WOSSNAME

Wossname
Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
July-August 2021 (Volume 24, Issue er um maybe 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 Technomancer: Jason Parlevliet
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) NIGEL PLANER AND THE UNABRIDGED AUDIOS OF DISCWORLD
05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
07) DISCWORLD MERCH FOR HOGSWATCH
08) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
09) CLOSE

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01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH

"I'm afraid the BBC owns the merchandising rights to the Good Omens TV series and can do things like this."
– Neil Gaiman, when informed that Auntie had gone over his head and trademarked the word "ineffable" in his name

"Personally I'm against it, but the world isn't going to just save itself, is it? If David and I can manage to not fall out too badly this time it may even have a chance of getting finished."
– Michael "Aziraphale" Sheen, somewhat in character

"The return of Good Omens is great news for me, personally. As I get to work with Michael again, and I get to say Neil's wonderful words once more. It's probably less good for the universe as it almost certainly means there will be some fresh existential threat to its existence to deal with, but, you know – swings and roundabouts."
– David "Crowley" Tennant, likewise

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02) LETTER FROM YOUR EDITOR

Wossname finally returns... ish.

This issue is somewhat truncated but I will continue to do my best to keep the news, views and reviews coming on through the next year and beyond, as long as there *is* fresh Pratchett news – and to my great delight, the world seems to have forgotten to forget The Author, even in the face of a pandemic that drags on and on. Discworld plays are cautiously creeping back into the spotlight (including, at last, the premiere of Stephen Briggs' "Murder in Ankh-Morpork" this month!), shops are reopening (though not the Discworld Emporium, which remains as an online entity only), and people are beginning to gather together again (apart from those who are permanently shielding, like your Editor). And, of course, The Author's work lives on in different media, with new screen productions of The Amazing Maurice, The Abominable Snowbaby, and Good Omens all in progress.

Hogswatch is a-coming, at least the Roundworld answer to it, so there are some features on Discworld merchandise to consider for presents.See item 7!

The Big Book of Modern Fantasy, an 896-page monster comprising almost one hundred stories by famous authors, has just won the 2021 World Fantasy Award for best anthology. It offers a wide variety of famous authors – including Sit Pterry, of course! Published by Vintage, edited by Ann and Jeff Vandermeer, and available at all reputable booksellers (which is why, as usual, your Editor is not providing an Amazon link). https://bookriot.com/2021-world-fantasy-awards/

What does the word "ineffable" mean to you? According to the Oxford English Dictionary, it means "Too great to be expressed in words; unutterable, indefinable, indescribable". And now it has a new meaning, apparently: "an ordinary word trademarked by the BBC for commercial purposes relating to Good Omens merchandising and as a further slap in the face to the very fans who made the Good Omens miniseries the worldwide hit it became". And Auntie didn't even have the honesty to trademark it under its own name! See item 3.1c for details.

You'll have seen last week's special announcement regarding Nigel "Mr Sideney" Planer's crowdfunding appeal for his new book "Jeremiah Bourne in Time", a science fiction comedy with many Pratchett references (and touches!). Funding is continuing to mount up, but the total isn't there yet. A reminder on the Wossname mirror site, complete with iconographs:

https://wossname.dreamwidth.org/82520.html

I'll apologise ahead of time for any proofreading or editing slip-ups I've made, as the pandemic has eaten what's left of my brain and among other things I now find myself thinking every day except Wednesday is Saturday.

And now, on with the show...

– Annie Mac, Editor

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03) ODDS AND SODS

3.0 AMAZING MAURICE NEWS

3.0a IMAGE REVEALS...

Possibly the biggest Narrativia announcement page yet – certainly the longest!

"Sky today reveals First Look character images and teaser poster for The Amazing Maurice, a Sky Original to mark the 20th Anniversary of the book by Sir Terry Pratchett. This animated family film is based on the wildly popular Discworld ® novels and will star Hugh Laurie (Avenue 5) as Maurice, Emilia Clarke (Game of Thrones) as Malicia, David Thewlis (Wonder Woman) as Boss Man, Himesh Patel (Yesterday) as Keith, Gemma Arterton (The King’s Man) as Peaches, Hugh Bonneville (Downton Abbey) as The Mayor, David Tennant (Doctor Who) as Dangerous Beans, Ariyon Bakare (His Dark Materials) as Darktan, Rob Brydon (Roald & Beatrix: The Tale of the Curious Mouse) as The Pied Piper, Julie Atherton (Avenue Q) as Nourishing and YouTuber Joe Sugg as Sardines. In The Amazing Maurice, a Sky Original, Maurice is a streetwise ginger cat who comes up with a money-making scam by befriending a group of self-taught talking rats. When Maurice and the rodents reach the stricken town of Bad Blintz, they meet a bookworm called Malicia and their little con soon goes down the drain...
The Amazing Maurice, a Sky Original will be released on Sky Cinema in 2022. The film will also be available on streaming service NOW via the Sky Cinema Membership..."

To read the entire announcement and see the images, go to: https://narrativia.com/maurice.html

[Editor's note: could the artists have tried any harder to create a character that looks *any less* like Maurice as described in the novel?! Instead of the scruffy street fighter we know and love – essentially a spiritual cousin to Greebo – viewers will be offered a blobby, boofy-haired, self-satisfied creature that barely looks like a cat at all and at best resembles some kind of super-bloated Garfield. I can't speak for other readers here but I for one am saddened by this aesthetic choice, and so is everyone else I've spoken to about this so far.]

3.0b ...AND MERCH...

"Cantilever Media is launching a consumer products campaign for its upcoming Sky original animated feature film, “The Amazing Maurice,” produced with Ulysses Filmproduktion in co-production with Sky. Two licensors have been secured: Titan and Forbidden Planet... Titan Books has come on board as publishing partner to produce a hardback coffee table art book, 'The Amazing Maurice: The Art of the Film,' which will be released to coincide with the movie launch in the U.K. Working in collaboration with the filmmakers, the book will include concept art, sketches, storyboards, behind-the-scenes photography and interviews with cast and crew. It is being written by Los Angeles-based author and journalist Ramin Zahed, editor in chief, Animation Magazine. Specialist retailer, Forbidden Planet, is also partnering with Cantilever to launch a product range including adult and children’s T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, scarves and an extensive range of gift and home product and accessories..."

https://bit.ly/3qw2PN7

3.1 GOOD OMENS 2 NEWS

3.1a NEIL GAIMAN'S HA'PETH

From his blogpost:

"So, once Good Omens the TV series had been released by Amazon and the BBC, to global acclaim, many awards and joy, Rob Wilkins (Terry's representative on Earth) and I had the conversation with the BBC and Amazon about doing some more. And they got very excited. We talked to Michael Sheen and David Tennant about doing some more. They also got very excited. We told them a little about the plot. They got even more excited. I'd been a fan of John Finnemore's for years, and had had the joy of working with him on a radio show called With Great Pleasure, where I picked passages I loved, had amazing readers read them aloud and talked about them... I asked John if he'd be willing to work with me on writing the next round of Good Omens, and was overjoyed when he said yes. We have some surprise guest collaborators too. And Douglas Mackinnon is returning to oversee the whole thing with me. So that's the plan. We've been keeping it secret for a long time (mostly because otherwise my mail and Twitter feeds would have turned into gushing torrents of What Can You Tell Us About It? long ago) but we are now at the point where sets are being built in Scotland (which is where we're shooting, and more about filming things in Scotland soon), and we can't really keep it secret any longer. There are so many questions people have asked about what happened next (and also, what happened before) to our favourite Angel and Demon. Here are, perhaps, some of the answers you've been hoping for. As Good Omens continues, we will be back in Soho, and all through time and space, solving a mystery which starts with one of the angels wandering through a Soho street market with no memory of who they might be, on their way to Aziraphale's bookshop..."

To read the whole post (includes some photos), go to:

https://bit.ly/3C9cFqo

Also, from a recent interview for Empire magazine:

"I am so happy to be back here on the streets of Soho, watching, every day, the glorious performances of Michael Sheen and David Tennant. I miss having Terry Pratchett’s genius, but it does feel like we are still all walking around inside his head,” says Gaiman. “It’s been an absolute pleasure to have the brilliant John Finnemore co-write this season’s story shenanigans with me, and to work with director and my co-showrunner Douglas Mackinnon as he steers the ship, along with our astonishing crew, who have returned to do it again.

“In this season we get to have new adventures with old friends, to solve some extremely mysterious mysteries, and we encounter some entirely new humans (living, dead, and otherwise), angels, and demons. We were lucky in the first season to have so many outstanding actors taking part, so I took pleasure in inviting people back, wherever we could, some in the roles they played originally, some in new parts written just for them."

