WOSSNAME

Wossname
Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
November 2016 (Volume 19, Issue 11, Post 1)

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WOSSNAME is a free publication offering news, reviews, and all the other stuff-that-fits pertaining to the works of Sir Terry Pratchett. Originally founded by the late, great Joe Schaumburger for members of the worldwide Klatchian Foreign Legion and its affiliates, including the North American Discworld Society and other continental groups, Wossname is now for Discworld and Pratchett fans everywhere in Roundworld.
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Editor in Chief: Annie Mac
News Editor: Vera P
Newshounds: Mogg, Sir J of Croydon Below, the Shadow, Mss C, Alison not Aliss
Staff Writers: Asti, Pitt the Elder, Evil Steven Dread, Mrs Wynn-Jones
Staff Technomancers: Jason Parlevliet, Archchancellor Neil, DJ Helpful
Book Reviews: Annie Mac, Drusilla D'Afanguin, Your Name Here
Puzzle Editor: Tiff (still out there somewhere)
Bard in Residence: Weird Alice Lancrevic
Emergency Staff: Steven D'Aprano, Jason Parlevliet
World Membership Director: Steven D'Aprano (in his copious spare time)

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INDEX:

01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH
02) EDITOR'S LETTER
03) ODDS AND SODS
04) DISCWORLD GAMES NEWS
05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
07) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS
08) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE
09) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS
10) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
11) CLOSE

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01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH

"Alzheimer's is a cowardly disease. It creeps up on you from behind and by the time you realise you've got it you're probably not realising much else. It's a stinker... Not everyone can approach Alzheimer's with the bravery that Terry Pratchett showed."
    – Actor Alfred Molina, whose wife, actor Jill Gascoine, is in the final stages of Alzheimer's disease

"Not a lot of people know this, but a lot of Terry Pratchett's novels are based in a place called Ankh-Morpork, a play on words of Lancaster and Morecambe."
    – everyone has a theory, it seems; this one comes from Morecambe bookseller Tony Vettese

"They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it's not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance."
    – Equal Rites, as recently re-quoted on Twitter by Rhianna Pratchett

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02) LETTER FROM YOUR EDITOR

    It was thirty-three years ago this month that The Colour of Magic first crept, without much fanfare, onto a few booksellers' display shelves. Eighty Million (or more) sales of books by Sir Terry Pratchett later, that may seem hard to believe... but everything has to start somewhere. In early days, it was a "done thing" to compare Pratchett's wordcraft and humour to that of PG Wodehouse – a comparison that never rang especially true for me – and also to the works of Douglas Adams – mostly, I always imagined, because Adams wrote comedic science fiction and the blurbmakers and reviewers weren't familiar with, say, Harry Harrison's Stainless Steel Rat series (and his deathless parody, Star Smashers of the Galaxy Rangers). And now here we are, more than three decades on, and the Done Thing now is to compare this or that newbie author's work to that of... yes, to Terry Pratchett... and I have mixed feelings about this. On the one hand, it's a totally deserved mark of respect and an important way of keeping The Author's name alive on the Roundworld Overhead – always and forever a good thing! But on the other, it strikes me as somewhat lazy and unimaginative: "Oh, it's fantasy/science fiction and there are elements of humour/attempted humour, so let's say it's reminiscent of Pratchett..."

    Still – ripples. On the Overhead. Sending Home. And it would be nice to think that every time The Author's name is mentioned, somewhere, anywhere, the Death of Discworld saves another kitten...

    There is a lot of Discworld merchandise featured in this month's issue. Well, it is almost Hoswatch, after all. But there is also plenty of news and play reviews and other things for reading rather than for buying.

    Right, on with the show!

– Annie Mac, Editor

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03) ODDS AND SODS

3.1 NEW PAUL KIDBY SCULPTURE: THE SIR TERRY PRATCHETT MEMORIAL BUST

From Mr Kidby's official site:

    "Back in 2015 a campaign was launched for the creation of a Terry Pratchett Memorial Statue and I was honoured to be put forward as the sculptor of choice to create it. Following a meeting at the Guildhall, Salisbury Council approved the proposal for the statue to be sited within the city, (exact location as yet undecided). A hiatus from this project followed whilst I produced the line art for The Discworld Colouring Book but by August my deadlines were met and I was ready to get my sculpting tools out.

    "To create a large scale piece of public art is a great responsibility. To do Terry justice I must finely balance his public persona and private self by ensuring that I honour him not only as an extraordinary writer whose books delighted readers around the world but also on a more personal level to those who knew him as a friend, beloved husband and father.

    "My first step in this process has been to create a head and shoulders bust, 40 cm high. This has enabled me to focus primarily on facial features and expression to capture a bearing that I feel best represents him as we all remember. Only when I was happy with his physical appearance did I turn my attention to making his glasses (four or five days of fiddling and swearing) and trademark hat. It was a great help to have both of these precious objects, and his well worn leather jacket, to use as direct reference, thank you to Rob Wilkins and Lyn Pratchett for lending them to me.

    "I am now in the final stages of creating this sculpture and will be carefully driving it to the foundry for bronze casting very soon. The bust will be available as a limited edition of twelve for dedicated collectors but most importantly it will be a valuable model and working maquette for the full sized statue and a vital first step in the creative process of this very important commission."

To read the announcement – with iconograpgs! – go to:

http://www.paulkidby.com/sir-terry-pratchett-memorial-bust/

...and here it is, packed for casting, as shared on Mr Kidby's Twitter account:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Cx3A2pnXAAAvaln.jpg

3.2 THE SOUNDS OF DISCWORLD... NOT

By Gemma Toulson in the Nottingham Post:

    "A Nottinghamshire man who made more than £50,000 on illegally reproduced audiobooks has been convicted under copyright law. Nottinghamshire Police said they began to make inquiries into the activities of Manrico Toschi in 2012, when they were informed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security of pirated audiobooks for sale for online. The police said the audiobooks in question had been copied from material produced exclusively for disabled U.S. citizens. An investigation by the East Midland Special Operations Unit (EMSOU) into the 43-year-old's online activities revealed more than 10,000 audiobooks in his digital library, dating between January 2008 and June 2014... Initially Toschi traded under his own name, but following cease and desist notices from the authorities in 2012, the police said he found a new way to continue his 'criminal enterprise'. Using the pseudonym Lee Sharpe, he opened a new bank account and advertised pirated audiobooks across the globe under that name. One such title was a Terry Pratchett audiobook, which featured a compilation of 47[sic] of the Discworld novels, published by Penguin Random House... At Nottingham Crown Court on Tuesday, November 8 he was sentenced to two years in prison. The court also determined that Toschi had benefited from his criminality to the sum of £56,000 and granted a Proceeds of Crime Act Confiscation Order to reflect this. Toschi must repay this amount within three months..."

http://www.nottinghampost.com/man-jailed-for-making-illegal-audiobooks/story-29882441-detail/story.html

3.3 PRATCHETT BOOK SIGNING MEMORIES

By Stephen Sinfield in the Burton Mail (Burton-on-Trent, Staffs)

"    Despite hundreds of people queueing in Coopers Square shopping centre, in Burton, there was no screaming hysteria as Terry Pratchett addicts limited themselves to a slight gasp as they met the author of the best-selling Discworld series face-to-face, and stammered out their thanks. The writer, once a journalist and press officer for the Atomic Energy Authority, was in Burton to sign his latest book and anything else – in print – his fans could lay their hands on. The crowd started forming outside Ottakars book shop as soon as the shopping centre's doors opened on the November morning, each fan arrived with carrier bags packed full of their precious collection of books. Others bought calendars, diaries, and copies of his last novel 'The Fifth Elephant' for him to dedicate, with a swift black flourish of his felt tip pen.

    "Unlike many top authors, Mr Pratchett liked to meet fans outside the big cities. His whirlwind UK book signing tour had started on November 8 in Dorset and would take him to 20 towns across England and Scotland before ending in Colchester. He arrived in Burton on November 17, 2000. Accompanied by a classical guitarist, who was also selling his wares on the side, and a man dressed as an animal to raise money for Children in Need, Mr Pratchett entered the fantasy world of the book signing sessionist. After an hour, the queues which were growing ever-longer, were stopped..."

http://www.burtonmail.co.uk/terry-pratchett-pulled-in-the-crowds-at-burton-book-signing-in/story-29919595-detail/story.html

3.4 A TEN-BEST DISCWORLD CHARACTERS LIST

By Tim Martin in The Telegraph:

    "In a distant and secondhand set of dimensions, in an astral plane that was never meant to fly…” Terry Pratchett began his Discworld sequence with The Colour of Magic in 1983; it's extraordinary that a series which began as a mickey-taking parody of medieval-fantasy cliche blossomed, over 40 books, into British fiction's most brilliant satire on contemporary life. Everyone will have their own favourite characters from the hundreds of humans, vampires, trolls and golems who stalk the plains and cities of Pratchett's disturbingly familiar fantasy world. They have ensured that the writer, whose books sold over 85 million copies world-wide, will be remembered for many a generation of fantasy readers. Here are 10 of the finest..."

The list includes Death (and the Death of Rats, and Susan), Granny Weatherwax, Lord Vetinari, Nanny Ogg, Sam Vimes, the Librarian, Moist von Lipwig, Tiffany Aching, Cut-Me-Own-Throat Dibbler, and the Luggage, with a paragraph's description of each. Good choices!

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/books/what-to-read/terry-pratchetts-10-best-discworld-characters/

3.5 ALZHEIMER'S NEWS: TWO VIEWS, AND A SLOW RAY OF HOPE

    "Dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, has overtaken heart disease as the leading cause of death in England and Wales, latest figures reveal. Last year, more than 61,000 people died of dementia - 11.6% of all recorded deaths. The Office for National Statistics says the change is largely due to an ageing population. People are living for longer and deaths from some other causes, including heart disease, have gone down. Also, doctors have got better at diagnosing dementia and the condition is now given more weight on death certificates... Hilary Evans of Alzheimer's Research UK said: 'These figures once again call attention to the uncomfortable reality that currently, no-one survives a diagnosis of dementia. Dementia is not an inevitable part of ageing, it's caused by diseases that can be fought through research, and we must bring all our efforts to bear on what is now our greatest medical challenge'..."

http://www.bbc.com/news/health-37972141

    "A week ago the story that dementia had become the leading cause of death in England and Wales was making headlines. But now we hear that the proportion of people suffering from dementia is actually falling - how can both statements be true, asks Charlotte McDonald? Last week's news was based on figures from the Office for National Statistics, and the statisticians themselves pointed out why the numbers have increased... 'With people living longer and surviving other illnesses, the number of people developing dementia and Alzheimer disease is increasing,' says the ONS. But there is a second reason, which has to do with the way deaths are registered. This data set is collecting the "underlying cause" of death, and that is defined as the 'the disease or injury which initiated the train of morbid events leading directly to death'. In the past there would have been a certain amount of stigma, or a reluctance to put dementia on death certificates... It is possible for dementia to be the sole cause of death without another cause like pneumonia but very few people are likely to die of dementia on its own..."

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-38054877

...and hopeful news from science correspondent Hannah Devlin in The Guardian:

    "When Terry Pratchett was diagnosed with Alzheimer's he recalled his wife's relief that he hadn't got a brain tumour. 'All I could think then was, "I know three people who have got better after having a brain tumour. I haven't heard of anyone who's got better from Alzheimer's,"' the late author wrote in 2008. Nearly a decade on, not much has changed for people facing a new diagnosis of Alzheimer's. Unlike patients with heart disease, cancer or diabetes, there is no well-trodden medical track to follow and no treatments that can slow the disease's devastating progress. Between 2002 and 2012, 99.6% of drugs studies aimed at preventing, curing or improving Alzheimer's symptoms were either halted or discontinued. The consistent failure of trials, at vast financial cost to drugs companies, caused many to shut down dementia programmes as a result.

    "The latest trial results from Merck, together with other drugs in the final stage of development, provide hope that the years of deadlock may be drawing to a close. The Merck trial may be preliminary, in the clinical sense, but it represents an entire career's work for some of the scientists involved. 'We're 16 years into the program,' said Matt Kennedy, the neuroscience director at Merck who led the research. 'It's a good example of how long it takes.' The first challenge scientists faced was creating a compound that would get through the blood-brain barrier, without also causing toxic side-effects or damaging healthy structures in the brain. Simply optimising the structure of the compound to do this took a decade, Kennedy said. The latest results appear to show that the scientists got this bit right – the drug appeared to have few side-effects and it substantially lowered levels of toxic amyloid compounds. The real question, which the next phase of the trial should answer, is whether the formation of plaques are a root cause of the disease or simply a visible symptom... There is no guarantee that the drug will ultimately make it to market, but in a field that has seen such scant progress, the fact that a major clinical trial is underway is welcome news. Professor John Hardy, a neuroscientist at University College London and pioneer in the study of Alzheimer's disease, said: 'Conveying some excitement isn't the wrong thing to do in this case.'"

http://bit.ly/2fFg8qX

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04) DISCWORLD GAMES NEWS: CLACKS CHRISTMAS OFFERS

This, from the lads at Backspindle Games:

    We are delighted to make a couple of Christmas Offers! Below you can order a combination of our Award Winning, HIT Wrestling game, Luchador! Mexican Wrestling Dice with a copy of our brand new No. 1 Themeless game in the Dice Tower Podcast, Codinca… or you can order our really popular, (three games in one) Discworld board game, Clacks, based on the Terry Pratchett novel, Going Postal, together with a copy of Codinca.

    Please note, the last days for posting from our Post Office service are:
UK Customers – 20 December 2016
EU Customers – 16 December 2016 and
ROW Customers – 10 December 2016

http://www.backspindlegames.com/christmas-offers/

Special Clacks offer!

    For a limited period, you can order a copy of the game and a beautifully sculpted miniature by Microart Studios that can be used in the cooperative race game or you can order Moist by himself. (Miniature supplied unpainted)

http://www.backspindlegames.com/clacks

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05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS

5.1 PLAYS IN NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER 2016

* MORT IN HARROGATE

The Woodlands Drama Group will be staging their production of Mort in November and December!

When: 30th November–3rd December 3 2016
Venue: The Studio At Harrogate Theatre, 6 Oxford Street, Harrogate HG1 1QF (email: boxoffice@harrogatetheatre.co.uk)
Time: 7.45pm evening shows; 2.30pm Saturday matinee
Tickets: all tickets £10, available from http://www.woodlandsdramagroup.co.uk/tickets/ or http://bit.ly/2di6RSA or by phoning the theatre's Box Office (01423 502116)

http://www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/Mort-Presented-by-Woodlands-Drama-Group

* WYRD SISTERS IN BRISBANE

The Brisbane Arts Theatre's production of Wyrd Sisters is still going!

When: 29th & 30th November and 4th–6th December 2016
Venue: Brisbane Arts Theatre, 210 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane, QLD 4000
Time: 8pm Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays; 6.30pm Sunday matinees (29th November and 6th December)
Tickets: Adults $31, Concession $25, Group 10+ $25, Group 75+ $20, Gold Members $15, Members $25, Student Rush $10 (10 mins before curtain); the online purchasing age at http://www.artstheatre.com.au/show/wyrdsisters appears to be broken, though... so if you can't get through to buy, try ringing the theatre on (07) 3369 2344 (active durning regular business hours and also during performances).

http://www.artstheatre.com.au/show/wyrdsisters

* WYRD SISTERS IN SUSSEX

The Midhurst Players, an amateur company of 65 years' standing, will stage their production of Wyrd Sisters in late November through early December.

When: Wednesday 30th November – Saturday 3rd December 2016
Venue: South Downs Centre Memorial Hall, North Street, Midhurst, West Sussex GU29 9DH
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: Adults £10 Under 18's £6, available online at https://thelittleboxoffice.com/midhurstplayers/book/event/52158

"We now have a fully automated online ticketing service where you can choose where you want to sit, pay and print off your own tickets. Just follow the links on the website.

"For telephone bookings please call 01730 815894 between the hours of 10.00 am to 6.00 pm, on weekdays only. Please note that initially we can only 'reserve' your tickets and there there will be a slight delay before the seats are allocated as we have to notify the Administrator. We are only able to reserve tickets for 48 hours so it is important to ensure that your payment reaches us in good time. All tickets issued by the Administrator will be printed off and will be ready to pick up on the night of your performance. We no longer post tickets to your home address.

"Do remember that the system runs in 'real' time so unless you book online we cannot guarantee your seats until they have been allocated and paid for."

http://www.midhurstplayers.co.uk/

5.2 PLAYS IN 2017

* TAMAHER IN CARDIFF (FEBRUARY 2017)

Monstrous Productions carry on from strength to strength! Next up is their February 2017 production of The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents. Stay tuned for updates...

When: 22nd–25th February 2017
Venue: The Gate Theatre, Keppoch Street, Roath, Cardiff CF24 3JW
Time: 7.30pm (2.30pm matinee on the 25th)
Tickets: £7 (£5 concession), available from http://monstrousproductions.fikket.com/

* CARPE JUGULUM IN NOTTINGHAM (MARCH 2017)

The Lace Market Youth Theatre present Carpe Jugulum, "a pastiche of vampire literature playing with mythic archetypes and featuring a tongue in cheek reversal of 'vampyre' subculture with young vampires who wear bright clothes, drink wine and stay up till noon", in March 2017.

When: 22nd–25th March 2017
Venue: The Lace Market Theatre, Halifax Place, Nottingham NG1 1QN
Time: 7.30pm all evening shows; 2.30pm Saturday 25th matinee
Tickets: £11 (£10 concessions), available online at http://bit.ly/2dIKhod or by phoning 0115 950 7201

https://lacemarkettheatre.co.uk/LaceMarketTheatre.dll/WhatsOn

* MORT IN OREGON (FEBRUARY 2017)

The Majestic Theatre in Corvallis, Oregon, USA will be staging their production of Mort next February: "DEATH is always right behind us. But if he were in front of us, and this were the fantastical Discworld invented by the late Sir Terry Pratchett, Death would also be a seven-foot skeleton with a black robe and a scythe. And when Death is in front of young Mort, he also has an offer of an apprenticeship. In this hilarious overview of life, love, and death (not in that order), Mort finds himself living in Death’s abode, but when he finally gets a chance to do the job, his mistakes cause reality to be sliced in half, with a beautiful princess somewhere between life and death and not very happy about it. Surrounded by panicked wizards, arrogant royalty, goofy drunks, and short-order chefs, Mort and Death must confront their own fears in order to restore order, and figure out who lives, and who's fired!"

When: 10th, 11th, 12th, 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th February 2017 (performances on the 12th and 19th are matinees)
Venue: The Majestic Theatre, 115 SW 2nd Street, Corvallis, OR 97333
Time: TBA
Tickets: TBA

http://www.majestic.org/

* WYRD SISTERS IN BOLTON, LANCS (MARCH 2017)

Bolton Little Theatre, "a vibrant amateur theatre company run by members" since 1931, will be staging their production of Wyrd Sisters next March.

When: 6th–11th March 2017
Venue: Bolton Little Theatre, Hanover Street, Bolton BL1 4TG
Time: 7.30pm
Tickets: £10 (Monday night 3 for 2 special), available at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/boltonlittletheatre or https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/event/EFILHL – group bookings of 10+ (£9) should be booked through the Box Office. "You can book at Bolton Little Theatre box office in person or by telephone on Monday night from 7.30 to 9pm and Friday mornings from 10.30 to 12 noon – no extra charge if paying by cash or cheque and you can book during the run of the plays or you can book online at boltonlittletheatre.ticketsource.co.uk ...credit card charges will apply. Tickets can be e-tickets (no charge) mobile phone ticket (50p) standard post (£1.50)."

http://www.boltonlittletheatre.co.uk/terry-pratchetts-wyrd-sisters/

5.3 REVIEWS

* REVIEW: WYRD SISTERS IN NEWPORT

By Julia Fitzgerald for the South Wales Argus:

    "The Newport Playgoers put their twist on a Terry Pratchett classic by setting out to save the kingdom of Lancre following the death of the king and fighting the new evil monarch. The witches Granny Weatherwax (Adele Cordner), Nanny Ogg (Andrea Pyke) and Magrat Garlick (Natty Niering) take on the challenge and work well together on their mission, bouncing off one another and using humour to connect with the audience. The large cast performed well in stunning costumes against creative scenery, standout performances came from The Fool (Stuart Moss) and Duke and Lady Felmet (Luke Bowkett and Kate Summers) who brought the villainy and sadistic behaviour to add spice to the show. The use of a giant film screen, special effects and magic tricks throughout meant the production was cleverly executed and enjoyed by all, really creating the illusion of magical goings on..."

http://bit.ly/2gwI5Bo

* REVIEW: GUARDS! GUARDS! IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA

ARENAarts' sixth Discworld production, reviewed by Gordon The Optom for the Independent Theatre Association:

    "Great fun for the family. There are a couple of dozen scenes, varying from a castle battlement, several rooms, street scene, zoo etc., each represented with minimal – but very well presented – scenery and props (Set construction by Jim Chantry, adorned by scenic artists Kiri Vinsen, Sheila Wileman and Ashling Townsend, with the cast helping). It was essential with so many scene changes that the stage team should be well focused and quick. Stage manager Janet Vinsen with her assistants Callum Vinsen and Sean Schliwa were magnificent. With an average of 5 – 8 seconds, the stage was transformed each time. Josh Shoebridge and Simon Walters skilfully operated Simon James' lighting and sound design. It was obvious that a great deal of thought and precision was put into the complex plan and operation. Young Footnote (Callum Vinsen), the narrator of the story, sets the scene, popping in now and again to clarify the action. Director and multi-tasker, Simon James, has presented this play in the style of a pantomime, aimed at 9 yrs. and up. It is quite dark in places, and the script is rich with puns, double-entendres and subtle jokes. The kids will miss at least half of the humour, but will love the special effects, excellent costumes (Janet Vinsen and armourer Callum Vinsen) and dragons. There was a large cast, who were impressive and worked together with great chemistry. The delivery of the lines, humour and build-up of tension were all presented most proficiently. The main actors were superb, but even the ‘bit' players gave it their best. With so many players on stage, there can easily be pandemonium, with actors bumping into each other and fighting for exits – this team moved well, truly professional. Josh Shoebridge and Kiri Vinsen created the magnificent robotic performers, Errol and other dragons. They really were ‘alive', practically stealing the scene from the living actors..."

http://www.ita.org.au/2016/11/guards-guards-reviewed-by-gordon-the-optom/

* REVIEW: TAMAHER IN LEEDS

Leeds Children's Theatre's production of Amazing Maurice, reviewed by Christine Castle for NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association):

    "The untimely death of Terry Pratchett, one of our best-loved writers, has made us all realise what a tremendous loss his passing made in literary circles and beyond. I admire LCT for choosing one of his children's stories, now adapted for the stage, for their autumn production, as this is a hefty play by any stretch of the imagination, especially for younger members. I am pleased to say that the whole cast in this production gave it one hundred per cent commitment. The Directors, Jane Curtin and Alex Plygawko, had worked hard on their cast to bring the story of Maurice, an amazing talking cat and his friendly, educated (and also talkative!) rodents to life. Within the piece, one message shone through - never ignore the less well-liked members of your community (in this case, rats) as they are cleverer than you think! For the adult audience members, there were many clever references to modern political life making us nod sagely. The young people in this production were all extremely talented - they acted well and their diction was, as always, of the highest calibre. I was particularly impressed with the costumes, especially the 'rat' headgear - the costume department, in the tender care of Mavis Heaton, must have worked hard to make very convincing costumes for all the company. The set was very interesting in design (in the care of Dan Dainter) and gave the cast plenty of scope for moving around. Set changes were performed very quickly - maybe a little too much use of blackouts, which can disjoint the smoothness of the play, but this is a personal comment. The main character of the play, Maurice, was played with confidence and worldliness - his rat buddies had the most wonderful character names - for example, Hamnpork, Sardines, Donut Enter, to name but a few and each actor lived up to his or her name with total conviction. Although this play is rather wordy not one of the actors forgot their lines, which is a good thing, as I was told LCT do not have a prompt..."

https://www.noda.org.uk/events/reports/the_amazing_maurice_and_his_educated_rodents

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06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS: UPDATES AND REMINDERS

The Broken Drummers, "London's Premier Unofficially Official Discworld Group" (motto "Nil percussio est"), meets next on Monday 5th December 2016 at the Monkey Puzzle, 30 Southwick Street, London, W2 1JQ.

For more information, go to http://brokendrummers.org/ or email BrokenDrummers@gmail.com or nicholls.helen@yahoo.co.uk

*

Canberra, Australia's Discworld fan group is Drumknott's Irregulars: "The group is open to all, people from interstate and overseas are welcome, and our events will not be heavily themed. Come along to dinner for a chat and good company. We welcome people all all fandoms (and none) and we would love to see you at one of our events, even if you're just passing through. Please contact us via Facebook (_https://www.facebook.com/groups/824987924250161/_) or Google Groups (_https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/drumknotts-irregulars_) or join us at our next event."

*

For Facebook users in Fourecks: The Victorian Discworld Klatch is "a social group for fans of Discworld and Terry Pratchett... run by a dedicated team who meet monthly and organise events monthly." "If you'd like to join our events please ask to join the Klatch."

https://www.facebook.com/groups/VictorianDiscworldKlatch

*

"The Gathering of the Loonies (Wincanton chapter)" is a public Facebook meeting group: "This group, by request of Jo in Bear will continue to be used for future unofficial (not run by the Emporium) fan Gatherings in Wincanton. Look here for information." [Editor's note: this is an active group. If you use Facebook, it may be worth joining!]

https://www.facebook.com/groups/373578522834654/

*

The Pratchett Partisans are a fan group who meet monthly at either Brisbane or Indooroopilly to "eat, drink and chat about all things Pratchett. We hold events such as Discworld dinners, games afternoons, Discworld photo scavenger hunts. We also attend opening night at Brisbane Arts Theatre's Discworld plays." The Partisans currently have about 200 members who meet at least twice a month, usually in Brisbane.

For more info about their next meetup, join up at https://www.facebook.com/groups/pratchettpartisans/ or contact Ula directly at uwilmott@yahoo.com.au

*

The City of Small Gods is a group for fans in Adelaide and South Australia.

"We have an established Terry Pratchett & Discworld fan group in Adelaide called The City of Small Gods, which is open to anyone who would like to come - you don't have to live in Adelaide or even South Australia, or even be a Discworld fan, but that's mostly where our events will be held, and we do like discussing Pratchett's works. Our (semi-) regular meetings are generally held on the last Thursday of the month at a pub or restaurant in Adelaide. We have dinner at 6.30pm followed by games until 9pm. The games are usually shorter games like Pairs, Sushi Go, or Tiny Epic Defenders, with the occasional Werewolf session, as these are the best sort of games that work in a pub setting. Every few months, we have a full day's worth of board games at La Scala Cafe, 169 Unley Rd, Unley in the function room starting at 10am. In addition, we will occasionally have other events to go and see plays by Unseen Theatre Company, book discussions, craft, chain maille or costuming workshops or other fun social activities."

The End of Year Hogswatch Dinner will be held at Caffe Buongiorno, Mitcham on 15th December 2016. For more info, go to www.cityofsmallgods.org.au

*

The Broken Vectis Drummers meet next on Thursday 1st December 2016 (probably) from 7.30pm at The Castle pub in Newport, Isle of Wight. For more info and any queries, contact broken_vectis_drummers@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Wincanton Omnian Temperance Society (WOTS) next meets on Friday 2nd December 2016 (probably) at Wincanton's famous Bear Inn from 7pm onwards. "Visitors and drop-ins are always welcome!"

*

The Northern Institute of the Ankh-Morpork and District Society of Flatalists, a Pratchett fangroup, has been meeting on a regular basis since 2005 but is now looking to take in some new blood (presumably not in the non-reformed Uberwald manner). The Flatalists normally meet at The Narrowboat Pub in Victoria Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire, to discuss "all things Pratchett" as well as having quizzes and raffles. Details of future meetings are posted on the Events section of the Discworld Stamps forum:

http://www.discworldstamps.co.uk/forum/

*

Sydney Drummers (formerly Drummers Downunder) meet next on Monday 5th December 2016 at 6.30pm (probably) in Sydney at 3 Wise Monkeys, 555 George Street, Sydney,2000. For more information, contact Sue (aka Granny Weatherwax): kenworthys@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Treacle Mining Corporation, formerly known as Perth Drummers, meets next on Monday 5th December 2016 (probably) from 5.30pm at Carpe Cafe, 526 Murray Street, Perth, Western Australia. For details follow Perth Drummers on Twitter @Perth_Drummers or join their Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Perth.Drummers/ – or message Alexandra Ware directly at <alexandra.ware@gmail.com>

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07) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS

7.1 AUSDWCON NEWS: DISCWORLD GRAND TOUR UPDATE

A few reminders...

    We are also celebrating 10 Years of Australian Discworld Conventions with a special t-shirt – You don't have to be attending the convention to get this special t-shirt – we can post it to you within Australia, New Zealand, the UK or the USA.[2] https://ausdwcon.org/shop/product/ten-years-t-shirt/ Shipping costs listed at https://ausdwcon.org/shop/delivery-timescales/

    Don't forget that you can buy your tickets for the Discworld Grand Tour in our shop right now:
https://ausdwcon.org/shop/tickets/

    Please keep in mind that early-bird prices finish February 4th 2017. But wait – did you know there's a way to get the early-bird price without paying for a full ticket now? Yes, that's right! If you buy a Supporting membership ($40) before Feb 4th 2017, you will lock yourself in at the early-bird price, and you can pay the remaining balance (in instalments or all at once) any time up until July 21 2017!

    Buy your supporting membership here: https://ausdwcon.org/shop/product/supporting-membership/
And read here for information about all membership types: https://ausdwcon.org/convention/membership/

https://ausdwcon.org/blog/on-your-holiday/

7.2 NADWCON NEWS

The fourth North American Discworld Convention (NADWCON) will take place from 1st–4th September 2017 in New Orleans – and appropriately, the theme will be The Genuan Experience!

    "The 2017 NADWCon will be organized by RavenQuoth, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that was responsible for NADWCon 2013, which raised over $24,000 in charity funds that were split equally between the Orangutan Foundation UK and Alzheimer's Research UK. The 2017 NADWCon will be co-chaired by Emily S. Whitten and Richard Atha-Nicholls. Emily S. Whitten was co-founder of The North American Discworld Convention, Vice-Chair of NADWCon 2009, and Chair of NADWCon 2011. Richard Atha-Nicholls was Chair of NADWCon 2013 and is President of RavenQuoth, Inc.

    "NADWCon 2017 and RavenQuoth, Inc. will provide further announcements and details about the 2017 convention in the upcoming months. Further information will be available at http://nadwcon2017.org."

http://www.nadwcon2017.org/

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08) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS

8.1 DISCWORLD EMPORIUM NEWS

The Discworld Emporium has an announcement:

"IF YOU GO DOWN TO THE DISCWORLD EMPORIUM TODAY, YOU'RE SURE OF A BIG SURPRISE!

    "The Emporium team is proud to unveil our new website, full of the glingleglingleglingle of bells, whistles and lots of lovely Discworld goodies! We've been working hard to improve functionality, navigation and user experience with our new home, which is fully optimised for all your mobile clacks devices. With a new look, new features, and new products we're sure you'll enjoy rummaging around for all your Discworld merchandise needs & Hogswatch gifts. You'll be able to make wishlists, purchase vouchers, set restock alerts on out of stock products and much, much more!

    "Being well-read and intellectually gifted clever clogs, we're sure you'll understand that such a magical website does not get launched without a few thaumic ramifications here and there. Due to our website being built with all-new techno-thingies please bear the following in mind...

* If you previously held an account at our old site, you'll need to retrieve a new password when you log in, and reset it in your account.

* Our emails and order notifications may end up in your junk box, so please check there for expected alerts,

...and remember to ADD US TO YOUR ADDRESS BOOK to ensure you don't miss important correspondence from us

* Orders placed on our old site before 31st October will NOT be visible on our new site. Please refer to your order confirmation emails which contain the very same information.

    "We hope you enjoy exploring the Emporium and feel right at home wandering around its nooks and crannies (take a piece of string with with you, and maybe some crampons. Our site is like a new born kitten; beautiful, cuddly but finding its feet and occasionally pooping on the carpet. While are endeavouring to soothe any teething troubles as quickly as possible, if you encounter any glitches or metaphorical brick walls during your visit please feel free to CONTACT US (_http://www.discworldemporium.com/contact-us_) and we'll work it out together."

...and another announcement:

    "There's only seven days left to place your Hogswatch orders with us if you live outside of Europe and the US! For all our customers who don't live in the UK, Europe or the USA, we wanted to drop you a note to let you know that you have just seven days to place your Hogswatch orders before our cut-off date of the 2nd of December. After this date there's no guarantee the items will reach you in time for Hogswatch!

    "As an official branch of the Ankh-Morpork Post Office we pride ourselves on offering swift and reliable delivery all over the Roundworld, but even our postmen deserve a rest over the festive holiday! For our final posting dates and holiday closure information please read on! For delivery in time for the Hogfather to make his rounds, please be sure to order by the recommended dates below":The Midhurst Players, an amateur company of 65 years' standing, will stage their production of Wyrd Sisters in late November through early December.

Thursday 1st December
Africa, Middle East

Tuesday 6th December
Cyprus, Asia, Eastern Europe (except Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia), Far East (including Japan), Caribbean, Central & South America

Thursday 8th December
Greece, Australia, New Zealand

Tuesday 13th December
Western Europe (Except Greece), Ireland, Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Canada, USA

Thursday 15th December
United Kingdom

    "ORDERS WILL CEASE SHIPPING FROM THURSDAY 15TH. YOU ARE WELCOME TO PLACE ORDERS OVER THE FESTIVE PERIOD, BUT PLEASE NOTE THAT THEY WILL NOT SHIP UNTIL WE REOPEN ON FRIDAY 6TH JANUARY. THE EMPORIUM SHOP IN WINCANTON WILL BE CLOSED FROM THURSDAY 22ND DEC – FRIDAY 6TH JANUARY. Please note that communication will be limited at this time, as we'll likely be pissed as farts. Refund or replacement requests made during our closure will be processed on our return."

https://www.discworldemporium.com/content/11-hogswatch-delivery-holiday-closures

...and on to the best offer of the month...

