 2019 — this production of Lords and Ladies is dedicated to her," Welvaert said.

For Lords and Ladies, Maegan Steadman-Ashford will be in the role of Granny Weatherwax.

With such a host of characters and an expansive setting, bringing Lords and Ladies to life requires a clever, adaptable set and many costumes.

Welvaert has taken on both jobs for this production alongside her directing duties.

"I designed this set to allow as much flexibility as possible, while ensuring the audience has enough ‘keystones’ to keep them from losing their way," she said.

A particular challenge for Walveart were the roles of the Orangutan Librarian and the toddler, Pewsey Ogg, which she solved through the use of puppetry.

Friends of the Globe chairman and actor Brent Caldwell will take on the roles of puppeteer and voices of both characters.

"Brent’s skill in physical theatre and attention to detail are the critical difference between a ‘sack of potatoes’ and the joy that is the Librarian," Welvaert said.

The structure of the show means that both Pratchett fans and newcomers alike will be able to connect with Lords and Ladies and its clever storytelling and sense of fun.

The show runs from September 18-October 4, with most shows at 7.30pm and Sunday matinee and 2pm.

brenda.harwood@thestar.co.nz