3.1b FILMING NEWS AND PHOTOS

From Rachel LaBonte on ScreenRant:

"Neil Gaiman reveals the spirit of Terry Pratchett is alive and well on the set of Good Omens season 2 with a new picture. Together, Gaiman and Pratchett wrote the novel Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophesies of Agnes Nutter, a humorous take on an impending apocalypse involving an angel, a demon, and the misplaced Antichrist. It was turned into an Amazon miniseries back in 2019 and starred David Tennant and Michael Sheen in the lead roles. Though Pratchett and Gaiman had devised an idea for a sequel to Good Omens, it never became a reality... Because of all of that, fans were stunned by the news that Amazon's Good Omens is returning for another season. The surprise continuation was announced in June, with Gaiman quickly giving his blessing. In fact, Gaiman is once again writing the scripts for Good Omens season 2 along with John Finnemore. Tennant and Sheen are back as odd couple Crowley and Aziraphale; when the season begins, they'll have just begun settling back into life among humans when a mysterious visitor arrives... d Gaiman has already provided more than one peek behind the scenes. In his most recent post, he revealed Pratchett's famous hat and scarf are already on set, dangling from a chair with the late author's name. "Terry is here in spirit and hat and scarf," Gaiman wrote. "When we shoot in the bookshop we will hang them in there but for now they are here on his chair." Pratchett's hat and scarf could be seen in Aziraphale's bookshop in Good Omens season 1, and evidently they will still be there for season 2.

https://bit.ly/3wEyQnb

From Ray Flook on Bleeding Cool:

"Michael Sheen's Aziraphale and David Tennant's Crowley get back into their easy-living lives among the mortals populating London's Soho, But when an unexpected messenger presents them with a surprising mystery, the game's afoot once more for our duo. Over the past week or so, Sheen has been posting some fun looks at his return to angelic form. Now, we're getting a heart-warming reminder from Gaiman that Pratchett's spirit will always b a part of the adaptation, with his hat and scarf currently resting on his set chair but soon to have another home on-camera..."

https://bit.ly/3kshxkE

From Kaila Hale-Stern on The Mary Sue:

"This is a fitting return to Aziraphale and Crowley. They’re in Aziraphale’s beloved bookshop. Aziraphale has his tartan bowtie and a dainty new teacup (replacing his iconic angel-wing mug?) and appears somewhat alarmed at what he’s hearing. Next to him, Crowley is wearing his trademark sunglasses (which hide his yellow snake eyes) and is in his customary black clothing. Crowley’s reaction to the person (or entity) the pair are talking to is a toothy grin—or is that a menacing grimace? Either way, the picture captures both characters’ personalities pretty damn perfectly and plunges us straight back into the universe of Good Omens on television. What makes this go-round so exciting (and for some fans, trepidatious) is that while a good deal of the plot of the first season closely hewed to the events of the book, Good Omens 2 will be exploring new ground. A few elements from a planned but unwritten sequel by the late Terry Pratchett and Gaiman made their way into the first season, and we expect many will appear in the second..."

https://bit.ly/3ngkYg9

From Danielle Ryan for Slashfilm:

"The new season will dig deeper into the relationship between the fussy rare book dealer angel, Aziraphale, and his demonic, hedonistic best friend, Crowley. They've been close since the beginning of time, and now that they've fended off the apocalypse together, they have time to figure out their friendship. The press release says the two are "getting back to easy living amongst mortals in London's Soho when an unexpected messenger presents a surprising mystery." It seems there's no rest for the wicked or the celestial..."

https://bit.ly/3opPyTA

...and Jon Fuge adds, for TV Web:

"Though plot details are being kept under wraps, Neil Gaiman has since offered some insight into what audiences can expect, revealing that second season of Good Omens will once again take place in London, and begins "with an angel wandering through Soho, with no memory." Gaiman will once again serve as co-showrunner with Douglas Mackinnon and co-writer with John Finnemore. Good Omens 2 does not yet have a release date, and will come courtesy of Amazon Prime Video..."

https://bit.ly/3opzkK7

From Brooke Mondor, for Looper:

"When a fan on Tumblr asked Gaiman about a possible sequel for the "Good Omens" novel, he replied: "There is an entire novel plot that nobody knows about, and Terry was absolutely in favour of that story being told. Whether or not we do it depends on a lot of factors though. (Of which my time is a big one.)" On the one hand, it's entirely possible that Season 2 will consist of whatever Gaiman and Pratchett cooked up together before the latter's death in 2015. Of course, it's also likely that the "Good Omens" team is creating something entirely new for the next season..."

https://bit.ly/3krNUzB

3.1c THE (IN)EFFABLE BBC: YOU -ING WHAT???

Yes, the BBC has trademarked the word "ineffable" in the names of Neil Gaiman and Dunmanifestin Ltd. From Rich Johnston, founder of Bleeding Cool.com:

"'Ineffable' means something is so extraordinary or extreme that it cannot be described in words. It gained recent popularity in the book Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and the late Sir Terry Pratchett, especially when adapted by the BBC and Amazon Prime Video. The book and TV show make several references to God's unknowable and 'ineffable' plan for them all. Well, two things happened recently. Firstly the word 'ineffable' was trademarked under the names of Neil Gaiman and the company managing the estate of the late Sir Terry Pratchett, with both US and UK governments. And secondly, the BBC began taking down Etsy listings of people selling products using the word 'ineffable.' Neil Gaiman didn't seem to know anything about it. A couple of years ago, Gaiman had even stated, 'I'm glad that the artists and the Etsy folk have made Good Omens things. I just imagine a world in which we had cool things it would take more resources to make. Like a proper little burning Bentley.' Though Gaiman did provide some qualifications, saying, 'There are people out there selling stuff (like the posters) they didn't create in industrial quantities. And there are cool crafty people making art on eg, Etsy. I hope that the former will be discommoded while the latter will continue to make stuff with love.' Now, remember, this is about the registration and defence of a trademark, not a copyright. A business registers the right to trade under a mark, even if that was a preexisting word. No one can sell books if they call themselves Amazon these days. Or broadband with the word Virgin. Or medicine using the word Boots. And Neil Gaiman seems unaware that an 'ineffable' trademark was made in his name and that the BBC is enforcing it. It appears to have been actioned by Dunmanifestin, the company charged with looking after the estate of Sir Terry Pratchett. So, apparently, they have a plan to use that word in commerce. An ineffable plan, one might say... Etsy sellers have repeatedly reported that the BBC has legally challenged anyone selling anything on Etsy using the words Good Omens, Crowley, Aziraphale, or Ineffable, with the #ineffablehusbands getting the brunt of it."

https://bit.ly/3qvBIBL

[Note: the page includes and image of the Ineffable trademark registration document – Ed.]

3.2 YOUR FAVOURITE DISCWORLD NOVELS

From Discworld.com – remember this? – the results: "You may remember in August we polled all of our social media followers and asked, 'What is your favourite Discworld book of all time?' We included the Guards, Witches, Death, Unseen University, Tiffany Series plus all the standalones. Well, the results are in and here are your top eight..."

1. Night Watch
2. Witches Abroad
3. Hogfather
4. Going Postal
5. The Wee Free Men
6. Carpe Jugulum
7. Reaper Man
8. Monstrous Regiment

...and of course, should you need replacement copies and Hogswatch gift copies, all these, plus the rest of the Oeuvre of Pratchett, are available for purchase from https://discworld.com

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04) NIGEL PLANER AND THE UNABRIDGED AUDIOS OF DISCWORLD

Nigel Planer, beloved for his many acting roles and also known to Discworld fans as the man who has voiced almost half the Discworld unabridged audiobooks, has kindly given Wossname an exclusive look back at his work for the Pratchett oeuvre! Over to you, Mr P:

Listening back now to the Audio recordings I did of Discworld is strange. I don’t remember speaking so fast, too fast. But I suppose there was a lot to get through, my unabridged versions come out at an average of 9 or so hours each. It always seems to me they cut too much in abridged versions – almost two thirds of a book. Also, I don’t remember recording so many of them. I had to go online just now to find out exactly how many, and I counted 21.[1]

My favourites were Mort, Small Gods, Guards Guards... actually as I’m writing this I keep remembering others; Pyramids, Interesting Times, Witches Abroad. But to be honest they all merge into one experience in my head. They were recorded over a few years in the nineties, in a small studio on an industrial estate outside Oxford. The original publisher was named -rather unfortunately for them – Isis, after the river in Oxford. I would go up there and stay over a couple of nights – a book takes approximately two and half days. Long hours in a tiny booth, with my editor through the glass in the control room, using her eagle eye to make sure everything is getting down correctly and asking for retakes if necessary. Although in theory all you are doing is sitting and reading for eight hours, the process is physically tiring; the energy has to be up, the concentration total, and doing all the different voices generates more adrenaline than you might think.

Proper preparation for an audio book means studying the text in advance, marking it up for inflections and where to breathe, and practicing particularly hard sentences. I didn’t do any of that. It wasn’t just laziness, my feeling was that rather than do everything the proper way, it would be better to keep the comedy fresh. Things are funny when they take you by surprise, that’s what makes a joke. I wanted the readings to be as if I was in the room with you, just enjoying reading out loud to you. If that meant losing a little polish, then I felt it was worth sacrificing.

Of course, I did read the books in advance to check for any plot surprises – such as a mystery character turning out to be someone else at the end – and I did take notes. Important to know which character is speaking at any time, and how they’re going to talk.

To help me with this I had Stephen Briggs’ "The Discworld Companion", which I consulted frequently. And I compiled my own personal character voice list which grew and grew as the books mounted up. I’ve still got it in a box somewhere, it runs to tens of pages, but it wouldn’t make much sense to anyone else. Every character would have three entries by their name; firstly I would cast them, in other words, imagine who would play them if this were a film in my head. It didn’t have to be an actor, might be a friend or relative. So the first entry a character would have might say, for example; "Michael Gambon", or "my Uncle Geoff". The second entry would be something about the type of speech or accent to use; so it might say "posh Edinburgh", or "cocky car salesman". And the third entry would be something about the voice quality and rhythm itself, as in; "gravelly stammer", or "back of the throat, deep". So just as an example, and from memory, the Archchancellor might have an entry like; "John le Mesurier, Geography Teacher, high, wandering, nasal." Or Vimes might be; "Jack Dee, blocked nose, low growl cockney."

This little system was not failsafe, for instance when a Troll (Billy Connolly, Scottish, sibilant S) talks to a Dwarf, (Jeremy Irons, gruff Welsh, too much saliva) I could get in a Celtic muddle and wander off into something that ended up sounding vaguely Spanish[2]. But the worst trouble I got myself into was with Sgt Colon. The first book he appears in, he only has one scene, and I was running out of accents. My worst accent at the time was Northern Irish, so I thought, "I’ll do that, it’s only a few sentences, so, no problem." It was when I returned for the next book, and the next, and the next, that I realised I was stuck with it. I hope I got better at Northern Irish as the series went on. And I hope I did Colon, and Sir Terry justice.

– Nigel Planer, London 2021

[1] Editor's note: that's correct, according to Wikipedia!

[2] Don't be hard on the man, O Readers – after all, Mr Planer had been given no specific instructions as to what accents to use and hadn't been introduced to the Nac Mac Feegle yet!

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05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS

5.1 FORTHCOMING PLAYS

* MURDER IN ANKH-MORPORK IN ABINGDON (NOVEMBER 2021)

Stephen Briggs' new Discworld play is finally being staged... and already completely sold out! But there's always the possibility of people who can't make it: "We were amazed and delighted that the show has sold out so quickly (in under 9 hours!). We can't offer a listing for returns. Experience tells us that returns, if any, only get notified at the last minute – often only on the day of performance, when there simply isn't time to start asking around." Standard info is below in case a ticket becomes available...