*Rat onna stick plushy!

    "Treat yourself to an icon of Ankh-Morpork street cuisine – with ketchup & no green wobbly bits!! Fresh from Gimlet's Hole Food Delicatessen, this favourite among discerning dwarfs it is made from 100% free-range & locally sourced ingredients (aka plush!) – an ideal addition to any Hogswatch feast or stocking! At the Discworld Emporium, we pride ourselves on producing things of great beauty, craftsmanship and cunning. We also pride ourselves on making great dead rats with sticks up their bums!

    "Ankh-Morpork is a melting pot of vibrant and divers dining experiences, but for a true taste of Ankh-Morpork a visit to Gimlet's for a slice of humble rodent is not to be missed! Finally that most famous of snacks, the rat-onna-stick is available for Discworld fans to savour at home! This gluten-free, low-fat treat is also surprisingly suitable for vegetarians and features finely embroidered ketchup, fully posable tail and lovingly executed griddle marks. Our plush Rat-onna-Stick is possibly the BEST plush Rat-onna-Stick ever produced in any known multiverse.

    "If you buy only ONE food-based-dead-rat-with-a-stick-up-its-bum plush item this year, make it this one." – creators and perpetrators of crimes against cuddly toys, Messors Ian Mitchell and Bernard Pearson."

The Rat-onna-stick plushy measures 23cm nose to end of stick and is priced at £ 13.50. For more information, and to order, go to:

https://www.discworldemporium.com/discworld-plushies/332-rat-onna-stick

...and stamps, of course...

* Introducing our limited edition Hogswatch stamps & souvenirs!

"For this year's designs, we asked Discworld artist David Wyatt to create a special festive version of the cityscape he illustrated for the Discworld Emporium's website homepage – and the result is a stunning collection of stamps & ephemera to get us into the festive spirit! The Hogswatch 50p stamps are available on a traditional First Day Cover, as a limited edition minisheet featuring a triptych of stamps set inside David's festive scene, and in a special edition 'Little Brown Envelope' – a lucky dip assortment of Discworld stamps!"

https://www.discworldemporium.com/39-new-stamps

    "This year we're rolling our super-limited Hogswatch and Seasonal LBEs into one festive bonanza of an edition! The Happy Hogswatch LBE will be available for the Hogswatch season until December 25th, and is packed full of the sports of a super-limited edition but features MORE prizes, AND the free stamp of a standard seasonal LBE! Each LBE contains one of three Hogswatch 50p stamps, exclusive to this issue, along with a free Hogfather Penny stamp as a gift from us! The Hogfather Penny is also available to collect as a whole sheet of stamps for collection or application to your Hogswatch correspondence! Lucky LBEs contain prize tickets for sport First Day Covers (featuring sport variants of the Hogswatch 50p), and exclusive sets of 3 whole stamp Sheets. Plus TWO of the most coveted stamps of them all – the Temple of Small Gods Blue Triangle Sports – are waiting to be found in this festive bonanza along with Clacks-o-grams, dead letter labels and sports!"

https://www.discworldemporium.com/little-brown-envelopes/336-hogswatch-lbe

https://www.discworldemporium.com/new-stamps/335-hogfather-penny

http://www.discworldemporium.com/

8.2 DISCWORLD.COM NEWS

"A Top Ten of our Most Popular Products of 2016"

1. The Terry Pratchett Memorial Pin
Without doubt, our most popular product of 2016. Produced to celebrate the life of Sir Terry, this pin features a sprig of lilac – a symbol of Discworld remembrance immortalised in Night Watch.

http://discworld.com/products/collectables/terry-s-memorial-pin/

2. Dried Frog Pills
If you didn't need them before, surely after all this talk of Hogswatch, you most definitely will! Our range of Discworld confectionary has grown this year; you can now achieve sanity with UU Dried Frog Pills, whimsy and giggles with Brother Auguste's Happy Pills and er, a swift inhumation with Lord Downey's Esteemed Humbugs.
Disclaimer: Whilst these products are real, we can't be 100% sure as to their side-effects.

http://discworld.com/products/gimlets-kitchen/dried-frog-pills/

3. The Discworld Colouring Book
Our best-selling book of the year, the Discworld Colouring Book, not only brings the adult colouring book phenomenon to Discworld, but is unique in the fact that Discworld artist - Paul Kidby himself - re-worked every single piece of artwork into stunning line-drawing versions of the originals. Also available in a glorious Artist's Edition.

http://discworld.com/products/colouring-books

4. Signed Prints
A perennial favourite with fans the world over, our range of prints were all hand-signed by Sir Terry. Each one is numbered and signed but be quick as numbers are declining rapidly. Non Timetis Messor and The Map of Lancre are down to the last few. Grab something special before it's too late.

http://discworld.com/products/colour-prints

5. Terry's Memorial Tote Bag
Another fan-favourite from Terry's Memorial, this practical tote bag is a great way to remember Terry and carry all your Discworld goodies at the same time.

http://discworld.com/products/tote-bags

6. The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner
Available in both a standard edition and beautiful slipcase, this is the second volume of Sir Terry's short stories. Bringing together fourteen of Terry's earliest stories, these entertaining tales show the seeds of ideas which Terry went on to develop in his later writing, making this a fascinating addition to your collection.

http://discworld.com/products/books/the-witchs-vacuum-cleaner/
http://discworld.com/products/books/witchs-vacuum-cleaner-collectors-edition-slipcase/

7. In Ancient Times... Tea Towel
This Christmas, even as you fight to keep the cat away from the turkey, you can be reminded of a snippet of Terry's feline-inspired wisdom. These high-quality UK-made tea towels are the purrrfect thing to help with all that extra washing up.

http://discworld.com/products/gimlets-kitchen/cats-tea-towel

8. The Discworld Convention Coin
Originally produced as a memento to the lucky people who managed to secure tickets to this year's Discworld Convention, the remaining number are available for sale, but do be quick as we're down to the last few! This striking coin features Terry's silhouette on one side and a beautifully embossed version of Paul Kidby's classic Under an Eldritch Sky artwork on the reverse.

http://discworld.com/products/limited-time-only/discworld-convention-2016-collectable-coin

9. Terry Pratchett postcards
Commissioned for the Terry Pratchett Memorial in April, these beautiful postcards were subsequently made available to all our customers. They all feature images of Terry including artwork by Josh Kirby and Paul Kidby.

http://discworld.com/products/postcards

10. Dark Side of the Turtle T-shirt
Released for this year's Band With Rocks In-spired UK Discworld Convention, this design was so well received, it's earned a place in our T-shirt hall of fame! Rock on!

http://discworld.com/products/bags-clothing/dark-side-turtle-t-shirt/

...and your Editor's pick of the lot – beautiful Discworld notebooks!

All notebooks are hardbacks, all are A5 size with lined pages, and all are priced at £15 each. A number to choose from:

Assassins' Guild Notebook, "embossed with the coat of arms of the Assassins' Guild. The notebook comes complete with a set of Assassins' Guild stickers:"
http://discworld.com/products/notebooks/assassins-guild-notebook/

Unseen University Notebook, "embossed with the coat of arms of Unseen University. The notebook comes complete with a set of suitably simian UU stickers":
http://discworld.com/products/notebooks/unseen-university-notebook/

Seamstresses Guild Notebook, "embossed with the coat of arms of the Seamstresses' Guild. The notebook comes complete with a set of Seamstresses' Guild stickers":
http://discworld.com/products/notebooks/seamstresses-guild-notebook/

Death Notebook, "embossed with the seal of Death, and bearing his motto – 'Non Timetis Messor'. The notebook comes complete with a set of Death stickers":
http://discworld.com/products/convention-launches/death-notebook/

Granny Weatherwax Notebook, "embossed with the hat of Granny Weatherwax, and bearing the legend of her famous sign – 'I Ate'nt Dead'. The notebook comes complete with a set of Witches stickers":
http://discworld.com/products/convention-launches/granny-weatherwax-notebook/

The City Watch Notebook, "embossed with the seal of the Ankh-Morpork City Watch, and bearing their motto – 'Fabricati Diem Pvnc'. The notebook comes complete with a set of City Watch stickers":
http://discworld.com/products/convention-launches/the-watch-notebook/

...and the 2017 Discworld Calendar:

"The Discworld calendar dates are extensive, exhaustively researched, and include all major real-time calendrical data for Great Britain, Eire, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA – as well, of course, as notable Discworld dates. This year's calendar features a nostalgic look at the late Josh Kirby's iconic covers, featuring a selection from the earliest Discworld novels."

The 2017 Discworld Calendar is priced at £15. For more information, and to order, go to:

http://discworld.com/products/calendar/discworld-calendar-2017/

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09) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE

Blogger reuoq is back with a review of The Long Cosmos:

    "This picks the characters up as old men – the character Joshua Valienté is now in his sixties or seventies, and goes off for a final trip through the Long Earth, that strange multiverse introduced in the previous books in the series. He's very similar to the authors' ages now, and they wrote this very successfully, I thought. He gets trapped somewhere when he gets injured, and is taken care of by a troll, one of the other species of hominids that can step from world to world. So where The Long Utopia, the fourth book, was about Valienté's family history, and the history of the Long Earth by extension, this book explores the other species of the Long Earth, including the trolls, and what they call “elves”, introduced in the first book and almost forgotten since then. The trolls are depicted as a gorilla on the front cover, which I don't think is accurate – it should be more like Homo erectus, or like neanderthals, from the descriptions in the book. They can also communicate with the human characters using a kind of translator microphone thing, briefly mentioned a few books ago, although somehow humans and trolls can't truly learn each other's language – this is hand-waved away a few times by saying the grammar doesn't match properly. I liked this look into trolls – they were always elusive before, and even disappeared completely during one of the stories.

    "Not to deliberately spoil anything, but the book ends with a very grandiose cosmic tying together of loose threads, with a philosophical justification for the Long Earth that I didn't buy completely. It's at this point that I start to tease out Baxter's style from Pratchett's, which I found difficult to do in the first book, but having now read two of Baxter's books – Proxima and its sequel Ultima, which I've yet to review – these both have similar themes, exploring the nature of the multiverse with slightly far-fetched explanations. Despite this, I was overall satisfied with the book's conclusion..."

https://reuoq.com/2016/10/25/book-109-the-long-cosmos-2016/

The Literary Gamer, who believes that being well-read and having vast gaming-fu need not be contradictory, offers thoughts on Mort:

    "This book marks the first time that Death has been the center of attention throughout the entire book. In Discworld, Death is not a malicious evil, but rather a guy just doing his job. However, he also has a lot of pride in his job and does his best at it. These aspects make him a lot more relatable than other versions of the force of nature. I've always had a slight interest in the world building and mechanics of fantasy settings, so I was happy to see just how Death goes about his job. He's not present for every single person's death, just when the event is important (i.e. natural disasters, massacres, etc.) or with people who think they're important. Such individuals are usually aristocrats, monarchs, other politicians, and wizards and witches. I like to think he personally collects aristocrats and monarchs just to prevent them from throwing temper tantrums... This book has one of those premises that could either be extremely entertaining or just fall flat on its face. Since it was put in the hands of Terry Pratchett, we fortunately have the former... Mort's behavior also subverted my expectations. Typically a normal human turned into the embodiment of death has one of two reactions. The first is that they go mad with power striking down anyone that makes them even slightly angry. The second is that they resist the job with everything they have genuinely believing that the world would be better if no one ever died. Mort however does neither. He doesn't' revel in the killing like a psychopath. Death himself said that if Mort did that, then the boy would be fired and Death would find someone else. At the same time, Mort takes the time to be compassionate towards the souls that he collects. There was a tender scene where Mort sits down with an old woman while they wait for her hourglass to run out. It's a touching scene that really made me like Mort both as a character and as a potential Death..."

https://literarygamerblog.wordpress.com/2016/10/31/mort/

Blogger crosejack has mixed feeings – mostly good – about Raising Steam:

    "I was thrilled to find Moist von Lipwig was a prominent character in Raising Steam. But reading this book makes me very sad because it's not up to the standard of Pratchett's usual writing style. It was published in 2013, so I'm assuming Pratchett wrote it while he was suffering from Alzheimer's, and maybe he didn't have the time to do one more editorial pass-through. It reads like a draft. The story structure is not as tight as his earlier books- especially Going Postal. In his earlier books, there's foreshadowing and a fleshing out of the villains, and that's lacking in this book. On the other hand, I think this story reveals more about the relationship between Moist and Adora Belle because of the incomplete structure. I get the sense that we are able to peek into their private conversations and if Pratchett had done another editing round, he would have determined those moments too intimate for us voyeurs. The flirtation between Moist and Adora Belle is what made Going Postal seem like a very new story in a very established world. I can't think of another moment where Pratchett actually allows the reader into the head of a character at that point in the relationship..."

https://crosejack.wordpress.com/2016/11/10/the-writers-process/

Blogger Jeroen muses on Night Watch:

    "I could never really pin down Vimes as a character (but neither could Ankh-Morpork's Assassination Guild), but in this story he shows what a good down-to-earth guy he is. He's a watchman with street smarts, but he's never on the streets anymore and this worries him. But then a magical accident happens and he is flung back in time to the days of his first job as a watchman, and he's forced to tackle the streets if he wants to save the future that he just came from. But he wasn't that fond of that future before he accidentally left it, so this is where (or when) he has to make a choice.

    "I'm not too fond of time travel shenanigans. In the Discworld universe, however, that means we meet Lu-Tze the History Monk, one of Pratchett's finest creations. And that's not all. Vimes's trip back in time shows us a lot of Ankh-Morporkian history and especially about the watch and the early days of Vimes, Colon and human-like thing known as Nobbs. Another reason why you can't just dive into this book without being familiar with the watchmen... A general trend in Discworld is that in the later books the number of quick jokes and puns in the text goes down, while Pratchett's skill in storytelling goes up. Night Watch is a typical latter-day entry in that the story is a bit more serious, complex and heartfelt and not so much about a concentrated bombardment of jokes. And Pratchett transformed through the years into a first-class storyteller. He always had an amazing command of the English language, but now that he couples it to a deeper exploration of character and a well-plotted storyline, we've got a really cracking good book..."

https://jeroenthoughts.wordpress.com/2016/11/14/terry-pratchett-night-watch-2002/

Blogger JM Williams this time offers a three-part examination of Thud!, concentrating on certain memorable scenes:

    "I'm sure that I mentioned many times before how much of a Terry Pratchett fan I am. The man was a master of world-building, in particular, deep and resonate characters. Though he includes humor in is work, much more in earlier works, he does not rely solely on humor and eccentricity to keep readers hooked like Douglas Adams (not that there is anything wrong with that, I love Adams, too). The characters are what keep readers like myself coming back for more, and Pratchett's best characters are those in the City Watch series of books. His watchmen (and women) feel real, with honest reactions to the strangeness of the world... Pratchett's books are more than just humor and adventure, there is a subtle philosophy to it as well. This is best embodied in the lead character of the Watch novels, Sam Vimes. The character represents authority in a world shifting from authoritarianism to a sort of republicanism; Vimes often finds himself on the side of the latter..."

    "One scene that stood out to me as representative of Pratchett's humor and brilliant characters was the scene in Thud! where the main female cast goes bar hopping. Strangely, I often find myself drawn to Pratchett's female characters. Being a male writer, I am often concerned with the portrayal of my female characters, where they ring true and honest. Writing from perspectives you have no experience with seems to be a gamble. It is one that Pratchett often wins... This whole scene is about characters, and here we start to see how varied they can be. We get a impression of the main girls–Angua and Cheery–the reputation of Nobby (the ladies of the Watch assume him to be a lecherous hound, but we are given a different perspective here), and we start to unravel the new character Tawnee. All delivered with humor and great care..."

    "In all, it's turning out to be a great book. Pratchett is pushing gender a bit more than usual in this work, especially with the girls at the bar. He clearly making a statement about the fluidity of identity and the weakness of generalizations and stereotypes, here and throughout the book. I think people these days might benefit by giving the decade old book a go..."

https://jmwwriting.wordpress.com/2016/11/23/pratchetts-thud-part-1-a-medley-of-characters/
https://jmwwriting.wordpress.com/2016/11/23/pratchetts-thud-part-2-the-ladies-night-out-scene/
https://jmwwriting.wordpress.com/2016/11/24/pratchetts-thud-part-3-the-aftermath/

...whereas the almost always irritating blogger Vacuous Wastrel first wibbles on for some 2,000 words(!) in pursuit of overly faux-intellectual overthinking, before finally getting to the meat of "hang on, this book rocks!":

    "Oh, how good it was to be back with Vimes and Angua, and Carrot and Colon and Nobby and Detritus, and Vetinari and Ridcully (Ridcully! Pratchett never gave us enough Ridcully…) and all the others! Sure, the ending doesn't really work, but for most of the novel we get plenty of tension and excitement, and plenty of mystery and intriguing puzzlement. The exploration of dwarven culture may be a little suspect, but it's meaty, much meatier than anything we were given in recent volumes. And dear lord, it's just funny. Thud! is packed with a continual supply of beautiful lines, puns, wit, slapstick, deadpans, irony, absurd situations… it's almost constantly smile-inducing and at times it's laugh-out-loud. This novel is so much better than I remember it being, because it is just so much *fun*. All you have to do is: don't think that this is an attempt to continue the story. Think: the story is over. This is an epilogue to the story, just a little snippet of Our Heroes going about their daily lives and jobs. Is it sort of pointless, sort of repetitive? Yes! It makes a terrible Next Chapter. But that's not what it is. This isn't a pivotal episode – this is one of those interchangeable but enjoyable episodes of a longrunning series, one of the ones thaat isn't too memorable but where you spend the time with a smile on your face because you're watching characters you love do the things you love them to do (or, in the case of Angua, the things it's just funny to watch her have to go through). You don't want the whole series to be like this, but as a one-off episode taking time off from the larger arc, it's great..."

https://vacuouswastrel.wordpress.com/2016/11/11/thud-by-terry-pratchett/

...and gives the same treatment to Going Postal:

    "The familiarity, the lack of novelty, the superficiality, the indulgent flabbiness… the problems are all here. They may not have suddenly sprung up here, but they're here very clearly to be seen. And yet... I enjoyed this book. This book was fun. The characters may not have been great, but they were likeable, engaging. The villain, Reacher Gilt, is actually one of Pratchett's best villains (that's not saying much), though sadly underused. I'm not exactly happy with such an uncomplicated parody of Atlas Shrugged (not that I want to protect Rand – on the contrary – it's just that it feels a little lazy), but that does result in a spark of authorial passion that helps provide a little energy and some good barbs. It's not hilarious, but there are some solid, good jokes. The plot isn't much, but it mostly works. There are a couple of really great set-piece scenes. It's more accessible than some of his books, both in style and in content, and it does feel as though it's partly written for newcomers and a broad audience, but at the same time there are callbacks for the long-time fans, and little gems of wit and erudition and cleverness buried near the surface here and there. And Pratchett in 2004 was just such a good writer. I know, I've said this in several of the reviews, but by now he was really polished. He's able to transition on a dime from witticism to slapstick comedy, to passages of, honestly, poetry (see the quote at the head of this review), and he always seems in control of his tone, his rhythm, his melody. Sure, he may go in directions – broad in humour perhaps, or sentimental in prose poetry – that some readers may not like, but he does so intentionally..."

https://vacuouswastrel.wordpress.com/2016/11/01/going-postal-by-terry-pratchett/

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10) IMAGES OF THE MONTH

Paul Kidby working on his exquisitely beautiful bust of Sir Pterry (see item 3.1):
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CxN4aL9XgAAvXZr.jpg

A small but perfectly formed iconograph of Pamela Munt as Granny Weatherwax and Tony Cockington as Count de Magpyr in Unseen Theatre's recent production of Carpe Jugulum:
http://bit.ly/2ftEO1T

Rat-onna-stick! (see item 8.1):
https://www.discworldemporium.com/844-large_default/rat-onna-stick.jpg

Some familiar-looking designs for the forthcoming Josh Kirby smartphone covers:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CxuWMA1UkAA0lgm.jpg

Rincewind, Twoflower and the Luggage at the recent Supanova fan convention in Sydney, as posted by the Nullas Anxietas gang on Twitter:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CxlwQ5jVIAALz2E.jpg

Josh Kirby's unused cover for the Death Trilogy:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CySZW1aW8AAmwcv.jpg

The cast of Brisbane Arts Theatre's current production of Guards! Guards!:
http://bit.ly/2gx9mA4

...and their beautifully rendered Errol:
http://bit.ly/2fCRKls

Death in the Land of Fog – and Mort and Lezek, in Paeroa Little Theatre's recent production:
http://bit.ly/2gm4yyd

...and two of Melbourne Zoo's gorgeous orangutans, as photographed by Jack Wintle (and who needs an excuse, ever, for iconographs of orangutans?):
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CyJL03lWQAAoLmd.jpg:large

...and finally, a famous first meeting, 25 years ago:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CxTP8V2XUAAU8Ao.jpg

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11) CLOSE

    If you're the sort of person who 1) has a touchscreen mobile and 2) likes unusual phone covers, then you might wish to hie yourself to the Josh Kirby Art site, where you can buy Kirby's Discworld art turned into covers for iPhone, Samsung, HTC, LG, Google and Sony phones. Go to http://www.joshkirbyart.com/ and click on the Store button – at which point you'll be taken to a page that offers UK/Europe or USA options, presumably because the Kirby estate's web designer doesn't think anywhere else exists on Roundworld. Click on one of them and you will eventually find the page that offers the phone covers... a clear case of patience rewarded?

    And that's the lot for November. There may or may not be a December issue (and if not, all will be back to normal in January), so I'll take this opportunity to wish all of you a very happy Hogswatch!

– Annie Mac

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The End. If you have any questions or requests, write: wossname-owner (at) pearwood (dot) info

Copyright (c) 2016 by Klatchian Foreign Legion

The Midhurst Players, an amateur company of 65 years' standing, will stage their production of Wyrd Sisters in late November through early December.

When: Wednesday 30th November – Saturday 3rd December 2016
Venue: South Downs Centre Memorial Hall, North Street, Midhurst, West Sussex GU29 9DH
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: Adults £10 Under 18’s £6, available online at https://thelittleboxoffice.com/midhurstplayers/book/event/52158

"We now have a fully automated online ticketing service where you can choose where you want to sit, pay and print off your own tickets. Just follow the links on the website.

"For telephone bookings please call 01730 815894 between the hours of 10.00 am to 6.00 pm, on weekdays only. Please note that initially we can only 'reserve' your tickets and there there will be a slight delay before the seats are allocated as we have to notify the Administrator. We are only able to reserve tickets for 48 hours so it is important to ensure that your payment reaches us in good time. All tickets issued by the Administrator will be printed off and will be ready to pick up on the night of your performance. We no longer post tickets to your home address.

"Do remember that the system runs in 'real' time so unless you book online we cannot guarantee your seats until they have been allocated and paid for."

http://www.midhurstplayers.co.uk/

Wossname
Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
October 2016 (Volume 19, Issue 10, Post 1)

********************************************************************
WOSSNAME is a free publication offering news, reviews, and all the other stuff-that-fits pertaining to the works of Sir Terry Pratchett. Originally founded by the late, great Joe Schaumburger for members of the worldwide Klatchian Foreign Legion and its affiliates, including the North American Discworld Society and other continental groups, Wossname is now for Discworld and Pratchett fans everywhere in Roundworld.
********************************************************************

Editor in Chief: Annie Mac
News Editor: Vera P
Newshounds: Mogg, Sir J of Croydon Below, the Shadow, Mss C, Alison not Aliss
Staff Writers: Asti, Pitt the Elder, Evil Steven Dread, Mrs Wynn-Jones
Staff Technomancers: Jason Parlevliet, Archchancellor Neil, DJ Helpful
Book Reviews: Annie Mac, Drusilla D'Afanguin, Your Name Here
Puzzle Editor: Tiff (still out there somewhere)
Bard in Residence: Weird Alice Lancrevic
Emergency Staff: Steven D'Aprano, Jason Parlevliet
World Membership Director: Steven D'Aprano (in his copious spare time)

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INDEX:

01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH
02) EDITOR'S LETTER
03) ODDS AND SODS
04) REVIEWS: THE WITCH'S VACUUM CLEANER, TERRY PRATCHETT DIARY, DISCWORLD COLOURING BOOK
05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
07) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS
08) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE
09) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS
10) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
11) CLOSE

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01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH

"There won't be another like him, but his values will influence and inspire his readers for as long as his books are read. Children become adults, teenagers become professors and heads of industry. And as Terry influenced them, they influence the world."
– Colin Smythe, in The Terry Pratchett Diary

"Oats knelt in the mud and tried a prayer, but there was no answering voice from the sky. There never had been. He'd been told never to expect one. That wasn't how Om worked any more. Alone of all the gods, he'd been taught, Om delivered the answers straight into the depths of the head. Since the prophet Brutha, Om was the silent god. That's what they said."
– Mightily Oats discovers the beginning of wisdom (Carpe Jugulum, Transworld hardcover, p.213)

"For those suffering unbearably and coming to the end of their lives, merely knowing that an assisted death is open to them can provide immeasurable comfort."
– archbishop Desmond Tutu

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02) LETTER FROM YOUR EDITOR

    Happy (slightly belated) Soul Cake Day to all! May your trickle-treating have been a runaway success, if by the time you read this you have stowed away your Soul Cake Duck costume for another year... and may this issue reach you in one piece, as at the moment our internet is up and down – mostly down – more often than the Unmentionables of a member of the Guild of Seamstresses.

    As the number of Discworld plays performed around the world continues to increase, the Discworld Plays section of each issue keeps getting more crowded. So the new format, starting with this issue, announces plays by month (and year, at this season). I hope this makes it easier to find plays in your area.

    Desmond Tutu has always been a fascinating man, and in his latter years he has become even more surprising and thoughtful. His op-ed on assisted dying, in The Washington Post, makes for passionate – and compassionate – reading. I think Sir Pterry would have approved of Bishop Tutu's thoughts: http://wapo.st/2dTXarC

    Right, on with the show!

– Annie Mac, Editor

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03) ODDS AND SODS

3.1 PENGUIN PRATCHETT GIVEAWAYS!

...and other fun stuff for the season...

Penguin Books says:

    We're giving away a bewitching bundle this week – a beautiful hardback copy of Carpe Jugulum and the new collection The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner. Perfect for witches and wizards (young and old!). You can read the first pages of Carpe Jugulum here: http://classics.penguin.co.uk/c/1q8lxtqv55FFkuEO7W9NrLwcr.

    Enter the competition: http://classics.penguin.co.uk/c/1q8lBsLQvP1aitoZZvy9aK8i2

    Terry Pratchett created a world full of beloved characters, old friends, who we have met time and time again in his novels. There are some characters however that we'd hate to meet on a dark night... Or any night for that matter. Pratchett's villains are as complex as his heroes and we've compiled a list of ten of the best. Take a look at our suggestions: http://classics.penguin.co.uk/c/1q8lFs7bWymFgs9bR4WuTIKnD

    Bake up a batch of bewitching star cookies with a The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner inspired recipe: http://classics.penguin.co.uk/c/1q8lNqNSO13FcpDzAdJclFYyP

    Do you remember your first Pratchett? We think this collection is perfect for sharing with new fans. Listen to an audio extract here:
http://classics.penguin.co.uk/c/1q8lRq9eeKpaaonLrN7y4EAEq

3.2 PRATCHETT BOOKS: MOST SHOPLIFTED BUT ALSO MOST POPULAR FOR RESALE

On Bookriot, bookseller Danika Ellis writes:

    "A funny thing about working at a used bookstore is that there is only so much control you have over your stock. You can select from what people bring in, but you can't make more people bring you the books you want the most. Book buyers have to mentally calculate how many copies of this title we already have, how many we expect to sell, and what space we have for it. Sometimes a book piles up for years only to sell out in a week when a popular radio show mentions it. But there are some books that stay constant. Some books, despite being published decades (or centuries!) ago, still can't seem to stay on the shelves. This is a mix of a) sheer popularity and b) the delicate ratio of how copies go out the door vs how many books come in. Some books we sell in huge amounts, but we also buy stacks of, so it creates a perfect balance. Usually, it just doesn't add up that way, and we either end up with too many or not enough. Here are 17 books that are inexplicably difficult to keep on the shelf..."

The list includes sixteen specific titles, but "anything by Terry Pratchett" is in there on its own!

http://bookriot.com/2016/08/15/17-books-that-sell-way-too-fast-at-used-bookstores/

3.3 ROUNDWORLD ALCHEMISTS' GUILD FOR THE WIN!

Or at least for the explosions...

    "The drawers at the Making and Knowing Lab, at Columbia University, have labels rarely seen outside a Harry Potter novel: 'Ox Gall,' 'Spiderwebs,' 'Powder for Hourglasses,' 'Dragon's Blood.' The denizens of the lab re-create old recipes from alchemy-era texts – primarily of the sixteenth century – and this brings them into contact with some unusual ingredients. On a recent Monday morning, Joel Klein, a redheaded history-of-science postdoc who studies Isaac Newton's alchemical work, sniffed a bag of flakes labelled 'Rabbit-Skin Glue.' 'It smells like skin,' he said. Another sniff. 'Although I'm not sure what a sommelier would say.'... Elsewhere in the lab, a dozen students in white coats bustled about. Siddhartha Shah, an art-history graduate student, was making counterfeit emeralds. The recipe involved mixing red lead, copper, and other ingredients in a ceramic crucible, then melting everything with a blowtorch in a small furnace, which he'd constructed from bricks and wire. Although his first attempts had flopped – the 'emerald' looked like a nub of coal – Shah wasn't discouraged. 'It was fascinating to watch the color change from red to green to black,' he said. 'Then our crucible exploded.' The sixth and seventh attempts produced two translucent green buttons. Shah removed his own emerald ring – he also wore emerald earrings – and held it next to the buttons for comparison.

    "Pamela Smith, a science historian who directs the lab, exclaimed, 'They're like real emerald!' Smith founded the Making and Knowing Lab two years ago, in a moment of self-reckoning. She'd been working on a book about sixteenth- and seventeenth-century craftsmen. 'They made all these claims, but I realized I didn't exactly know what they were doing,' she said. Many recipes omitted crucial details or used obscure ingredients – swine paunch, jujube syrup, prunes of St. Antonin. Smith decided that the only way to really understand the recipes was to try them out herself, assisted by a platoon of graduate students..."

http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/09/26/twenty-first-century-alchemists

3.4 WHO YA GONNA CALL? GIMLET'S DELICATESSEN, POSSIBLY

Authorities in Jakarta are offering a US$1.50 bounty for each rat caught, in an effort to tackle the Indonesian capital's rat problem:

    "Authorities hope the Rat Eradication Movement will help clean up the teeming city of about 10 million where enormous vermin are a common sight on rubbish-strewn roads and in slums. 'There are many rats here, and big ones,' Jakarta deputy governor, Djarot Saiful Hidayat, said a government news website, as he announced the plan recently. He said a recent encounter with a large rat had inspired him to start the programme, adding that the vermin were dangerous and could spread disease. 'For each rat, we will pay 20,000 rupiah,' he said. The deputy governor did not say how residents should catch rats, but urged people to refrain from using firearms. 'If possible, please do not use guns,' he told the Jakarta Post. 'If you miss your shot, the bullets could hit other people.' The captured rats will be handed over to local officials, who would dole out the money and pass the animals to Jakarta's sanitation agency for burial, the paper said. There is no guarantee the plan will work..."

http://www.thenational.ae/world/southeast-asia/wanted-dead-or-alive-jakarta-puts-a-150-bounty-on-every-rat-in-city

[We know how well that worked in Ankh-Morpork. Rat farm tax plan, anyone? Also, special thanks to Mrs Cake and the Beermeister for items 3.2 and 3.3 – Ed.]

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04) REVIEWS: THE WITCH'S VACUUM CLEANER, THE TERRY PRATCHETT DIARY, THE DISCWORLD COLOURING BOOK

4.1 REVIEW: THE WITCH'S VACUUM CLEANER

    Here's a funny thing: I was visiting a friend and fellow Pratchett fan the other day, and noticed that she had a copy of The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner. "Ah," said I, 'how did you find it compared to Dragons at Crumbling Castle?"

    "What's Dragons at Crumbling Castle?" quoth she.

    "Huh? That's the first volume of Pratchett's children's stories!"

    "There's another volume? I never heard of it! I bought this one because it's illustrated by Quentin Blake.'

    "Whaaa? No it's not, it's illustrated by Mark Beech. And who's Quentin Blake when he's at home? I never heard of him!"

    Several minutes and two Wikipedia pages later, our mutual confusion was sorted out, and my friend is now in possession of a borrowed copy (mine) of Dragons at Crumbling Castle. I look forward to hearing her comparison of the two. For my own part, I'm sticking with my description of Mark Beech's illustrations as written in my review of Dragons some time ago: "Beech's drawings are a stylistic cross between Pratchett's own (marvellous!) illustrations for The Carpet People and Johnny Hart's 'Wizard of Id' comic strip, exactly suited to the text." And now that I have seen some of Mr Blake's illustrations, I'd take Mr Beech over him any day.

    Anyway...

    The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner, like its 2014 predecessor, consists of fourteen stories rescued from the dusty vaults of the much younger Terry Pratchett's days as a young journalist and weekly storyteller and tidied up (though only slightly) for republication by the much older Sir Terry. If you and yours enjoyed Dragons at Crumbling Castle, I think you will adore The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner. I certainly do! This collection seems to sparkle even more than Dragons did, and there is more cross-referencing and continuity of characters and places running through the stories this time around -- possibly because these are slightly later, perhaps, and young Pratchett had begun to find his own style...? And find his style he certainly did, as we all know. The Author himself says in his 2015 preface, "I've tinkered here and there with a few details, added a few lines or notes, just because I can – and because as I've got older my imagination has got even bigger so I can't stop myself adding bits and bobs. But the stories in this collection are all mostly as they were first printed."

