Join a troll, a vampire, an Igor and a runaway sergeant in this riotous, rule-breaking romp through Terry Pratchett’s Discworld.
Richmond Amateur Dramatic Society (RADS) is bringing Terry Pratchett’s Monstrous Regiment to life at The Georgian Theatre Royal this summer, with performances running from Thursday 24 to Saturday 26 July, and again from Wednesday 30 July to Saturday 2 August.
Adapted from the late author’s acclaimed Discworld novel, this lively and thought-provoking production is directed by Charles Lambert, who has long wanted to bring this story to the stage.
“This has been an extraordinary journey,” said Charles Lambert. “I’ve wanted to bring Monstrous Regiment to the stage for years — it’s one of my favourite Pratchett stories. The script is funny and sharp, but also deeply human. It’s about outsiders coming together, questioning the rules we take for granted, and finding your voice in a world that too often tries to silence it.”
Set in the war-torn land of Borogravia, the story follows Polly Perks, a young woman who disguises herself as a man to join the army in search of her missing brother. She soon finds that her ragtag squad of recruits is not all that it seems.
The eccentric regiment includes a vampire sworn off blood, a volatile explosives expert, a spiritual visionary, an Igor surgeon, a mountain troll, and a fearless sergeant — each with secrets of their own.
“The cast and crew have built a version of Borogravia that’s absurd, touching, and sometimes painfully real,” he said. “Whether it's the comic timing, the emotional depth, the excellent costumes or the sheer physicality of the piece — they’ve all thrown themselves in completely. It’s a joy to direct a team so full of energy and passion.”
As the unlikely soldiers stumble through battle and chaos, the play explores powerful themes of heroism, sacrifice, identity and transformation, blending satire with heart in the unmistakable style of Terry Pratchett.
“Whether you're a lifelong Discworld reader or brand new to Pratchett’s world, this is a story that speaks to something in all of us,” he said. “Come and join the regiment — you’ll laugh, you’ll think, and you’ll leave remembering why we tell stories like this.”
Tickets from Box Office on 01748 825252 or online.