When: 17th–20th November 2021
Venue: Unicorn Theatre, Checker Walk, Abingdon OX14 3JB
Time: evening performances at 19.30, plus a 14.30 matinee on Saturday 20th November

https://bit.ly/3n7BezG

* WYRD SISTERS IN ADELAIDE (NOVEMBER 2021)

The Unseen Theatre is back at last, starting this week! It's another round of old favourite Wyrd Sisters, starring Unseen's heart and soul (and producer) Pamela Munt as Granny Weatherwax, with the usual cast and crew (and Nullus Anxietas' Danny Sag as the Fool)!

When: 17th,18th,19th, 20th, 24th, 25th, 26th and 27th November 2021
Venue: Bakehouse Theatre, 255 Angas Street, Adelaide, South Australia 5000
Time: 7.30pm all performances
Tickets: $22 adult, $18 concessions, $16 groups of +6, available from https://bit.ly/3kvXbXr

unseen.com.au

...and a special message re Unseen Theatre's latest production, from Granny, I mean, Pamela, herself:

"So – we have had all sorts of problems with this Discworld version of the "Scottish Play". I mean what were we thinking? Were we so arrogant as to think that we would be exempt? If so – we have now been proven wrong! As far as the cast is concerned we have had all sorts of sickness, injuries, transport problems – in short everything that could contribute to an inability to get to rehearsals, and even if we did all get there, where were our lines, the crew, costumes, and props? And why did one of us have to take the term "break a leg" so literally?

"It's okay. Don't worry. Everything is under control! See you there!"

*HOGFATHER IN PERTH, FOURECKS (NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2021)

The Roleystone Theatre is doing another Discworld play – this time, the seasonally appropriate Hogfather!

"Adapted by Stephen Briggs and directed by Bradley Towton for Roleystone Theatre, the Discworld version of Santa Claus – known as the Hogfather – has gone missing... 'Hogfather shines a lantern onto the messier and more real side of the holiday, in a very unreal manner,' Bradley said. 'This is my fourth time directing a Pratchett play and, with the Christmas season rapidly approaching, I thought it would inject a nice amount of holiday cheer into the lives of Perth people. Hogfather is a very emotional piece in certain moments and can hit close to home at times. It just fits, as a capstone to the year we've all had.'"

When: 26th, 27th and 28th November and 2nd, 3rd and 4th December 2021
Venue: Roleystone Theatre, 587 Brookton Hwy, 6111 Roleystone, Western Australia
Time: 7.30pm all evening performances; 5pm matinee November 28th; 2pm December 4th
Tickets: $20 ($15 concession), available from www.trybooking.com/BUTQA

https://bit.ly/3qw2r17

5.2 REVIEWS

* CARPE JUGULUM IN BRISBANE, FOURECKS

By Edmund Tadros for Stage Diary:

"One of the problems with a play this well produced and acted is that it’s hard to pick out standout performances. For my money, it’s Greg Rowbotham’s Igor who is the scene-stealer. Throughout the play his comic timing as is perfect as he tries vainly to get the De Magpyrs to maintain vampire traditions. Another two actors who give standout performances are Katherine Kiogaard as Agnes and Lauren Dillon as her inner thin girl Perdita. Their constant bickering about what to do in each situation is by turns charming and amusing. The play also has very high production values with excellent costumes by Robyn Edwards and a simple and functional set design by Jackie Fraser. In addition Casey Moon-Watton provides appropriately cheesy music, in keeping with the light tone of the play. The direction, by Sally Daly, is slow at first but picks up pace halfway through the first act and doesn’t let up until the play ends. The Terry Pratchett story, adapted for the stage by Stephen Briggs, is entertaining and amusing but at three and a half hours (with only one intermission) is way too long. This problem is compounded by the parts of play with a disconcerting, and seemingly unnecessary, number of scene shifts. These are small problems though, for Carpe Jugulum is an amusing play that is well acted and very, very funny..."

https://bit.ly/3wFcbau

By Robyn Smith, on the Brisbane Arts Theatre's Facebook page:

"I went to see the delightful Carpe Jugulum on Saturday night and loved it all. The actors, all amateurs, gave us a good laugh and provided us with an evening of good fun. Callum Pulsford was deservedly a great favourite with the audience, showcasing his comedic skills. Apart from his perfectly timed delivery, he also entertained with his excellent physical comedy. He was a joy to watch. The five witches were simply wonderful. Each of them was so individual and followed her own journey trying to meet the challenges posed by the nasty vampires. It was inspirational to see these five actresses portray their characters’ doubts and uncertainties as they took their journey fighting against the vampires. I particularly enjoyed the standout performance by Caitlin Smith in her role as Mightily Oats. The sadness and distress she so poignantly portrayed were perfectly counter balanced by her superb comic timing. Overall, a wonderful evening with very memorable performances."

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06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS

Confession: I *still* have no idea if any info on non-Fourecksian Discworld groups is up to date. What I do have is an update on the various Fourecksian Discworld fan groups, courtesy of the ever helpful Danny of Nullus Anxietas. As for the rest, up to date info from any Wossname readers out there would be greatly appreciated!

The Broken Drummers, "London's Premier Unofficially Official Discworld Group"
BrokenDrummers@gmail.com or nicholls.helen@yahoo.co.uk or join their Facebook group at https://bit.ly/2YrPGW7

"The Gathering of the Loonies (Wincanton chapter)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/373578522834654/

The Broken Vectis Drummers
broken_vectis_drummers@yahoo.co.uk

The Wincanton Omnian Temperance Society (WOTS) meets at Wincanton's famous Bear Inn when social gatherings are possible.

The Northern Institute of the Ankh-Morpork and District Society of Flatalists normally meet at The Narrowboat Pub in Victoria Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire, Details of future meetings are posted on the Events section of the Discworld Stamps forum: http://www.discworldstamps.co.uk/forum/

FOURECKSIAN DISCWORLD GROUPS:

Adelaide – City of Small Gods Terry Pratchett Fan Club
http://www.cityofsmallgods.org.au
https://www.facebook.com/groups/cityofsmallgods/
https://discord.gg/3RVzsyJ
Regular events: Monthly dinners (when permitted!), Monthly crafty evenings on discord, regular book discussions, and occasional board game days. We also hold special events sometimes, such as picnics, Quiz Nights and outings to see Discworld plays.

Melbourne – Victorian Discworld Klatch
https://2022.ausdwcon.org/fan-clubs/melbourne/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/VictorianDiscworldKlatch/
https://discord.com/invite/w5KPAaYH
Regular events: Monthly gatherings, board game days, crafternoons, movies, picnics, and more. We are also regulars at the various pop culture events around Victoria.

Sydney – Mended Drummers and Western Drummers
Mended Drummers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/downunderdrummers/
Western Drummers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/100376433635355/
Both groups get together monthly to chat over a few drinks, with subjects ranging far and wide, have a Discworld themed quiz and generally enjoy the company of fellow Discworld fans.

Brisbane – Pratchett Partisans
https://www.facebook.com/groups/pratchettpartisans/
Join us in and around Brisbane for regular Pratchett-inspired nights including Dining Around the Disc, board games arvos, Pratchett Picnics and Discworld Discussions. We also hold special events once or twice a year like themed parties, scavenger hunts and cocktail nights. Many of us also attend opening night of Brisbane Arts Theatre's Pratchett Productions in costume.

Perth – Treacle Mining Corporation
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Perth.Drummers/

Hobart – Purdeigh Islanders
https://www.facebook.com/groups/205967619882683/

Canberra – Drumknott's Irregulars
https://www.facebook.com/groups/824987924250161/

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07) HOGSWATCH MERCH TIME

* Socks!

"Grab all four pairs of Discworld socks before they walk off the shelves! Striking socks featuring Rob Anybody, Terry Pratchett, The Luggage and Rincewind!Four pairs of socks with instantly recognisable Discworld individuals... Guaranteed not to be devoured by sock-eating manifestations caused by excess amounts of belief."

Each set of officially licensed Discworld socks is priced at £22.50 and is available in UK Sizes 7–11. For more info, and to order, go to:

https://bit.ly/30faJ2z

* The Ultimate Discworld Companion!

"From The Colour of Magic to the Shepherd's Crown, The Ultimate Discworld Companion is your complete guide to the denizens, destinations and details of Terry Pratchett's Discworld, an essential encyclopaedia for the most detailed landscape in literature, comprehensively compiled by Stephen Briggs and illustrated by Paul Kidby! The Ultimate Discworld Companion is a comprehensive encyclopedia of Discworld's characters, concepts and countries from Ankh-Morpork to Zemphis and beyond. If you want help telling your watchman from your wizard, your Octarine from your Octavo or your Klatchian Coffee from your Peach Corniche then look no further, the Ultimate Discworld guide is THE authority on Terry Pratchett's beloved Discworld books!"

Each Ultimate Discworld Companion is priced at £25. For more info, and to order, go to:

https://bit.ly/3c5ocwr

...and for the more financially blessed among you, the Dunmanifestin edition of The Ultimate Discworld Companion is available for pre-order:

"Your ultimate guide to the entire Discworld from The Colour of Magic to The Shepherd’s Crown and everything in between! Presented in a beautiful slipcase and bound in an exclusive foil-embossed cover this spectacular edition includes more incredible content and extra artwork – plus an exclusive print with every pre-ordered copy! This definitive edition has been created by Discworld archivist, playwright and cartographer Stephen Briggs with master illustrator Paul Kidby, and manifested by Dunmanifestin, the official publishing house for the works of Terry Pratchett. PLEASE NOTE, THIS INCREDIBLE PUBLICATION IS STILL IN THE PROCESS OF BEING CREATED, SO CONTENTS MAY BE SUBJECT TO a BIT OF CHANGE HERE AND THERE AS THE PROJECT EVOLVES."

Each Dunmanifestin edition of The Ultimate Discworld Companion is priced at £150 and will be published on 28th April (Sir Pterry's birthdate) 2022. For more info, and to pre-order, go to:

https://bit.ly/3olM4Si

* Puzzles!