    Several of the stories in The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner – The Great Train Robbery, The Sheep Rodeo Scandal, The Frozen Feud, and Lord Cake and the Battle for Banwen's Beacon – are set in the imaginary Welsh town of Llandanffwnfafegettupagogo (most often known locally, and even to its creator, as Llandanff) and feature PC Bryn Bunyan, "the fastest truncheon west of the River Severn", his deputy Gorsebush Jones, and an assortment of cartoon-caricature villains. Llandanff is an adorable stand-in for the American Wild West of legend, with even more amusingly stereotypes-of-Wales touches: coal rush instead of gold rush, a rodeo centred on sheep, and the Temperance Hotel which serves as a children's version of the familiar fictional Wild West saloon.

    As with Dragons at Crumbling Castle, there are hints of Pratchett YA and Discworldiana to come. Blackbury, later to become the setting for the Johnny Maxwell trilogy, is the scene of some of my favourite stories in this collection – especially The Time-travelling Television, The Truly Terrible Toothache, and the title story itself. The Blackbury Park Statues also sows the seeds of Johnny and the Dead, while Rincemangle, the Gnome of Even Moor is similarly a precursor to the Bromeliad trilogy, particularly Truckers, and Wizard War gives us Great Spells, talking doorknobs, and a gentler version of the destruction caused by the Mage Wars. We also see touches of what inspired our favourite author in his youth: The Extraordinary Adventures of Doggins could (and perhaps should) be subtitled A Child's Introduction to Tolkienian High Fantasy, and The Fire Opal is suffused with the feel of folk tales through the centuries, the kinds of tales a certain young boy might have devoured in his local library once he had discovered the delights of reading.

    The illustrations, as mentioned, are great fun and greatly appropriate. And once again the text is littered with odd-sized fonts and unexpected emphases. I imagine these will serve as "make funny noises or amusing gestures here" cues for a parent or childminder reading aloud to rapt young'un. Do I recommend The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner? Absolutely!

4.2 REVIEW: THE TERRY PRATCHETT DIARY

    The Terry Pratchett Diary is gorgeously designed and bound, following in the distinctive style of the other Discworld auxiliary hardcovers (The World of Poo, Mrs Bradshaw's Handbook, Jack Dodger's Guide to London, etc.). Scattered throughout the book are tributes from family, colleagues and friends who knew Terry Pratchett best: Rhianna herself (who gets the first spot), Rob Wilkins (who gets the last spot), Colin Smythe, Paul Kidby, Bernard Pearson, Stephen Briggs, Professor David Lloyd, and a host of editors and co-writers. Neil Gaiman gets a two-page spread, but he does seem to like the look of his own voice (insert smiley here) and is, after all, possibly the world's leading famous Pratchett enthusiast.

    Dates are in the form of a perpetual calendar, in that no days of the week are named, and the pages feature random illustrations of Discworld people and artefacts, with a quotation from any of various Discworld novels in the bottom quarter of each odd-numbered calendar page. The quotations tend heavily to early-mid-period novels such as Jingo and Mort, but they are all memorable. In addition to a number of significant Roundworld dates and holidays – geared to UK calendars, which is only right for a UK-based author and team of Cunning Artificers – plus numerous Discworld dates and holidays including Patrician's Day (6th July), Uberwald League of Temperance Day (22nd July), Treacle Pie Day (24th June), Chase Whiskers Day (12th October), Brebb & Leppis Day (27th August), and of course, Lilac Day, Hogswatch (30th and 31st December and 1st Ick-or-January) and The Creator's Birthday (28th April).

    The quality of the illustrations is high throughout. Peter Dennis' portrait art is featured; for me, this is one of the least appealing things about the Terry Pratchett Diary, as despite Dennis' undeniable talent he tend to portray all characters as rather lumpen-faced and grubby, which is fine for the like of Nobby or Mr Boggis but works less well for Susan Sto Helit or Lord Vetinari... but that's just my opinion, and your mileage may vary.

There are a few egregious ball-drops from the proofreading department – e.g "Waetherwax" (p.84) and a quote claiming to be from from "INGO" (p.91) – which one hopes will be addressed for future printings. But those are mere details. The Terry Pratchett Diary is, all in all, a lovely thing. And if the final page and inside back cover don't bring on the waterworks...

    A keepsake for all time, and well worth the price of purchase.

4.3 REVIEW: TERRY PRATCHETT'S DISCWORLD COLOURING BOOK

    In recent years, as any follower of internet-driven trends knows, colouring books for adults have become A Thing. Endangered animals, Old Masters, cityscapes, actors, pop stars, comics characters, Game of Thrones, even fashion magazines (yes, Virginia, there *is* a Vogue colouring book) have been turned into pastimes-for-grown-ups books. It's a fad, of course, and it almost certainly won't last. But Discworld fans have cause to celebrate this trend, because it made it possible for Terry Pratchett's Discworld Colouring Book to become A Thing too – and what a lovely Thing it is!

    The Terry Pratchett's Discworld Colouring Book (henceforth TPDCB) is an A4-sized paperback featuring almost one hundred pages of Paul Kidby's iconic Discworld character depictions, old and new, re-rendered as black and white line drawings that are ready for colouring in or for simply admiring. All the most instantly recognisable ones are there, plus some completely new illustrations created for the book.

    Let me say right now that if you are a Discworld artefacts collector, an all-things-Discworld completist, or just an admirer of beautiful art, TPDCB is a genuine treasure. Al the pictures stand on their own merits as finished art, so you're on a winner even if you never get around to attempting to colour them in. For those who do wish to have a go at colouring between the lines, TPDCB offers a fantastic challenge from the outset: the first page illustration is nothing less than a relief map of the Disc itself, surrounded by some of its most famous denizens – the Witches, the Watch and certain well-known anthropomorphic and wiz(z)ardly faces. The rest of the pieces vary in difficulty, with some (Gaspode, for instance) probably easy enough for novice colourers. The range is very wide – and yes, I am going to list them all here to show you just how wide:there's the Librarian, the Fresh Start Club, Death and Binky (and three more Death pictures: with the enchanted Soul Music motorcycle, with a kitten, and "un-masqued" and ready for the touch of a steady hand well supplied with red pencils), the Luggage, Rob Anybody Mac Feegle, Rincewind and Twoflower (and two more, Rincewind in the Dungeon Dimensions and in a wonderfully sour-looking solo portrait), the Eater of Socks, Sam Vimes, Susan Sto Helit dressed for her... other job, Granny Weatherwax, the Eater of Pencils, Hamish the Aviator and his embarrassing parachute, Errol, the "old guard" Watch from Guards! Guards!, Gaspode, the Mona Ogg, Greebo, Ridcully with a hatful of Blasteds, a full-page assortment of Feegles (including some delightful updates), the original Wyrd Sisters, Otto Chriek, Lord Vetinari, and a beautiful repeating motif of Sardines of the Clan... and not forgetting the two-page spreads (adult and infant swamp dragon varieties, the Finger of Cohen, the Librarian at work, the teenaged Tiffany Aching and Mephistopheles the clever goat, Death's skull-and-lifetimer-and-Omega wallpaper, the Death of Rats, Great A'Tuin and the Disc). Whew!

    As a bonus – or inspiration – or reminder of why Paul Kidby is a master artist and the rest of us... aren't, sixteen pages of some of the most famous and beloved Kidby Discworld art, presented as finished full-colour illustrations.

    Given the TPDCB's very reasonable price of £9.99 (or $20 in Fourecksian dollars), you might want to buy two – one to colour and one to keep, or at least a spare one to give as a Hogswatch present. I know I will.

    Highly recommended!

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05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS

5.1 PLAYS IN NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER 2016

* FEET OF CLAY IN ADELAIDE, FOURECKS: FINAL PERFORMANCES

Adelaide's Unseen Theatre is in its last days for their run of Feet of Clay! Director Pamela Munt says: "Next Unseen show not until April next year! Get your Pratchett fix while you can!"

When: 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th November 2016
Venue: Bakehouse Theatre, 255 AngasStreet, Adelaide
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: Adults $22; Concession $18; Groups (6+) $16; TRev $16; available online at http://bakehousetheatre.com/shows/feet-clay

http://unseen.com.au/

* GUARDS! GUARDS! IN BRISBANE, FOURECKS: FINAL DAYS OF RUN

The Brisbane Arts Theatre takes on yet another Discworld play later this year, in October and November: "From the legendary author Sir Terry Pratchett comes the eighth novel in the Discworld series and first featuring the Ankh-Morpork City Watch. Long believed extinct, a superb specimen, The Noble Dragon has appeared in Discworld's greatest city. Not only does this unwelcome visitor have a nasty habit of charbroiling everything in its path, in rather short order it is crowned King (it is a noble dragon, after all). With some help from an orangutan librarian, it is the task of the Night Watch to overpower the secret brotherhood and restore order to the kingdom in this fantastical Discworld adventure."

When: 3rd, 4th, 5th, 11th and 12th November 2016
Venue: Brisbane Arts Theatre, 210 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane, QLD 4000
Time: 8pm Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays (except 10th November)
Tickets: Adults $31, Concession $25, Group 10+ $25, Group 75+ $20, Student Rush $10(10 mins before curtain), available online at http://bit.ly/1QGbXBF

http://www.artstheatre.com.au/show/guardsguards

* GUARDS! GUARDS! IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA: FINAL PERFORMANCES

"ARENAarts presents its 7th foray into the universe of Discworld Productions. GUARDS! GUARDS! A villainous plot to rule. A city under siege. A dragon on the loose. Adapted from Terry Pratchett's comic fantasy novel, this a fun production for lovers of silliness!"

When: 4th, 5th and 6th November 2016
Venue: Latvian Centre Theatre, 60 Cleaver Terrace, Belmont, W.A. 6104
Time: all evening shows (4th & 5th November) 8pm; matinee (6th November) 2pm
Tickets: $22 (concessions $16, children $10, groups of 10+ $15p/p), available online at
https://www.trybooking.com/Booking/BookingDates.aspx?eid=206909

For further information, contact Simon James 08 9399 9947 arenaarts@hotmail.com.au

* AUDITIONS IN NOVEMBER 2016 FOR 2017 PRODUCTION OF WYRD SISTERS IN YORKSHIRE

After the success of their production of Mort in June this year, access-for-all theatre company We Are Theatre will be staging Wyrd Sisters a year later -– in June 2017. That's a long way off, but first, next month, it's audition time! Open auditions will be held in York on the 13th, 20th and 27th of November 2016. To book an audition email wearetheatre@googlemail.com giving your name, age (if under 18), and preferred audition date.

http://www.wearetheatre.co.uk/auditions.html

* CARPE JUGULUM IN SUFFOLK

The Quaysiders theatre company will be staging their production of Carpe Jugulum in November. "Having previously staged both 'Mort' and 'Maskerade' this time we continue to follow the antics of Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg and Agnes Nitt as they face their most treacherous foes in the shape of a family of 'modern' vampires. The Vampires are determined to take over the Kingdom of Lancre, and their despicable plan seems to be working… but they hadn't reckoned on the formidable Granny Weatherwax."

When: 10th–12th November 2016
Venue: Seagull Theatre, Morton Road, Pakefield, NR33 OGH
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £9 (£8 concessions), available online at http://intelligent-tickets.co.uk/index.php?th=gl

For more information, ring 01502 589726 or email info@theseagull.co.uk

http://www.theseagull.co.uk/event/carpe-jugulam/

* GOING POSTAL IN BEDFORDSHIRE

The Westoning Players, a "very sociable, friendly amateur dramatic group with members from Westoning and surrounding areas of Central Bedfordshire", will be delivering the post, Discworld style, next month. Featuring an excellent wing-ed Postmaster's Hat and an Adora Belle who's clearly channelling Claire Foy's excellent rendering from the telly film (see item 10 below), this looks like it's going to be great fun!

When: 24th–26th November 2016
Venue: Westoning Village Hall, 34 Church Road, Westoning, Beds MK45 5JL
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £9 (no concessions), available from http://www.westoning-players.co.uk/box_office.html – via email to westoningplayers@gmail.com, or by phone (07525926780, vox or text)

http://www.westoning-players.co.uk/current.html

* WYRD SISTERS IN NEWPORT, WALES

The Newport Playgoers Society are staging their production of Wyrd Sisters in November!

When: 15th–19th November 2016
Venue: Dolman Theatre, Kingsway, Newport, NP20 1HY
Time: 7.15pm (evening shows); 2.30pm (Saturday 19th matinee)
Tickets: £12.50 (students £8.50, concessions £11), available online at http://bit.ly/2dDR5kr – there is a booking fee of £2.00 per per transaction.

"For more information about this performance, please contact the Dolman Theatre on 01633 263670."

http://www.dolmantheatre.co.uk/show.aspx?id=298

There is also a Facebook event for the play: https://www.facebook.com/events/1232819446770130/

About the Playgoers Society, who have been performing plays since 1924:
http://www.dolmantheatre.co.uk/newport-playgoers-society.aspx

* MORT IN PAEROA, LAND OF FOG

Paeroa Little Theatre will be staging Mort in November: "Mort is a story about Death. Not death as in dying, though that happens, but rather Death (Martin Welborn), the 7 foot tall skeleton who carries a scythe, wears a cloak, and TALKS LIKE THIS. Mort (Daniel Flynn) is his apprentice who finds that the reaping business isn't as easy as it might seem. When things go wrong he needs to get help from Death's adopted daughter Ysabell (Krista Maley), his manservant Albert (John Warren), and the incompetent wizard Cutwell (Ben Anderson) to save the technically dead Princess Keli (Olivia Dustow). Mort is also the final play to be directed by Dell King. She has helped produce many plays for our theatre and will be missed. We wish her the best for the future."

When: 9th–18th November 2016
Venue: Paeroa Little Theatre, 1 Francis Street, Paeroa 3600, the North Island, New Zealand
Time: evening performances (9th, 10th, 11th, 16th, 17th and 18th) at 7.30pm; matinee on the 13th at 2pm
Tickets: NZ$20, on sale now from Positive Paeroa and Arkwrights Antiques. "If you wish to reserve tickets call 07 862 8399."

http://www.facebook.com/PaeroaLittleTheatre/

* TAMAHER IN LEEDS

Leeds Children's Theatre, "a voluntary drama society, producing quality drama for children of all ages since 1935", are presenting their production of The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents in November!

When: 16th–19th November 2016
Venue: Carriageworks Theatre, The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD
Time: 7pm (16th–18th), noon and 5pm on Saturday 19th
Tickets: £11 (£10 concessions), Family (2+2) £40. There is an early bird £1 reduction "if booked before 23 October 2016 (n/a to our coach inclusive deals)" Tickets are available for purchase in person at the City Centre Box Office, Leeds Town Hall LS1 3AD from 10am – 6pm Monday to Saturday – telephone (0113) 376 0318; email boxoffice@leeds.gov.uk – also, an event Box Office will be open on the ground floor of the Carriageworks Theatre from 1 hour before show start time. To purchase tickets online, go to http://www.amazingmaurice.info/tickets.html

http://www.amazingmaurice.info/

* MORT IN HARROGATE

The Woodlands Drama Group will be staging their production of Mort in November and December!

When: 30th November–3rd December 3 2016
Venue: The Studio At Harrogate Theatre, 6 Oxford Street, Harrogate HG1 1QF (email: boxoffice@harrogatetheatre.co.uk)
Time: 7.45pm evening shows; 2.30pm Saturday matinee
Tickets: all tickets £10, available from http://www.woodlandsdramagroup.co.uk/tickets/ or http://bit.ly/2di6RSA or by phoning the theatre's Box Office (01423 502116)

http://www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/Mort-Presented-by-Woodlands-Drama-Group

* WYRD SISTERS IN BRISBANE

The Brisbane Arts Theatre is going multi-Pratchett for the back end of 2016! On the heels of their forthcoming production of Guards! Guards! in October and early November, they will be presenting Wyrd Sisters only a few weeks later!

When: 23rd, 27th, 28th, 29th & 30th November and 4th–6th December 2017
Venue: Brisbane Arts Theatre, 210 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane, QLD 4000
Time: 8pm Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays; 6.30pm Sunday matinees (29th November and 6th December)
Tickets: Adults $31, Concession $25, Group 10+ $25, Group 75+ $20, Gold Members $15, Members $25, Student Rush $10 (10 mins before curtain). "Members can redeem their included season tickets for this show. There are no refunds or exchanges once tickets have been purchased." Tickets are not yet available. Watch this space for updates...

http://www.artstheatre.com.au/show/wyrdsisters


5.2 PLAYS IN 2017

* TAMAHER IN CARDIFF (FEBRUARY 2017)

Monstrous Productions carry on from strength to strength! Next up is their February 2017 production of The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents. Stay tuned for updates...

When: 22nd–25th February 2017
Venue: The Gate Theatre, Keppoch Street, Roath, Cardiff CF24 3JW
Time: 7.30pm (2.30pm matinee on the 25th)
Tickets: £7 (£5 concession), available from http://monstrousproductions.fikket.com/

* CARPE JUGULUM IN NOTTINGHAM (MARCH 2017)

The Lace Market Youth Theatre present Carpe Jugulum, "a pastiche of vampire literature playing with mythic archetypes and featuring a tongue in cheek reversal of 'vampyre' subculture with young vampires who wear bright clothes, drink wine and stay up till noon", in March 2017.

When: 22nd–25th March 2017
Venue: The Lace Market Theatre, Halifax Place, Nottingham NG1 1QN
Time: 7.30pm all evening shows; 2.30pm Saturday 25th matinee
Tickets: £11 (£10 concessions), available online at http://bit.ly/2dIKhod or by phoning 0115 950 7201

https://lacemarkettheatre.co.uk/LaceMarketTheatre.dll/WhatsOn

* WYRD SISTERS IN BOLTON, LANCS (MARCH 2017)

Bolton Little Theatre, "a vibrant amateur theatre company run by members" since 1931, will be staging their production of Wyrd Sisters next March.

When: 6th–11th March 2017
Venue: Bolton Little Theatre, Hanover Street, Bolton BL1 4TG
Time: 7.30pm
Tickets: £10 (Monday night 3 for 2 special), available at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/boltonlittletheatre or https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/event/EFILHL – group bookings of 10+ (£9) should be booked through the Box Office. "You can book at Bolton Little Theatre box office in person or by telephone on Monday night from 7.30 to 9pm and Friday mornings from 10.30 to 12 noon – no extra charge if paying by cash or cheque and you can book during the run of the plays or you can book online at boltonlittletheatre.ticketsource.co.uk ...credit card charges will apply. Tickets can be e-tickets (no charge) mobile phone ticket (50p) standard post (£1.50)."

http://www.boltonlittletheatre.co.uk/terry-pratchetts-wyrd-sisters/


5.3 REVIEWS

* GUARDS! GUARDS! IN BRISBANE

By Susan Hetherington on ABC Radio Brisbane:

    "Every year for as long as I can remember Brisbane Arts Theatre has included an adaptation of a Terry Pratchett novel in its season. I've seen about a dozen of them and this is by far the best... it's really, really funny. And as Arts Theatre transitions to a pro am model it is also interesting to see how the sets are on the up and up. This one was certainly one of the most elaborate I've seen and the investment was well spent. There were times however where the dialogue was lost because it was spoken from behind walls in that set or elaborate masks. The cast are mic-ed in the musicals. It may be time to look at the same treatment in the dramas even though the theatre is intimate. Those who love the Pratchett tradition at Brisbane Arts Theatre will be pleased that it has been retained into the first year of the new look theatre model with Lords and Ladies scheduled in September/October..."

http://ab.co/2dDOK8j [Note: includes available audio download of the programme – Ed.]

* FEET OF CLAY IN ADELAIDE

By Christine Pyman for Broadway World

    "The tale explores what it means to be self-directed and, as such, is something to which everyone can relate. Cleverly, out of all of the Pratchett plays, this showed the hubble-bubble of humanity, with the grand total of only three or four actors managing to convince us that we were seeing and experiencing the seething life in the city of Ankh Morpork... Mike Shaw, as Commander Sir Samuel Vimes, is the main defender of the truth, playing the part with a suitably world-weary determination that has us believing that he really has spent years trying to whip many species into a functioning City Watch. His sergeant, 'Nobby' Nobbs, who is caught up unwillingly in the politics, was beautifully portrayed by Aimee Ford, the character having the right balance of Chaplinesque humour and grossness to appeal to the audience. This is the first time Ford has appeared on the stage for Unseen, instead of behind the scenes, and makes the transition more than smoothly. Danny Sag, who, appropriately enough, is involved in running the Discworld fan group, City of Small Gods, in our world, played Lord Vetinari with restraint and suitably evil energy. The standout performance of the evening was Belinda Spangenberg as Dragon King of Arms, the ancient vampire trying to control all. She took command of the stage at each entry, and, although we didn't see her change form, her countenance was only too believable. Alycia Rabig, as Corporal Cheery Littlebottom, also deserves a special mention, transforming from a gauche new recruit passionate about his/her (Ankh Morpork has more pronouns than dwarvish, you know) science, to a shyly public dwarf going against all tradition and thoroughly enjoying showing femininity. Lead[sic], as always, by director, Pamela Munt, the passion and dedication that goes into Unseen Theatre Companies performances, is phenomenal and their plays, for Pratchett aficionados, are not to be missed..."

http://bit.ly/2fg0tyV

By Nicola Woodford for Glam Adelaide

    "This is the thirty-first Discworld play produced by Unseen since 2000 – their creative and enthusiastic celebration of Pratchett's oeuvre must be commended. Unseen honours the bizarre stories, idiosyncratic characters, and wry humour of the original novels while lending them fresh lease on life as they artfully adapt them for the stage. The stage had three main levels: the city streets, the City Watch office slightly raised, and the palace up a small flight of stairs. This layout offered a visual representation the social hierarchy that our Commander Vimes negotiated throughout the play. Perhaps one of Unseen's best comedic additions was the theme songs played for the City Watch (Pink Panther) and the palace (Yes Minister). Unseen Theatre Company is among the best amateur theatre Adelaide has to offer..."

http://www.glamadelaide.com.au/main/theatre-review-feet-of-clay/

By Allison Thomas -for TASA/Encore

    "Very clever set design by Pamela Munt, Andrew Zeuner and David Good created three stages of different heights in one area and, without a curtain and no movement of furniture or props, enabled the characters to move from one scene to another quickly and easily so the performance flowed smoothly. As usual, Terry Pratchett's quirky sense of humour made the full house audience on Opening Night laugh often. Alycia Rabig enticed and delighted as Cheery Littlebottom and stole the show with her lovely long beard and cheeky repartee. Mike Shaw in his role has Commander Sir Samuel Vines[sic] was very sleuth-like and dramatic, apart from a couple of lines. Each time I've seen Aimee Ford perform in a male role she pulls it off admirably, and she was suitably unsophisticated as Nobby Nobbs and Doughnut Jimmy. The other actors played multiple characters (including the golem) to good effect with many gender and accent changes...."

http://bit.ly/2eZ2mwd

...and by Jamie Wright for the Adelaide Theatre Guide.

    "Pamela Munt's cast of ten portray a wide range of (mostly) multiple characters; the standout is Hugh O'Connor as Captain Carrot, with some good moments from Mike Shaw as Vimes, Kahlia Tutty as Angua, Danny Sag as Vetinari and Alycia Rabig as Cheery. The set is well-planned and, along with some tight lighting from Stephen Dean, allows for the numerous scene changes to happen quickly. Unfortunately, thanks to the (presumably) limited costume budget for the golems, differentiating between them is nigh-on impossible – which makes a couple of important scenes more than a little confusing... It's difficult at the best of times to convert literary works to the stage, and it's always a problem with the Discworld adaptations as so much of the beauty of Pratchett's writing is in the description and the subtext – which are difficult to factor into a theatrical production. But there is enough of his humour, wit and characterisation brought to life in them that, as in this case, there should be something there for the fans of the world he created."

http://bit.ly/2eWWFiL

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06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS: UPDATES AND REMINDERS

The Broken Drummers, "London's Premier Unofficially Official Discworld Group" (motto "Nil percussio est"), meets next on Monday 7th November 2016 at the Monkey Puzzle, 30 Southwick Street, London, W2 1JQ.

For more information, go to http://brokendrummers.org/ or email BrokenDrummers@gmail.com or nicholls.helen@yahoo.co.uk

*

Canberra, Australia's Discworld fan group is Drumknott's Irregulars: "We are a newly established Terry Pratchett & Discworld social group in Canberra called Drumknott's Irregulars. The group is open to all, people from interstate and overseas are welcome, and our events will not be heavily themed. Come along to dinner for a chat and good company. We welcome people all all fandoms (and none) and we would love to see you at one of our events, even if you're just passing through. Please contact us via Facebook (_https://www.facebook.com/groups/824987924250161/_) or Google Groups (_https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/drumknotts-irregulars_) or join us at our next event."

*

For Facebook users in Fourecks: The Victorian Discworld Klatch is "a social group for fans of Discworld and Terry Pratchett... run by a dedicated team who meet monthly and organise events monthly." "If you'd like to join our events please ask to join the Klatch."

https://www.facebook.com/groups/VictorianDiscworldKlatch

*

"The Gathering of the Loonies (Wincanton chapter)" is a public Facebook meeting group: "This group, by request of Jo in Bear will continue to be used for future unofficial (not run by the Emporium) fan Gatherings in Wincanton. Look here for information." [Editor's note: this is an active group. If you use Facebook, it may be worth joining!]

https://www.facebook.com/groups/373578522834654/

*

The Pratchett Partisans are a fan group who meet monthly at either Brisbane or Indooroopilly to "eat, drink and chat about all things Pratchett. We hold events such as Discworld dinners, games afternoons, Discworld photo scavenger hunts. We also attend opening night at Brisbane Arts Theatre's Discworld plays." The Partisans currently have about 200 members who meet at least twice a month, usually in Brisbane.

For more info about their next meetup, join up at https://www.facebook.com/groups/pratchettpartisans/ or contact Ula directly at uwilmott@yahoo.com.au

*

The City of Small Gods is a group for fans in Adelaide and South Australia.

"We have an established Terry Pratchett & Discworld fan group in Adelaide called The City of Small Gods, which is open to anyone who would like to come - you don't have to live in Adelaide or even South Australia, or even be a Discworld fan, but that's mostly where our events will be held, and we do like discussing Pratchett's works. Our (semi-) regular meetings are generally held on the last Thursday of the month at a pub or restaurant in Adelaide. We have dinner at 6.30pm followed by games until 9pm. The games are usually shorter games like Pairs, Sushi Go, or Tiny Epic Defenders, with the occasional Werewolf session, as these are the best sort of games that work in a pub setting. Every few months, we have a full day's worth of board games at La Scala Cafe, 169 Unley Rd, Unley in the function room starting at 10am. In addition, we will occasionally have other events to go and see plays by Unseen Theatre Company, book discussions, craft, chain maille or costuming workshops or other fun social activities."

The next Monthly Dinner and Games at the Caledonian Hotel will be held on 24th November 2016. Before that, there will be a group outing to see Unseen Theatre's production of Feet of Clay (opens 21st October), and the Quiz Long and Prosper – Science Fiction and Fantasy Quiz Night (12th November). For more info, go to www.cityofsmallgods.org.au

*

The Broken Vectis Drummers meet next on Thursday 3rd November 2016 (probably) from 7.30pm at The Castle pub in Newport, Isle of Wight. For more info and any queries, contact broken_vectis_drummers@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Wincanton Omnian Temperance Society (WOTS) next meets on Friday 4th November 2016 (probably) at Wincanton's famous Bear Inn from 7pm onwards. "Visitors and drop-ins are always welcome!"

*

The Northern Institute of the Ankh-Morpork and District Society of Flatalists, a Pratchett fangroup, has been meeting on a regular basis since 2005 but is now looking to take in some new blood (presumably not in the non-reformed Uberwald manner). The Flatalists normally meet at The Narrowboat Pub in Victoria Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire, to discuss "all things Pratchett" as well as having quizzes and raffles. Details of future meetings are posted on the Events section of the Discworld Stamps forum:

http://www.discworldstamps.co.uk/forum/

*

Sydney Drummers (formerly Drummers Downunder) meet next on Monday 7th November 2016 at 6.30pm (probably) in Sydney at 3 Wise Monkeys, 555 George Street, Sydney,2000. For more information, contact Sue (aka Granny Weatherwax): kenworthys@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Treacle Mining Corporation, formerly known as Perth Drummers, meets next on Monday 7th November 2016 (probably) from 5.30pm at Carpe Cafe, 526 Murray Street, Perth, Western Australia. For details follow Perth Drummers on Twitter @Perth_Drummers or join their Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Perth.Drummers/ – or message Alexandra Ware directly at <alexandra.ware@gmail.com>

%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

07) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS

7.1 AUSDWCON NEWS: DISCWORLD GRAND TOUR UPDATE

The word (with footnotes) from Danny Sag, AusDWcon organiser (and occasional Discworld thespian), is:

We have so much news to announce this month! Please take the time read everything below (you'll regret it if you don't. Honest).

What to do on your holiday

Nullus Anxietas VI – The Discworld Grand Tour – The Australian Discworld Convention (_https://ausdwcon.org_) is getting closer and closer every day! On August 4-6, 2017, we'll have a weekend packed full of lovely Discworld and Pratchett related activities for you to enjoy!

You can already find out a little bit about Vaudeville Le Maskerade, Passports, Mr Shine's Thud Parlor, the Gala Dinner and the Wine and Gourmet Tours on our website (_https://ausdwcon.org/convention/events/_), with more information about these and other events coming soon!

BUT (and my, that is a big but) we also desperately need your help to ensure our tour's itinerary is full of wonderful things to do. If you've got a great idea of an activity that you would like to run, please volunteer at http://ausdwcon.org/volunteer

Where to stay on your holiday

The Australian Discworld Convention will take place at the Lakes Resort Hotel in West Lakes, Adelaide, and the hotel is now ready for your booking! We've managed to negotiate a fantastic room rate at this luxury hotel which includes breakfast every day!

For more information on the hotel and how to book, see https://ausdwcon.org/convention/venue/accommodation/

What to wear on your holiday: Deck your body out in our fashionable Discworld Grand Tour merchandise! Ranging from t-shirts to hats to coffee mugs, you can choose one, any, or all of our wonderful items to celebrate your attendance at the convention.[1] Check them out here https://ausdwcon.org/shop/souvenirs/

We are also celebrating 10 Years of Australian Discworld Conventions with a special t-shirt - You don't have to be attending the convention to get this special t-shirt – we can post it to you within Australia, New Zealand, the UK or the USA.[2] https://ausdwcon.org/shop/product/ten-years-t-shirt/ Shipping costs listed at https://ausdwcon.org/shop/delivery-timescales/

Tickets for your holiday: Don't forget that you can buy your tickets for the Discworld Grand Tour in our shop right now: https://ausdwcon.org/shop/tickets/
Please keep in mind that early-bird prices[3] finish February 4th 2017.

But wait – did you know there's a way to get the early-bird price without paying for a full ticket now? Yes, that's right! If you buy a Supporting membership ($40) before Feb 4th 2017, you will lock yourself in at the early-bird price, and you can pay the remaining balance (in instalments or all at once) any time up until July 21 2017!

Buy your supporting membership here: https://ausdwcon.org/shop/product/supporting-membership/
And read here for information about all membership types: https://ausdwcon.org/convention/membership/

Every holiday needs a postcard...

We can now reveal to you the lovely Discworld Grand Tour postcard (our advertising material) with a very happy Great A'Tuin! See it at https://ausdwcon.org/blog/on-your-holiday/ (If you're attending Supanova Adelaide in November, we'll be handing these out at our table in Fan Club Central, so pop along and grab one!)

Welcoming our sponsors! We are proud to announce the following companies as sponsors of the Australian Discworld Convention!

* Dymocks Adelaide
* Pace Advertising
* University of South Australia

Their contribution will help to make the convention significantly better – and we hope you will support them in return.

[1] Please note most of these items are *only* available for pick up at the convention
[2] Please note that for now, this is a pre-order, and shirts may not be posted until after August 2017.
[3] Possibly a geas or a scalbie.

https://ausdwcon.org/blog/on-your-holiday/

7.2 NADWCON NEWS

The fourth North American Discworld Convention (NADWCON) will take place from 1st–4th September 2017 in New Orleans – and appropriately, the theme will be The Genuan Experience!

"The 2017 NADWCon will be organized by RavenQuoth, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that was responsible for NADWCon 2013, which raised over $24,000 in charity funds that were split equally between the Orangutan Foundation UK and Alzheimer's Research UK. The 2017 NADWCon will be co-chaired by Emily S. Whitten and Richard Atha-Nicholls. Emily S. Whitten was co-founder of The North American Discworld Convention, Vice-Chair of NADWCon 2009, and Chair of NADWCon 2011. Richard Atha-Nicholls was Chair of NADWCon 2013 and is President of RavenQuoth, Inc.

"NADWCon 2017 and RavenQuoth, Inc. will provide further announcements and details about the 2017 convention in the upcoming months. Further information will be available at http://nadwcon2017.org."

http://www.nadwcon2017.org/

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08) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS

DISCWORLD EMPORIUM NEWS

* Your very own Discworld! With Turtle! And 1,000-, er, four elephants!

To mark the quarter-century of the Discworld Emporium creative team, a very, very special item:

    "We've been making little bits of Discworld for a very long time... From the first Discworld figurines as Clarecraft in 1991, to a cornucopia of collectibles and publications at the Discworld Emporium, we've been bringing the creations of Sir Terry Pratchett to life for 25 years. To celebrate this milestone in our Discworld journey we wanted to make something really rather special. We wanted to make a world...

    "Created with the sculpting talents of Emporium associate artist Richard Kingston, this stunning rendition of Great A'Tuin celebrates our illustrious heritage, and marks a return to our roots producing figurines & objet d'art. Produced in a glorious bronze and verdigris finish, it will sit elegantly on any bookshelf, look at home in any nook and last for generations. From the resolute expression to the stylish finish, it has an elegant understated presence – a work of true craftsmanship for those who cherish Discworld as much as we do, and a most elegant addition to your Discworld collection. Each piece is hand cast and finished locally by our team of professional craftsmen, and features our makers' mark inset as a little button on the base, allowing A'Tuin to rest at an angle that really portrays a sense of movement through the cosmos.

    "The piece is cast in bronze resin, coated with real micro-fine powdered bronze. You should care for it in the same way as your other priceless bronzes. If left indoors it will need no particular extra care other than the occasional dust, but you can treat it to a gentle wax polish once a year or two if you wish to keep A'Tuin sparkling."

