Going Postal

Going Postal is a stage adaptation by Stephen Briggs of Terry Pratchett’s fantasy novel of the same name which draws on the absurdities, as seen by the author, of the world we live in.

The venue had been suitably adapted with a low stage enabling the audience to be really drawn in to the action.  Projected scenery on three screens was ideal for this small performance space and Granville Rush and Olly Brant must be congratulated on the beautiful set illustrations and animations.

Moist von Lipwig is a conman about to be hanged when he is offered the option of becoming Postmaster of the very rundown postal service in the city of Ankh-Morpork.  With bags of undelivered mail going back decades, the fate of previous Post Masters, not to mention threats of violence, this would appear to be an impossible task but one which, faced with the alternative, he tackles enthusiastically. His introduction of postage stamps causes much excitement but can he really deliver a message to a land 2,000 miles away faster than the clacks?

Jack Stevens is an actor who obviously has a lot of talent and his portrayal of Postmaster Moist von Lipwig was very impressive. His head is turned by the captivating but cynical and chain smoking Adora Belle Dearheart, played by Corrina Graham-Hodson. Both actors gave good performances but to my mind there was a lack of chemistry between their characters which was a shame.

A good characterisation by Granville Rush of Lord Vetinari, ruler of Ankh-Morpork, who offers our hero Moist von Lipwig the chance to escape the gallows.  He is warned though by Reacher Gilt, well played by John Bell that opening up the Post Office may not be such a good idea due to four Post Masters having died.   Andy Roberts and Greg Hill made a great double act as Tolliver Groat and Stanley, the last remaining postmen.

Mr Pump’s main job is as our hero’s parole officer.  He also happens to be a golem.  Well done to Doug Shepperd for not only agreeing to be covered in terracotta coloured make-up, but managing to remain motionless for such long periods of time.

The play has a large named cast, including one member appearing on screen from Russia, and all added considerably to the production. Well done to everyone who took part.

Sound and lighting were good and the costume plot had been very well thought out.

Thank you for inviting me to this well-directed and very entertaining production and to Becky for looking after us throughout the evening.

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