There are three new Discworld puzzles – Twas the Night Before Hogswatch, the Ankh-Morpork Post Office, and The Chalk – added to the extant seven puzzles. All puzzles consist of 1,000 pieces and each puzzle is priced at £ 19.50. For more info, and to order, go to:

https://www.discworldemporium.com/35-games-activities

...and there's a selection of t-shirts and such – https://bit.ly/3n9pVqR – and figurines – https://bit.ly/3DcvrOS – to complete your Hogswatch shopping madness. Happy commercialism to one and all! Ho! Ho! Ho!

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08) IMAGES OF THE MONTH

The Boys are back in (London) town! A few looks at Good Omens 2, currently filming in the land of the Feegles:
https://bit.ly/3qqQb22

https://bit.ly/3n55R94

https://bit.ly/30nJK59

Also, the (in)famous Crowley hair, as tweeted by Georgia Tennant:
https://bit.ly/2YF1oR7

...and the ineffably bleached Aziraphale hair, as tweeted by Michael Sheen:
https://bit.ly/30sgv0W

Unseen Theatre's Pamela Munt makes a very believable Granny Weatherwax:
https://bit.ly/3c2n5O0

...and a stunning representation of Elf queen Nightshade, by Paul Kidby, for the forthcoming Dunmanifestin edition of the Ultimate Discworld Companion: https://bit.ly/3F7AqRE

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09) CLOSE

...and that's it for November. Take care, mind how you go, and we'll see you next month!

– Annie Mac

Copyright (c) 2021 by Wossname for the Klatchian Foreign Legion

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

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

Wossname
Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
November 2019 (Volume 22, Issue 11, 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 Technomancer: Jason Parlevliet
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) AN IMPORTANT WOSSNAME ANNOUNCEMENT
03) ODDS AND SODS
04) MORE GOOD OMENS BITS AND BOBS
05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
07) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE
08) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
09) CLOSE

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01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH

"I am pleased to see that this week the 2020 Discworld Calendar has been at #1 in the Science Fiction & Fantasy Amazon Chart. The Imaginarium is also at #30 two years after publication."
– Paul Kidby, delighted to learn that his Discworld art is still a bestseller

"I needed extra material for them, ’cause there just wasn’t enough in the book. I felt, well, why don’t I essentially take the beats of a love story and see how that works? And I was very fortunate in having Michael and David understand that and let it happen… Particularly the way that Michael plays Aziraphale just as a being of pure love, I think that gave us something very special, because people of every and any sexual orientation and any and every gender looked at Crowley and Aziraphale and saw themselves in it, or saw a love story that they responded to, and that was completely unexpected. Things like this, you can’t manufacture, they have to happen from a fandom."
– Neil Gaiman, reacting to the fans' reaction to that 6,000-year love story

"There's a delicious ironic pleasure to be had to come to understand that, even while you are enjoying watching a comedic play, ostensibly about criminal activities, you are the ones creating this rich vein of society that's being mined and re-presented for our entertainment. Darkness and laughter mix intoxicatingly well."
– reviewer Christine Pyman, applauding Unseen Theatre's understanding of The Author's work in their current stage production of Going Postal

"We asked our prestigious panel to create a list of world-changing novels that would provocative, spark debate and inspire curiosity. It took months of enthusiastic debate and they have not disappointed. There are neglected masterpieces, irresistible romps as well as much-loved classics. It is a more diverse list than any I have seen before, recognising the extent to which the English language novel is an art form embraced way beyond British shores. Best of all, it is just the start of a year of documentaries, author profiles, podcasts and outreach events all designed to do one thing and inspire everyone, whoever they are, to read more novels because of the proven life-enhancing benefits it brings."
– BBC Arts director Jonty Claypole, on the Discworld series' inclusion on a list of life-changing novels

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

02) AN IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

Wossname has been going for many, many years, since its beginnings as an American-based mailout created by old-school fan and retired SF editor Joe Schaumburger, through a long presence on Yahoogroups as well as in email form, to the current email and mirror blog version... and while I hope Wossname can continue for years yet, it's getting more and more difficult to get each issue out to you, O Readers, in its email form. This is due to major internet providers including Yahoo, Google and Hotmail trying ever more vigorously to protect its users from spam. That in itself is a good thing, but unfortunately it means that we at Wossname -- and an ever-growing number of other mailing list posters -- are being falsely identified as spammers simply because we send out a large number of identical posts every month and those posts are loaded with links to follow... all innocent links on our part, of course, but the software that tries to identify spammers has no way of knowing this. Nor does it help that, apparently, many people who subscribe to mailing lists and then change their minds are in the habit of ticking the junk/spam box instead of following the simply and plainly visible Unsubscribe link... sigh.

Our administrator has tried various ways of getting around this, with mixed success. If this current issue gets knocked back as supposed spam, I'm at my wits' end. I'm going to try putting spaces between all the "ticks the box" parts of each URL in this month's email version and see if that helps, but at this rate we may be forced to release each issue of Wossname *solely* on the web on its Dreamwidth blog address.

I hope you'll bear with us. And remember, you can always come here to the blog version if you want to follow those links...

And now, on with the show!

– Annie Mac, Editor

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03) ODDS AND SODS

3.0 DISCWORLD NOVELS "SHAPED OUR WORLD"

The BBC compendium of 100 novels that shaped our world includes the Discworld series, and it's in good company. The series is listed in the category of "Life, Death & Other Worlds", which includes Frankenstein, The Chronicles of Narnia, Dune, and Neil Gaiman's Sandman series, among others, chosen by a panel including Radio 4 Front Row presenter and Times Literary Supplement editor Stig Abell, broadcaster Mariella Frostrup, authors Juno Dawson, Kit de Waal and Alexander McCall Smith, and Bradford Festival Literary Director Syima Aslam:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/494P41NCbVYHlY319VwGbxp/explore-the-list-of-100-novels-that-shaped-our-world

...more on this from Katie Mansfield for The Bookseller:

"The list also launches a year-long festival in partnership with libraries and reading groups around the UK. Led by Libraries Connected and supported by Arts Council England, special events at libraries around the country include workshops, walking tours, film screenings and live performances, with many libraries commissioning artists to make work that reaches out to everyone in the community, from people living with dementia to those at risk of knife crime. Mark Freeman, president, Libraries Connected said: 'This amazing campaign lies at the heart of libraries’ mission to deliver innovative and engaging reading experiences to communities who need it most..."

https://www.thebookseller.com/news/novels-shaped-our-world-bbc-reveals-100-strong-list-1109401

3.1 THE MERCH CORNER

Hogswatch is a-comin'...

* The Ankh-Morpork Archives are here!

...er, *is* here? At any rate, The Ankh-Morpork Archives, Volume I is/are now available for purchase! "The Ankh-Morpork Archives, Volume I, a fully illustrated comprehensive guide to the exuberant capital city of Terry Pratchett's Discworld, getting to the heart of Ankh-Morpork's secrets, societies and guilds. The book is a compilation of the texts written by Terry Pratchett and Stephen Briggs for the Unseen University, Assassins Guild, Post Office and Thieves Guild diaries. They have been redesigned and formatted into one deluxe digitally re-mastered compendium to showcase the illustrations in large size and the diary element has been removed."

Published by Gollancz and rather beautiful, hand-signed hardcover copies are available from Paul Kidby's website, priced at £30 each (UK only free delivery). For more information, and to order, go to:

https://shop.paulkidby.com/the-ankh-morpork-archives-volume-i/

* The Discworld Destinations Calendar!

Already promoted in an earlier issue, but as 2020 approaches... "The calendar dates are extensive, and exhaustively researched, and include all major real-time calendrical data for Great Britain, Eire, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA, as well as notable Discworld dates. This year's calendar draws upon the whimsical, remarkable art of long-time Discworld collaborator, Paul Kidby - the man whose depictions Terry Pratchett himself described as being 'the closest anyone's got to how I see the characters'."

Published by Gollancz , hand-signed calendars are available from Paul Kidby's website, priced at ££18.50 each (UK only free delivery). For more information, and to order, go to:

https://shop.paulkidby.com/terry-pratchetts-discworld-destinations-collectors-edition-2020-calendar/

* Terry Pratchett: HisWorld, the Official Exhibition Companion!

"The entire exhibition... in a book! Whether you were there or wanted to be, this coffee-table tome provides the story behind the exhibits on show, so you can enjoy the exhibition from the comfort of your own armchair! From his knighthood to his Blue Peter badge, the HisWorld Companion provides a poignant a glimpse into the life and work of our favourite author, Sir Terry Pratchett, with a lovingly curated collection of his life’s possessions and associated ephemera with full-colour photographs and a treasure-trove of anecdotes and contributions from his closest companions and collaborators including Rhianna Pratchett, Paul Kidby, the Josh Kirby Estate, Stephen Briggs, Colin Smythe and our very own Cunning Artificer Bernard Pearson. Created with the Terry Pratchett Estate, HisWorld presents an incredible insight into the man behind the keyboard, with precious and never-before-seen objects that tell the tale of Sir Terry’s life from his beginnings as a young writer and journalist, to his adventures writing Discworld and his eventual battle with PCA. This impressive book captures the exhibition experience in print, so you can treasure the magic of Hisworld forever – it’s never over as long as there’s a book!"

Published by Dunmanifestin Ltd, the Terry Pratchett: HisWorld Companion measures 230 x 275mm, with a thickness of 26mm. 223 pages, and is priced at £30 each. Currently out of stock, but if you visit the webpage you can request an email notice to be sent when more copies will be available:

https://www.discworldemporium.com/books/597-terry-pratchett-hisworld-the-official-exhibition-companion

* The Discworld Flora and Fauna tea towel!

Just the thing for your post-Hogswatch dinner washing-up... "Illustrated exclusively for the Discworld Emporium by Vladimir Stankovic in his wonderfully dark story-book style, this fantastic tea towel is a tribute to some of the 'wilder' creations from the mind of Terry Pratchett – the extraordinary flora and fauna that makes Discworld world just a little bit more, well, Discworld! Thaumicolour printed 100% cotton tea towel, Measures 78 x 48cm."