Each Great A'Tuin Discworld figurine is priced at £50, measures approx 120mm across and stands 66mm high, and is presented in a Discworld Emporium Gift Box.

The piece is currently out of stock, the first batch having already sold out, but the Emporium elves are hard at work on hatching a new flock (pod? school?) of A'Tuins, so do check back frequently!

http://www.discworldemporium.com/atuin-discworld-figurine

* The Soul Cake first day cover!

    "As we all know, Soul Cake Tuesday falls on the first Tuesday after the first Half Moon of Sektober. To mark this year's celebration the Ankh-Morpork Post Office has released its very first Soul Cake Duck postage stamp! The Soul Cake Duck Penny makes its debut on this charming First Day Cover, depicting the Soul Cake Duck surrounded by its famous edible eggs. Each cover features a commemorative insert and bears the new One Penny Soul Cake Duck Penny franked by the iconic hand-stamp of the Ankh-Morpork Post Office. So grab your celebratory First Day Cover, roll your eggs down a hill, paint your faces and go trickle-treating!"

Each Soul Cake first day cover is priced at £6.50. For more information, and to order, go to:

http://www.discworldemporium.com/soul-cake-day-fdc

...and an important announcement from the Emporium Hex:

    "++ Next week we'll be conducting some major work on our website while we introduce some exciting changes and improvements ++
While we will do our best to keep out-of-cheese errors to a minimum, there may some adjustments that affect your Discworld Emporium account information. Should you wish to take copies of your order histories (other than our confirmation emails) we recommend you do so now as they will no longer be accessible once these changes are implemented. Pending order information can be found in your confirmation emails for reference. Please bear with us while we iron out any gremlins, feegles, demons, and possibly Bernard. We'll keep you updated on further developments and look forward to sharing our efforts with you!"

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09) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE

Blogger Jenny Roman recalls a very special writing class:

    "The English Department at my secondary school did a lot of things to inspire my literary ambitions – one of which was to invite the late Terry Pratchett to come and give a talk about his writing experiences. Imbued with a heady idealism about writers and writing, I hoped Mr Pratchett (he wasn't a Sir back then) would regale us with tales of the creative process, and somehow pass on some magic pearls of wisdom which would instantly enable us to plunge into our own rich world of creativity and become best-selling authors too. When I bravely stuck up my hand and asked him for his top piece of advice for aspiring authors, he said, 'Get a word processor.' To say I was disappointed would be an understatement. Now, of course, I realise that this was jolly good advice. Even if my 17 year old ears did not wish to hear about the mundane mechanics of the writing process (I'm not quite sure what I had expected his answer to be – other than magic – but it was presumably something to do with inspiration not perspiration), now I'm...ahem...somewhat more mature, I have come to appreciate the importance of 'creative hardware'. In order to write at the simplest level you need a pen and paper, but in order to write with even a semblance of professionalism, you need much more... I did subsequently take Mr Pratchett’s advice, and got an Amstrad 8256 (oh, what a joy after my old typewriter!), which made me feel like a real writer, even though I most definitely wasn't. It didn't, of course, make me write. No gadget or gismo can help with that in the long term but, as they say, a workman is only as good as his tools. If you are going to write, you need the right basic equipment. Sir Terry, you were right all along. And for that, a belated thank you."

https://jennyroman.wordpress.com/2016/10/16/terry-pratchetts-advice-for-aspiring-writers/

booksbooksbooks200 gives The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner high marks:

    "The stories are written in Pratchett's inimitable style. Beautifully written and illustrated, this is a treasure trove of stories for readers of all ages. The majority of these were written when Pratchett was a young journalist and the tweaked before his untimely death last year, this collection showcases his then emerging talent and humour. A wonderful book and If I had any kids I would delight in reading them these stories at bed time, instead I will keep them to myself and savour them when I need the a childish escape from real life that we all need from time to time."

https://booksbooksbooks200.wordpress.com/2016/10/20/the-witchs-vacuum-cleaner-by-terry-pratchett/

The gaming/horror/metal blog-collective known as GBHBL gives nine of ten stars to Mort:

    "This is it. The moment where the Terry Pratchett's Discworld series finally starts coming into its own. The first that really begins to create the universe we all know & love, filled with plenty of the magic & wonder that existed before but held together with a fantastic plot... There is a reason why Mort is such a beloved story, one that has seen many adaptions & even ended up on stage! The Death books are some of my least favourite of the entire series but Mort is the standout of his stuff. It gives a massive amount of detail & character development for one of the most important characters on the Disc & introduces both Mort & Ysabell... Mort is the best of the series so far, so good I named my cat after him."

https://gbhbl.com/2016/10/17/discworld-series-review-mort-terry-pratchett/

On the Danville Library bookblog, Jessica A. feels the Wyrd Sisters love:

    "What does one do when the very country itself (more than just the people within it) rejects the usurper to the throne? What does the usurper do to rewrite history? Should the witches even involve themselves in the matter? As with all Pratchett novels, this one is very funny. The footnotes are often the best part, explaining, for instance just why the Thieves have a Guild and why guild members must therefore give receipts to those they rob. The story involves many references to Shakespeare’s plays, including Hamlet, Macbeth, Othello, and others. The characters are by turns endearing, intriguing, and in some cases horrifying. Death makes his usual cameo appearance and steals the show, literally. This is my favorite series, and I'm eagerly rereading the whole set..."

https://danvillelibrary.wordpress.com/2016/10/10/wyrd-sisters-by-terry-pratchett/

Blogger Beth reflects on The Shepherd's Crown:

    "I really enjoyed this book. I loved Tiffany. I loved the Discworld. I loved so much about this book, but I can't help but feel I missed something. Although The Shepherd's Crown works fairly well as a standalone, the references to previous books were common and, given that I have only read a couple of Discworld novels before now, I expect often went over my head. I think that had I read it in the context of the previous Tiffany Aching novels I would have certainly enjoyed it more... In many ways, The Shepherd's Crown could be called a coming-of-age story, following Tiffany as she finds her place in the world. As she steps out of simply being Granny Weatherwax's heir and becomes her own witch. I think finding your own way in a changing world is one of the most important themes of the book. Although Tiffany is at the centre of the story, The Shepherd's Crown is full of characters fighting for their own place in the world, even if it isn't what they always thought it would be. From Geoffrey the boy witch to Nightshade the evil queen come good at last. Speaking of Geoffrey though, I wasn't his biggest fan I have to be honest. At times, he felt a little bit like a Mary Sue character. A boy from a privileged background, but oh no his dad was horrible, so he runs away and it turns out he has all of these magical gifts and everyone likes him. I didn't hate Geoffrey, I just felt he was a little bland. Overall, I liked The Shepherd's Crown and I do have plans to venture backwards into Pratchett's earlier Discworld stories..."

https://bethsbooktalk.wordpress.com/2016/10/09/review-the-shepherds-crown/

Pratchett collector (and fan) tonofwoot91 offers a long post, well worth reading, on the early Discworld novels including tCoM/tLF, Equal Rites, Mort, and Sourcery:

    "The Colour of Magic was an excellent introduction... The Light Fantastic is a far more orthodox novel...

    "Buying Discworld novels has become a hobby of mine. Whenever I'm in a new town, I go to the nearest charity shop to scour their shelves. My entire collection is made up of little finds from this place and that. Most of the time, I come up empty-handed but every now and then I find something new. In the back of older editions you'll find advertisements for the Discworld fanzine known as The Wizard's Knob. On seeing this, I didn't think much of it but now I realise just how important a fanzine was. Such groups are a great incentive to keep writers going... I wasn't as enthralled by Equal Rites as I was with other books in the series. This third novel comes at the point in the series where the author’s output has just kicked up a notch. Despite being a pleasant book to read, it didn't carry the same level of humour as the other books. But what I will praise it for is its message: Reach for your dreams if you believe they're meant to be... Death and Mort have a touching relationship which goes through its rough patches. Overall, I think the character development in this book is some of the best in the series so far..."

https://wootreviews.wordpress.com/2016/10/05/my-thoughts-on-the-discworld-so-far/

Lizzy the Bent Bookworm, on the other hand, thinks Equal Rites 5 out of 5 stars:

    "I was immediately hooked by the mildly hysterical battle of the sexes that takes place within the first few pages – a dying wizard tries to bequeath his powers (and staff!) to the 8th son of an 8th son...who turns out to be a daughter... I love Esk, and I love Granny, and watching them tear through Discworld was just a rollicking, fun ride... Pratchett, as usual, manages to create his own very entertaining world and somehow have it be a satirical commentary on [its] own..."

https://bentbookworm.com/2016/09/13/book-review-equal-rites/

...while blogger Ryan, on Muse With Me, makes a well-intentioned attempt at analysing it:

    "Though humorously approached, the gender issues seemed too simply presented to me at first. At the forefront they are apparent through negation: Esk seeks education saying 'Yes I can,' while the community and the wizards say 'No you can't.' Reading between the lines a little more, I did find that the argument for equality is more artfully woven into the story than I'd initially though. Each respective school of thought is simply a different way of approaching the same natural phenomenon. When considering this along with Granny's practice of Headology — which is essentially the idea that belief shapes reality — it's easy to see how their institutional structure is held together by how they believe things to be rather than what is possible... The characters are evocative and a lot of fun to read about. Granny is wise and capable, but a lot more unsure and inexperienced than she lets on. Esk, while intelligent and capable, is still childlike, retaining a bold and curiously naive approach to the people and places she encounters. This often goes array as her powers act more upon her whims than her will, which helped to keep things interesting. The plot is where the book felt flimsy to me, good characters notwithstanding... The writing style is witty and deceptively clever, articulating a world that I wanted to laugh with as much as speculate upon. The gender politics could have been more deeply explored than they were, but I don't feel the subject was done any disservice. It is the third book in the series so some prior experience would be handy, but it is quite accessible as well, if you'd rather pick and choose from this extensive series. I don't feel this will have been one of Pratchett's best for me, but it's still worth the read."

https://musewithmeblog.wordpress.com/2016/09/27/review-equal-rites/

Blogger The Bookbeard is ecstatic about the Discworld Colouring Book:

    "Let me preface this by saying, I hid this from my son as soon as I opened the parcel. I love him but he's a toddler and will daub colour and wild scribbles on anything that stays still long enough. Including me. From the stylish cover to the excellent set of illustrations in the back of the book, this is both a testament to Terry Pratchett's wonderful Discworld and Paul Kidby's brilliant visual interpretation of those characters and places. Many of the drawings available to colour are accompanied by fantastic quotes from the Discworld novels, adding a great (and, for me, nostalgic) element to the concept. The illustrations are fantastic and I, for one, will not be attempting to let my (or my son's) crayons loose on such a magnificent book..."

https://thebookbeard.wordpress.com/2016/09/29/review-terry-pratchetts-discworld-colouring-book-by-paul-kidby/

...and finally, in the idiot's corner, we have one JM Williams, an unpublished soi-disant "author" who blathers at considerable length about how he considers Monstrous Regiment to be a failure even though "it’s a great book with some of Pratchett’s best characters", simply because Men Can't Write Female Characters. A prime contender for Your Editor's James B Tiptree Words "May Have Sex But Brains Don't" Award, and yet another demonstration of the dangers of Academia (may contain nuts):

    "Anyone who has spent years in the liberal arts knows there are many traps to avoid with female characters. All too often, female characters are defined by their relationships to others, particularly to men or the patriarchy, rather than on their own terms. Pratchett’s work seems to suffer the same problem. The main characters, all women but for one, are ultimately defined in this way. None of them join the army because they want to be soldiers; the enlistment is for each simply a means to an end. One joins in order to search for the deadbeat father of her unborn child; another needs to rescue her brother so he can inherit the family business; a pair join to stay together; another follows her lover; and so forth. Three of the characters are escaping abuse, two are trying to prove themselves in a societies that view women as lesser, one is working a legal loophole against a rule that is designed to keep women from social power; they are all rather cliche as concepts when you really think about it. Only two of the main characters are defined on their own merits, and they are men. And when one of these characters is revealed at the end to be a woman, her life in the army, a life as the most rugged and successful soldier ever, is degraded to a decision to follow her male lover into the military and then just sticking it out because there was nothing better. What the story lacks is any woman, any female at all, that chooses to join the army because they actually wanted to be soldiers. Every woman soldier, high or low, ended up there indirectly, but some just decided to stay for various reasons or because it was easier than leaving. So the overriding moral message is that yes, woman CAN do the same things that men can but they don’t WANT to. By the end of the book it becomes a sweeping generalization. This in turn helps to reinforce the gender divide, rather than tear it down. It is ultimately limiting in its own way. The women defeat the strict patriarchy of their society by working from the inside, but their stories are always defined by these relationships...."

https://jmwwriting.wordpress.com/2016/10/03/discussion-the-danger-of-male-writers-and-female-characters/

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10) IMAGES OF THE MONTH

Sculptor Richard Kingston at work on his marvellous piece for the Discworld Emporium – and some of the results:
http://bit.ly/2fuWG00

Moist, Adora Belle and Postman Groat from the forthcoming Westoning Players production of Going Postal:
http://www.westoning-players.co.uk/sitebuilder/images/GP2016_Adora_Moist_Groat-286x386.jpg

The Abbot of the History Monks, by Paul Kidby in 2007 for the Talpress edition of Thief of Time:
http://bit.ly/2epQ8LZ

...and a lovely sketch of Nanny and Greebo, that says it all about her feelings for him:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CvwxzeEWIAASyfm.jpg

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11) CLOSE

    It's been a long time since Pratchett quotes began to surface out in the wider world; these days it's nearly a badge of nous for random journalists and such to quote The Author. But Pratchett quotes can still crop up in surprising enough places to make them noteworthy – in this case, in an article about endangered big cats: "The five-day challenge opened volunteers' eyes to the plight of big cats across the world and the multitude of issues they face at the hands of man. Among those taking part was Al Scott, whose wife Adelle works in the foundation's Bognor office, on Castlegrove Business Park, and heads the communications and fundraising team. He said: 'Terry Pratchett once wrote "Them as can do has to do for them as can't. And someone has to speak up for them as has no voices". I'm one of them that can and there are some big cats who can't, and who need a voice.'" (To read the original article, go to _http://bit.ly/2f3aJHJ_)

    And that's the lot for October. See you next month!

– Annie Mac

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The End. If you have any questions or requests, write: wossname-owner (at) pearwood (dot) info

Copyright (c) 2016 by Klatchian Foreign Legion

Wossname
Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
September 2016 (Volume 19, Issue 9, Post 1)

********************************************************************
WOSSNAME is a free publication offering news, reviews, and all the other stuff-that-fits pertaining to the works of Sir Terry Pratchett. Originally founded by the late, great Joe Schaumburger for members of the worldwide Klatchian Foreign Legion and its affiliates, including the North American Discworld Society and other continental groups, Wossname is now for Discworld and Pratchett fans everywhere in Roundworld.
********************************************************************

Editor in Chief: Annie Mac
News Editor: Vera P
Newshounds: Mogg, Sir J of Croydon Below, the Shadow, Mss C, Alison not Aliss
Staff Writers: Asti, Pitt the Elder, Evil Steven Dread, Mrs Wynn-Jones
Staff Technomancers: Jason Parlevliet, Archchancellor Neil, DJ Helpful
Book Reviews: Annie Mac, Drusilla D'Afanguin, Your Name Here
Puzzle Editor: Tiff (still out there somewhere)
Bard in Residence: Weird Alice Lancrevic
Emergency Staff: Steven D'Aprano, Jason Parlevliet
World Membership Director: Steven D'Aprano (in his copious spare time)

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INDEX:

01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH
02) EDITOR'S LETTER
03) ODDS AND SODS
04) DISCWORLD GAMES NEWS
05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
07) ALZHEIMER'S NEWS
08) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE
09) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS
10) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
11) CLOSE

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01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH

"Terry reveals an all-too-sad truth about our relationship to religion, power and personal/national identity. However, his handling of such heavy material is still great fun, and offers many brilliant visuals of which I hope to have captured an inkling."
– illustrator Omar Rayyan, commenting on his work on the Folio Society's illuminated Small Gods

"The current WWF estimates of surviving orang-utan populations are: 6,600 in Sumatra and 54,000 in Borneo."
– Melbourne Zoo

"Whether or not you agree with Terry Pratchett's outspoken views on assisted suicide, it is hard to argue with his logic for living a good life right up until death and dying, as far possible, in your own terms."
– Secret Scribbler, in a Guardian review of The Shepherd's Crown

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02) LETTER FROM YOUR EDITOR

This might just be the latest-posted issue of Wossname ever – certainly the latest-posted in my term of editorship. Many apologies! There are also some features I had hoped to complete that will have to wait, such as our reviews of the Discworld Colouring Book (marvellous!) and The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner (excellent, even better than Dragons at Crumbling Castle, highly recommended); keep an eye on the Wossname blog (_http://wossname.dreamwidth.org/_) for updates, and of course those will be included in the October issue... which I will try to post out on time!

More and more amateur theatre companies around the world are performing Discworld plays. It's heartwarming to see that the number of different Discworld plays is also on the increase: while Wyrd Sisters remains the primary go-to (and is becoming a Halloween season tradition in ever more places), companies are now tackling a more diverse range including Carpe Jugulum, Mort, Amazing Maurice, Going Postal, The Wee Free Men and ever more. What an excellent way of keeping the Terry Pratchett legacy alive, and long may it continue! See section 5 for a round-up of the latest productions.

From heartwarming to heart-breaking: Monty Python co-founder Terry Jones, noted as much for his latter career as a telly presenter, author and keen amateur historian, has been diagnosed with the dementia variant known as primary progressive aphasia (PPA) and can no longer perform or give interviews. PCA robbed our favourite writer of his ability to physically write; PPA has robbed a beloved presenter/performer of his ability to perform. That the public know of Terry Jones' plight at all is a testament to the ceaseless Alzheimer's activism to which Sir Pterry dedicated so much of his final time and energy, and is a stark reminder that he may well be remembered as much for that activism as for his writing.

Right, on with the show!

– Annie Mac, Editor

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03) ODDS AND SODS

3.1 DRAGON AWARD

A new award for The Shepherd's Crown, and one that I'd hope Sir Pterry would have appreciated, despite its keeping company with some very dodgy works – Best Young Adult / Middle Grade Novel at the inaugural Dragon Awards:

"This year's inaugural Dragon Awards were handed out today at Dragon Con in Atlanta, Georgia. The winners show a remarkable contrast to the recipients of this year's Hugo Award winners, one of the major awards in science fiction and fantasy literature. The Dragon Awards were instituted earlier this year in conjunction with the convention's 30th anniversary. The award is designed to be a "true reflection of the works that are genuinely most beloved by the core audience," the larger fan world, rather than the core literary circles that help choose the Nebula Awards and Hugo Awards. The Dragon Awards opened nominations and voting to the general public..."

http://www.theverge.com/2016/9/4/12794666/dragon-award-dragoncon-david-weber-terry-pratchett

3.2 BEAUTIFUL NEW "ILLUMINATED" FOLIO SOCIETY NOVEL: SMALL GODS

The Folio Society continues its offerings of Discworld books with a stunning "illuminated" edition of Small Gods, once again featuring the work of illustrator Omar Rayyan. The Guardian has a feature on it, with reproductions of some of the illustrations. In these, Mr Rayyan seems to me to have channelled the look of Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins in the Middle Earth films, and I think this is a good thing: it brings a new, very human warmth to the character of Brutha. The Folio Society editions aren't exactly cheap, but if you can afford to spend a bit more on something truly special, this is a must-have!

The Guardian feature: http://bit.ly/2d1a3nj

The Folio Society link for the illuminated Small gods: http://www.foliosociety.com/book/SLL

3.3 REVIEWS: THE SHEPHERD'S CROWN

Somehow we missed this one back in July! A deeply thoughtful review of The Shepherd's Crown in The Guardian by "Secret Scribbler":

"There was certainly an autumnal breeze which seemed to stroke the pages of Terry Pratchett's forty-first and final Discworld novel, much like the penultimate Long Earth story published earlier last summer. The Shepherd's Crown whispered of things unsaid, of time running out, of not being able to leave things exactly the way one wanted. In many ways it is an imperfect, unfinished novel... Everything is set for an epic clash between good and evil. Yet this is no Middle Earth or Narnia; much of the rest of the novel is devoted to Tiffany's backbreaking day-to-day work. In Pratchett's world, witches perform the role of a comprehensive health service, free at the point of need (paid for through favours and kindness), fully integrated with social care like something out of Andy Burnham's wildest dreams. They perform messy, practical, essential services – caring for the sick, ushering babies into the world and escorting people out with as much gentleness as possible, trimming the toenails of lonely old men. Tiffany is spread thin and pulled in disparate directions by her passion for her work; her sense of loyalty to her family; her tentative relationship with medical student Preston. Besides, Terry Pratchett has little time for unadulterated evil in the style of Sauron or the White Witch, though his writing is incandescent with rage against stupidity and cruelty... Is this actually a good novel? To some extent, it doesn't really matter. For a Discworld aficionado, the book's very existence is a kind of miracle, like an unexpected letter addressed just to you..."

http://bit.ly/2bXsqcL

...and a somewhat bizarre (in my opinion, at any rate – Ed.) analysis/review of The Shepherd's Crown, by one Peter L. Edman in the University Bookman:

"It is a testimony to the previous forty tales in the Discworld fantasy universe that the flaws of this story do not completely overshadow its wistful pleasures, at least for the long-time Pratchett reader... The Tiffany novels are targeted at the young adult market, and despite the fantasy tropes of elves and witches, I suspect that the greatest strain on suspension of disbelief for the average reader in Britain and America is Tiffany's bone-deep connection with her land and heritage. But the railroad has come to the Discworld; cold iron is transforming or bypassing the ancient traditions. She must somehow choose what to preserve... Pratchett has been accused—inaccurately—of writing escapist fiction, but it seems no escape is permitted to those disturbed by the dissolution of gender roles and gender identity—the latest effects of the elites' dismemberment of Western culture. Among other examples in the novel, Tiffany takes on a new apprentice, Geoffrey, a boy who eschews traditional roles and wants to be a witch. He is presented as calm and quiet, good with the elderly and with babies, a vegetarian, a natural peacemaker driven by the winds of destiny. He demonstrates no romantic interests. Pratchett's remaining skills do, if barely, keep Geoffrey from becoming a stock allegorical figure of the New Tolerance..."

http://www.kirkcenter.org/index.php/bookman/article/the-last-pratchett

3.4 THIEF OF TIME REVIEW

By Sam Jordison in The Guardian:

"Some humans would do anything to see if it was possible to do it. If you put a large switch in some caves somewhere, with a sign on it saying 'End-of-the-World Switch. PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH', the paint wouldn't even have time to dry. Imagine also a world in which 'democracy at work' is really just reckless and mindless chaos. Imagine a world in which one of the chief aspects of humanity is, as noted by Death (a character with so much gravitas that he always speaks with caps-lock on): 'ARROGANCE, PRIDE AND STUPIDITY.' Sounds familiar, doesn't it? So familiar that reading Thief of Time after the Brexit vote is a strange, disconcerting experience for me. I've just finished the novel and I felt at times that Pratchett, who died in 2015, must have foreseen our current sad story. But it also felt like he was bringing good news. Alongside a few stern words about our collective idiocy, the great writer had a message of hope. Someone in Thief of Time does inevitably push that awful button – which in fact concerns a clock that traps time rather than cuing Article 50– but he reassures us with: “We can learn. That's how humans become humans.” We may do bad things, but there's also something about humanity that helps us go on. It's a comforting thought. But even without my current political obsessions and fears, I'm certain that I'd find other kinds of solace in this wonderful novel. Pratchett understood human nature, for better or for worse. I imagine future generations will be seeing their own mistakes in this novel, just as clearly as I've seen our own. And I find such thoughts comforting: there's nothing new about folly. Humans have always got it wrong, but we've generally muddled through too.

"There are other reasons to find hope in Thief of Time, chief among them that it's a delight to read. The story is as complicated, daft, hilarious and satisfying as vintage PG Wodehouse: part kung fu epic, part philosophical novel, part mind-bending experiment with chaos theory (and a piss-take of those three things)... it's a lampoon. But it's also full of warmth and sympathy. The same is true of the rest of the book. Pratchett may think us fools – but he still likes us. That too is consoling..."

http://bit.ly/2cHcGtT

3.5 REVIEW: SERIOUSLY FUNNY, THE ENDLESSLY QUOTABLE TERRY PRATCHETT

By Karen Jones on Starts at 60:

"Always clever with his witty sayings, some of Terry Pratchett's best quotes adorn the pages of this beautiful little compilation. Divided into categories of Human nature, Romance, Learning and Wisdom, Success, Life and Death, Animals, Religion, Politics, and last but not least, Words and Writing. There are 130 pages of gorgeous, pithy, astute quotes about life and living... I suppose Seriously funny. The endlessly quotable Terry Pratchett could be classed as a coffee table book. As a compilation, it is the perfect size to carry around in your pocket or to leave on your bedside table. It is the sort of book that the reader will want to pick up often just to enjoy a clever quote, or to cheer themselves up when they need a laugh. The depth of wisdom and the scope of wicked humour is a great reminder of the incredible creative talent of the author himself. His imagination seemed to be so vast, his parodies of real life so astute and funny, it is a sad loss that he has now passed away..."

https://startsat60.com/stories/entertain/books/saturday-on-the-couch-seriously-funny

3.6 A GOOD DISCWORLD QUIZ

In The Guardian, a good Discworld quiz (with a nod to general Pratchett titles) features a number of questions, among them:

"What was the name of Pratchett's first published short story, published when he was a teenager? ... Which children's book was Good Omens initially intended to be a parody of? ... Eric is a parody of which classic tale? ... Which classic rock album cover does the cover for Soul Music resemble? ... A collection of travel stories called 'What I Did On My Holiday' became a revolutionary text in which Discworld book? ... What does the motto NVNC ID VIDES, NVNC NE VIDES, carved above the doors of Unseen University, mean?"

http://bit.ly/2d3XuYs

3.7 UNSEEN UNIVERSITY, THE SCHOOL TO CHOOSE

On Epic Stream, a listicle of "10 Awesome Schools from Sci-fi and Fantasy That'd Never Get Boring" gives high marks to UU:

"The school of Wizardry in Terry Pratchett's Discworld universe is another magical one, but unlike Hogwarts, nobody bothers to pretend they know what the hell they're doing. We see a lot of weird experiments with magic rather than busywork. The wizards who run the place are reckless and a bit unhinged, but I'd want to go there anyway. I mean, it has the best library ever- you can read every book ever written in the past, present and future. This library is also run by former-wizard-turned-orangutan. One drawback is that there aren't many women attending, so girls might feel pretty awkward (and the lack of women and general celibacy might be a bummer for any dudes interested in girls as well). Due to the strict gender divide in the magical culture of Discworld, it was quite a while before the first girl attended the university (her name was Eskarina Smith). Witches in Discworld operate differently from wizards and don't really do formal higher education. Thanks to Eskarina's trailblazing, though, girls presumably can attend the school now, even if they're currently in the minority. .."
http://bit.ly/2cv3BQI

3.8 MORE DANGER TO WILD ORANGUTANS THAN THOUGHT

Fresh – and distressing – news about the plight of orangutans in the wild:

"The new Apes Seizures Database paints a more detailed picture, compiling figures for any seizure of a great ape in an unlawful situation dating back to 2005.
'It's definitely a staggering number, it's larger than we expected,' said Doug Cress from the Great Ape Survival Partnership, who have put together the new database. 'We're finding that it's really averaging about two seizures a week around the world. That may seem small but the usual ratio for a chimpanzee is that to get one alive you've had to kill five or 10, for gorillas it's like four to one. That extrapolates quickly to a lot of dead in the wild.'

"Orang-utans were by far the most commonly captured animals, accounting for 67% of seizures by the authorities. It's believed that habitat destruction in Borneo and Sumatra has seen large numbers flushed out of the forests. The conversion of their natural homes into palm oil plantations or for pulp and paper has made the orangutans easy prey for those who want to trade them illegally..."

http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-37513707

And speaking of our favourite orange apes, at Melbourne's Federation Square there will be a protest, palm oil labelling petition signing, and display of 1,000 cuddly orangutan toys from on Tuesday 4th October 2016:

"Food manufacturers are still allowed to include palm oil as a vegetable oil on their labels. So you don't realise you may be contributing to the deaths of over 1,000 orangutans a year as their habitat, and that of Sumatran Elephants and Tigers is destroyed through unsustainable palm oil production. Later this year selected Australian Ministers will meet to decide whether Australia will once and for all label palm oil on food products. Add your name to the growing list of over 30,000 Australians who support palm oil labelling."

http://www.zoo.org.au/get-involved/act-for-wildlife/dont-palm-us-off

http://www.zoo.org.au/palmoil/label

...and here be a report from the Melbourne Zoo's World Orangutan Day celebration/information event in August:

http://www.zoo.org.au/news/world-orang-utan-day

3.9 MONSTROUS PRODUCTIONS, ROUNDWORLD'S THEATRICAL DISCWORLD FUNDRAISERS

A lovely feature on Cardiff's Monstrous Productions, who have so far raised more than £20,000 for dementia research through putting on Discworld plays:

"A Cardiff-based theatre company has raised over £20,000 by staging theatrical versions of the late Sir Terry Pratchett's works with all proceeds going to the charity he was patron of, Alzheimer's Research UK. Monstrous Productions Theatre Company has been putting on adaptations of Pratchett's works since 2012. Their latest play, ‘Going Postal', was performed at The Gate Arts Centre, Cardiff, over four nights in August. It raised over £3,000 for the UK's leading dementia research charity, helping the group to reach their fundraising goal of £20,000. Amy Davies, 31, is co-founder and co-director at the company. She directed her first Terry Pratchett play, ‘Monstrous Regiment', with Cardiff University's drama society, Act One, while studying for her Master's degree. The success led to a flood of requests from fans, wanting them to stage more. Now an assistant psychologist with the NHS, Amy has directed seven plays with Monstrous Productions. It was decided from the beginning that all proceeds from the performances should go to Alzheimer's Research UK. Pratchett became a patron of the charity after he was diagnosed with a rare form of dementia called Posterior Cortical Atrophy in 2007... Zoe Baggott, Regional Fundraising Officer at Alzheimer's Research UK, said: 'Monstrous Productions is an amazing group. We're so grateful to them for supporting Alzheimer's Research UK. Not only are they a talented bunch, but they're extremely generous too. 225,000 people in the UK will develop dementia this year – that's one every three minutes. With enough research, we can beat this devastating condition.'..."

http://www.charitytoday.co.uk/pratchett-players-raise-20000-dementia-research/

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04) DISCWORLD GAMES NEWS

From the Backspindle gang, makers of the "Guards! Guards!" and "Clacks" games, have a special offer for UK buyers:

"Free Shipping during October... The Clacks have won! Postal Office charges for Backspindle Games ordered for UK addresses in October 2016 are FREE! This includes our our new acclaimed puzzle game 'Codinca' (recently named the Number 1 themeless game) by the Dice Tower's Sam Healey. Please note: Games ordered between 11-17 October will be dispatched between 19-20 October.

"Discworld Combos: we are very aware everyone likes a bargain, so we are delighted to confirm we have created a Special Offer for those of you who would like to purchase a copy of Clacks! together with a copy of Guards! Guards! The total discount is £10.00 of the total retail price. (While stocks of Guards! Guards! last)
You can access this bargain here: http://www.backspindlegames.com/multigames/ "

Other news, for buyers in America: "Our US partner Ninja Division (_http://ninjadivision.com/_) now has 'all of our games' back in stock: http://ninjadivision.com/backspindle-games/ "

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05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS

EDITOR'S NOTE
A reminder from last month's main issue: "April 2018 would have seen Sir Terry Pratchett's 70th birthday. He had a well-known connection with the theatre, and so to celebrate, why not put on a play? Local theatre companies around the world can use this month to stage any Discworld play, in a great big celebration and commemoration of Sir Terry's life and work. I discussed the idea with Colin Smythe at the DW Convention 2016, and he said it was a good one, go for it. So here we are, going for it. Let everybody know, and book the performance slot at the next planning meeting at your local theatre group!"

There's a Facebook event page for this, which can be found at https://www.facebook.com/events/580653112059960/

To view the original announcement, go to http://discworld.livejournal.com/1107951.html

5.1 NEW: TAMAHER IN CARDIFF (FEBRUARY 2017)

Monstrous Productions carry on from strength to strength! Next up is their February 2017 production of The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents. Stay tuned for updates...

When: 22nd–25th February 2017
Venue: The Gate Theatre, Keppoch Street, Roath, Cardiff CF24 3JW
Time: 7.30pm (2.30pm matinee on the 25th)
Tickets: £7 (£5 concession), available from http://monstrousptc.com/

5.2 NEW: WYRD SISTERS IN BRISBANE (NOVEMBER/DECEMBER)

The Brisbane Arts Theatre is going multi-Pratchett for the back end of 2016! On the heels of their forthcoming production of Guards! Guards! in October and early November, they will be presenting Wyrd Sisters only a few weeks later!

When: 23rd, 27th, 28th, 29th & 30th November and 4th–6th December 2017
Venue:
Time: 8pm Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays; 6.30pm Sunday matinees (29th November and 6th December)
Tickets: Adults $31, Concession $25, Group 10+ $25, Group 75+ $20, Gold Members $15, Members $25, Student Rush $10 (10 mins before curtain). "Members can redeem their included season tickets for this show. There are no refunds or exchanges once tickets have been purchased." Tickets are not yet available. Watch this space for updates...

http://www.artstheatre.com.au/show/wyrdsisters

5.3 NEW: WYRD SISTERS IN BATH (OCTOBER)

The Bathford Players, an amateur company of 50 years' experience, will present their production of Wyrd Sisters this month.

"Adapted by Stephen Briggs, and produced by Ken Tatem, this has been selected specifically to use as many members of the Players as possible in a large cast to celebrate our 50'th anniversary."

When: 19th, 20th, 21st and 22nd October 2016
Venue: Bathford Village Hall, Church Street, Bathford, Bath BA1 7RS
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £8, available from the Bathford village shop (01225 859111), or online at http://bathfordplayers.weebly.com/ticket-sales.html

​There's also a Facebook event page at https://www.facebook.com/events/1667203456939738/

http://bathfordplayers.weebly.com/

5.4 NEW: GUARDS! GUARDS! IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA (OCTOBER/NOVEMBER)

"ARENAarts presents its 7th foray into the universe of Discworld Productions. GUARDS! GUARDS! A villainous plot to rule. A city under siege. A dragon on the loose. Adapted from Terry Pratchett's comic fantasy novel, this a fun production for lovers of silliness!"

