University Staff and Alumni Dazzle in New Play

A former student and a current member of staff at St Mary’s University, Twickenham both star in a new play based on the work of the author Terry Pratchett. Lisette Barlow, a Multimedia and Learning Support Specialist at St Mary’s, and English and Physical Theatre graduate Asha Harjan Gill have roles in Monstrous Regiment which is directed by Louise Evans and performed at the Mary Wallace Theatre in Twickenham from Sunday 2nd to Saturday 8th November. The play is based on Terry Pratchett’s novel of the same name, which follows barmaid Polly as she transforms herself into a boy to take part in a war which she hopes will lead her to her lost brother. Polly is joined by a troll and a coffee-loving vampire on her quest, which addresses the topic of women in war according to Lisette. Having graduated from St Mary’s in 2009, Asha now works at Richmond Theatre and is directing a production of Alfie for Teddington Theatre Club next year. Lisette has previously starred in other shows, including From These Green Heights which won a Richmond Swan Award for ‘Best production of a play’ back in September. Of her new venture she said, “I’ve very much enjoyed working on this show. Monstrous Regiment is a must see for fans of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series as it is rarely adapted for theatre performances. You don’t have to be a Pratchett fan to enjoy it however, as it has plenty of laughs and gender based gags whilst also addressing the serious topics of war and women’s roles in combat. I wasn’t particularly a Pratchett fan before this but now I must admit I am inspired to read more of his books. “We have all really banded together as a squad of ‘lads’ and despite the long hours after work in rehearsals, we have worked very hard on developing our characters and have enjoyed becoming part of the Borogravian army. With the centenary of the First World War upon us this play has also inspired me to learn more about the roles my great grandparents served in Salonika and France which has aided my character development.” Lisette added, “The opening night went well with lots of laughs throughout. We’ve managed to work well considering the size of the cast compared to the limited space we have. It’s only going to get better by the end of the week!” The show will be running at the Mary Wallace Theatre until Saturday 8th November, with tickets priced at £12.