The Discworld Flora and Fauna tea towel is priced at £9.95 each. For more information, and to order, go to:

https://www.discworldemporium.com/homeware/192-flora-fauna-of-discworld-tea-towel

* The Death and Friends Discworld Journal!

When "what comes after" is written by you... "Record your antics, adventures and observations in a book fit for Death's library! In the very first Discworld Journal we look at life, the universe and fine Klatchian curries through the eye-sockets of Sir Terry Pratchett's most enduring anthropomorphic personification, Death, aided and abetted by a host of his constant companions including Susan Sto Helit, Mort, Albert, and the Death of Rats. In a move away from previous years' diaries, gone are the restrictions of time and space in favour of a free-form notebook format, giving more room for your musings! With space aplenty to pen your immortal prose or (perhaps more aptly) write your life story, you'll be aided and abetted by Death's wit, wisdom and observations along the way. So, cower brief mortals, and always look on the bright side of death."

The Death and Friends Discworld Journal is beautifully illustrated by David Wyatt and priced at £16.99 each. For more information, and to order, go to:

https://www.discworldemporium.com/diaries-calendars/550-death-and-friends-a-discworld-journal

* The Imaginarium of Professor Pratchett!

Something for your wall... "An exclusive collectors print featuring Paul Kidby’s iconic 2018 portrait of Terry Pratchett, as seen on the book jacket of Terry Pratchett HisWorld, the Official Exhibition Companion. Each print is hand signed and numbered and the edition is limited to 2000 copies worldwide. Printed on 350gm silk paper. Dimensions 490 x 350mm. Prints are despatched rolled in acid free tissue in a postal tube."

The Imaginarium of Professor Pratchett is priced at £40 (free postage and packing for UK buyers). For more information, and to order, go to:

https://shop.paulkidby.com/the-imaginarium-of-professor-pratchett-ii/

* The Discworld Imaginarium limited special edition!

"Featuring the very best of Paul Kidby’s Discworld illustrations, this definitive volume includes 40 pieces of never before seen art, including preliminary drawings, 30 pieces that have only appeared in foreign editions, limited editions and Book Club editions and 17 book cover illustrations, since 2004, shown without cover text. This Deluxe Special Edition is exclusive to only Paulkidby.com & Discworld.com. The Special Edition is leather bound and features an alternative silver embossed cover design presented in a cloth covered clam-shell box. The book has a signature page with a new piece of artwork produced especially for this edition and an exclusive print is presented separately for framing. All copies are numbered, and signed by Paul Kidby."

The Discworld Imaginarium special edition is limited to 1,250 copies, each priced at £107 (including UK delivery). For more information, and to order, go to:

https://shop.paulkidby.com/terry-pratchetts-discworld-imaginarium-deluxe-special-limited-edition-of-1-250/

3.2 A LOOK AHEAD: DISCWORLD AND BEYOND EXHIBITION IN 2020

Paul Kidby's Discworld & Beyond touring exhibition will be at the next July and August!

When: 4th July–22nd August 2020
Venue: Hereford Museum & Art Gallery, Broad Street, Hereford, HR4 9AU
Times: Tuesdays through Fridays 10am–4pm, Saturdays 10am–12.30pm, Sundays and Mondays closed
Tickets: free entry

We'll pass along more information closer to the date.

https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/info/200172/museums/648/hereford_museums_and_art_gallery/2

And here be a heads-up for museums and galleries: "We are currently taking bookings for this ever popular exhibition from Galleries & Museums around the UK for 2019 and onwards. For details please contact Emma Mackinnon, Exhibitions and Collections Officer."

St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery, New Street, Lymington, Hants SO41 9BH (phone 01590 676969)

www.stbarbe-museum.org.uk

3.3 PAUL KIDBY NEWS

Some highlights from Mr Kidby's regular newsletters:

"I have been pressing ahead with my new Discworld illustrated book project and coming up with ideas for the accompanying ephemera. The planning stage is often the most creative and exciting with a plethora of concepts jostling to become reality. It is fun working with my team of fellow imagineers, bouncing notions off each other often leads to outcomes that would never otherwise materialise. We have a lot of laughs while brainstorming and our plans get wilder and more impractical before we have to rein them back in and make it all ‘feasible to fit in an envelope’... I have also been ‘perfecting’ Nobby’s handwriting... We continue to oversee the production of the Celestial Edition of Good Omens; this week the cast book corners are being finished in London. The cabinet makers are constructing the presentation boxes which are a work of art in their own right and bring together a fitting union between the enduring crafts of illustration, fine book binding, metalwork and joinery. It is a responsibility to be overseeing this special project and very exciting to see it taking shape."

"It’s been a wet and dreary month and I have spent much of it coughing and sneezing over my artwork. Despite this, I am making steady progress on my new series of illustrations. My plan is to get the full set designed and drawn before I commence colouring in the new year. Here is a detail of an illustration I am calling ‘The Thin Brown Line’ showing the Night Watch on the streets of Ankh Morpork."

3.4 ORANGUTAN NEWS: LIBRARIANS ARE PEOPLE!

"A 33-year-old orangutan granted legal personhood by a judge in Argentina is settling into her new surroundings at the Center for Great Apes in central Florida. Patti Ragan, director of the center in Wauchula, Florida, says Sandra is 'very sweet and inquisitive” and adjusting to her new home. She was born in Germany and spent 25 years at the Buenos Aires Zoo before arriving in Florida on Nov. 5... Judge Elena Liberatori’s landmark ruling in 2015 declared that Sandra is legally not an animal, but a non-human person, thus entitled to some legal rights enjoyed by people, and better living conditions. 'With that ruling I wanted to tell society something new, that animals are sentient beings and that the first right they have is our obligation to respect them,' she told The Associated Press..."

https://www.snopes.com/ap/2019/11/07/orangutan-granted-human-status-settles-into-new-florida-home/

3.5 ROUNDWORLD'S MENDED DRUM SERVES GREAT CHIPS, APPARENTLY

It's not often one finds a Discworld-related restaurant review, but here it is...

By Helen Mead for the York Press:

"The first thing I would say about The Mended Drum is that it’s wise to book in advance... The L-shaped dining room in this country pub in the village of Huby north of York, isn’t spacious, but has a welcoming, rustic feel, with beams, wooden panelling, exposed brickwork, shelves displaying vintage crockery and various prints including pictures by LS Lowry. On the next table sat a family with young children, tucking into healthy portions of fish and chips, and burgers. The youngsters had been crayoning, using a pot of crayons and colouring sheets provided by the pub – a nice touch. It was nice to see them proudly showing off their pictures... Staff are friendly and it is obviously a community pub well-used by locals, with many people popping in and out of the bar, in an adjacent room with an open fire. It’s an intriguing name for a pub: we were told that it was born from a run-down former pub The Star, which closed and was rescued from possible demolition to become The Mended Drum. It opened eight years ago. There is a sister pub, The Artful Dodger, on Micklegate. The name Mended Drum comes from the Terry Pratchett Discworld novels – in the series, a pub called The Broken Drum fell on hard times and was then burned to the ground. It reopened as The Mended Drum... 'The Drum' as it is known locally, has clearly hit the mark and is a popular spot..."

https://www.yorkpress.co.uk/eatingout/18006062.eating-best-chips-ever-mended-drum-huby/

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04) MORE GOOD OMENS BITS AND BOBS

Remember, Good Omens is now available to purchase in both DVD and Blu-ray editions! – Ed.

4.1 BLU-RAY REVIEW

A long, thorough review by Joe Corey for Inside Pulse:

"If you’ve followed the writer Neil Gaiman’s Twitter feed over the last few years, you’ve been staring over his shoulder while he committed to the Herculean task of adapting Good Omens to the screen... The production has a high level cast including Miranda Richardson, Jon Hamm, Frances McDormand and Jack Whitehall. Michael McKean will astonish those who only know him from Laverne and Shirley. He is Witchfinder Sargent Shadwell who gets tangled up in the spiritual mystery while doing his job. McKean imbues the character with an accent that makes him sound like a former member of The Fall that was fired by Mark E. Smith in 1987. This might be the greatest performance as an Englishman by an American actor... Good Omens is one of the finest miniseries ever adapted from a novel. It’d be easy to put it up with Douglas Adams’ Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Universe. But this production is so magnificent that it rates up their with the finest of British television such as I, Claudius and Brideshead Revisted. Neil Gaiman could have just signed away his film rights to Hollywood for a fat paycheck. But he wanted to create a production that would make the late Terry Pratchett proud. Good Omens is delivers on all the humor from the novel and fulfills the promise of seeing the end of the world on the screen...

"Page to Screen (6:24) has Neil Gaiman speak about adapting his and Sir Terry Pratchett’s novel. Sheen speaks of getting into Neil’s work with the Sandman comic books. Adria Arjona speaks of being nervous since she wasn’t auditioning for the producer, but the creator of the character. Neil speaks of the hugeness of the project. Jon Hamm talks about how people wanted to be part of this world. Aziraphale’s World (4:44) has Michael Sheen explain his angel character who enjoys the human life. Bookshop Tour (5:24) lets Neil Gaiman point out the details of the space. I get the idea that Neil wants to take this home with him (if he hasn’t already). He points out Terry Prachett’s hat and scarf. Crowley’s World (4:11) reminds us that Crowley’s name was Crawley when we first meet the demon. David Tennant talks of the trouble making qualities of his character and his forbidden friendship with Aziraphale. He points out that the two don’t want to see the end of the world because they like being a part of humanity including the music of Queen. Audio commentaries for all 6 episodes has Neil Gaiman, director Douglas Mackinnon and other cast and crew talk about the production. Neil points out the opening of Good Omens explaining the set up was a tip of the hat to Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy..."

https://insidepulse.com/2019/11/05/blu-ray-review-good-omens/

4.2 ANALYSING THE GOOD OMENS DELIVERYMAN

By Neela Debnath for The Express:

"Many fans of Good Omens have been speculating on Reddit about the character of the International Express Delivery Man. One user called Redxmirage posted: 'Didn’t he deliver something in the Middle East? I don’t get his character. It seems like he was supposed to be some divine character.' While user TLema responded: 'Literally just some guy who is very dedicated to his delivery job.' A third user called kizzyjenks reasoned: 'In the book it was never really specified if he was in any way supernatural. The God voiceover refers to him as 'the summoner' which is still pretty vague...'... But others surmised the character was left ambiguous by the authors, leaving it up to interpretation. The character never displays any supernatural powers, hinting he could be a mere mortal. So, it looks like the character could just be a man very dedicated to his job or is perhaps already dead..."

https://www.express.co.uk/showbiz/tv-radio/1197667/Good-Omens-International-Express-delivery-man-Simon-Merrells

4.3 NEIL GAIMAN'S REACTION TO THE FANS' EMBRACING OF "AZIROWLEY"

By Morgan Jeffery in the Radio Times:

"Neil Gaiman was expecting a big reaction to the TV adaptation of his and Terry Pratchett’s novel… but the 'ferocity' of the response to one aspect of the show took him completely by surprise. Speaking to RadioTimes.com, Gaiman explained that while he had 'enormous fun' writing the dynamic between David Tennant’s demon Crowley and Michael Sheen’s angel Aziraphale, the strength of the fan reaction to the pairing was more than he could have hoped for... The show has inspired a fervent fandom, with aficionados producing fan art and fiction and attending conventions dressed as their favourite Good Omens characters. 'David Tennant said something which I thought was rather wonderful when I was asking him about it – he said at DragonCon this year, for the very first time, he had more demons turn up to pose for photographs with him than Time Lords!' Gaiman recalled. 'I’ve seen photographs posted on Twitter from people in Moscow, from the Ukraine, from Japan, from China – which is really amazing because we aren’t legitimately shown in China! From Italy… not to mention America and England and Brazil and Argentina… all these places where people are dressing up as the characters and writing letters about how magical and how important the characters were to them… so it was incredibly unexpected...'..."

https://www.radiotimes.com/news/tv/2019-10-24/good-omens-crowley-aziraphale-romance/

4.4 DELETED SCENES IN THE GOOD OMENS SCRIPT BOOK SPECIAL EDITIONS

If you bought one of the "special edition" copies of the Quite Nice and Fairly Accurate Good Omens Script Book and discovered that your exclusive deleted scene isn't the same deleted scene as the exclusive deleted scene in someone else's special edition copy of the Quite Nice and Fairly Accurate Good Omens Script Book, despair not! Internet user Jess has got hold of all the different versions and painstakingly typed them out, turned them into an online document, and made it available to all and sundry. Many thanks, Jess!

There are five different deleted scenes, all well worth a read:

1: In Which Aziraphale Opens His Bookshop (pg 3)
2: In Which Aziraphale Meets the Neighbours (pg 8)
3: In Which Crowley Gets Drunk with Leonardo da Vinci (pg 12)
4: In Which Aziraphale Searches for a Body (pg 13)
5: In Which Crowley Goes Clothes Shopping (pg 17)

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1diJukGVVYlWJSnJ_Mq5dKjtC2DjHNU5ND8n3gR3-BRQ/mobilebasic

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05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS

Editor's note: as Wossname normally only comes out once every month, do check the Wossname blog for information on plays that might fall between issue dates! Go to https://wossname.dreamwidth.org/ for interim updates.

5.1 DISCWORLD PLAYS

There are no upcoming Discworld plays to promote at the moment! Please, Roundworld, we need more and more Discworld on the stage. Make this happen!

5.2 REVIEWS

* GOING POSTAL IN EMERALD, FOURECKS

In which a small amateur dramatics company in a small town in the rather small Dandenong mountains shows the world how to properly stage a Pratchett play

By Annie Mac

There was no snow in Australia's Dandenong Ranges last month, but neither rain nor unseasonal cold nor glom of nit could dampen the Gemco Players' glorious production of Going Postal. I have rarely seen a finer example of what the power of love – in this case, love of Terry Pratchett's original novel and Stephen Briggs' clever, sensitive adaptation of it – can do to transform a small stage area into multiple locations in another world. Led by a family team of director Evie Housham and set designer/sound-and-lighting director/music co-composer Ross Housham, the cast and crew gave their all to the presentation... and their all was plenty indeed.

From the moment we entered the Community Arts Centre, the atmosphere was perfect. A large display in the foyer featuring a golden "postman of the gods" statue, complete with wing'ed hat and wing'ed footwear (and a tasteful loincloth to cover the, um, other wing'ed wossname) and standing on a pile of letters, greeted the sold-out crowd; free Ask Me About Pins badges and free sherry were on offer in the bar area; and in the theatre proper, a stunning "clacks tower" winked on and off at speed as its operator tried to keep up with the imagined flow of messages while soothing, rather otherworldly original music played over the PA system. A flawless build-up overall, and once the play began things went from strength to strength. The play consisted of two acts, comprising an astonishing total of twenty-eight scenes – just take a moment to imagine the complexity of staging that number of disparate/discrete scene on a smallish stage!

Jackson Cowan as Moist von Lipwig was quite simply perfect! He nearly outshone the rest of the cast, and not only by virtue of his golden suit. Trevor Mills' Lord Vetinari could have stepped right out of the novels themselves. Tina Chalmers gave us an Adora Belle Dearheart at least as impressive as Claire Foy's professional turn in the Going Postal Sky two-parter; similarly, Ben Zagami's magnificently amoral Reacher Gilt put David Suchet's telly performance well and truly in the shade. John Piggott as Junior Postman Groat and Luke Slade as Stanley never missed a beat, using comedic voicings and world-class gymnastic pratfalls to create a peerless double act, while Lachy Castricum as Mr Pump brought an extra dimension of fun to the proceedings by playing his role in a Schwarzenegger-Terminator voice so spot-on that Arnold himself could have been inside the costume. And the rest of the cast did so well that they all deserve a mention: Sonia Morison as Sacharissa Cripslock; Dionyy Penketh as Drumknott; Carmela Pezzimenti as Igor (and also doing an excellent job as Stage Manager);
Mandy Segal as Miss Maccalariat et al; Sarah Fernee as Mr Gryle, "Princess", Sane Alex et al; Tim Stapleton as Postman Aggy, Big Dave of Dave's Pins, Ridcully et al; Maxine Neville as Mr Slant, Mr Pony et al; and Cat Tregallis as Christine Horsefry, Mad Al et al. Even sponsor Bill Pell put in an appearance as Devious Collabone in the cleverly built Omniscope.

The set design was nothing short of a triumph. Giant envelopes bearing addresses from all over the Disc hung here and there above the stage itself, which in turn was piled with "dead letters" and even had envelopes painted onto the proscenium. The Houshams and their team gave us a credible rendering of the Tanty, the Patrician's office, Dave's Pin Emporium, the Foie Heureux and numerous other places, as well as managing to create the impression of various levels of the Post Office from the BS Johnson Sorting Machine in the cellar to the Smoking Gnu's bijou clacks tower on the roof. The costumes by Sonia Morison, Connie Mifsud, Evie Housham and the whole cast were, again, perfect (special mention to Evie Housham for creating the exceptional Golem costume, which served via careful scene changes and a few decorations as Anghammarad the Ancient Post Golem). Special mentions also go to lighting operator and music co-composer Cailey Sheppard and to make-up artist Aimee Achten.

There was almost nothing I could find to criticise in this beautiful production. My only quibble was with the Grand Trunk board members – a lack of available male actors meant that the entire Board was composed of women, and while for the most part that worked well, the casting of Tregallis as "Christine" Horsefry (the original character being Crispin) was somewhat lacklustre, though the fault lay not in acting or direction but in the simple truth that Horsefry was a blundering buffoon, and as our cultures don't seem to accept women as buffoons, so Tregallis played the role as a nervous scaredy-girl and much of the character's comedic potential was lost. But that's a very small quibble in a mountain of compliment-worthy work.

Oh, and as it was closing night, there was a free supper of sandwiches, coffee and cake afterwards, and much pleasure was to be had from chatting to the cast, crew and director.

We saw Gemco Players' production of Guards! Guards! a few years ago and that was excellent, but they have truly surpassed themselves with Going Postal. Needless to say, we're looking forward to their next Discworld production!

[Editor's note: I've never managed yhet to make it to an Unseen Theatre production, but I suspect that when I eventually do, it will earn similarly lavish praise]

* GOING POSTAL IN ADELAIDE

By Christine Pyman for Broadway World:

"The main character of Moist von Lipwig, wonderfully bought to life in front of us by Nicholas Andrews, is an endearing one and, obviously, Pratchett felt the same way about this creation as he was bought back as the main character in two more novels. Von Lipwig is a cunning conman who is almost as good at understanding people's behaviour as the tyrant, Lord Vetinari, and together they make a controlling team, changing the society of the not-so-good people of Ankh Morpork. Andrews made the perfect von Lipwig, with spot-on timing, gestures, and confidence. In fact, this entire production was well cast, with each of the actors bringing enthusiasm and fun to their multitudinous roles. Danny Sag brings experience to his role of Vetinari, who, with a drawl and a dismissive turn of his head simultaneously manages to give the audience delight, anticipation and a tinge of horror at his machinations. Sag's performance was well foiled by Alastair Preece's Drumknott, played with just the right amount of disinterested disdain to add a layer of background character to the mainly benevolent dictator Vetinari. Unseen veteran, Paul Messenger, made an effective leader of a corporation which irresistibly reminded me of our electricity companies, with privatisation and profit-making on the agenda...