When: 21st October–6th November 2016
Venue: LC Theatre, 60 Cleaver Terrace, Belmont, W.A. 6104
Time: all evening shows (21st, 22nd, 28th & 29th October, and 3rd, 4th & 5th November) 8pm; all matinees (23rd & 30th October and 6th November) 2pm
Tickets: $22 (concessions $16, children $10, groups of 10+ $15p/p), available online at
https://www.trybooking.com/Booking/BookingDates.aspx?eid=206909

For further information, contact Simon James 08 9399 9947 arenaarts@hotmail.com.au

5.5 NEW: CARPE JUGULUM IN SUFFOLK (NOVEMBER)

The Quaysiders theatre company will be staging their production of Carpe Jugulum in November.

"Having previously staged both 'Mort' and 'Maskerade' this time we continue to follow the antics of Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg and Agnes Nitt as they face their most treacherous foes in the shape of a family of 'modern' vampires. The Vampires are determined to take over the Kingdom of Lancre, and their despicable plan seems to be working… but they hadn't reckoned on the formidable Granny Weatherwax."

When: 10th–12th November 2016
Venue: Seagull Theatre, Morton Road, Pakefield, NR33 OGH
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £9 (£8 concessions), available online at http://intelligent-tickets.co.uk/index.php?th=gl

For more information, ring 01502 589726 or email info@theseagull.co.uk

http://www.theseagull.co.uk/event/carpe-jugulam/

5.6 NEW: WYRD SISTERS IN NEWPORT, WALES (NOVEMBER)

The Newport Playgoers Society are staging their production of Wyrd Sisters in November!

When: 15th–19th November
Venue: Dolman Theatre, Kingsway, Newport, NP20 1HY
Time: 7.15pm (evening shows); 2.30pm (Saturday 19th matinee)
Tickets: £12.50 (students £8.50, concessions £11), available online at http://bit.ly/2dDR5kr – there is a booking fee of £2.00 per per transaction.

"For more information about this performance, please contact the Dolman Theatre on 01633 263670."

http://www.dolmantheatre.co.uk/show.aspx?id=298

There is also a Facebook event for the play: https://www.facebook.com/events/1232819446770130/

About the Playgoers Society, who have been performing plays since 1924:
http://www.dolmantheatre.co.uk/newport-playgoers-society.aspx

5.7 NEW: TAMAHER IN LEEDS (NOVEMBER)

Leeds Children's Theatre, "a voluntary drama society, producing quality drama for children of all ages since 1935", are presenting their production of The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents in November!

When: 16th–19th November 2016
Venue: Carriageworks Theatre, The Electric Press, 3 Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 3AD
Time: 7pm (16th–18th), noon and 5pm on Saturday 19th
Tickets: £11 (£10 concessions), Family (2+2) £40. There is an early bird £1 reduction "if booked before 23 October 2016 (n/a to our coach inclusive deals)" Tickets are available for purchase in person at the City Centre Box Office, Leeds Town Hall LS1 3AD from 10am – 6pm Monday to Saturday – telephone (0113) 376 0318; email boxoffice@leeds.gov.uk – also, an event Box Office will be open on the ground floor of the Carriageworks Theatre from 1 hour before show start time. To purchase tickets online, go to http://www.amazingmaurice.info/tickets.html

http://www.amazingmaurice.info/

5.8 NEW: MORT IN HARROGATE (NOVEMBER/DECEMBER)

The Woodlands Drama Group will be staging their production of Mort in November and December!

When: 30th November–3rd December 3 2016
Venue: The Studio At Harrogate Theatre, 6 Oxford Street, Harrogate HG1 1QF (email: boxoffice@harrogatetheatre.co.uk)
Time: 7.45pm evening shows; 2.30pm Saturday matinee
Tickets: all tickets £10, available from http://www.woodlandsdramagroup.co.uk/tickets/ or http://bit.ly/2di6RSA or by phoning the theatre's Box Office (01423 502116)

http://www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/Mort-Presented-by-Woodlands-Drama-Group

5.9 NEW: CARPE JUGULUM IN NOTTINGHAM (MARCH 2017)

The Lace Market Youth Theatre present Carpe Jugulum, "a pastiche of vampire literature playing with mythic archetypes and featuring a tongue in cheek reversal of 'vampyre' subculture with young vampires who wear bright clothes, drink wine and stay up till noon", in March 2017.

When: 22nd–25th March 2017
Venue: The Lace Market Theatre, Halifax Place, Nottingham NG1 1QN
Time: 7.30pm all evening shows; 2.30pm Saturday 25th matinee
Tickets: £11 (£10 concessions), available online at http://bit.ly/2dIKhod or by phoning 0115 950 7201

https://lacemarkettheatre.co.uk/LaceMarketTheatre.dll/WhatsOn

5.10 REMINDER: FEET OF CLAY IN ADELAIDE, FOURECKS (OCTOBER/NOVEMBER)

Adelaide's famous Unseen Theatre will be staging Feet of Clay as their next Pratchett production!

"It's Murder in Discworld!—which ordinarily is no big deal. But what bothers Commander Samuel Vimes, Head of the Ankh-Morpork City Watch, is that the unusual deaths of three harmless old men do not bear the clean, efficient marks of the Assassins' Guild. But that's only the start… someone is slowly poisoning the Patrician. No one knows who, no one knows why and, worst of all no one knows how – he just gets weaker and weaker. Added to that, the City Watch has got problems of its own. There's a werewolf suffering from Pre-Lunar Tension, Corporal Nobbs is hobnobbing with the nobs, and there's something really strange about the new dwarf recruit – especially his earrings and eyeshadow. Who can you trust when there are mobs on the streets, plotters in the dark and all the clues point the wrong way? Nevertheless, Sam Vimes has got to find out not only whodunit, but howdunit too. He's not even sure what they dun. But soon as he knows what the questions are, he's going to want some answers. We don't want to give anything away, but Vimes may find that the truth is not out there at all. In fact, it may be inside – but inside what? or should we say whom?"

When: 21st October–5th November 2016 (preview Friday 21st October; opening night 22nd October 22; then season continues Wed.–Sat. to 5th November)
Venue: Bakehouse Theatre, 255 AngasStreet, Adelaide
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: Adults $22; Concession $18; Groups (6+) $16; TRev $16; Preview $15, available online at http://bakehousetheatre.com/shows/feet-clay

http://unseen.com.au/

5.11 REMINDER: WYRD SISTERS IN EAST GRINSTEAD (OCTOBER)

The Ace Theatre Company will stage Wyrd Sisters in October. They have put an extra measure of their hearts into this production!

When: 20th – 22nd October 2016
Venue: Chequer Mead Theatre, De La Warr Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 3BS
Time: all evening shows 7.30pm; matinee on Saturday 22nd, 2.30pm
Tickets: evening shows £13 (£11 concessions); Saturday matinee £11 (£9 concessions), available from the Box Office by phoning 01342 302000, by email to tickets@chequermead.org.uk, or online at http://www.chequermead.org.uk/whats-on/theatre/event/?e=364967&cat= (click on the desired date button to purchase)

http://www.chequermead.org.uk/

5.12 REMINDER: GUARDS! GUARDS! IN BRISBANE (OCTOBER/NOVEMBER)

The Brisbane Arts Theatre takes on yet another Discworld play later this year, in October and November: "From the legendary author Sir Terry Pratchett comes the eighth novel in the Discworld series and first featuring the Ankh-Morpork City Watch. Long believed extinct, a superb specimen, The Noble Dragon has appeared in Discworld's greatest city. Not only does this unwelcome visitor have a nasty habit of charbroiling everything in its path, in rather short order it is crowned King (it is a noble dragon, after all). With some help from an orangutan librarian, it is the task of the Night Watch to overpower the secret brotherhood and restore order to the kingdom in this fantastical Discworld adventure."

When: 8th October through 12th November 2016
Venue: Brisbane Arts Theatre, 210 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane, QLD 4000
Time: 8pm Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays (except 10th November); 6.30pm Sundays (16th & 30th October)
Tickets: Adults $31, Concession $25, Group 10+ $25, Group 75+ $20, Student Rush $10(10 mins before curtain), available online at http://bit.ly/1QGbXBF

http://www.artstheatre.com.au/show/guardsguards

5.13 REMINDER: MORT IN THE LAND OF FOG (NOVEMBER)

Paeroa Little Theatre's major production for 2016 will be Mort. Stay tuned for updates, as there is still no information available for times and tickets...

When: 9th–18th November 2016
Venue: Paeroa Little Theatre, 1 Francis Street, Paeroa 3600, th North Island, Land of Fog, er, New Zealand
Time: TBA
Tickets: TBA

http://www.facebook.com/PaeroaLittleTheatre/

5.14 VAGUELY NEW-ISH: WYRD SISTERS IN BOLTON, LANCS (MARCH 2017)

Bolton Little Theatre, "a vibrant amateur theatre company run by members" since 1931, will be staging their production of Wyrd Sisters next March.

When: 6th–11th March 2017
Venue: Bolton Little Theatre, Hanover Street, Bolton BL1 4TG
Time: 7.30pm
Tickets: £10 (Monday night 3 for 2 special), available at boltonlittletheatre.ticketsource.co.uk – group bookings of 10+ (£9) should be booked through the Box Office. “You can book at Bolton Little Theatre box office in person or by telephone on Monday night from 7.30 to 9pm and Friday mornings from 10.30 to 12 noon – no extra charge if paying by cash or cheque and you can book during the run of the plays or you can book online at boltonlittletheatre.ticketsource.co.uk ...credit card charges will apply. Tickets can be e-tickets (no charge) mobile phone ticket (50p) standard post (£1.50).”

http://www.boltonlittletheatre.co.uk/terry-pratchetts-wyrd-sisters/

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06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS: UPDATES AND REMINDERS

The Broken Drummers, "London's Premier Unofficially Official Discworld Group" (motto "Nil percussio est"), meets next on Monday 3rd October 2016 at the Monkey Puzzle, 30 Southwick Street, London, W2 1JQ. There will also be an afternoon meetup on Saturday 22nd October 2016.

The most recent meet report sounds fun!

"We met Monday night. We had several new people come along: Jeroen, who lives in London and Richard and Andrea, two Americans who were on holiday in Britain. We also had Cecilia, who has been once before, a long time ago. She brought a bag of Convention goodies and handed them out. We got a Band with Rocks In rock. Left over were two drumsticks which we decided to leave at the pub along with our Broken Drum mascot. Thanks to Cecilia for bringing all that stuff along. Sim appeared sporting a new triple man-bun hairstyle. This sparked some semantic debate over whether it was possible for a woman to have a man-bun. Sim was very insistent that a man-bun is a distinct style rather than a bun worn by a man. She later demonstrated how it is done.

"Chris came and brought his quiz along. When he won a quiz all those months ago, others feared it would be too hard. He promised that his quiz would be multiple-choice. A couple of days before the event, he posted on Facebook that he did not say it would be easy. It turned out to be a based on Pointless. There were a number of possible answers to each question (note this is not what is usually meant by "multiple-choice") and the more people who gave the same answer, the higher the score. Failure to give a valid answer resulted in the maximum score and there were trick questions designed to invoke this. The person with the least points at the end was the winner. That person was me. There were some Discworld questions but topics ranged from the Famous Five to tectonic plates. Chris also gave us the chance to lose points with bonus questions. I was amused by the group's horror at a sports question. The laughably easy task of naming a country that has won the FIFA World Cup ever was treated as objectionable. The bonus question was to name the winner that was not a country. Many claimed not to understand the question. Alex G. (having the advantage of a politics degree) pointed out that there were members of FIFA who are not technically countries. Chris confirmed that this was the solution. Many people failed to work out the answer. And if you're now asking what it was, I'm not going to enlighten you. I fear we are only reinforcing stereotypes about geeks! Anyway, I won a box of Convention colouring pencils and a picture to colour in because according to Chris, 'Multiple-choice quizzes are for children'. I will sort out a quiz for next time and I promise it will not be all that difficult. It will certainly lack Chris' fiendish innovations."

(sent in by Mss C. The link is https://www.facebook.com/groups/55107511411/permalink/10154735030556412/ but you have to be signed in to Facebook to read it – Ed.)

For more information, go to http://brokendrummers.org/ or email BrokenDrummers@gmail.com or nicholls.helen@yahoo.co.uk

*

Canberra, Australia's Discworld fan group is Drumknott's Irregulars: "We are a newly established Terry Pratchett & Discworld social group in Canberra called Drumknott's Irregulars. The group is open to all, people from interstate and overseas are welcome, and our events will not be heavily themed. Come along to dinner for a chat and good company. We welcome people all all fandoms (and none) and we would love to see you at one of our events, even if you're just passing through. Please contact us via Facebook (_https://www.facebook.com/groups/824987924250161/_) or Google Groups (_https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/drumknotts-irregulars_) or join us at our next event."

*

For Facebook users in Fourecks: The Victorian Discworld Klatch is "a social group for fans of Discworld and Terry Pratchett... run by a dedicated team who meet monthly and organise events monthly." "If you'd like to join our events please ask to join the Klatch."

https://www.facebook.com/groups/VictorianDiscworldKlatch

*

"The Gathering of the Loonies (Wincanton chapter)" is a public Facebook meeting group: "This group, by request of Jo in Bear will continue to be used for future unofficial (not run by the Emporium) fan Gatherings in Wincanton. Look here for information." [Editor's note: this is an active group. If you use Facebook, it may be worth joining!]

https://www.facebook.com/groups/373578522834654/

*

The Pratchett Partisans are a fan group who meet monthly at either Brisbane or Indooroopilly to "eat, drink and chat about all things Pratchett. We hold events such as Discworld dinners, games afternoons, Discworld photo scavenger hunts. We also attend opening night at Brisbane Arts Theatre's Discworld plays." The Partisans currently have about 200 members who meet at least twice a month, usually in Brisbane.

For more info about their next meetup, join up at https://www.facebook.com/groups/pratchettpartisans/ or contact Ula directly at uwilmott@yahoo.com.au

*

The City of Small Gods is a group for fans in Adelaide and South Australia.

"We have an established Terry Pratchett & Discworld fan group in Adelaide called The City of Small Gods, which is open to anyone who would like to come - you don't have to live in Adelaide or even South Australia, or even be a Discworld fan, but that's mostly where our events will be held, and we do like discussing Pratchett's works. Our (semi-) regular meetings are generally held on the last Thursday of the month at a pub or restaurant in Adelaide. We have dinner at 6.30pm followed by games until 9pm. The games are usually shorter games like Pairs, Sushi Go, or Tiny Epic Defenders, with the occasional Werewolf session, as these are the best sort of games that work in a pub setting. Every few months, we have a full day's worth of board games at La Scala Cafe, 169 Unley Rd, Unley in the function room starting at 10am. In addition, we will occasionally have other events to go and see plays by Unseen Theatre Company, book discussions on Terry's latest, craft, chain maille or costuming workshops or other fun social activities."

The next Monthly Dinner and Games at the Caledonian Hotel will be held on 24th November 2016. Before that, there will be a Games Day at La Scala Cafe Unley (9th October), a group outing to see Unseen Theatre's production of Feet of Clay (opens 21st October), and the Quiz Long and Prosper - Science Fiction and Fantasy Quiz Night (12th November). For more info, go to www.cityofsmallgods.org.au

*

The Broken Vectis Drummers meet next on Thursday 6th October 2016 (probably) from 7.30pm at The Castle pub in Newport, Isle of Wight. For more info and any queries, contact broken_vectis_drummers@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Wincanton Omnian Temperance Society (WOTS) next meets on Friday 7th October 2016 (probably) at Wincanton's famous Bear Inn from 7pm onwards. "Visitors and drop-ins are always welcome!"

*

The Northern Institute of the Ankh-Morpork and District Society of Flatalists, a Pratchett fangroup, has been meeting on a regular basis since 2005 but is now looking to take in some new blood (presumably not in the non-reformed Uberwald manner). The Flatalists normally meet at The Narrowboat Pub in Victoria Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire, to discuss "all things Pratchett" as well as having quizzes and raffles. Details of future meetings are posted on the Events section of the Discworld Stamps forum:

http://www.discworldstamps.co.uk/forum/

*

Sydney Drummers (formerly Drummers Downunder) meet next on Monday 3rd October 2016 at 6.30pm (probably) in Sydney at 3 Wise Monkeys, 555 George Street, Sydney,2000. For more information, contact Sue (aka Granny Weatherwax): kenworthys@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Treacle Mining Corporation, formerly known as Perth Drummers, meets next on Monday 3rd October 2016 (probably) from 5.30pm at Carpe Cafe, 526 Murray Street, Perth, Western Australia. For details follow Perth Drummers on Twitter @Perth_Drummers or join their Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Perth.Drummers/ – or message Alexandra Ware directly at <alexandra.ware@gmail.com>

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07) ALZHEIMER'S NEWS

A possible step forward:

"A drug that destroys the characteristic protein plaques that build up in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's is showing 'tantalising' promise, scientists say. Experts are cautious because the drug, aducanumab, is still in the early stages of development. But a study in Nature has shown it is safe and hinted that it halts memory decline. Larger studies are now under way to fully evaluate the drug's effects... The next phase of research – phase 3 – involves two separate studies. These are recruiting 2,700 patients with very early stage Alzheimer's across North America, Europe and Asia in order to fully test the drug's effect on cognitive decline. Dr Alfred Sandrock of the biotech company Biogen, which worked with the University of Zurich on the research, said: 'Phase 3 really needs to be done and I hope it will confirm what we have seen in this study. One day I could envisage treating people who have no symptoms because if you have amyloid in the brain it's likely you'll develop Alzheimer's one day.' However, there have been many disappointments in Alzheimer's drug development, and it is over a decade since the last drug for people with the condition was licensed..."

http://www.bbc.com/news/health-37222863

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08) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS

8.1 DISCWORLD EMPORIUM NEWS

* The Greebo Plushy

"Introducing 'Nanny's little softy', here to terrorize your stuffed toys and have you scream 'gerroffyerbugger!!!' This official Greebo Plush from Terry Pratchett's Discworld is the most adorable bundle of claws, battle scars and gnarled ears you'll ever own – just don't leave him alone with Fluffy or Mittens!" Measures approx 200mm high

Priced at £15. For more information, and to order, go to http://www.discworldemporium.com/terry-pratchett-discworld-greebo-plush

[For the record, I am only reluctantly promoting this; while I find the concept wonderful, I think the execution is barely above deplorable – and I say that as a collector and kinda-connoisseuse of cuddly animal toys. My own recommendation? The Librarian Plushy, a much better rendering of concept and priced at the same £15. For more information, and to order, go to http://www.discworldemporium.com/discworld-plush-librarian – Ed.]

* The Perennial Terry Pratchett Diary

"To celebrate the life and works of the remarkable Sir Terry Pratchett, the 2017 Discworld Diary has become a perennial publication, packed full of quotes, witticisms and illustrations along with tributes from some of those who knew and loved him and his extraordinary body of work. Contributors include Neil Gaiman, A S Byatt, Terry Pratchett's literary agent Colin Smythe, Emporium founder Bernard Pearson, co-author of the Long Earth books Stephen Baxter, and many more. Includes an introduction from his daughter Rhianna Pratchett and an afterword from longtime friend, assistant and business manager Rob Wilkins. Of course the Terry Pratchett Diary teems with all the important Discworld and Roundworld dates to help keep him with you as you go about your day – 'mind how you go'!

"We're proud to have worked with publishers Orion on the creation of this book, and as a further celebration of the great man every copy includes a sumptuous A5 art print of Sir Terry Pratchett's Coat of Arms, exclusive to the Discworld Emporium!

Each Terry Pratchett Diary with free art print is priced at £16.99 plus shipping (£3.50 UK, £7 Europe, £10 rest of the world) and will be published on 13th October 2016. For more information, and to pre-order, go to http://www.discworldemporium.com/new-terry-pratchett-books/terry-pratchett-discworld-diary

* New stamps

Plenty of these, including the Alchemists' Guild 3p and the Guild's Going for Gold LBE. A single stamp is 60p (£0.60), and a sheet of 19 stamps is £11.40. The Going for Gold LBE, which includes an Alchemists' Guild 3p stamp and a selection of other current stamps, is priced at £5. For more information, and to order, go to

http://www.discworldemporium.com/new%20stamps/alchemists-guild-three-pence

http://www.discworldemporium.com/new%20stamps/going-for-gold-lbe

A larger selection of available stamps can be found at http://www.discworldemporium.com/new%20stamps

8.2 DISCWORLD.COM NEWS

* Discworld trading cards!

"You may have noticed the small pieces of artwork that mysteriously began arriving with Discworld.com orders this month. Well, we're excited to confirm that there are twelve different designs and every time you order from us, one will be randomly selected to include with your goodies. All feature artwork from renowned Discworld artist Paul Kidby. And to answer the most frequent question we get asked - YES, you can now buy individual cards to fill in the gaps in your collection! The current Summer 2016 range is now available for purchase on Discworld.com."

The trading cards comprise a fascinating selection, all featuring the exquisite artwork of Paul Kidby: Granny Weatherwax, Carrot Ironfoundersson, Mr Ixolite, the Librarian (saluting), Ponder Stibbons, BS Johnson's Pie Cooler, Horace Worblehat (pre-transformation), the Tower of Art, Mr Slant, the Eater of Socks, 71-hour Achmed, and Leonard da Quirm (painting the Disc)

The cards are priced at £1 each, with the exception of the special DWcon 2016 card which is priced at £2 (see below). A full set of cards is priced at £12 and for a limited time includes the DWcon special card. For more information, and to order, go to http://discworld.com/products/trading-cards/ which contains links to individual cards for purchase. To buy the full set, go to:

http://discworld.com/products/trading-cards/trading-cards-series-one-including-shiny-convention-card/

...and the special Convention card, aka DWC2016 – The Empty Chord – foiled trading card: "Released to celebrate the 2016 UK Discworld Convention – this foiled trading card features Paul Kidby's artwork, set against a foiled sky."

http://discworld.com/products/limited-time-only/dwc2016-empty-chord-foiled/

* The Librarian and Greebo mugs!

"The very first pencil print released was the Librarian, a perennial favourite with readers. This classic illustration is now available as a mug for the very first time."

Each Librarian mug is priced at £8. For more information, and to order, go to:

http://discworld.com/products/convention-launches/librarian-mug/

"The second in a series of prints released back in 1995, this pencil image of Greebo is now available in all it's[sic] glory as a mug."

Each Greebo mug is priced at £8. For more information, and to order, go to:

http://discworld.com/products/convention-launches/greebo-pencil-mug/

%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

09) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE: THE TRUTH AND TAMAHER

The Truth, by Nat Wassell on Cultured Vultures:

"‘The Truth' revolves around the efforts of small time reporter William de Worde, writer of a monthly newsletter with a limited circulation, who accidentally falls in with a group of dwarves who have perfected the printing press. Before long, not only does William have a newspaper to run and a newspaper rival to see off, he also finds himself in the middle of a plot to overthrow Lord Vetinari and the reluctant middle man for a ‘translator' who claims he has got the full story from Vetinari's dog, Wuffles. It sounds complicated but as you may remember, my appetite for Sir Terry's complicated storylines is very limited so I can assure you that this one is almost as simple as any he ever did. It helps that it is packed with characters we know and love, alongside the new; Vimes, the Watch and Lord Vetinari rub shoulders with William, his right hand dwarf Goodmountain, the irrepressible roving reporter Sacharissa and Otto, the vampire photographer who has sworn off blood and just wants to focus on his pictures. As with all Sir Terry's novels, it helps immensely that all of the new characters are very likeable and relatable, too.

"William is probably the cleverest Discworld character I have come across, aside from Leonard of Quirm and the Patrician himself. There are few who match wits with Lord Vetinari and Sam Vimes and come out not only unscathed but almost on top. William is a highly educated second son, determined to make his own way in the world that his father so despises, and he does that by watching, listening and always being ready to learn more. Some Discworld characters, by the very nature of the fantasy, are probably certifiably insane, but William, although he does have some quirks, is one of the most normal Sir Terry created... One of my favourite things about this novel was a chance to see some of our best loved characters in a different light. Until now, we have only really seen Vetinari and Vimes through the prism of the Watch novels, which give us an idea of how their own men view them, but little by way of public image. They are public figures, of course, and the eyes of ordinary people tell us a lot about them..."

http://culturedvultures.com/discworld-discussions-truth-2000/

The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents, by Ryan on Hubward Ho:

"This is an unusual book in the annals of Discworld, and not only because it is the first 'children's' book. It has a certain odd quality that I enjoy deeply but struggle to put into words. It's a struggle I've had before in amplified form when reading the Tiffany books. The dynamics and themes here are—I hesitate to say it—simpler? I've heard this book called 'simple' in more than one review, but that doesn't seem right to me. Tiffany's stories, and to a lesser extent Maurice, feel somehow sharper, more distilled, stripped down to something that feels true in the pit of my stomach... It's a gentle sensation in Maurice, and more like a river bursting a dam in the Tiffany books, but it's there in both: the cartilage of fantasy has worn down, and we're hard up against the bones of reality. Big themes, sharp shadows, no pretence...

"For me, the obfuscation of fundamental Discworld elements allows the story to exist in a kind of purely local geography, where cosmology and astrophysics are not even passing concerns. This is an unabashedly provincial book. This feels important to me, as the directness of the morality could seem like pontificating except for these subtle little ways that Pratchett redraws the world and redefines what about it is meaningful. By making mighty people, places, and ideas of Discworld small, Maurice makes room for the little people to be big. In a sense, Maurice begs a question I didn't know I wanted to ask, which is, 'What, really, makes Discworld?' How much of the world can you strip away before it becomes something, somewhere, sometime else? Is this what Discworld is, the closer you get to the bone?..."

http://bit.ly/2dwejgf

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10) IMAGES OF THE MONTH

Fourecksian actor Mike Shaw as Sam Vimes in Unseen Theatre's forthcoming production of Feet of Clay (photo courtesy of director Pamela Munt):
http://bit.ly/2dvuZV2

The full (and very large) cast of Monstrous Productions' presentation of Going Postal, with director Amy Davies front and centre:
http://bit.ly/2cWwL19

Paul Kidby's finished prize drawing – colouring in his own lines!
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CrbJEh1WcAAgbHL.jpg

...and the man himself, looking rightly pleased with his efforts:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CtBud0SXYAEZRwL.jpg

A Kirby centrefold! The Witches, as seen in A Blink of the Screen:
http://bit.ly/2djifkc

Apparently this is a cake. Holy moley! (link from the Josh Kirby estate Twitter account):
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CtR_KfkWIAA-PRP.jpg

A couple of nineteenth-century toffs at the Dodger launch. You may recognise them (iconograph rediscovered by Stephen Briggs):
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CseRC3JWEAAZcuq.jpg

The broken drum of the Broken Drummers, London's legendary Pratchett fangroup, as posted on the @BrokenDrummers Twitter account:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Crmz7s4WAAACYJ2.jpg

Rincewind and the Luggage, by the super-talented Amy Simmonds:
https://t.co/SvXQ8NFFqf

...and another Amy Simmonds winner, Carrot and Angua:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CsVAhOjWAAAUHja.jpg

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11) CLOSE

And that's the lot for September, since September is now receding into the middle distance. We'll be back soon with more reviews, news and updates. Take care, and enjoy your autumn nights – or, in Fourecks and the Land of Fog, your spring mornings...

See you next month!

– Annie Mac

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The End. If you have any questions or requests, write: wossname-owner (at) pearwood (dot) info

Copyright (c) 2016 by Klatchian Foreign Legion

Remember, the Ace Theatre Company will be staging their production of Wyrd Sisters in October!

When: 20th – 22nd October 2016
Venue: Chequer Mead Theatre, De La Warr Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 3BS
Time: all evening shows 7.30pm; matinee on Saturday 22nd, 2.30pm
Tickets: evening shows £13 (£11 concessions); Saturday matinee £11 (£9 concessions), available from the Box Office by phoning 01342 302000, by email to tickets@chequermead.org.uk, or online at http://www.chequermead.org.uk/whats-on/theatre/event/?e=364967&cat= (click on the desired date button to purchase)

http://www.chequermead.org.uk/

Here be their poster:



And here be some cast photos from rehearsals, including a fine trio of witches:

From Brian Dominic, Wossname's fan man on the scene, who writes:

(Starts computer)

(Straps into saddle)

(Starts pedalling)

RIGHT – let's go!

    What follows is a very personal account of what was a fabulous weekend.................

THURSDAY (helping day)

    I'd arrived at the Ramada hotel (the overflow hotel just down the road from the Grange) reasonably early in the morning, and having been able to check in before The Allotted Time I was able to go up to the Grange, find Ops and ask if there was anything that needed doing. Eyes lit up. I was duly handed a thick wad of posters and some Blu-tac, and sent forth to decorate the hotel. The walls of the hotel were dotted with fake adverts for things a Morporkian might want to buy – all tastefully produced and in various sizes. I caught up with (and lent a hand to) the Official Renaming Detail, who were erecting the large signs that said "UPPER BROADWAY" "LOWER BROADWAY" "CAVERN CLUB" "STO LAT", "L SPACE (1 & 2)" (when joined together they were an l-shaped place) so that people would know where they were.

    After this, is was Goodie Bag Stuffing Time! Picture the scene: a long line of tables, stacked with Goodies – a "Mystery Envelope" packed with totally unknown goodies, the Posh Programme (which normally gets looked at by me after the event), the Read Me, which is a smaller and more convenient version of the Convention Programme – as suggested, this is the one you can use your highlighter and marker pen on to mark up those unmissable events you just HAVE to go to, plus a colouring sheet, a set of small coloured pencils to use on it, a commemorative medal and the all-important lanyard, pen and badge holder. One walked steadily down one side of the table, adding each article as one passed it, then left the full bags at the other end, picked up an empty bag and worked your way down the other side of the table, which had exactly the same things on it in the same order!

    After dinner, the evening was taken up with The Incredibly Hard Pub Quiz (well, she DOES have two years to put it together) with an incredibly picky Judge of What Is Right (the only village in the UK with an exclamation mark in it's name is Westward Ho!, but miss the exclamation mark off and you get nil points).

    That was about it for Thursday.................

FRIDAY (Registration Day)

    This was the day I now normally give to the Convention: I was on duty just after 0900 in Registration, to unite Convention goers with their badge and goodie bag. Old hands knew what to do, but newcomers had to be told what to do with their badge (no sniggers at the back, there!) and to put their hotel key cards there as well, to save them getting deprogrammed by their mobile phone. It was also our job to suggest that Newbies went to Der Troll's Guide For Der Confused – a briefing intended for new visitors. We also had to tactfully enquire if there were any issues which would require the addition of a blue spot to a badge which gave priority in queues and lifts. As the registrations progressed, we found our selves with less and less boxes to look through as more and more people arrived and the contents of the boxes (one envelope for each attendee) disappeared. When we got to two boxes, we moved the Registration table across Upper Broadway to a more shady spot, as we had been under the Greenhouse Roof on the outer side and were starting to gently bake. I'd been off site for some reason and arrived back as Bernard Pearson was about to read "Where's My Cow" - an experience I would have liked to share in, but people were crammed into the space provided and there was no way I could get any way near.

    I missed the Opening Ceremony, which actually finished before the scheduled time – something of a "first" – but got in for Terry Pratchett – a Memorial which were the highlights of the Memorial held earlier this year. I don't know how much of this may have leaked around to Oz, but I suspect it might get there sooner or later so I won't say to much about it. The only thing I WILL share is that the final item was "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life". I sat, I sang, I wept uncontrollably (and I wasn't the only one)...................

    Next up was Bedtime Stories, for which I didn't follow the pyjamas dress code! There was some interesting material, including the outline of a section of a book that will never be published (and which was shredded in stage after it had been read). Finally, I went to the Karaoke Session, which was rubbishy in that it didn't contain any of the ninety-odd songs I sing.

SATURDAY (Costume Day)

    This was the day I intended to wear my Auditor's costume all day and appear in the Masquerade. The first thing to do was to attend the Masquerade Rehearsal, to work out what things needed to happen in my piece, and get Pat Harkin to co-operate with what I wanted to do. After that, I costumed up and went a-wandering. I managed to drop in on a session or two – nobody stopped me.................... For lunch and dinner I dropped out of character – when I took off the mesh mask that effectively stopped people from seeing me I was quite surprised at how cool it was! It was very difficult to stay in character – stopping oneself from using "I" is very, very difficult! I dropped into the Stephen Briggs / Rob Watkins conversation but chickened out of How to fit a Corset and Sewing Cheats! After dinner, it was time to report backstage for the Masquerade. At least we could see each act as it went on but we couldn't unfortunately hear them, as we'd only got a monitor off the video system which was projecting images onto a large screen alongside the stage. Whilst the judges were deliberating, we all went for a photo shoot, then went back in to hear the results. After that, it was off to the late night Hedgehog Party, where everybody can bring food from their part of the country / world...............

SUNDAY (Lazy Day)

    I started off late on Sunday – my first event was at 1100 and was entitled "Liner notes – Annotating the Discworld" which gave an interesting insight into the adding of footnotes and the building up to a punch line. I went to Juke Box Jury, where the idea was to sing one tune to the words of another. In the course of this workshop, we came across a previously unknown version of The Dwarf Song, sung to the tune of "Let it Go" from Frozen......... later, I took in the children's Masquerade, seeing as how I hadn't seen the adult one. As I wasn't attending the Gala Dinner, I took myself into Leamington Spa to meet up with a group of similarly-minded attendees. I went back to the Con in time for Toast & Jam, where anybody can get up to sing anything (more or less) but this was disturbed by some Gawd-awful rattling on the ceiling (which was in fact the floor under the stage in the main Con performing space). I went up to investigate and found a 4 piece rock band setting up to perform............ which they did for around 90 minutes, following which I headed off.

MONDAY (Wind Down Day)

    I didn't do an awful lot today: I went to the feedback session which is always interesting, followed by The Day's Big Event "Witches Abroad – The Musical" which was excellent, given that there's very little time to rehearse. It inevitably over-ran so we all got booted out of the hall and got told to come back 30 minutes later than scheduled for the Closing Ceremony. The band I had supported was ushered into an area at the front, as we'd won the Battle of the Bands, one of the things which had run throughout the Convention but totally passed me by. Once all the rewards and presentations were completed, we went off to the Dead Monkey Party, which is a gentle winding-down party with loadsa food. I ended up playing my second game of Cards Against Humanity and actually won my first black card! (Authors' note: see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cards_Against_Humanity if you have no idea what this is all about....)

    Annnnnnnnnnnd – that was that!

    I drove back into The Real World^TM the next morning – the temporary traffic lights near the hotel which slowed everybody up, roadworks on a critical junction which caused even more chaos but at least after that, traffic was flowing...................

****************************************************************************************************************

And here, in all its sentient-life-hating-Auditor glory, is Brian's excellent costume:





Editor's note: We've been holding the August issue for this report. The full issue, email version, will go out in a few hours' time...

Wossname
Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
July 2016 (Volume 19, Issue 7, Post 1)

********************************************************************
WOSSNAME is a free publication offering news, reviews, and all the other stuff-that-fits pertaining to the works of Sir Terry Pratchett. Originally founded by the late, great Joe Schaumburger for members of the worldwide Klatchian Foreign Legion and its affiliates, including the North American Discworld Society and other continental groups, Wossname is now for Discworld and Pratchett fans everywhere in Roundworld.
********************************************************************

Editor in Chief: Annie Mac
News Editor: Vera P
Newshounds: Mogg, Sir J of Croydon Below, the Shadow, Mss C, Alison not Aliss
Staff Writers: Asti, Pitt the Elder, Evil Steven Dread, Mrs Wynn-Jones
Staff Technomancers: Jason Parlevliet, Archchancellor Neil, DJ Helpful
Book Reviews: Annie Mac, Drusilla D'Afanguin, Your Name Here
Puzzle Editor: Tiff (still out there somewhere)
Bard in Residence: Weird Alice Lancrevic
Emergency Staff: Steven D'Aprano, Jason Parlevliet
World Membership Director: Steven D'Aprano (in his copious spare time)

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

INDEX:

01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH
02) EDITOR'S LETTER
03) MOVING PICTURES: WEE FREE MEN FILM CONFIRMED!
04) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS
05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
07) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS
08) A FEW ODDS AND SODS
09) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
10) CLOSE

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01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH

"The Discworld series is a richly developed world with devoted fans, myself included, and there is no one better than Rhianna to bring Terry’s beloved project to life on the big screen." – Brian Henson, Chairman of The Jim Henson Company

"You can keep your George Martin; Terry Pratchett was writing fantasy with feminist characters years before A Game of Thrones was published."

– blogger Nat Wassell, on Cultured Vultures


%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

02) LETTER FROM YOUR EDITOR

The big news this month is, of course, the announcement from Narrativia that they have partnered with the Jim Henson Company to make a big-screen version of The Wee Free Men. Given that Pratchett the Younger will be writing the script, this is exciting – for who among the living knows the essence of Tiffany Aching and the Chalk better than Rhianna Pratchett, who watched her father create that world? But Narrativia and Henson have a daunting task ahead of them nonetheless, for reasons well described in item 8.2 ("Why Discworld novels resist adaptation"). Here's hoping that a great book, a great screenwriter and great creature-makers can deliver a film worthy of its potential!

Speaking of worth and potential, there is a new Pratchett publication that I won't be reviewing, or promoting (though of course I'll report on others' reviews). I feel so strongly about it that I won't even mention its name here. But if you're curious and have the stomach for passionate rants, have a shufti at the Wossname blogpost at http://wossname.dreamwidth.org/38875.html

Right, on with the show!

– Annie Mac, Editor

%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

03) MOVING PICTURES: THE WEE FREE MEN FILM IS HAPPENING!

With Muppets, perhaps...?

"The Jim Henson Company announced today the development of a feature film based on the great literary legacy of the late Sir Terry Pratchett's 'THE WEE FREE MEN,' part of the wildly popular Discworld series. The long-awaited film adaption[sic] will be written by his daughter Rhianna Pratchett, an award-winning scriptwriter for videogames, comics, film and TV. Her work includes the 2013 smash hit reboot of Tomb Raider, the BAFTA nominated Heavenly Sword and the Writers' Guild winning Overload and Rise of the Tomb Raider. Pratchett, co-director of independent production company Narrativia, has regularly been named one of the top 100 most influential women in the games industry and won the Women in Games Hall of Fame award in 2013... Brian Henson of The Jim Henson Company will serve as producer. Rhianna Pratchett, Rob Wilkins and Rod Brown of Narrativia and Vince Raisa of The Jim Henson Company, will serve as executive producers. WEE FREE MEN is a co-production with Narrativia..."

To read the full announcement, go to http://narrativia.com/wee-free-men-announcement.html

...and how it was reported. In The Guardian, by Henry Barnes:

"It’s the second time the story has been earmarked for the big screen. In 2006, Sony Pictures acquired the rights for the book and hired Sam Raimi to direct it. Pratchett, who died last year from Alzheimer’s, hated the script, telling SFX magazine that it “had all the hallmarks of something that had been good, and then the studio had got involved”. He retrieved the rights in 2009..."

http://bit.ly/2aB7XJN

In The Bookseller, by Charlotte Eyre:

"The Jim Henson Company will co-produce the film with Narrativia, the independent production company founded by Terry Pratchett in 2012. Rhianna is a co-director of Narrativia, along with her father’s business manager Rob Wilkins. The m.d. is producer Rod Brown... Brian Henson of The Jim Henson Company will serve as producer of the film. Rhianna Pratchett, Rob Wilkins and Rod Brown of Narrativia and Vince Raisa of The Jim Henson Company, will serve as executive producers..."

http://bit.ly/2apFEdO

On BBC News Scotland, by Steven McKenzie:

"The book tells of a young witch's adventures with the Nac Mac Feegles, a fierce clan of kilted sheep-stealing, sword-wielding, six-inch-high blue men. The characters are known as "pictsies", a name based on the Picts, tribes that were dominant in Dark Age Scotland. Sir Terry's daughter Rhianna Pratchett is adapting the novel for the feature film..."

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-36846239

On Wired, by Matt Kamen:

"The book had previously been optioned by Sony Pictures, with Spider-Man and The Evil Dead director Sam Raimi attached. However, Terry Pratchett called the proposed script for that version 'awful'... Things look more promising for Narrativia and Henson's take on the material, with the plot description in the announcement directly echoing the book's... Fans of Pratchett's darkly satirical work may be waiting a while to see tiny blue men running around their cineplex though – at present, no release date, casting, or creative appointments for Wee Free Men have been announced."

http://bit.ly/2aTfWit

On i09's Gizmodo, by Katharine Trendacosta:

"This could be a great pairing of property and studio. The Wee Free Men tells the story of nine-year-old Aching searching for her missing brother after a spate of Fairyland monsters have appeared. Aching, her frying pan, and a group of small, angry blue men called the Nac Mac Feegles go looking to save her brother from the Queen of the Fairies. Yeah, that sounds like something the Jim Henson Company could do a great job with. .."

http://bit.ly/29Lp0VE

On Blastr, by Trent Moore:

"This might not be the most obvious work for a film adaptation, but it certainly has the bones and potential for a great story. Throw in the extensive expertise of the Jim Henson Company (The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth), and it should have a unique look to match Pratchett’s vision. No word on when production might ramp up, or when we’ll hear anything on casting. But the project appears to be on the right track..."

http://bit.ly/2aDWSqZ

And a good analysis on The Daily Dot, by Gavia Baker-Whitelaw:

"Several Discworld books have been adapted in the past, from animated series in the '90s to the more recent live-action movies on British TV. However, none have really reached the success of the novels, which have been consistent bestsellers for decades. The Wee Free Men is an interesting place to start, if Rhianna Pratchett and the Jim Henson Company intend to turn the Tiffany Aching series into a franchise. The Discworld series offers a wide range of genres and characters, and the Ankh Morpork City Watch books (a series of law enforcement adventure stories) are probably the most obvious choice for a Hollywood adaptation. Unfortunately, the humor and absurdity of the Discworld series just doesn't fit with the expectation that adult fantasy stories should be dark and gritty, like Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, and Warcraft.
Despite the popularity of Pratchett's books, the idea of a funny historical fantasy satire may be too much for Hollywood to handle. In that context, Tiffany Aching is ideal. The books are recent, and therefore fresh in the minds of many fans—and it's easier to combine comedy and fantasy when the film is aimed at a family audience..."

http://bit.ly/2ad0z2X

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04) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS

4.1 SCHEIBENWELT 2017 NEWS (GERMAN DISCWORLD CONVENTION)

Tickets for the 2017 German Discworld Convention are now available!

"The German Discworld Convention takes place in a castle in the German-speaking countries in the 2-year rhythm. During this time, we offer our more than 200 guests workshops, talks, games, guests of honour and booths selling Discworld merchandising that is usually not available in Germany. You can stop by as a day visitor or stay right at the castle or in a nearby hotel. The program spans several days.

"The German Discworld Convention will take place from the 18th to the 21st of May 2017 at Castle Ludwigstein. The theme we have chosen this time is the Witches and the Chalk. A motto is still being sought... we launched a new website where you can plan your convention visit more easily. On our YouTube channel (_https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC__TcB9nl4ttINnZXtVmmnA_) you can find some videos of our previews [sic – presumably 'previous' – Ed.] conventions."

Here's what you'll get for your tickets:

"The basic package for a Convention visit includes a stay from Thursday to Sunday. Thursday is the day of arrival, on Friday and Saturday the program takes place and on Sunday is the day of departure. Convention tickets include the right to participate in workshops, lectures and other activities. However for particularly costly workshops additional charges may apply. These are specified on the booking page. Our prices are made up of the price of accommodation and meals by the castle (circa 40 € per day for castle guests) and a small fee for carrying out the program. Members of the Ankh-Morpork e.V. and young visits receive a discount. Children under 3 years can be brought along for free, provided they not require their own bed."

Tickets for the full convention (Thursday through Sunday) are €149, with a member's discount of €10; for Friday through Sunday, tickets are €110 with a member's discount of €5.

For guests camping at the castle ("for camping guests include entry to the Convention including a place to put your own tent next to the castle, warm dinner and breakfast buffet"), tickets for Thursday through Sunday are €99 with a member's discount of €5, and for Friday through Sunday €79 with a member's discount of €4.

Day tickets are also available: €20 for the Friday or Saturday (€2 discount each for members) or €35 for Friday and Saturday together (€5 discount for members).

To order tickets, go to http://www.discworld-convention.de/#/en/Tickets/Order

http://www.discworld-convention.de/#/en/

4.2 CABBAGECON 4 NEWS (DUTCH DISCWORLD CONVENTION)

"On 1 and 2 July 2017 the fourth Dutch Discworld Convention Cabbagecon 4 will happen at the hotel Carlton President in Utrecht. It will be an occasion for fans of Sir Terry Pratchett from the Netherlands and abroad to meet up again and have some fun. We hope to see you too!"

Tickets for the whole weekend are priced at €60, available from http://www.dutchdwcon.nl/node/21

Tickets are €35 for Saturday (_http://www.dutchdwcon.nl/node/20_) and €35 for Sunday (_http://www.dutchdwcon.nl/node/19_).

Price for concessions, students and children born after 2 July 1999: €40 for the full weekend, or €25 for Saturday or Sunday. "Children born after 2 July 2012 free only when accompanied by a paying adult. Prices are including free coffee and tea for the weekend."

http://www.dutchdwcon.nl/


4.3 NULLUS ANXIETAS VI NEWS (AUSTRALIAN DISCWORLD CONVENTION)

"At this time next year, we'll be setting sail on The Discworld Grand Tour! Tickets for Nullus Anxietas VI – The Australian Discworld Convention are available in the shop (_https://ausdwcon.org/shop/tickets/_) so make sure to book your spot! Over the next twelve months, we'll be sending out regular updates about what you lovely tourists can expect – starting right now! On your tour, there will be a wide range of lovely events and activities for you to enjoy! Of the many available, we would like to give you a taste of just a few to appetite...

"Witness (and participate in) the vast array of talent in Vaudeville Le Maskerade. One event, under the one roof, all in the one afternoon. So dust off your finery, limber up those vocal chords and join us in this amazing experience. Eat, drink, explore your senses, and be merry at the Gala Dinner "Around the Disc in 7a Courses" – a whirlwind, steampunk culinary trip around the Disc. Re-stage the Battle of Koom Valley, machinate your way to rule Ankh-Morpork, or send a message to Genua faster than the Ankh-Morpork Post Office! That's right, all the Discworld board games – and many more – will be available to play in Mr Shine's Thud Parlour.

"What is a tourist without a Passport? Get your passport stamped at the convention by participating in activities, taking iconographs, playing games and many other mystery tasks! Collect the full set and win a prize! Join us for one final chapter in the convention story on Monday, 7 August 2017 by spending a day exploring the delectable delights and tantalising tastes of the Adelaide Hills on the Wine and Gourmet Tours. More details on all the above, plus some of the other events and activities available can be found on this page:

https://ausdwcon.org/convention/events/

"Tickets for the Gala Dinner and Wine and Gourmet Tours will be available in early 2017. We will keep you informed over the coming months about all activities.

"Help us to help you! Volunteers needed! We are working hard behind the scenes to put on a fantabulous convention for all of you next year. We've been kicking around lots of ideas for possible activities and events so that we can bring you a programme chock-full of things to do. But at the moment these are just ideas – in order to turn them into reality we need people to run them! So, if you've been wondering how you can get involved with the convention, now's your chance. Volunteer to run an activity or event! There are lots of things you could do. You could run a workshop teaching a skill or craft, or something fun for kids of all ages; deliver a presentation, demonstration or information session; be part of a group panel discussing a topic; perform something for everybody's entertainment (a bit longer than a Maskerade act); ... or maybe you have an idea for something totally different that we haven't thought of yet! Head to the volunteers page (_https://ausdwcon.org/volunteer/_) and fill in the form saying that you are interested in running an event and give a brief explanation of the activity that you think you could run. The Events and Activities coordinator will then get in touch with you to get more details about your idea and possible requirements. You won't have to do it all by yourself – if you need help in the organisation or running, we'll be able to find you volunteers, and of course, if it's something that needs participation, you're bound to get lots of support. If you have any further questions, please contact events@ausdwcon.org

"But wait, there's more! Can you draw, paint, or make fancy art? We would love to have a few more artists on board who are willing to create some lovely Discworld fan art for games, passports, the programme book and more! Want to help out in a more general capacity during the convention? Do things like taking official photos/video, helping with lights and sound, teaching board games, or just running around being useful? For any of the above please also complete the form on the volunteer page. If you've already volunteered – don't worry, our Head Gopher will be in touch with you soon!

"Remember, all Discworld conventions run entirely on volunteers, and anything you can do to help will be greatly appreciated! Running a convention is not a cheap exercise, so we are currently seeking businesses willing to become sponsors of the Australian Discworld Convention. If you run a business, or know someone who does, who may be willing to throw a few dollars our way, please contact us (_https://ausdwcon.org/about/contact-us/_)with information about the business and we'll get in touch..."

https://ausdwcon.org/

4.4 IDWCON 2017 NEWS (IRISH DISCWORLD CONVENTION)

The 2017 Irish Discworld Convention is already gearing up! It will be at the Cork International Hotel on 6th–9th October 2017, and the new website looks as sharp as a sharp thing:

"Welcome to the IDWCon 2017 website! Please see our About the Convention, F.A.Q., and Venue pages to find out more. You can sign up here and you'll find Pre-Con T-shirts here. Our theme this year is the Unseen University Open Doors Weekend – we’ll be visiting the U.U. to marvel at introductory lectures, research the groundbreaking Roundworld project, and find out more about the staff and Faculty. Whether you're a visiting scholar, a curious local or even a Tourist, the U.U.’s doors will be open to all for this extra-special event. Hold on to your pointy hats – it's going to be Hexcellent!"

Full Membership for the convention is priced at €50 (concessions €40; children 12 and under, accompanied by a paying adult, €1). To purchase tickets, go to:

http://bit.ly/2azYwsj

FAQ:
http://2017.idwcon.org/index.php/convention/f-a-q.html

Latest news:
http://2017.idwcon.org/index.php/news.html/

http://2017.idwcon.org/

%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%

05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS

5.0 NEW: WYRD SISTERS IN LANCRE, ERM, LANCASHIRE! (AUGUST–SEPTEMBER)

The Greenbrook Methodist Church Theatre Group will stage their production of Wyrd Sisters over the August Bank Holiday weekend!

When: 31st August to 2nd September 2016
Venue: Greenbrook Methodist Church Theatre Group & Community Centre, Greenbrook Road, Burnley, Lancs BB12 6NZ
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £8 adult, £5 child, available by phoning Wendy on 01282 426 889

5.1 NEW: TAMAHER AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE FESTIVAL! (AUGUST)

At this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival, there will be two – count ’em, two! – Pratchett plays. Geoff Epperson at Carl Sandburg High School in Chicago, Illinois writes: "As part of the American High School Theatre Festival, Carl Sandburg High School will present their production of The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents. “Maurice is an amazing cat. He can think, he can talk, and he has an amazing scam going. And all he needs to pull it off is his army of intelligent rats and one stupid-looking kid. Carl Sandburg High School is proudly returning to the Fringe with this frenetic, fantastic, hysterical tale from the great Sir Terry Pratchett."

When: 5th, 6th, 8th and 10th August 2016
Venue: Surgeons Hall Grand Theatre (Venue 53), Edinburgh Fringe Festival
Time: 9.45am (5th, 6th and 10th); 11.45am (8th)
Tickets: £5, available from https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/amazing-maurice-and-his-educated-rodents and boxoffice.surgeons@thespaceuk.com – also in person at the Fringe box office

“Meanwhile, back in the States...”

Geoff writes: “For Sir Terry’s stateside fans we’ll be performing it at our home stage in Orland Park, Illinois (Just outside of Chicago) August 26th and 27th at 7pm and Sunday August 28th at 3pm. Tickets are $7.”

Venue: Carl Sandburg High School Performing Arts Center, 13300 S. LaGrange Road, Orland Park, Illinois, 60462

5.2 REMINDER: MORT AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE (AUGUST)

Duck in a Hat are coming back to Edinburgh with another Discworld production!

"Mort doesn't know what to expect when he starts his new job: apprentice to the Grim Reaper (scythe, hooded cloak, and all). But things slip out of his control when he saves a princess destined to die, tearing apart the fabric of reality. With the help of Death's adopted daughter and a mysterious manservant, can Mort thwart destiny, save the princess, find true love and have his own happily ever after? Presented by the team behind the 2015 sell-out Terry Pratchett's Eric, this is a hilarious new adaptation of Pratchett's beloved tale of life, death and destiny."

When: 15th–28th August 2016 (excepting 21st)
Venue: Paradise in Augustine's, 41–43 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1EL
Time: 7.35pm all shows
Tickets: £9.50 (£8 concessions), available from https://edinburghfestival.list.co.uk/event/590050-terry-pratchetts-mort/ or by phone 0131 510 0022

http://duckinahat.weebly.com/
https://twitter.com/duck_in_a_hat (for updates)

5.3 NEW: WYRD SISTERS IN EAST GRINSTEAD (OCTOBER)

The Ace Theatre Company will present their production of Wyrd Sisters in October.

When: 20th – 22nd October 2016
Venue: Chequer Mead Theatre, De La Warr Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 3BS
Time: all evening shows 7.30pm; matinee on Saturday 22nd, 2.30pm
Tickets: evening shows £13 (£11 concessions); Saturday matinee £11 (£9 concessions), available from the Box Office by phoning 01342 302000, by email to tickets@chequermead.org.uk, or online at http://www.chequermead.org.uk/whats-on/theatre/event/?e=364967&cat= (click on the desired date button to purchase)

http://www.chequermead.org.uk/

5.4 REMINDER: LANCRE WITCHES ON THE ROAD! CARPE JUGULUM IN ESSEX (AUGUST)

"Come and join Chameleon's Web Theatre Company for a fun-filled show suitable for all ages from 4-104. Although we can guarantee the quality of the performance we cannot guarantee the British weather so please bring appropriate clothing for an outdoor performance! Please bring rugs, low backed chairs and picnics but be warned – the residents of Lancre are very partial to a sausage roll or two!"

When: 5th, 6th, 7th, 13th and 14th August 2016
Venue: various; see below
Time: various; see below
Tickets: £11 (£9 concessions; family ticket £34), available from http://www.chameleonsweb.co.uk/www.ticketsource.co.uk/chameleonsweb or bookable by phone on 0333 666 3366 (local rate, £1.50 booking charge which includes postage of tickets)

Venues are:

5th August: The Amphitheatre, Park Drive, Promenade Park, Maldon, Essex CM9 5HX at 6pm
For more info: http://www.visitmaldon.co.uk/promenade-park/

6th August: Tollesbury Community Centre, East Street, Tollesbury, Essex CM9 8QD at 7pm (indoors)
For more info: http://bit.ly/299hVmL

7th August: Beth Chatto Gardens, Elmstead Market, Colchester, Essex CO7 7DB at 6pm
For more info: http://www.bethchatto.co.uk/events/theatre-performance-in-the-gardens.htm

13th August: The Whalebone, Chapel Rd, Colchester, Essex CO5 7BG at 5pm
For more info: http://www.thewhaleboneinn.co.uk/

14th August: Dedham Vale Vineyard, Green Lane, Boxted, Colchester, Essex CO4 5TS at 6pm
For more info: http://www.dedhamvalevineyard.com/

Tour Information Line - 07936067657 (please note tickets cannot be purchased from this number)

http://www.chameleonsweb.co.uk/next.html

5.3 NEW: GUARDS! GUARDS! IN THE WIRRAL (JULY)

Greasby Players, who produced a run last year of Wyrd Sisters, will be staging Guards! Guards! this month!

When: 13th -16th July 2016
Venue: Westbourne Hall, Westbourne Road, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 4DQ
Time: 7.30pm
Tickets: £8.00 (£6.00 concessions). To book, ring 677 9187 or visit Greasby Players' Facebook page (URL below)

https://www.facebook.com/GreasbyPlayersWirral/
http://www.wirralradio.co.uk/news/whats-on/

5.5 REMINDER: WYRD SISTERS IN RICHMOND, YORKSHIRE (AUGUST)

The Richmond Amateur Dramatic Society aka RADS will be staging their production of Wyrd Sisters in July. RADS chairman Mike Walker writes, “For anyone who hasn’t visited the Georgian Theatre Royal, it is an experience in itself, being Britain’s oldest working theatre in its original form; a Grade 1 listed building and an accredited museum. It is an 18th century ‘courtyard’ theatre which seats just over 200 people, the furthest seat being only 10.7m from the stage! I do hope Terry Pratchett fans will be interested in seeing Wyrd Sisters in this fascinating setting.”

When: 4th–6th August 2016
Venue: Georgian Theatre Royal, Victoria Road, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 4DW
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £6.50 to £12.50, available online at https://tickets.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk/ or ring the box office 01748 825252

http://www.richmond-ads.org.uk/
http://www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk/

5.6 REMINDER: GOING POSTAL IN CARDIFF (AUGUST)

The Monstrous Productions Theatre Company, who specialise in staging Pratchett plays and have so far raised – and donated – over £18,000 for Alzheimer’s Research UK, are taking on the Ankh-Morpork Post Office for their next project!

"Moist Von Lipwig is a conman, forger and all-round confidence trickster, always on the look out for the next big game. Until one of his many personas has a run-in with the law and is hanged to within a inch of his life. And so begins the biggest game of all. He must restore Ankh-Morpork's defunct post office to it’s former glory or else have a second shot at dancing the hemp fandango. On his side he has the Disc's oldest junior postman, Stanley ('ask me about pins!') and his pottery probation officer, Mr Pump. It's a mighty task, made mightier by competition from Ankh-Morpork's newest technology, the Clacks, and its piratical owner, Reacher Gilt."

When: 17th–20th August 2016
Venue: The Gate Arts Centre, Keppoch Street, Roath, Cardiff CF24 3JW
Time: 7.30pm evening shows (doors open at 7pm); 2.30pm matinee on the 20th (doors open 2pm)
Tickets: £8 (£6 concessions), available from http://7889269b08cd.fikket.com/ – also by email (monstrousproductions2012@gmail.com, pay by cheque or bank transfer)

Also, if you are local to the Cardiff area (or fond of travelling), the Monstrous company works to a great model: "We announce auditions for upcoming productions about a month before casting. We have a laid back audition process and people travel from all over the South Wales area. No experience is necessary, our only stipulation is that members must be over 18 and younger than 70. Membership is £10 per year. We rehearse twice a week over the course of a few months, with some social activities thrown in."

http://www.monstrousptc.com/

5.7 REMINDER: GUARDS! GUARDS! IN BRISBANE (OCTOBER)

The Brisbane Arts Theatre takes on yet another Discworld play later this year, in October and November: "From the legendary author Sir Terry Pratchett comes the eighth novel in the Discworld series and first featuring the Ankh-Morpork City Watch. Long believed extinct, a superb specimen, The Noble Dragon has appeared in Discworld's greatest city. Not only does this unwelcome visitor have a nasty habit of charbroiling everything in its path, in rather short order it is crowned King (it is a noble dragon, after all). With some help from an orangutan librarian, it is the task of the Night Watch to overpower the secret brotherhood and restore order to the kingdom in this fantastical Discworld adventure."

When: 8th October through 12th November 2016
Venue: Brisbane Arts Theatre, 210 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane, QLD 4000
Time: 8pm Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays (except 10th November); 6.30pm Sundays (16th & 30th October)
Tickets: Adults $31, Concession $25, Group 10+ $25, Group 75+ $20, Student Rush $10(10 mins before curtain), available online at http://bit.ly/1QGbXBF

http://www.artstheatre.com.au/show/guardsguards

5.8 NEW: MORT IN THE LAND OF FOG (NOVEMBER)

Paeroa Little Theatre's major production for 2016 will be Mort!

When: 9th–18th November 2016
Venue: Paeroa Little Theatre, 1 Francis Street, Paeroa 3600, th North Island, Land of Fog, er, New Zealand
Time: TBA
Tickets: TBA

http://www.facebook.com/PaeroaLittleTheatre/

5.9 STILL QUITE NEW: WYRD SISTERS IN BOLTON, LANCS (MARCH 2017)

Bolton Little Theatre, "a vibrant amateur theatre company run by members" since 1931, will be presenting their production of Wyrd Sisters next March.

When: 6th–11th March 2017
Venue: Bolton Little Theatre, Hanover Street, Bolton BL1 4TG
Time: 7.30pm
Tickets: £10 (Monday night 3 for 2 special), available at boltonlittletheatre.ticketsource.co.uk – group bookings of 10+ (£9) should be booked through the Box Office. “You can book at Bolton Little Theatre box office in person or by telephone on Monday night from 7.30 to 9pm and Friday mornings from 10.30 to 12 noon – no extra charge if paying by cash or cheque and you can book during the run of the plays or you can book online at boltonlittletheatre.ticketsource.co.uk ...credit card charges will apply. Tickets can be e-tickets (no charge) mobile phone ticket (50p) standard post (£1.50).”

http://www.boltonlittletheatre.co.uk/terry-pratchetts-wyrd-sisters/

5.10 REVIEWS: WYRD SISTERS IN DARLINGTON, FOURECKS

By Douglas Sutherland-Bruce for Weekend Notes:

"Young director Harrison MacLennan has assembled a very young cast to present this classic of the genre. First let me say that the sets designed and built by Owen Davis and his team is nothing short of miraculous. Beautifully detailed and painted on about six reversible truck flats the scenes changes (a LOT of them) were smooth, swift and silent... innovative use of the stage added to the imaginative use of lights and sound was simply magical. As might be expected with such a young and largely inexperienced cast (for many this was their first time on stage) the stagecraft was somewhat problematic but the energy and enthusiasm made up for it. The cast was filled out by some highly experienced actors which re-dressed the balance. Taneal Thompson makes a welcome return to Marloo as the villainous duchess. Fi Livings, as the doyenne of witches, Granny Weatherwax, was outstanding, as was relative newcomer Chantelle Pitt's Nanny Ogg. Her accent roamed all over the British Isles from Ireland, through Cornwall to the Outer Hebrides but that just added to the charm of her performance. In fact 'charming' is probably the most significant description of the production... The cast worked well together and the audience thoroughly enjoyed themselves, as I would expect any audience to do – it would be hard to not like this delightful show..."

http://www.weekendnotes.com/wyrd-sisters-marloo-theatre/

...and by Gordon the Optom for the Independent Theatre Association:

"I think this may be the first major production directed by Harrison MacLennan, who was ably assisted here by Guy Jackson. With a massive cast to handle and some actors as young as 12 yrs. (Molly O’Hehir – a star in the making?), I was expecting the show to stagger through. However, EVERY member of the cast was superbly rehearsed and totally focused. There were no vacant faces when other actors were talking, and everyone acted with their bodies and faces. Good, solid and natural performances from this young team. The magnificent witches had some hilarious lines, delivered with perfect comedic timing. The entrances and exits worked smoothly, even when a dozen actors were involved..."

http://www.ita.org.au/2016/06/wyrd-sisters-reviewed-by-gordon-the-optom/

5.11 REVIEW: LORDS AND LADIES IN NEWCASTLE

By Denise Sparrowhawk for SpikeMike:

"The People's Theatre have once again taken on the challenge of a big cast production with over 25 characters. And that's before you even consider the legacy of Terry Pratchett hovering over the whole proceeding! But as usual the People's team have taken on the challenge and presented a blinding production. Magnificent costumes, spectacular sound and lighting, a few clever special effects and some almost perfect comic timing make this an incredible show. We have morris dancers, wizards, witches - old and new. You have to love the teenage emo witches with their carefully ragged outfits and their self-consciously co-ordinated black lace handkerchiefs). An unexpected king and his queen to be, chosen from his subjects ( like all good fairy tales). Wicked elves, a glamorous bad queen and of course, an Orang-utan... If you were thinking it's all sounding a bit panto-ish, you'd not be far wrong, and of course, there is nothing the People's theatre do better than panto and Shakespeare. The characters are colourful, larger than life, the humour is witty and bawdy, and at times cuttingly sharp... Standout performances from Sarah Scott as Magrat Garlick, Kath Frazer as Granny Witherwack[sic], and Val Russell as nanny Og[sic], who between them save the day.. a marvellous feel good production with a serious message about society if you'd care to look for it, or you could just enjoy the spectacle..."

http://bit.ly/2aT8mEH

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06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS: UPDATES AND REMINDERS

The Broken Drummers, "London's Premier Unofficially Official Discworld Group" (motto "Nil percussio est"), meets next on Monday 1st August 2016 at the Monkey Puzzle, 30 Southwick Street, London, W2 1JQ. For more information, go to http://brokendrummers.org/ or email BrokenDrummers@gmail.com or nicholls.helen@yahoo.co.uk

*

Canberra, Australia's Discworld fan group is Drumknott's Irregulars: "We are a newly established Terry Pratchett & Discworld social group in Canberra called Drumknott's Irregulars. The group is open to all, people from interstate and overseas are welcome, and our events will not be heavily themed. Come along to dinner for a chat and good company. We welcome people all all fandoms (and none) and we would love to see you at one of our events, even if you're just passing through. Please contact us via Facebook (_https://www.facebook.com/groups/824987924250161/_) or Google Groups (_https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/drumknotts-irregulars_) or join us at our next event."

*

For Facebook users in Fourecks: The Victorian Discworld Klatch is "a social group for fans of Discworld and Terry Pratchett... run by a dedicated team who meet monthly and organise events monthly." "If you’d like to join our events please ask to join the Klatch."

https://www.facebook.com/groups/VictorianDiscworldKlatch


*

"The Gathering of the Loonies (Wincanton chapter)" is a public Facebook meeting group: "This group, by request of Jo in Bear will continue to be used for future unofficial (not run by the Emporium) fan Gatherings in Wincanton. Look here for information." [Editor's note: this is an active group. If you use Facebook, it may be worth joining!]

https://www.facebook.com/groups/373578522834654/

*

The Pratchett Partisans are a fan group who meet monthly at either Brisbane or Indooroopilly to "eat, drink and chat about all things Pratchett. We hold events such as Discworld dinners, games afternoons, Discworld photo scavenger hunts. We also attend opening night at Brisbane Arts Theatre's Discworld plays." The Partisans currently have about 200 members who meet at least twice a month, usually in Brisbane.

For more info about their next meetup, join up at https://www.facebook.com/groups/pratchettpartisans/ or contact Ula directly at uwilmott@yahoo.com.au

*

The City of Small Gods is a group for fans in Adelaide and South Australia.

"We have an established Terry Pratchett & Discworld fan group in Adelaide called The City of Small Gods, which is open to anyone who would like to come - you don't have to live in Adelaide or even South Australia, or even be a Discworld fan, but that's mostly where our events will be held, and we do like discussing Pratchett's works. Our (semi-) regular meetings are generally held on the last Thursday of the month at a pub or restaurant in Adelaide. We have dinner at 6.30pm followed by games until 9pm. The games are usually shorter games like Pairs, Sushi Go, or Tiny Epic Defenders, with the occasional Werewolf session, as these are the best sort of games that work in a pub setting. Every few months, we have a full day's worth of board games at La Scala Cafe, 169 Unley Rd, Unley in the function room starting at 10am. In addition, we will occasionally have other events to go and see plays by Unseen Theatre Company, book discussions on Terry's latest, craft, chain maille or costuming workshops or other fun social activities."

The next Monthly Dinner and Games at the Caledonian Hotel will be held on 25th August 2016. For more info, go to www.cityofsmallgods.org.au

*

The Broken Vectis Drummers meet next on Thursday 4th August 2016 (probably) from 7.30pm at The Castle pub in Newport, Isle of Wight. For more info and any queries, contact broken_vectis_drummers@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Wincanton Omnian Temperance Society (WOTS) next meets on Friday 5th August 2016 (probably) at Wincanton's famous Bear Inn from 7pm onwards. "Visitors and drop-ins are always welcome!"