"The setting of the Post Office also held aside the veils to expose the innate ridiculousness and depths of bureaucracy, with the possibly Benny Hill inspired capering of Sam Tutty and Hugh O'Connor. This was tempered by the beautiful moments of supernatural despair held within the building, exposed to us through lighting and sound... Newcomer to Unseen, Nikonus Pappus, had the honour, and spent the effort of getting right, a one-liner that closed a joke that runs rampant throughout Pratchett's writing. Perfect. I'll say no more..."

https://www.broadwayworld.com/adelaide/article/BWW-Review-GOING-POSTAL-at-Bakehouse-Theatre-20191121

By Ewart Shaw for Adelaide Now:

"Stephen Briggs’ adaptation is probably the best of all of his adaptations, pacy and perceptive. It gets the production it deserves here. Much of the humour comes directly from Pratchett’s witty and cynical view of life, in this case through the lens of a conman reviving the failing Post Office... The core cast are excellent. Danny Sag wears the robes of the Patrician Lord Vetinari with an understated control, Nicholas Andrews is a totally charming Moist Von Lipwig backed up in the GPO by Hugh O’Connor and Sam Tutty as a really funny duo of postmen. Kahlia Tutty is an elegant and well articulated Adora Belle Dearheart and Adam Thorstensson a stylish Sacharissa Cripslock. Around them the usual suspects have been rounded up, Alastair Preece, Paul Messenger, Leighton James, Nikonus Pappas and David Dyte deliver neatly. Special mention goes to Stephen Dean’s lighting and sound design for some very clever effects indeed..."

https://bit.ly/2D8iet1 (requires subscription) or https://bit.ly/2pG32jM (includes some fine cast photos; free download as .pdf)

...and by Jordan Bell for The Clothesline:

"Director Pamela Munt, founder and artistic director of Unseen Theatre Company, takes on Going Postal for a second time (following an earlier outing in 2005). She deftly manages a big cast on a small stage, while staying true to the spirit and scope of Sir Terry’s comedy. The cast, for the most part, lean into the broad characterisations and deadpan delivery beloved by Pratchett fans, and some standout moments draw raucous laughter from the friendly crowd. Danny Sag as the fantastically ruthless Lord Vetinari steals every scene that he is in. Paul Messenger nails his role as the sinister villain Reacher Gilt, the head of the price-fixing, infrastructure-looting, worker-sacking, competitor-murdering business cabal that have taken over the Grand Trunk Company, much to the detriment of Ankh-Morpork’s long-suffering citizens. Nicholas Andrews, as main character Moist, plays the role with flamboyant energy and well-timed asides – lighting changes are used effectively to convey the moments he breaks the fourth wall and addresses the audience directly. But there is a thin line between charming and smarmy, and Moist sometimes comes across as unsympathetic, at times when he could have been making the audience fall for his spiel... From a production perspective, the cast made the most of the small space, with set changes happening relatively smoothly to create different locations, and sound and lighting effects used cleverly to build atmosphere..."

https://theclothesline.com.au/going-postal-unseen-theatre-bakehouse-review/

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06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS

The Broken Drummers, "London's Premier Unofficially Official Discworld Group" (motto "Nil percussio est"), will next meet on Monday 2nd December at the earlier time of 6pm at The Monkey Puzzle, 30 Southwick Street, London W2 1JQ. As it is the Drummers' Christmas Party, note that the pub is serving Christmas-themed meals and there is no need to pre-book.

The November meet report, by Helen on Facebook: "We met Monday night. As is usual in November it was quite a small crowd so we didn't bother with a quiz. Alex will do a special quiz next month. Andrew was keen to tell everyone about the new Youtube cartoon Hazbin Hotel about rehabilitation for demons. Look it up but be aware it's NSFW and not suitable for children. I recall discussions on marriage, Iran and the reluctance of British people to complain in restaurants. It turns out Pete once complained when a restaurant undercharged him and was given his meal on the house for his honesty..."

For more information, email BrokenDrummers@gmail.com or nicholls.helen@yahoo.co.uk or join their Facebook group at
https://www.facebook.com/groups/55107511411/permalink/10156634038566412/

*

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 from 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."

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. 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 CoSG events will be an End of Year picnic in December and the New Year's Day movie on 1st January (details for both not yet finalised).

The CoSG also have another identity. Here's the skinny:

Round World Events SA Inc is a not-for-profit incorporated association whose aim is to run fun social Pratchett-themed events for people in South Australia. Our first major event was the Unseen University Convivium held in July 2012. We have also run three successful and booked out Science Fiction and Fantasy themed quiz nights named Quiz Long And Prosper, in 2013, 2014 and 2015! The association will run some events under the City of Small Gods banner, but you do not have to be a Round World Events SA member to be part of City of Small Gods. However, we are always on the look out for new members for Round World Events SA to help us organise future events! Membership is $20 a year (for Adelaide locals) or $5 a year (for those not quite so close) and has the following benefits:

A shiny membership certificate all of your very own
Discounted entry price to some of the events we run
A warm, fuzzy feeling deep down in your chest (no, not quite that deep)
For more information, or to join as a member, please email RoundWorldEventsSA@gmail.com

www.cityofsmallgods.org.au

*

The Broken Vectis Drummers meet next on Thursday 5th December (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 6th December (possibly) 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. 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 2nd December (possibly) at 6.30pm 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, meet next on Monday 2nd December (possibly) at Old Shanghai, 123 James Street, Northbridge, Perth, Western Australia. For details 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) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE

Blogger Murdocal considers Equal Rites:

"You can tell that it’s an early novel. It doesn’t feel as tight or as funny. However, after the first two books in the series, we can celebrate the introduction of a strong narrative here. I’ve nothing against The Colour of Magic and The Light Fantastic but they were more about parody than storytelling. Equal Rites starts to move us towards the wider universe of these novels... The novel spends an awful lot of time getting to where it needs to be. Pratchett delights in the minutiae of his world and we spend a lot of time describing people and places. A lot of time that could have been spent on the main plot of the novel. As a Tolkien fan, I love a good bit of lush description but not at the expense of the story... there is a lot of fantastic world-building on show here. The new characters we meet and the new places we visit are all created with such care and originality. Pratchett knows how to expand a universe and work everything together. The introduction of Granny Weatherwax is superb and you can tell she’s on her way to becoming a great character..."

https://motherbookerblog.com/2019/10/23/book-review-equal-rites-by-terry-pratchett/

Blogger thecorneroflaura returns with a review of The Long Earth as an audiobook:

"The introduction to Stepping was sudden and left the readers guessing what was going on as much as the characters. And it was a great introduction to Joshua and Janson. It’s hard to say which of them I like best but I definitely like the nuns a lot... It’s definitely more story-driven than character-driven and there is an incredible amount of detail in the worlds. For all that, it’s comparatively low on the technical talk. A non-scientifically minded reader (like me) could follow it fairly well... Entirely unexpected change of pace at the last part after far too much time-wasting. Something had to give but I didn’t think it would be that. That twist hit me so fast, I almost got whiplash, and it almost made it worth sticking this book out..."

https://thecorneroflaura.wordpress.com/2019/10/23/in-one-word-the-long-earth-by-terry-pratchett-and-stephen-baxter-is/

Blogger and budding author Michael J Ritchie also reviewed The Long Earth:

"I’ve not read much Stephen Baxter, but what I have is always phenomenal. He is truly one of the greatest science fiction writers in history, and the only reason I haven’t read more is that they’re usually very long and hefty tomes. Everything he writes, no matter how impossible it seems at first, comes across as realistic and perfectly probable. Pratchett, I am always more wary of and still can’t fully embrace the Discworld novels. However, as with Good Omens, it seems that, for me at least, Pratchett is best when tempered by someone else, but his imagination and humour come through here for sure, and a lot of the jokes and pop culture references are certainly his doing. Between them, they have produced a scenario that is fascinating. True consideration has gone in to what would happen in a world like this... We meet a lot of characters, all going through different things and showing the different ways people reacted to the aftermath of Step Day, and the timeline jumps back and forth with reckless abandon. The stars of the book for me, however, are the Earths themselves..."

https://fellfromfiction.wordpress.com/2019/11/14/the-long-earth-by-terry-pratchett-stephen-baxter-2013/

Blogger Worth a Thousand Words enjoyed TAMAHER:

I was like 'Terry Pratchett writes children’s books?!'. My boyfriend likes Terry Pratchett but I’ve not read any of his book before this so I thought this would be a nice easy introduction... I really enjoyed this book. There was one character who was quite annoying but I think that was intentional. It’s kind of a very self aware book and I’m sure some of it would go over kids’s heads. Maurice (the cat) is a great character to read from and just so sassy..."

https://worth1000wordsweb.wordpress.com/2019/11/11/81-the-amazing-maurice-and-his-educated-rodents-bookish-blurb/

Blogger Tegan Stevenson compares Good Omens the book and Good Omens the series:

Book adaptations can invite some pretty strong emotions. Whether it’s popular or a bit obscure there are plenty of people who have opinions about it and they often want to share them. I know that I can be the same because, if you love something you want the adaptation to recognise the delight that comes with seeing something that you’ve loved. That being said, the lead up the release of the series was positive in my mind. I spent months trying to avoid spoilers on Tumblr etc. because I’d rather watch the full thing in it’s entirety without keeping an eye out for specific tiny moments that I already know about. Yes, even though I’d read the book I still wanted that experience of seeing the series with fresh eyes for the first time... what an amazing series! It was absolutely gorgeous to watch. For starters, the settings were incredible. Aziraphale’s infamous bookshop was even better than I’d imagined. I would absolutely love to live in a cottage like the one Anathema rented and Crowley’s flat… (wicked laugh) so severe and so lush. I was totally lost in the moment as we watched the series and I just enjoyed it from start to end. We all did. I think that, for me, the series emphasised all of the best elements of the book and it was a joy to watch as the angel Aziraphale and the demon Crowley stumbled about..."

https://teganstevensonwrites.wordpress.com/2019/11/13/a-good-weekend/

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08) IMAGES OF THE MONTH

A collection of iconographs from Gungahlin College's recent production of Mort: https://bit.ly/2PLPI8c

Moist von Lipwig and Lord Vetinari, from Unseen Theatre's just-finishing production of Going Postal, photographed by Michael Errey:
https://bit.ly/33yRmNV

A very believable-looking trio of Lancre witches from Alsager Community Theatre's current production of Wyrd Sisters:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EJ6U_CDXYAAB29t?format=jpg&name=small

The cast of Leeds Children's Theatre's recent production of Johnny and the Dead:
http://www.leeds-childrens-theatre.co.uk/uploads/1/5/1/2/15123772/full-cast1-copyright_1_orig.jpg