*

The Northern Institute of the Ankh-Morpork and District Society of Flatalists, a Pratchett fangroup, has been meeting on a regular basis since 2005 but is now looking to take in some new blood (presumably not in the non-reformed Uberwald manner). The Flatalists normally meet at The Narrowboat Pub in Victoria Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire, to discuss "all things Pratchett" as well as having quizzes and raffles. Details of future meetings are posted on the Events section of the Discworld Stamps forum:

http://www.discworldstamps.co.uk/forum/

*

Sydney Drummers (formerly Drummers Downunder) meet next on Monday 1st August 2016 at 6.30pm (probably) in Sydney at 3 Wise Monkeys, 555 George Street, Sydney,2000. For more information, contact Sue (aka Granny Weatherwax): kenworthys@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Treacle Mining Corporation, formerly known as Perth Drummers, meets next on Monday 1st August 2016 (probably) from 5.30pm at Carpe Cafe, 526 Murray Street, Perth, Western Australia. For details follow Perth Drummers on Twitter @Perth_Drummers or join their Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Perth.Drummers/ – or message Alexandra Ware directly at <alexandra.ware@gmail.com>

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07) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS

7.1 FROM DISCWORLD.COM

* The Terry Pratchett 2017 Diary!

"Sir Terry Pratchett left us, far too early, in March 2015. To celebrate his life and works, we’ve given over the 2017 Discworld Diary – which will be a perennial diary – to remembrances and tributes from some of those who knew and loved him and his extraordinary body of work. Contributors include Neil Gaiman, A S Byatt, Terry Pratchett’s literary agent Colin Smythe, co-author of the Long Earth books Stephen Baxter, famed bookseller Rog Peyton, and many more. With an introduction from his daughter Rhianna Pratchett and an afterword from longtime friend and colleague Rob Wilkins. Exclusively embossed with Sir Terry’s signature and sealed with his personal coat of arms – the design of which he oversaw himself."

The Terry Pratchetty Diary is priced at £20.00 and will be published on 13th October 2016. For more information, and to pre-order, go to
http://discworld.com/products/books/terry-pratchett-diary/

7.2 FROM THE DISCWORLD EMPORIUM

* The Discworld 2017 Collector's Edition calendar!

"Featuring the iconic fantasy artwork of Josh Kirby, the 2017 Discworld calendar is a nostalgic celebration of his spectacular and unmistakable cover illustrations for Terry Pratchett's earliest Discworld books. The 2017 calendar features twelve pieces of artwork, along with all those important Discworld and roundworld dates that you'll still forget about despite them hanging on your wall in such a decorative fashion. Each calendar includes a full page of colourful artwork for each month along with plenty of space for your notes, reminders and appointments. Includes all major realtime calendrical data for Great Britain, Eire, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA, as well as notable Discworld dates."

The 2017 Discworld Calendar is priced at £14.99, plus shipping (variable). For more information, and to order, go to

http://discworld.com/products/books/terry-pratchett-diary/

* New Discworld Collector's Library releases! With combined shipping!

"We're now offering combined shipping when you pre-order all four new Collector's Library Edition books! The Last Continent, Carpe Jugulum, The Fifth Elephant and The Truth will be published October 20th, all with stunning new cover artwork by Joe McLaren! Every copy of these beautiful hardbacks include a FREE Unseen University Library Bookplate, printed on real gummed stamp paper – exclusive to copies from the Discworld Emporium! If you have already placed an order that you would like to amend please contact us with your order number via shop@discworldemporium.com and we will be happy to help!"

Each of the four books is priced at £12.99, with a special combination price of £51.96 for all four (shipping included). For more information, and to pre-order, go to

http://www.discworldemporium.com/new-terry-pratchett-books

* Fantastic beasts (and where to find them)!

No, nowt to do with Harry Potter. This is a gorgeous tea towel featuring many of the odd fauna and flora of the Disc: "100% cotton tea towel featuring some of our favourite Discworld plants and critters, including the Curious Squid, Quantum Weather Butterfly, Counting Pine, Hermit Elephant and Swamp Dragon! Illustrated exclusively for us in glorious thaumicolour by Vladimir Stankovic in his wonderfully dark story-book style, this fantastical tea towel is a tribute to some of the 'wilder' creations from the mind of Terry Pratchett – the flora and fauna that made the Discworld world just a little bit more, well, Discworld."

The Flora and Fauna tea towel measures 78 x 48cm and is priced at £9.95. For more information, and to order, go to

http://bit.ly/2acTPlI

The Flora and Fauna of Discworld print is also available as a poster, priced at £15.00 and measuring 80.5 x 50cm. For more information, and to order, go to

http://www.discworldemporium.com/discworld-flora-and-fauna-poster

7.3 FROM THE PAUL KIDBY SHOP

The Discworld Colouring Book is almost ready! It will be published by Gollancz on the 18th of August, and Paul Kidby's shop is offering an exclusive signed ‘Pencil Eater’ bookplate with each copy.

Priced at £13.50 (price includes postage & packaging for UK deliveries only). For more information, and to pre-order, go to

http://bit.ly/2alSV63

7.4 ... AND FROM SOME PASSIONATE PRATCHETT FANS IN FOURECKS

The City of Small Gods fan club in Adelaide, South Australia, has commissioned their own line of logo-bedecked clothing! There are several items available: a Bell Polo, a Contrast Polo (both priced at AU$35-AU$40), a Shepherd Hoodie (AU$50-AU$55) and a Contrast Fleecy Hoodie (AU$60-AU$65), all looking very classy too. For more information, and to order, go to

https://t.co/PFW6OuvHTR

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08) A FEW ODDS AND SODS

8.1 JOSH KIRBY ART FOR GAMES

From the MerketersMedia press release:

"The Josh Kirby Estate has announced an exclusive partnership with Seattle-area based games developer MetaArcade, providing Kirby's art for use within its upcoming game, a digital remastering of the iconic tabletop RPG, Tunnels & Trolls. Featuring Kirby's original creations, MetaArcade will debut its prototype of Tunnels & Trolls at Gen Con, held Aug. 4-7 in Indianapolis, celebrating the game's 40th consecutive attendance. Rob Liano, Chief Marketing Officer of the Josh Kirby Estate, said 'Josh was creative and innovative and we couldn't be more excited about bringing his distinctive work to life for new audiences on digital platforms by partnering with fellow innovators like MetaArcade.'... Kirby was highly sought after by the time the 1980s rolled around, yet he lent his talents to creating the interior art and full-color covers for a limited series of Tunnels & Trolls books, at the time, distributed only in the United Kingdom. Kirby's unmistakable art for Tunnels & Trolls has largely been out of print for decades, and will now play an integral role in MetaArcade's remastering of Tunnels & Trolls for digital platforms, including iOS, Android, PC, and Mac. David Reid, Founder & CEO of MetaArcade, said 'Josh Kirby stands as one of the world's premier fantasy artists, and we are thrilled to honour his legacy by showcasing his work in both our Tunnels & Trolls game and the beginning of the MetaArcade Adventures Platform content library.'..."

http://bit.ly/2aq3lCK

Ben Barrett of PC Games adds info in his article:

"Kirby also created work for the original Tunnels & Trolls books, the tabletop adventure IP on which MetaArcade is building one of its games and the first ever followup to D&D. They wanted to use that same art for the digital version once they found it, as CEO David Reid explains. 'Early in our development of the Tunnels & Trolls prototype, we did a quick inventory of all the books in circulation,' he says. 'One of our partners picked up the Corgi book which included solo adventures Naked Doom and Deathtrap Equalizer, which included artwork [we'd] never seen. We were instantly blown away by the quality of the art Josh had created, and after conferring with Flying Buffalo to determine the artwork's origins, we contacted the Josh Kirby Estate through Rob Liano.'

"Reid also says that some of the very best adventures in the original books were illustrated by Kirby, and they’re going to debut his art as part of the digital version at GenCon this year, August 4-7. While it's going to be used to illustrate the same adventures it originally did, it will also be part of the MetaArcade Adventures Platform, meaning budding designers can use Kirby's art as part of their own games if they wish. 'Personally, as I look over the archive of art from the past 40 years, at times entire ideas for adventures spring forth to me just by looking at one illustration,' says Reid, 'and it's my hope and expectation that other writers will take the same inspiration from Josh's art and the rest of the library...'"

http://www.pcgamesn.com/tunnels-trolls/metaarcade-josh-kirby-art

8.2 WHY DISCWORLD NOVELS "RESIST ADAPTATION"

A thought-provoking op-ed by Prospero for The Economist. Longish by current internet-idiot standards, but worth reading al the way through. Some extracts:

"A newcomer to Pratchett would be forgiven for feeling a little baffled: how could such a commercially successful series, matched only by 'Harry Potter' and 'Twilight', have avoided the siren call of Hollywood for so long? The will-they-won’t-they saga of bringing Pratchett to the big screen is almost as long as the 41-strong novel series itself. In 1992, Pratchett was approached by an American production company about his novel 'Mort', a dark comedy about the skeletal, scythe-wielding figure of Death taking on an intern... 'We've been doing market research and the skeleton bit doesn't work for us, it’s a bit of a downer,' Pratchett recalled the producers saying, 'We love it, it's high concept – just lose the Death angle.' The film went no further... One explanation for the Sisyphean back-and-forth might be just the fiercely anti-Disney, sceptical bent to Pratchett's writing. Any book which has as its guiding credo the line: 'If you trust in yourself…and believe in your dreams...and follow your star…you'll still get beaten by people who spent their time working hard and learning things and weren't so lazy' is going to find it tough to maintain its integrity once the studio has made it commercially palatable.

"Or so we might have thought. But Hollywood is rapidly turning subversion of its own tropes into its chief box office asset. 'Frozen', a Disney princess story about the bond between two sisters that made more than $1 billion worldwide, cheerfully rewrote all the accepted kid-friendly rules about dreams and true love. It has ushered in an irreverent revisionist wave from 'Into the Woods' to 'The Lego Movie' that would comfortably incorporate a strong heroine uninterested in romance, much like 'The Wee Free Men''s Tiffany Aching. The irony and subversion powering Pratchett's writing has never had a better time to flourish in Hollywood. Yet even with this change, Pratchett's works resist easy adaptation. Much as Douglas Adams's 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' long resisted a film version (and even then produced a mediocre result), Pratchett's authorial voice is hard to convey on the screen. Pratchett in particular relies on paratext – a novel commenting on being a novel. Reading him is to be endlessly second-guessed. The brilliance of a quip like 'Give a man a fire and he's warm for a day, but set fire to him and he's warm for the rest of his life' lies in its subversion of expectation, but in a particularly literary way. Its force depends on the eye crossing the page, not a viewer watching images on a screen..."

http://www.economist.com/blogs/prospero/2016/07/books-film

8.3 ANKH-MORPORK: YOU WOULDN'T WANT TO LIVE THERE, BUT...

On Bustle.com, Charlotte Ahlin lists "10 fictional places we wish we could travel to in real life", and number four – one rank higher than the Shire! – is Ankh-Morpork:

"Yes, the city-state of Ankh-Morpork is a mess, but if you're visiting Terry Pratchett's Discworld, you won't want to miss it. It's rife with violence and corruption, but in a fun way. You can take a class at Unseen University, or grab a drink at Biers ("where everybody knows your shape"). As the biggest city in all of Discworld, Ankh-Morpork is filled with all manner of humans, dwarves, wizards, and other fantasy characters, both living and undead. Just bring some hand-sanitizer, if you decide to make the trip."

http://bit.ly/29KunUe

8.4 VIDEOS: ALZHEIMER'S AND MEMORY

On Scroll.in, a series of Alzheimer's-related videos ("These are the memories that people with Alzheimer's never want to forget") includes Sir Pterry. All are worth watching.

http://bit.ly/2aiQRhi


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09) IMAGES OF THE MONTH

Paul Kidby's wonderful portrait of the Chalk Clan's "usual suspects", including Hamish the Aviator and Morag, from The Wee Free Men:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CnzKjXDWcAAKLUF.jpg

...and the magnificent Lady Esmerelda Weatherwax, Patron of the Opera, as drawn by Paul Kidby for the Talpress edition of Maskerade:
http://bit.ly/2aqouMT

[Editor's note: if you look at the photo on this page (_http://picturesup.typepad.com/pictures-up/2010/10/poison-is-queen.html_) – which is of the equally magnificent Sian Phillips in ageing makeup as the elderly Livia in I, Claudius – you can see a very strong resemblance. I've always felt that Ms Phillips (now Dame Sian) was the physical inspiration for Granny, whether Pterry and Paul Kidby realised it or not. Never forget that Granny was a very handsome woman, even if her sternness made her less so; after all, Pterry told us that both Weatherwax sisters looked very alike, but Lily was considered beautiful!]

Hags of Fourecks: Nanny (Chantelle Pitt), Granny (Fi Livings) and Magrat (Alisha Napier) as presented in the Marloo Theatre's recent production of Wyrd Sisters:
http://www.weekendnotes.com/im/003/03/wyrd-sisters-stephen-briggs-terry-pratchett-discwo1.jpg

Daniel Robinson's excellent Discworld cake for his father (originally tweeted at https://twitter.com/DPR1990/status/756841307612545024):
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CoDXJqYW8AAb4o_.jpg

...and for your Librarian-inspired pleasure, here be one of Melbourne Zoo's marvellous orangutans, displaying his fashion sense with a knowing look:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CoBd86GXEAEB_uu.jpg

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10) CLOSE

And that's the lot for July. Take care, and we'll see you next month!

– Annie Mac


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The End. If you have any questions or requests, write: wossname-owner (at) pearwood (dot) info

Copyright (c) 2016 by Klatchian Foreign Legion

With Muppets, no less:

"The Jim Henson Company announced today the development of a feature film based on the great literary legacy of the late Sir Terry Pratchett's 'THE WEE FREE MEN,' part of the wildly popular Discworld series. The long-awaited film adaption[sic] will be written by his daughter Rhianna Pratchett, an award-winning scriptwriter for videogames, comics, film and TV. Her work includes the 2013 smash hit reboot of Tomb Raider, the BAFTA nominated Heavenly Sword and the Writers' Guild winning Overload and Rise of the Tomb Raider. Pratchett, co-director of independent production company Narrativia, has regularly been named one of the top 100 most influential women in the games industry and won the Women in Games Hall of Fame award in 2013... Brian Henson of The Jim Henson Company will serve as producer. Rhianna Pratchett, Rob Wilkins and Rod Brown of Narrativia and Vince Raisa of The Jim Henson Company, will serve as executive producers. WEE FREE MEN is a co-production with Narrativia..."

To read the full announcement, go to http://narrativia.com/wee-free-men-announcement.html

The Greenbrook Methodist Church Theatre Group will stage their production of Wyrd Sisters over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

When: 31st August to 2nd September 2016
Venue: Greenbrook Methodist Church Theatre Group & Community Centre, Greenbrook Road, Burnley, Lancs BB12 6NZ
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £8 adult, £5 child, available by phoning Wendy on 01282 426 889

Very sweet poster, too!

Wossname
Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
June 2016 (Volume 19, Issue 6, Post 1)

********************************************************************
WOSSNAME is a free publication offering news, reviews, and all the other stuff-that-fits pertaining to the works of Sir Terry Pratchett. Originally founded by the late, great Joe Schaumburger for members of the worldwide Klatchian Foreign Legion and its affiliates, including the North American Discworld Society and other continental groups, Wossname is now for Discworld and Pratchett fans everywhere in Roundworld.
********************************************************************

Editor in Chief: Annie Mac
News Editor: Vera P
Newshounds: Mogg, Sir J of Croydon Below, the Shadow, Mss C, Alison not Aliss
Staff Writers: Asti, Pitt the Elder, Evil Steven Dread, Mrs Wynn-Jones
Staff Technomancers: Jason Parlevliet, Archchancellor Neil, DJ Helpful
Book Reviews: Annie Mac, Drusilla D'Afanguin, Your Name Here
Puzzle Editor: Tiff (still out there somewhere)
Bard in Residence: Weird Alice Lancrevic
Emergency Staff: Steven D'Aprano, Jason Parlevliet
World Membership Director: Steven D'Aprano (in his copious spare time)

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INDEX:

01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH
02) EDITOR'S LETTER
03) REVIEWS: THE LONG COSMOS, FOLIO SOCIETY'S MORT
04) ODDS AND SODS
05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
06) ACTION REPLAY: SIR PTERRY CHATS WITH JACQUELINE SIMPSON (2010)
07) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
08) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS
09) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE
10) ROUNDWORLD TALES: RAT'S ON THE MENU!
11) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
12) CLOSE

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01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH

"'I believe the countryside creates folklore in the same way that the mists rise in the evening. I think it just happens. People get feelings. The chill you feel when you walk in this place and all these things, and because we want this. We don't want the world to be too inexplicable and we stand and salute Richard Dawkins as he goes past and would shake hands with Mr. Einstein, but we just like to think that's not the end of it. I rather suspect there are people that would give up belief in God rather than belief in luck."

– Terry Pratchett in conversation with Jacqueline Simpson, 2010

"It's not usually the original artist that's gone back and changed it from a full colour painting into black and white line – and I was keen to do that, because I wanted to keep the characters clearly identifiable."

– Paul Kidby, describing his process for creating the Discworld Colouring Book

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02) LETTER FROM YOUR EDITOR

Greetings, O Readers! You'll notice that the June issue has arrived in your inboxes in the merrie month of, er, July. This is due to illness (mine), but while it's not the first time Wossname has gone out late, I think it pretty much is for the years of my being head honcho (honchess? honchette?). So let's get on without further delay...

As the number of Discworld plays being performed around Roundworld continues to rise, the Discworld Plays News section seems like the best place to put a feature on staging Discworld plays – from the digital quill of "Lord Vetinari himself". Do have a look at item 5.13 in this month's issue!

Journalist David Astle, writing about "internet laws" in the Sydney Morning Herald, mentioned Asimov's Laws of Robotics early on. Then at the end, he writes, "The final law was foreseen by another sci-fi giant, Terry Pratchett. Known as the law of exclamation, this applies to online shouters. In short, the more exclamation marks you use, or capital letters you bash out, the more flawed your view." I mention this in passing because of the casual way he calls Pratchett "another sci-fi giant". Which he was – and ever will remain. Consider the Johnny Maxwell books. Consider Night Watch. Consider his fantastic short story # ifdef DEBUG + "world/enough" + "time"... and more. So yes, it warms the cockles of your Editor's heart to see The Author's name up there on the Great and Terrible List of Giants. Especially as, unlike Asimov, Clarke et al, who were strong on ideas but weak on wordcraft and the art of believable character creation, Pratchett's science fiction has the lot.

Remember, the fifth and final Long Earth book, The Long Cosmos, is now available in hardcover (Penguin Random House; see various reviews under item 3.1). And if you've been collecting the series in paperback, The Long Utopia (book four) is also now available. As is the paperback edition of The Shepherd's Crown, at last! And more of The Bromeliad. Also, this is a good time to pre-order the Paul Kidby Discworld Colouring Book and The Witch's Vacuum Cleaner. And furthermore... all right, look, the best way to keep up with the myriad of new releases is to check on http://discworld.com/ and http://www.discworldemporium.com/ in their books sections.

Lastly, here is the only feature Wossname is going to offer about Brexit. Because the marvellous Evening Harold gave the least "WHUT?" commentary about it all:

"The UK is under new leadership this morning following a coup by the Patrician of Ankh-Morpork, Lord Havelock Vetinari. 'Coup is a needlessly dramatic word,' Lord Vetinari told reporters. 'I can hardly be said to have violently thrown a government from power when you don't have one, or an Opposition. Both sides seem entirely preoccupied with what one might call "internal matters". Indeed barely anyone noticed as I walked into Number Ten and installed myself in the best office and Drumknott in an suitable alcove nearby. The only person to do more than raise an eyebrow was Theresa May who I must say kicks like a mule and has a command of the baser aspects of the English language that is entirely formidable.' Until yesterday Vetinari was the tyrant of Ankh-Morpork the largest and most powerful city on Discworld. A place known to us through the life-enhancingly brilliant reporting of much-missed travel writer Sir Terry Pratchett. Today Lord Vetinari says he's the man to lead the UK through the Brexit crisis. 'A firm hand is all it takes,' he said calmly..."

Do go read the entire piece. It's a thing of beauty:

http://eveningharold.com/2016/06/29/lord-vetinari-takes-control-of-the-uk/

And now, on with the show!

– Annie Mac, Editor

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03) REVIEWS: THE LONG COSMOS, FOLIO SOCIETY'S MORT

3.1 THE LONG COSMOS REVIEWS

In The Guardian, by Jenny Colgan:

"If it is pulse-racing narrative you're after, you should know that the Long Earth books are not so much stories as travelogues. New worlds are intricately described – the corn fields, the ice belts – and there is jeopardy, but never anything terribly concerning, even when nuclear war wipes out half the Datum (the name given to the original Earth). Fans, of whom I am one, love them for their gently immersive properties: it is extremely relaxing to travel so many worlds from home in a luxury airship, 'stepping' with every turn of the page. The Long Cosmos doesn't meddle with this template: journeys are made, quite slowly; strange creatures emerge and vanish; things that were lost are found again. Even the more horrific aspects, such as the lollipop heads – humanoids with brains so enormous that they are literally spilling out of their skulls – turn out to be more or less benign. The charm of these books lies in the way they weave the worlds together: they're not funny, and nor are they designed to be, unless you find trolls who say 'hoo' intrinsically hilarious. For The Long Cosmos specifically, a good working knowledge of the film version of Carl Sagan's Contact is useful, as the book often plays out as a homage, while long-term fans will be excited to learn that as well as going east and west, we finally step north. Not all our questions are answered, but Baxter's scientific grounding will make you dwell once more on that chilling quantum idea that to exist is to be observed, as well as on more quotidian reflections about what is important in life..."

http://bit.ly/29bqyZK

In The Telegraph, by Tristram Fane Saunders:

"It is impossible to read The Long Cosmos without a pang of melancholy... Although the familiar protagonists have reached their late sixties, the atmosphere is still one of childlike wonder. The hero, Joshua, watches the hive of activity around a newly-built spaceship, as if it were 'to be powered, not by any kind of technology, but by a surge of shared enthusiasm'. The Long Cosmos may be a bit slapdash in construction, but it, too, hums with shared enthusiasm, reading like a roll-call of the authors' favourite things. Whereas the Discworld novels favoured the wink, here the allusions are far more open: the spaceship is christened the 'Uncle Arthur', after Arthur C Clarke (with whom Baxter wrote three novels). Pratchett fans sifting through Baxter for a gem of Sir Terry won't quite come up empty-handed... There are a couple of nods to Discworld (including a simian librarian), but only one vignette has Pratchett's particular spark: the story of wandering teacher Johnny Shakespeare...

"Like many travellers of the Long Earth, Joshua is a fan of 'ancient' sci-fi films. As another character – a different nun – remarks, no-one can remember the Pope, but everyone knows who Captain Kirk is. And so we meet a 'baby elephant with a mask like a Star Wars stormtrooper,' while a song Joshua hears sounds 'like samples of an opera in Klingon.' But these allusions distract from the world of the novel... Although it nods toward 20th-century fiction, the Long Earth's true parent is 500 years old this year – Utopia. Amid the recent wave of YA dystopias, it's rare to find an optimistic vision of the future, but The Long Cosmos is exactly that..."

http://bit.ly/2999r99

In The Independent, by David Barnett:

"It's a very different beast to those used to Pratchett's humorous Discworld fantasies - a hard, high-concept science fiction series based around the central conceit that our world is but one of an infinite number of parallel Earths, strung out like a multi-dimensional string of pearls... Although there are a core cast of well-rounded characters, including central protagonist Joshua Valiente, one of the first to learn how to “step” between the worlds, and Lobsang, a Tibetan motorcycle repairman who has been reincarnated as an artificial intelligence computer (one guesses that to be a very Pratchettian touch) the series has always seemed less about the people and more about the sense of wonder of good, old-fashioned science fiction. More than that, it's about exploration and discovery, and even rediscovery - if we found an Earth identical to our own but uninhabited and unspoiled, would humanity do things differently, or just make the same old mistakes?..."

http://ind.pn/299g5PG

In the Daily Mail, by Ned Denny:

"The inspired concept at the heart of Terry Pratchett and Stephen Baxter's Long Earth series is an immense series of Earths – receding, perhaps endlessly, like the images in two facing mirrors, but all of them other than our home planet (‘Datum Earth') empty of human beings. These books are less tongue-in-cheek than Pratchett's solo work and have something of the poetry and visionary wildness of an author such as Jeff VanderMeer. This final instalment – in which humans, Neanderthal-like trolls and a race of supposedly higher beings known as The Next try to fathom this cosmic invitation – is enthralling and thought-provoking in equal measure."

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/books/article-3657393/SCIENCE-FICTION.html

On Flickering Myth, by Tony Black:

"Originally sketched out as a trilogy, The Long Earth saga ultimately needed extra room to breathe and this fifth and final entry was completed by Baxter upon Pratchett's untimely death. He does a fine job in bringing to a conclusion what could have been a jarring juxtaposition between two very different writers; Pratchett, one of the masters of comic fantasy, and Baxter, one of the giants in speculative science-fiction. The Long Cosmos, however, much like the previous four books, manages to fuse these two disparate talents together in an enjoyably imaginative, often lightly and comfortably jovial way, shot through with plenty of pop-culture references and fascinating scientific concepts... Even with Baxter's penchant for hard science (which is far more apparent here than Pratchett's acerbic droll, only popping up occasionally), what never becomes lost in the stepping and conceptual scientific ideas is the warmth of heart built into The Long Earth story and it's characters. There's a wistfulness about this book, a sense of ending, perhaps not just for Joshua but Pratchett himself, and a sense of looking back on a world unrecognisable and searching for constants, for memories, for as the trolls call it 'remember'. It's a story about family, about the loss and rediscovery of family, the importance indeed of maintaining those relationships and that humanity in the face of so much ‘other', and in the end about finding a family with those you are thrown together with, across divides equally in terms of background and race... While these two writers make this happen with a redoubtably British tongue in cheek, they do so equally with a true sense of comforting, innocent wonder and hope, and it makes for lovely, spirited reading..."

http://bit.ly/29grjCQ

3.2 MORT (FOLIO SOCIETY EDITION) REVIEW

On Den of Geek by Aliya Whiteley:

"It's a beautiful book, and it showed me that Mort is as much a fairy tale as a fun read. It sinks deep roots into traditional ground, and this classic hardback version suits the more meaningful aspects of this story very well indeed. For Mort is a young apprentice, and he has a lot to learn, and challenges to overcome, before he learns some wisdom and finds some happiness. And that makes for a really old kind of story, and a satisfying one, featuring all the recognisable aspects such as love, moral dilemmas, crushing responsibilities, and a race against time. Also, what kind of apprenticeship story would this be without an exacting master? This one has the best – Death himself. Although Death is busy having an identity crisis and could, on occasion, murder a curry. It's the surprises I always liked. That curry, those footnotes, the unexpected lists of foods that are served in Ankh-Morpork or the sudden appearance of an orang-utan. But this time around it was Pratchett's propensity to bring a scene to life in classic style that struck me. He could make it all seem so real before inviting you to laugh at it, and see through it... Those are good lessons to learn by holding this new and beautiful version of Mort in your hands, with a brilliant illustration by Rayyan on the cover that will remind you of woodcut art from Grimm's Fairy Tales and the like..."

http://bit.ly/297pskB

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04) ODDS AND SODS

4.1 THE SHEPHERD'S CROWN LOCUS AWARD

"The prestigious Locus prizes, which are voted for by the American speculative fiction magazine's readership, have been running for more than 40 years, and have gone to authors including Isaac Asimov, Gene Wolfe and Ursula K Le Guin in the past. This year, Pratchett took the prize for best young adult novel for his final Discworld book, The Shepherd's Crown...."

http://bit.ly/29az5hQ

The full list of winners:

http://www.locusmag.com/News/2016/06/2016-locus-awards-winners/

4.2 A FINE SET OF "KILLER QUOTATIONS"

In the Irish Times, Martin Doyle interviews Colin Smythe and author Lisa McInerney about their favourite Pratchett quotes. Here be an extract:

"Colin Smythe, the Trinity College Dublin graduate who published Pratchett's first five books and has been his agent since 1987, admitted: 'I can't remember Terry telling me any jokes. Both poor memory and because he must have kept them to put in his books. Over the last decade, I think we talked about facts, research for the book he was working on, that sort of thing.' In his tribute to his friend in The Irish Times, Smythe wrote: 'It is hard to look at a future without Terry, his humour, wicked bubble-pricking comments, his amazing inventiveness, his style, the deftness of his puns, and the deep moral sense that pervaded all of the books, without being obtrusive.' So what is his favourite Terry Pratchett quotation? 'Too many to choose from. But how about...? "Susan... it wasn't a good name, was it? It wasn't a truly bad name, it wasn't like poor Iodine in the fourth form, or Nigella, a name which means ‘oops, we wanted a boy'. But it was dull. Susan. Sue. Good old Sue. It was a name that made sandwiches, kept its head in difficult circumstances, and could reliably look after other people's children.`It was a name used by no queens or goddesses anywhere. And you couldn't do much even with the spelling. You could turn it into Suzi, and it sounded as though you danced on tables for a living. You could put in a Z and a couple of Ns and an E, but it still looked like a name with extensions built on. It was as bad as Sara, a name that cried out for a prosthetic H." Far too long, I know. How about a talking raven on a battle-field, looking for eyeballs and other scraps, saying "Carrion regardless. That's what I say."? Or the cleric in a band that went off with all its takings, and was arrested. "And what did they do with that felonious monk?"...'..."

http://bit.ly/297hBPT

4.3 MORE ABOUT THAT ALABAMA PRATCHETT COURSE

You may remember a mention is last month's main edition of a special interim course, on the works of Pratchett, being taught at the University of Alabama. I have since had a conversation with the gracious Mark Hughes Cobb, whose piece in the Tuscaloosa News gives additional detail and insight. Do have a read! A few bits:

"Terry Pratchett's books sprawl all over the kitchen, the bathroom, by the bed, everywhere. Those have been read, are being read, and will be read again. 'With Pratchett, you kind of live with it,' said Barton, an instructor in the University of Alabama English department, teaching an interim course on his work, titled 'Special Topics in Literature: Discworld.'... Pratchett subverted fantasy tropes to reflect human follies and foibles about gender, war, religion, technology, racism, xenophobia, and more. 'He creates this entire universe of characters you would want to know,' Barton said, 'and people who just seem very genuine, seem who they are. At times it's almost a kind of muted, almost dry, very quiet kind of funny, and at other times, it's just broad hilarity.'... Barton used Gaiman's elegy as an introduction for the class. 'It's almost like he knew what I was going for,' she said. They're also looking at recurring, developing characters. Pratchett drew Sam Vimes close to his heart, a gutter-poor child who grew up with fists, knees and elbows in the mean streets. Through unbending will and innate decency, Sam rises to command the watch, and become Duke of Ankh-Morpork, a bluntly honest antithesis to the effete, the snobs and white-collar criminals... 'Vimes resists classicism, resists superiority,' Barton said. 'If you want to make who you are, you have to put your boots on and walk the streets. You have to, as he does in "Night Watch," create yourself.' Other texts they'll study include novels 'Thud,' 'Making Money' and 'Raising Steam.'..."

http://bit.ly/1Yh6WXP

4.4 PAUL KIDBY ON CREATING THE DISCWORLD COLOURING BOOK

Here be a short, fascinating video about how Mr Kidby turned his Discworld paintings into a black and white colouring book. Watch it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZ7IBBbwmuw

4.5 ABOUT TELLING LIES TO CHILDREN

From The Science of Discworld to the wider world, with its own extensively footnoted page on Wikipedia:

"Scientists Jack Cohen and Ian Stewart first discussed the term in their non-fiction book, The Collapse of Chaos: Discovering Simplicity in a Complex World (1994). They elaborated upon this concept in their non-fiction book: Figments of Reality: The Evolution of the Curious Mind (1997). Cohen and Stewart further delved into a discussion of the issue with author Terry Pratchett in the book The Science of Discworld (1999). The term subsequently gained traction by academics and has been since discussed within the framework of teaching methodology. British author David Langford said his favorite theme within Discworld was the lie-to-children trope. Andrew Sawyer included the subject itself in his article titled: 'Narrativium and Lies-to-Children: Palatable Instruction in "The Science of Discworld"'. Tim Worstall wrote for Forbes that lie-to-children was ubiquitous across multiple academic disciplines... The definition given in The Science of Discworld (1999) is as follows: 'A lie-to-children is a statement that is false, but which nevertheless leads the child's mind towards a more accurate explanation, one that the child will only be able to appreciate if it has been primed with the lie'. The authors acknowledge that some people might dispute the applicability of the term lie, while defending it on the grounds that 'it is for the best possible reasons, but it is still a lie'. This viewpoint is derived from earlier perspectives within the field of philosophy of science.

"In a 1999 interview, Pratchett commented upon the phrase: 'I like the lies-to-children motif, because it underlies the way we run our society and resonates nicely with Discworld.' He was critical of problems inherent in early education: 'You arrive with your sparkling A-levels all agleam, and the first job of the tutors is to reveal that what you thought was true is only true for a given value of "truth".' Pratchett cautioned: 'Most of us need just "enough" knowledge of the sciences, and it's delivered to us in metaphors and analogies that bite us in the bum if we think they're the same as the truth.'..."

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lie-to-children

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05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS

5.1 NEW: MORT AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE (AUGUST)

Duck in a Hat are coming back to Edinburgh with another Discworld production!

"Mort doesn't know what to expect when he starts his new job: apprentice to the Grim Reaper (scythe, hooded cloak, and all). But things slip out of his control when he saves a princess destined to die, tearing apart the fabric of reality. With the help of Death's adopted daughter and a mysterious manservant, can Mort thwart destiny, save the princess, find true love and have his own happily ever after? Presented by the team behind the 2015 sell-out Terry Pratchett's Eric, this is a hilarious new adaptation of Pratchett's beloved tale of life, death and destiny."

When: 15th–28th August 2016 (excepting 21st)
Venue: Paradise in Augustine's, 41–43 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1EL
Time: 7.35pm all shows
Tickets: £9.50 (£8), available from https://edinburghfestival.list.co.uk/event/590050-terry-pratchetts-mort/ or by phone 0131 510 0022

http://duckinahat.weebly.com/
https://twitter.com/duck_in_a_hat (for updates)

5.2 NEW: LANCRE WITCHES ON THE ROAD! CARPE JUGULUM IN ESSEX (AUGUST)

"Come and join Chameleon's Web Theatre Company for a fun-filled show suitable for all ages from 4-104. Although we can guarantee the quality of the performance we cannot guarantee the British weather so please bring appropriate clothing for an outdoor performance! Please bring rugs, low backed chairs and picnics but be warned – the residents of Lancre are very partial to a sausage roll or two!"

When: 5th, 6th, 7th, 13th and 14th August 2016
Venue: various; see below
Time: various; see below
Tickets: £11 (£9 concessions; family ticket £34), available from http://www.chameleonsweb.co.uk/www.ticketsource.co.uk/chameleonsweb or bookable by phone on 0333 666 3366 (local rate, £1.50 booking charge which includes postage of tickets)

Venues are:

5th August: The Amphitheatre, Park Drive, Promenade Park, Maldon, Essex CM9 5HX at 6pm
For more info: http://www.visitmaldon.co.uk/promenade-park/

6th August: Tollesbury Community Centre, East Street, Tollesbury, Essex CM9 8QD at 7pm (indoors)
For more info: http://bit.ly/299hVmL

7th August: Beth Chatto Gardens, Elmstead Market, Colchester, Essex CO7 7DB at 6pm
For more info: http://www.bethchatto.co.uk/events/theatre-performance-in-the-gardens.htm

13th August: The Whalebone, Chapel Rd, Colchester, Essex CO5 7BG at 5pm
For more info: http://www.thewhaleboneinn.co.uk/

14th August: Dedham Vale Vineyard, Green Lane, Boxted, Colchester, Essex CO4 5TS at 6pm
For more info: http://www.dedhamvalevineyard.com/

Tour Information Line - 07936067657 (please note tickets cannot be purchased from this number)

http://www.chameleonsweb.co.uk/next.html

5.3 NEW: GUARDS! GUARDS! IN THE WIRRAL (JULY)

Greasby Players, who produced a run last year of Wyrd Sisters, will be staging Guards! Guards! this month!

When: 13th -16th July 2016
Venue: Westbourne Hall, Westbourne Road, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 4DQ
Time: 7.30pm
Tickets: £8.00 (£6.00 concessions). To book, ring 677 9187 or visit Greasby Players' Facebook page (URL below)

https://www.facebook.com/GreasbyPlayersWirral/
http://www.wirralradio.co.uk/news/whats-on/

5.4 REMINDER: WYRD SISTERS IN DARLINGTON, FOURECKS (JULY)

Darlington Theatre Players' production of Wyrd Sisters, which started on the 17th of June, is still going!

When: to 9th July 2016
Venue: Marloo Theatre, 20 Marloo Road, Greenmount, Western Australia (phone 08 9255 1212)
Time: 8pm evening shows; 2pm Sunday matinees
Tickets: adults $22, concession/child $20, family ticket $70, available from Gwyne Marshall (Bookings Officer) at the Marloo Theatre Box Office (phone 08 9255 1783). To purchase online, go to http://www.marlootheatre.com.au/wyrdsisters nd click on the Buy Tickets button

http://www.marlootheatre.com.au/

5.5 REMINDER: WYRD SISTERS IN NORTH YORKSHIRE (JULY-AUGUST)

The Richmond Amateur Dramatic Society aka RADS will be staging their production of Wyrd Sisters in July. RADS chairman Mike Walker writes, "For anyone who hasn't visited the Georgian Theatre Royal, it is an experience in itself, being Britain's oldest working theatre in its original form; a Grade 1 listed building and an accredited museum. It is an 18th century 'courtyard' theatre which seats just over 200 people, the furthest seat being only 10.7m from the stage! I do hope Terry Pratchett fans will be interested in seeing Wyrd Sisters in this fascinating setting."

When: 28th–30th July and 4th–6th August 2016
Venue: Georgian Theatre Royal, Victoria Road, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 4DW
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £6.50 to £12.50, available online at https://tickets.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk/ or ring the box office 01748 825252

http://www.richmond-ads.org.uk/
http://www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk/

5.6 REMINDER: MORT IN YORK (JULY)

We Are Theatre will be presenting their production of Mort in July. Getting closer now...

When: 21st and 22nd June 2016
Venue: Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York YO31 8TA
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £10 (£8 concessions), available from the York Theatre Royal box office (phone 01904 623568). For group bookings, contact wearetheatre@googlemail.com or ring 07521 364107

www.wearetheatre.co.uk

5.7 REMINDER: CARPE JUGULUM IN SLOUGH (JULY)

Colnbrook Amateur Stage Theatre aka CAST will stage their production of the Stephen Briggs adaptation of Carpe Jugulum in July!

When: 13th-16th July 2016
Venue: CAST, Colnbrook Village Hall,. Vicarage Way, Colnbrook, Berks SL3 0RF. Phone 07944 215487 (Secretary)
Time: 7.45pm all shows
Tickets: TBA. Normally £8 (£6 concessions), eventually available online at http://www.cast-online.org.uk/box-office/

http://www.cast-online.org.uk/

5.8 REMINDER: MORT IN READING (JULY)

Theale Green School will be staging Stephen Briggs' adaptation of Mort in July!

When: 13th July
Venue: Greek Theatre, Bradfield College, Bradfield, Reading, Berks RG7 6BZ (13th)
Time: 7pm
Tickets: £7 (£5 concessions), available to reserve from Nicki Cowen via email: ncowen@thealegreen.w-berks.sch.uk

5.9 REMINDER : LORDS AND LADIES IN NEWCASTLE (JULY)

The People's Theatre, "the premier amateur theatre company in the North of England", will stage their production of Lords and Ladies, adapted by Irana Brown, in July. "We're no strangers to Discworld and this funny and fast-moving adaptation of (the much-missed) Sir Terry's fourteenth novel sees the welcome return of Granny Weatherwax and Nanny Ogg to our stage. It promises to be lots of fun, so book early to avoid disappointment!"

When: 19th-23rd July 2016
Venue: People's Theatre, Stephenson Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 5QF. Phone: (0191) 275 9875
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £13.50 (£11 concessions). Box Office on 0191 265 5020 or email tickets.peoplestheatre@email.com. (Box Office is open weekdays 10.30am–1pm and Mon, Wed, Fri evenings 7.30–8.30pm). To book online, go to the inappropriately-named Intelligent Tickets, and be prepared to jump through a truly daft series of hoops:
http://www.intelligent-tickets.co.uk/index.php?th=pe

http://bit.ly/1lMl3Vj

5.10 REMINDER: GOING POSTAL IN CARDIFF (AUGUST)

The Monstrous Productions Theatre Company, who specialise in staging Pratchett plays and have so far raised – and donated – over £18,000 for Alzheimer's Research UK, are taking on the Ankh-Morpork Post Office for their next project!

"Moist Von Lipwig is a conman, forger and all-round confidence trickster, always on the look out for the next big game. Until one of his many personas has a run-in with the law and is hanged to within a inch of his life. And so begins the biggest game of all. He must restore Ankh-Morpork's defunct post office to it's former glory or else have a second shot at dancing the hemp fandango. On his side he has the Disc's oldest junior postman, Stanley ('ask me about pins!') and his pottery probation officer, Mr Pump. It's a mighty task, made mightier by competition from Ankh-Morpork's newest technology, the Clacks, and its piratical owner, Reacher Gilt."

When: 17th-20th August 2016
Venue: The Gate Arts Centre, Keppoch Street, Roath, Cardiff CF24 3JW
Time: 7.30pm evening shows (doors open at 7pm); 2.30pm matinee on the 20th (doors open 2pm)
Tickets: £8 (£6 concessions), available from http://7889269b08cd.fikket.com/ – also by email (monstrousproductions2012@gmail.com, pay by cheque or bank transfer)

Also, if you are local to the Cardiff area (or fond of travelling), the Monstrous company works to a great model: "We announce auditions for upcoming productions about a month before casting. We have a laid back audition process and people travel from all over the South Wales area. No experience is necessary, our only stipulation is that members must be over 18 and younger than 70. Membership is £10 per year. We rehearse twice a week over the course of a few months, with some social activities thrown in."

http://www.monstrousptc.com/

5.11 REMINDER: GUARDS! GUARDS! IN BRISBANE (OCTOBER)

The Brisbane Arts Theatre takes on yet another Discworld play later this year, in October and November.

"From the legendary author Sir Terry Pratchett comes the eighth novel in the Discworld series and first featuring the Ankh-Morpork City Watch. Long believed extinct, a superb specimen, The Noble Dragon has appeared in Discworld's greatest city. Not only does this unwelcome visitor have a nasty habit of charbroiling everything in its path, in rather short order it is crowned King (it is a noble dragon, after all). With some help from an orangutan librarian, it is the task of the Night Watch to overpower the secret brotherhood and restore order to the kingdom in this fantastical Discworld adventure."

When: 8th October through 12th November 2016
Venue: Brisbane Arts Theatre, 210 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane, QLD 4000. Phone: (07) 3369 2344
Time: 8pm Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays (except 10th November); 6.30pm Sundays (16th & 30th October)
Tickets: Adults $31, Concession $25, Group 10+ $25, Group 75+ $20, Student Rush $10 (10 mins before curtain), available online at http://bit.ly/1QGbXBF

http://www.artstheatre.com.au/show/guardsguards

5.12 NEW: WYRD SISTERS IN BOLTON, LANCS (MARCH 2017)

Bolton Little Theatre, "a vibrant amateur theatre company run by members" since 1931, will be presenting their production of Wyrd Sisters next March.

When: 6th – 11th March 2017
Venue: Bolton Little Theatre, Hanover Street, Bolton BL1 4TG
Time: 7.30pm
Tickets: £10 (Monday night 3 for 2 special), available at boltonlittletheatre.ticketsource.co.uk – group bookings of 10+ (£9) should be booked through the Box Office. "You can book at Bolton Little Theatre box office in person or by telephone on Monday night from 7.30 to 9pm and Friday mornings from 10.30 to 12 noon – no extra charge if paying by cash or cheque and you can book during the run of the plays or you can book online at boltonlittletheatre.ticketsource.co.uk ...credit card charges will apply. Tickets can be e-tickets (no charge) mobile phone ticket (50p) standard post (£1.50)."

http://www.boltonlittletheatre.co.uk/terry-pratchetts-wyrd-sisters/

5.13 STEPHEN BRIGGS: HOW TO STAGE AN OFFICIAL PRATCHETT PLAY

Here be some samples of his advice and instructions. But do go read the page itself, because it has all sorts of important things on it. And a scorpion pit. No, really:

"We have licensed hundreds of productions in over twenty countries and, although, by and large, everything works on a fairly informal and good-natured basis, we are dealing with material which is copyright and with areas from which some people earn all or part of their living, so there do have to be rules. It's the lesson of bitter experience; for every fifty groups that are happy to 'play the game', there are one or two who'll 'try it on'. If you're in any doubt about anything – ask first! At the foot of this page (just below the scorpions!) is a Dropbox link to the info about, and application to stage, the seven of my plays which I administer for the Orangutan Foundation... Discussions are also in hand to publish my dramatisations of Lords & Ladies and Terry Pratchett: the Shakespeare Codex...

"All requests for permission to licence amateur dramatic or professional productions in English or in translation of Terry Pratchett's novels adapted by Stephen Briggs, and published by Corgi and Oxford University Press, should be sent to me.

"Other adaptations of Terry Pratchett's novels are published by Methuen Drama (part of the Bloomsbury Group), and by Samuel French, details of which follow. For requests to perform the Methuen titles: Going Postal, Jingo, Monstrous Regiment, Night Watch, Interesting Times, The Fifth Elephant & The Truth and for their application form and contact details, see http://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/company/permissions/permissions-performance-rights/

"The Samuel French publications are
Making Money: https://samuelfrench-london.co.uk/books/making-money (adapted by Stephen Briggs)
Carpe Jugulum: https://samuelfrench-london.co.uk/books/carpe-jugulum (adapted by Stephen Briggs)
Maskerade: https://samuelfrench-london.co.uk/books/maskerade (adapted by Stephen Briggs)
Lords and Ladies: https://samuelfrench-london.co.uk/books/lords-and-ladies (adapted by Irana Brown)
Samuel French control the amateur dramatic rights in these plays in the English language, but for professional stage rights and translation rights contact me. To contact Samuel French, see https://samuelfrench-london.co.uk/contact

"If you were thinking of writing your own adaptation of any of Sir Terry's novels, please contact me immediately – before starting any work, or committing any financial or other resource. There is now much more TV and movie interest in Terry's works, and this greatly complicates the previously fairly liberal access enjoyed by amateur groups. The rights to Terry's works are closely controlled, and you should not assume permission will be forthcoming. If you fail to get permission up front, your production will be halted – regardless of the stage it has reached..."

To read the full page, go to http://www.stephenbriggs.com/terry-pratchett

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06) ACTION REPLAY: SIR PTERRY CHATS WITH JACQUELINE SIMPSON (2010)

Here be the transcript of a conversation between Sir Pterry and folklorist Jacqueline Simpson at the 2010 UK Discworld Convention. The recording was done by Katie Brown and Julie Sutton, so I imagine one or both of them did the transcribing. Some extracts:

"TP: I'm interested in the history of London which is absolutely superb because it's impossible to believe things that happen in the biggest, richest city in the world, in Georgian England all the way up to the death of Victoria. That kind of interest is also a kind of folklore because many of the things that happened then get an aura of folklore about them, and it turns out that it isn't folklore. Have you heard the song Knees up Mother Brown?

"JS: I believe so. And so small that it became possible to imagine that she had been turned into minced meat and put in a tin. Right, did you know that Knees up Mother Brown was actually originally based on the terrible murder of Mrs. Josephine Baxter in Bow in 1870, and she was not only killed but dismembered by her husband? Rather similar, have you heard of Sweet Fanny Adams and what happened to Sweet Fanny Adams? Well she was chopped up, apparently by her boyfriend, was that the case?

"TP: In fact what I just told you about Knees up Mother Brown is entirely an invention, but the point is, it's how I work... it's very easy as it were to make up folklore, I would hesitate to say that's because it's made up anyway... I was reading about the folklore of Ireland and I'd got hooked on Lord of the Rings, so you'd read anything that had runes in it or fairies or anything. I was coming across folklore which was really very interesting and possibly that might have been where the whole thing really began. You start off with the fantasy and then you find out that the fantasy may be not exactly as unreal as you thought and that becomes very exciting that there are people alive at that time who knew people who had known , the Witch of County Clare, around which a folklore has gathered rather similar to that to Robin Hood, who I suspect was a real person but who wound around himself, because of the way folklore works, tales of other bandits at the same time. That really fascinated me. Going through the book there's a type of folkloric creature called the Phouka, which can take many shapes. And there was one story that was passed on by a farm labourer who was, early evening, digging away at his potatoes, and he heard this sizzle and he saw coming across the uneven landscape, something like a carpet but made out of silver, and as it passed over the humps and hollows in the ground it took the shape of them. And when I read that a chill went down my spine because I thought, this sounds electrical, this sounds like something real. Fairies, that sounds like something Guinness, about three pints of Guinness I would have thought. But the sizzle as it travelled, I couldn't help thinking, ‘that was something'. I'd loved to have known what it was..."

and:

"JS: One of the things I like about folklore in Discworld, is that it's not only rural, ok it's all over Lancre, it's all over the Chalk, but you also have urban folklore in Ankh-Morpork itself. You have children's games, you have beliefs that have sort of worn down and got distorted but are still there.

"TP: The rhyme that I made up for Wintersmith... 'Iron enough to make a nail', was it ‘phosphor enough to make a match'?

"JS: You asked me about that at the time and I've never found a source for it, but like you I'm convinced that it was real or at any rate something very like it was real. I think I remember it being in a sort of science for kids book back in the ‘30's.

"TP: I know I invented the last two lines 'Hands enough to hold a child'.

"JS: Oh yes, that wouldn't have been, no, that's you, definitely you.

"TP: Ah, and what was the other one, 'Time enough for love', or was it 'Heart enough for love'?

"JS: 'Heart enough for love,' I think.

"TP: And that's why the Wintersmith couldn't quite make a man because he didn't understand the last two lines.

"JS: When I was saying about the folklore in Ankh-Morpork, I was thinking of things like when Vimes goes back to Cockbill Street, is it, where he was brought up, and sees the kids playing hopscotch?

"TP: Oh yes, in the school yard, if you were unlucky it was your name as well! But in the running gutters of Ankh-Morpork they play pooh sticks.

"JS: Yes, I loved that! That was one of the occasions when I disgracefully laughed for ten minutes in a public place..."

For the full transcript, go to http://bit.ly/1WM8I4d

[Editor's note: the entire piece is a good read!]

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07) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS: UPDATES AND REMINDERS

The Broken Drummers, "London's Premier Unofficially Official Discworld Group" (motto "Nil percussio est"), meets next on Monday 4th July 2016 at the Monkey Puzzle, 30 Southwick Street, London, W2 1JQ. For more information, go to http://brokendrummers.org/ or email BrokenDrummers@gmail.com or nicholls.helen@yahoo.co.uk

*

Canberra, Australia's Discworld fan group is Drumknott's Irregulars: "We are a newly established Terry Pratchett & Discworld social group in Canberra called Drumknott's Irregulars. The group is open to all, people from interstate and overseas are welcome, and our events will not be heavily themed. Come along to dinner for a chat and good company. We welcome people all all fandoms (and none) and we would love to see you at one of our events, even if you're just passing through. Please contact us via Facebook (_https://www.facebook.com/groups/824987924250161/_) or Google Groups (_https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/drumknotts-irregulars_) or join us at our next event."

*

"The Gathering of the Loonies (Wincanton chapter)" is a public Facebook meeting group: "This group, by request of Jo in Bear will continue to be used for future unofficial (not run by the Emporium) fan Gatherings in Wincanton. Look here for information." [Editor's note: this is an active group. If you use Facebook, it may be worth joining!]

https://www.facebook.com/groups/373578522834654/

*

The Pratchett Partisans are a fan group who meet monthly at either Brisbane or Indooroopilly to "eat, drink and chat about all things Pratchett. We hold events such as Discworld dinners, games afternoons, Discworld photo scavenger hunts. We also attend opening night at Brisbane Arts Theatre's Discworld plays." The Partisans currently have about 200 members who meet at least twice a month, usually in Brisbane.

For more info about their next meetup, join up at https://www.facebook.com/groups/pratchettpartisans/ or contact Ula directly at uwilmott@yahoo.com.au

*

The City of Small Gods is a group for fans in Adelaide and South Australia.

"We have an established Terry Pratchett & Discworld fan group in Adelaide called The City of Small Gods, which is open to anyone who would like to come - you don't have to live in Adelaide or even South Australia, or even be a Discworld fan, but that's mostly where our events will be held, and we do like discussing Pratchett's works. Our (semi-) regular meetings are generally held on the last Thursday of the month at a pub or restaurant in Adelaide. We have dinner at 6.30pm followed by games until 9pm. The games are usually shorter games like Pairs, Sushi Go, or Tiny Epic Defenders, with the occasional Werewolf session, as these are the best sort of games that work in a pub setting. Every few months, we have a full day's worth of board games at La Scala Cafe, 169 Unley Rd, Unley in the function room starting at 10am. In addition, we will occasionally have other events to go and see plays by Unseen Theatre Company, book discussions on Terry's latest, craft, chain maille or costuming workshops or other fun social activities."

The next Games Day will be held on 24th July; the next Monthly Dinner and Games at the Caledonian Hotel, on 28th July. For more info, go to www.cityofsmallgods.org.au

*

The Broken Vectis Drummers meet next on Thursday 7th July 2016 (probably) from 7.30pm at The Castle pub in Newport, Isle of Wight. For more info and any queries, contact broken_vectis_drummers@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Wincanton Omnian Temperance Society (WOTS) next meets on Friday 5th August 2016 (probably) at Wincanton's famous Bear Inn from 7pm onwards. "Visitors and drop-ins are always welcome!"

*

The Northern Institute of the Ankh-Morpork and District Society of Flatalists, a Pratchett fangroup, has been meeting on a regular basis since 2005 but is now looking to take in some new blood (presumably not in the non-reformed Uberwald manner). The Flatalists normally meet at The Narrowboat Pub in Victoria Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire, to discuss "all things Pratchett" as well as having quizzes and raffles. Details of future meetings are posted on the Events section of the Discworld Stamps forum:

http://www.discworldstamps.co.uk/forum/

*

Sydney Drummers (formerly Drummers Downunder) meet next on Monday 4th July 2016 at 6.30pm (probably) in Sydney at 3 Wise Monkeys, 555 George Street, Sydney,2000. For more information, contact Sue (aka Granny Weatherwax): kenworthys@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Treacle Mining Corporation, formerly known as Perth Drummers, meets next on Monday 4th July 2016 (probably) from 5.30pm at Carpe Cafe, 526 Murray Street, Perth, Western Australia. For details follow Perth Drummers on Twitter @Perth_Drummers or join their Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Perth.Drummers/ – or message Alexandra Ware directly at <alexandra.ware@gmail.com>

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08) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS

8.1 GOODIES FROM DISCWORLD.COM

* The BU t-shirt!

"So, thinking about heading to Fourecks on your Summer break? We have everything you need to arrive in style and stay 'cool' in the sun! For this design in classic fit we use 100% cotton, highest quality t-shirts which are 205gsm in weight. They have self-fabric shoulder to shoulder taping to maintain shape. The image is applied using a hard-wearing Superflex Vinyl. White on Royal Blue. For the ladies skinny fits we use high quality 190gsm weight t-shirts. They have taped neck & shoulder to maintain shape and double stitched hems. Material 96% cotton/4% elastane single jersey for comfort and shape retention with shaped seams for a feminine fit. The image is applied using a hard-wearing Superflex Vinyl."

Round-neck BU t-shirts are available in all sizes from Small to Extra Extra Large; Ladies Skinni Fit are only available in Small (UK 8-10) or Extra Large (UK 18).

Each Bugarup University tee is priced at £15. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://discworld.com/products/bags-clothing/bugarup-university-t-shirt-white-royal-blue/

* The BU hoodie!

"For this design we use AWDis Hoodies which are 280gsm in weight. They have a double-fabric hood with self-coloured draw cord, front pouch pocket, ribbed hem & cuffs and set in sleeves. Twin needle stitching detail to armholes, hems & cuffs. 80% cotton / 20% polyester."

The BU hoodie is available in sizes from Small (36" chest) to Extra Extra Large (50"/52" chest) and is priced at £28. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://discworld.com/products/bags-clothing/bugarup-university-hooded-top-white-royal-blue

* The Element Octarine collection!

Element 117 has been officially named, and neither Discworld fans not Motorhead fans got their wish. But for those of you who either 1) remain in the Roundworld equivalent of a certain river in Djelibeybi or 2) are in possession of the healthy sense of the ridiculous that every Discworld aficionado should have, here's your chance to own some very special items...

The Octarine 117 button badge. Priced at £1 each. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://discworld.com/products/badges/148/

The Octarine 117 coaster. Priced at £2.50 each. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://discworld.com/products/coaster/octarine/

The Octarine 117 magnet. Priced at £2 each. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://discworld.com/products/coaster/octarine/

The Octarine 117 chopping board. Priced at £15 each. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://discworld.com/products/gimlets-kitchen/discworld-chopping-board-copy/

* Gorgeous postcards!

The Check Mort postcard! "Created as a part of the Terry Pratchett Memorial goodie bag, this postcard features artwork painted by Paul Kidby to commemorate the life of Sir Terry Pratchett."

Each Check Mort postcard is priced at £1.50. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://discworld.com/products/artwork/check-mort-postcard/

The Raising Steam postcard! "Created as a part of the Terry Pratchett Memorial goodie bag, this postcard features a photo of Terry taken on a tour during the promotion of Raising Steam."

Each Raising Steam postcard is priced at £1.50. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://discworld.com/products/artwork/5126-2/

8.2 GOODIES FROM THE DISCWORLD EMPORIUM

* The Summoning Dark necklace!

"Solid silver Summoning Dark pendant and chain - a precious gift for Vimes fans! Wear your affinity with the demon of darkness and Sir Samuel Vimes with our beautifully crafted supernatural symbol from Terry Pratchett's bestselling Discworld novels Thud! and Snuff. Hand cast in solid silver and stamped with the official silver + Discworld hallmarks. Presented in a Discworld Emporium gift box."

Each Summoning Dark pendant and chain is priced at £35.00. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://www.discworldemporium.com/summoning-dark-necklace

* New Royal Bank of Ankh-Morpork stamps!

"Featuring artwork by guest artist David Wyatt, The Royal Bank of Ankh-Morpork $1 issues comprise two designs; chairman of the bank and top dollar Dog, Mr. Fusspot, and the elegant fiscal facade of the Royal Bank itself. Both issues are available to collect as a set of two individual stamps, or on one beautiful whole sheet. Stamp measures 47 x 32mm, Sheet measures 275 x 165mm. Spot the sport! One stamp on every sheet contains a 'deliberate' mistake or variation - only included on whole sheets or in lucky LBEs."

A set of two single stamps (RBA-M building and Chairman Fusspot) is priced at £1.60, and a sheet of 20 at £12.80. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://www.discworldemporium.com/royal-bank-one-dollar

* A bag of Ankh-Morpork money!

"Treat yourself to a sausage-inna-bun or two with an authentic bag of five half-dollars from the streets and pockets of Discworld's mercantile metropolis. Featuring the profile of Ankh-Morpork's esteemed tyrant Lord Havelock Vetinari, with Morporkia on the flip side, each coin has been hand-cast and individually worked to achieve a suitably distressed appearance with an antique patina. Lead-free pewter, each coin has a diameter or 29mm."

Each bag of A-M half-dollars is priced at £10. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://www.discworldemporium.com/hogswatch-gift-shop/DiscworldCoins

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09) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE

This is an extended comment – a blogpost in itself – left by "Anne" in the Hubward Ho! blog's comments section of their Hogfather pot:

"Losing teeth is a physical reality, but adults create a fantasy structure around the process to...do what, exactly? Add an element of magic and whimsy to childhood? Revel in the absurdities children of a certain age will believe in? And why, exactly, would a child who knows that the Tooth Fairy is not real grow up to be a parent who perpetuates the myth? ... For me, even as a child, the Tooth Fairy seemed a particularly nonsensical entity. Why take teeth? Why leave money? Why the facade of fairy at all – I would have been just as likely to believe that my teeth turned into money through some kind of pillow-triggered alchemy. We (meaning "humans") build relationships through shared experience. Each family has its own stories and traditions, but the Tooth Fairy enforces the relationships among people within the cultures that go through that shared ritual. Even if you, as a parent, decide to forgo the trappings of the Tooth Fairy in your family, your child will come home from school one day with the learned story from her friends, and no amount of rational explanation will be enough to justify why Jeremy got $5 for a lost tooth and she didn't...

"Hogfather is a book about children and belief and the value of that belief. Without belief in the Hogfather, the sun will not rise. Believing in things like Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy prepare us, as Death says, to believe in the greater myths of Truth and Mercy. Like the current incarnation of Santa Claus, the modern incarnation of the Tooth Fairy is cheery packaging over an older tradition that no longer matches with our modern sensibilities. Early Norse records include references to a 'tooth-fee' (thanks, Wikipedia!), where a child's first lost tooth was exchanged for money. Other practices included burning or burying a child's lost teeth to protect her. In Northern European cultures, the loss of baby teeth is marked by this kind of small ceremony. You don't just leave lost teeth lying around – they're special. They have power. These are the traditions that Pratchett plays off of in Hogfather, combining the childish trappings of the Tooth Fairy's realm with the darker magic at the heart of Teatime's plan. I would argue that there is a metaphor to be found in the role of the tooth-money exchange and its relationship to belief.

"Children do not only go through a physical transition into adulthood, but also a cognitive one. There are all sorts of studies about how children think and how that thinking changes as they age. Infants can't recognize themselves in a mirror – 'Theory of Mind' refers to the cognitive development a child goes through to understand that she is an individual mind, and, importantly, that other people have their own individual minds that are not the same as hers... In Western studies, the last big changes in this development take place between third and fifth grade (ages 7 to 10). Which, interestingly, is around when children lose their baby teeth. In the absence of revelation from an older sibling or schoolmate, children will 'grow out' of believing in childhood myths. They simply are no longer capable of thinking in the way that they did when they were younger. The exchange of teeth for money is a cultural metaphor of the exchange of a child's perspective on the world to an adult's. But, as we see in Hogfather, the teeth, the child's perspective, is still powerful, still valuable. It is the foundation upon which we understand ourselves and our relationship to the world, even if it is in contrast to what we once believed. A full Theory of Mind may be the end goal, but it is only through working through the process that one gets there. And that, I believe, is why we grow up to be parents who tell our children of the Tooth Fairy – we know it is not true, but we also know that children need it to be true, if only for a while."

http://hubwardho.com/2016/06/14/baby-teeth-the-value-of

...and the post itself:

"General sentiment seems to be that Hogfather is a delightful comic romp through Yuletide tropes. I've also heard it remarked that it's a wonderfully polished book, and I can't disagree: note, for instance, how the Bogeyman that fuels the novel's twist appears first on page one. For a rhet/lit guy, that's deliciously well crafted storytelling. But what I like best about Hogfather is its philosophical complexity, class critique, and examination of myth, belief, and justice. The book is so much more than a jovial winter comedy. In fact, I would also tender the notion that Hogfather may be the, or one of the, axial turning points in the whole Discworld series, and that its importance to the saga has to do, in fact, with how it approaches the idea of myth. So let me ask the Big Question for today's entry: What does myth, legend, and deep history look like when your characters walk in the grass under sun alongside the myths themselves – gods, demons, and wizards? It seems to me that the question has implications for what kind of universe the Disc is... Pratchett gives only hints about the Discworld's mythic past – The Colour of Magic, The Light Fantastic, and Sourcery tell us a little about a world of surplus magic, ice giants, wizard wars, and common people bearing the brunt of the fallout. In terms of meta-history, these stories are not terribly concerned with a real-world historical past so much as they are with a mytho-fantastic one that includes pulps, swords-and-sorcery flicks, and a host of high fantasy novels... From the first page of Hogfather, Pratchett begins to revise his mytho-history. Immediately, we get the ice times, when there were only small people and not children. We get the Bogeyman. We get seasonal pagan rites about the sun. We get the sober admonishment that all stories are, at root, about blood – even when the fact has been forgotten... Hogfather is the first book since Sourcery to reconfigure the history of this world significantly. It's a palimpsest for the latter half of Discworld. The ice times weren't just an epoch of giants – they were the time in which common people struggled to survive against nature itself. Likewise, the recent past wasn't just an age of barbarians or wizardly wars – it was a time in which, again, common people struggled to see another spring. More so than Sourcery's high fantasy past, and with more finesse than the tonal mismatches of Reaper Man and Soul Music, Hogfather's grim, hardscrabble mytho-history encapsulates the kinds of stories Pratchett is telling at this point..."

https://hubwardho.files.wordpress.com/2016/02/hogfather-5.jpg

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10) ROUNDWORLD TALES: IS CATSUP 5p EXTRA?

It seems certain Discworld dwellers aren't the only ones fond of a meal of tasty rat:

"On 7 March every year, in a remote village in the hills of north-east India, the Adi tribe celebrates Unying-Aran, an unusual festival with rats as the culinary centrepiece. One of the Adi's favourite dishes is a stew called bule-bulak oying, made with the rat's stomach, intestines, liver, testes, foetuses, all boiled together with tails and legs plus some salt, chili and ginger. Rodents of all kind are welcomed in this community, from the household rats often seen around the house to the wild species that dwell in the forest. The rat's tail and feet are particularly appreciated for their taste, says Victor Benno Meyer-Rochow, at Oulu University, Finland, who interviewed several members of the Adi tribe for a recent study into rats as a food resource. Rodent meat is the most delicious and best meat they can imagine The answers he got revealed a different view of the pesky pests. The respondents told Meyer-Rochow that rodent meat “is the most delicious and best meat they can imagine. 'I was told: "No party; no happiness if there is no rat available: to honour an important guest, visitor or relative, to celebrate a special occasion; it can only be done if rats are on the menu."'... Little is known about when or how the Adi people developed their taste for rats, but Meyer-Rochow is certain it is a long-held tradition, and not formed due to a lack of other choices of game. Plenty of animals such as deer, goat and buffalo still roam the forests surrounding the village. These tribes simply prefer the taste of rodents. '[They] assured me that "nothing beats the rat",' he says..."

Apparently rat is also, or has been, a favourite food in many other Roundworld places: in parts of Cameroon; among the Dalit caste in India; in China during the Tang dynasty (7th through 10th century); in areas of the south Pacific including New Zealand; and, it seems, quite often in Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, Thailand, Ghana and Vietnam, according to the International Rice Research Institute.

"In Nigeria, for instance, the African giant rat is a favourite among all ethnic groups, says Mojisola Oyarekua, from the University of Science and Technology Ifaki-Ekiti (Usti) Nigeria. “It is regarded as a special delicacy and it is more expensive than equivalent weight of cow meat or fish..."

Includes many iconographs. You have been warned!

http://www.bbc.com/future/story/20151207-the-countries-where-rats-are-on-the-menu

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11) IMAGES OF THE MONTH

A whole load of witchery – the Colnbrook Amateur Stage Theatre's coven, ready for their July production of Carpe Jugulum:
http://bit.ly/298pCqm

A small but perfectly formed – and wonderfully whimsical – photo of Sir Pterry at the TCD Science Gallery, from the Irish Times article above (item 4.2):
http://bit.ly/29cVSI3

The Check Mort postcard. So beautiful. Buy some! (See item 8.1 above):
http://discworld.com/management/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/checkmort.png

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12) CLOSE

In The Independent, a cheerful "top ten" list of Shakespeare adaptations includes Wyrd Sisters, of course: "Wyrd Sisters, Terry Pratchett's sixth Discworld novel, throws the same three plays, Macbeth, Hamlet and Lear, 'into a cauldron and stirs, with the Bard reimagined as a Dwarf', says Tom Joyce." The list is worth reading, and can be seen at http://ind.pn/1Y0GjYY

And that's the lot for June. Take care, and we'll see you next month!

– Annie Mac

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