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09) CLOSE

For those of you who might have been saving up for the Paul Kidby-illustrated, beautiful but *very* expensive limited Good Omens Ineffable Edition, some sad news: all 666 copies have now been sold. So somewhere there are – or will be, come Hogswatch – some very happy Good Omens fans... however, copies of the still pricey but more affordable (and less limited, at 1,655 copies) Occult Edition are still available:

https://shop.paulkidby.com/the-definitive-good-omens-occult-edition/

...and if you're a Good Omens fan with money to burn, you can still apply for one of the only 24 copies to be made of the Celestial Edition: "The Celestial Edition is a rare presentation copy and a serious investment for book and art collectors. The craftsmanship in this edition elevates each copy to a work of art. The leather-bound hardback book features metal corner pieces and gold foil page edges, contained in a burr oak presentation box with brass inlays. 20 colour illustrations with additional pencil images. Each copy individually hand-printed and bound by specialists in the UK. Named tipped-in sheets, each book and its unique box corresponding to a letter of the Greek alphabet, signed by Neil Gaiman & Paul Kidby. Separate folio of Good Omens ephemera."

http://goodomensillustrated.com/celestial-edition-application/

And that's it for November. Mind how you go, 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) 2019 by Wossname for the Klatchian Foreign Legion

Wossname
Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
November 2017 (Volume 20, Issue 11, 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) EDITOR'S LETTER
02) GOOD OMENS NEWS
03) ODDS AND SODS
04) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
05) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS
06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
07) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
08) CLOSE

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01) LETTER FROM YOUR EDITOR

As yet another beacon of the creative arts is extinguished by dementia – this time, Malcolm Young of AC/DC, one of the giants of modern rhythm guitar – it's worth remembering once again how much Sir Terry Pratchett did to advance the cause of research and acceptance of this monstrous illness. In a sensitively written piece in the Financial Times on the "coming out" of Alzheimer's, journalist Sarah Neville does just that:

"Pratchett was different. If illness is a foreign country to all but its reluctant inhabitants, the fantasy writer was the first to send back regular dispatches describing the scenery and topography of a hitherto uncharted condition. Through his speeches and interviews, we discovered that his particular form of the disease affected his ability to process visual information, but not his reasoning nor, crucially, his command of language: the prolific writer's final novel was published almost six months after he had died. Others have followed his example of openness, including Timothy West and Prunella Scales, veteran British actors who described their travels around Europe on canal boats in a weekly television series, despite Scales' advancing dementia. It was less a travelogue than a moving portrait of their long marriage, each episode carrying the subliminal – and in its own way subversive – message that mutual attraction and respect will outlast cognitive decline. For Pratchett, publicly describing his disease had a talismanic power. 'I remember when people died of "a long illness"; now we call cancer by its name, and as every wizard knows, once you have a thing's real name you have the first step to its taming,' he said... Language can have its own deterministic power, as Terry Pratchett noted in his 2008 speech. He said then: 'We are at war with cancer, and we use that vocabulary. We battle, we are brave, we survive. And we have a large armaments industry. For those of us with early-onset [dementia] in particular, it's more of a series of skirmishes.'As Alzheimer's continues to emerge from the shadows, it is time to move on from the skirmishing. We need a war..."

https://www.ft.com/content/37254a02-ced1-11e7-b781-794ce08b24dc

In case you only read online articles as plain text, it's worth noting that one of the photographs in this piece is of Terry Jones and his wife Anna Soderstrom, and it shines with joy and heartbreak: http://on.ft.com/2A3AzXQ

Now then...

– Annie Mac, Editor

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02) GOOD OMENS NEWS

Casting updates: along with Adria Arjona (Anathema), Nina Sosanya (Sister Mary Loquacious), and Ned Dennehy and Ariyon Bakare (Hastur and Ligur), Josie Lawrence has been cast as Agnes Nutter; Reece Shearsmith as a certain Tudor-era playwright; Anna Maxwell Martin as Beelzebub; Mireille Enos as War; Lourdes Faberes as Pollution, Yusuf Gatewood as Famine... and Nicholas Parsons as the voice of the Creator (no, not Sir Pterry, the *other* one). Neil Gaiman has been quoted as saying he's "hoping that Death will be played by Death"...

...and some iconographs...

This is what extras look like when you have a budget... a couple of iconographs from the current Good Omens shoot, as tweeted by Neil Gaiman:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DKFykwVWkAE2xnc.jpg
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DKFyWKUWkAEE77B.jpg

...and an action replay of your Editor's two favourite demons:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DJ_mL4DWsAExChI.jpg

Crowley's hair! http://dailym.ai/2y1aWU0
...and his Bentley! http://dailym.ai/2iDWkn4

...and here be Newt Pulsifer (Jack Whitehall) in all his nerdy glory: http://dailym.ai/2zVT1Qh

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03) ODDS AND SODS

The Terry Pratchett: HisWorld exhibit is rocking Salisbury – and parts much further away. From Spire FM in Salisbury:

"Since it opened in mid September over 10,000 people have visited Salisbury Museum to explore the life of the late Discworld writer. Some fans have come as far as America and Australia to get a glimpse into the Discworld author's life... The highlight for many fans, is without doubt, the replica of his office known as The Chapel. It features the actual desk Sir Terry wrote many of his novels at complete with coffee cup stains and even his spectacles. Such has been the popularity of the exhibition that Salisbury Museum has now extended its opening times to include Sundays..."

https://www.spirefm.co.uk/news/local-news/2424748/10000-pratchett-fans-visit-salisbury-for-exhibition/

*

Also rocking – Paul Kidby's greatest Discworld hits. Well, a fine selection of them at any rate. Here be a picture post in The Guardian, with comments on each image by the artist. Beautiful stuff:

https://www.theguardian.com/books/gallery/2017/nov/22/the-art-of-terry-pratchetts-discworld-in-pictures

*

It turns out there *is* some orangutan news too interesting to resist sharing: a new species of our favourite orange ape, the Tapanuli orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis) has been discovered in Indonesia! "This is the first new species of great ape described since the bonobo from the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1929. With fewer than 800 left in the wild, the Tapanuli orangutan is now one of the world's most endangered great ape species... the Tapanuli orangutan is in fact more closely related to the Bornean orangutan than it is to the Sumatran orangutans that live to its north, north of Lake Toba. The three orangutans—Bornean, Sumatran and Tapanuli—evolved from a common ancestor about 3.4 million years ago..." Read the entire press release, with photos of this lovely species, here: http://bit.ly/2zrM5ga

There is also a short video at https://twitter.com/Global_Wildlife/status/926118662758572032 about the current threat to these apes' environment.

*

There's a drive on to restore the Cosgrove Hall hand-puppets used in the making of their classic stop-motion animated shows, including Truckers:

"Sixty percent of the latex puppets, including characters from The Wind in the Willows, are 'at serious risk'. And 20% are past saving, according to Westley Wood, a former Cosgrove Hall employee who has rescued the treasure trove. Cosgrove Hall also made such classic shows as Danger Mouse, Count Duckula, Terry Pratchett's Truckers and Noddy's Toyland Adventures. But its characters were put into storage when the studio shut in 2009. Some of the better-preserved items of memorabilia are now going on display in an exhibition at the Waterside Arts Centre in Sale, Manchester. According to Wood, the hand-drawn acetate cells used to animate the likes of Danger Mouse and Count Duckula have lasted well. But the 3D puppets that were employed in stop-motion animations have deteriorated with age, with parts of the latex falling off some to expose the steel skeletons beneath... The archive has been awarded a £42,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, with contributions from Sale Waterside and Arts Council England taking the fund over £50,000. But that won't stretch to restoring the hundreds of items..."

http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-41692864

*
The perspicacious Mark Hughes Cobb of the Tuscaloosa News returns with a plea to Team Good Omens:

"Who else trembles with something other than anticipation when they hear a favorite book is being interpreted into a movie or TV series? Thought so. Any attempt to list art that's been churned into gruel by Hollywood would fill far more than this newspaper... It's more likely a great movie derives from a bad or forgettable novel, because visual and aural magic can storm the castle, bypass logic and craft miracles in the mind... Some of filmdom's most-loved faces stem from pulp fiction: Tarzan, James Bond, Sherlock Holmes, Jason Bourne, Moses ... Kidding, kidding. Philip K. Dick's oeuvre became cinematic legend, because directors such as Spielberg and Ridley Scott saw potential in stories that became 'Blade Runner' and 'Minority Report'... Hope springs infernal from BBC2's mini-series adaptation of Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman's apocalypse-averted novel 'Good Omens,' as happy news continues to roll in, slapping pessimism silly. Or role in: The casting started with David Tennant (best of the modern-era 'Doctor Who' incarnations) as not-so-demonic Crowley, and Michael Sheen as mild but not to be messed with Aziraphale. And the rest are no slouches: Jon Hamm as the Archangel Gabriel, Michael McKean as twitchy witchfinder Shadwell and Miranda Richardson as Madame Tracy..."

http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/news/20171102/mark-hughes-cobb-dont-botch-book-again

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04) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS

4.0 AUDITIONS

* WYRD SISTERS IN WEST SUSSEX

The Ifield Barn Theatre Society will be holding two open auditions for their March 2018 staging of Wyrd Sisters.

When: 11th and 18th December 2017
Venue: Ifield Barn Theatre, Ifield Street, Ifield, W Sussex RH11 0NN
Time: 8pm both days
Note: all cast members chosen must be available for all the performances (7th through 10th March), including a Saturday matinee.

Contact Janine Robins on 07747 662008

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

4.1 PLAYS IN NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER

* MORT IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA (NOVEMBER/DECEMBER)

Roleystone Theatre, "a non-for-profit community group managed entirely by volunteers", are in the midst of their current production of Mort!

When: remaining shows are on 29th November and 1st and 2nd December 2017
Venue: Roleystone Theatre, 587 Brookton Hwy, Roleystone, Western Australia
Time: 8pm all shows
Tickets: $20 ($15 u-18's/Pensioners; 10 tickets bought receives an 11th free), which will be available for purchase via https://www.roleystonetheatre.com.au/web/Coming%20Attractions

https://www.roleystonetheatre.com.au/

* MORT IN LEICESTER (DECEMBER)

Leicester University Theatre will stage their production of Mort next month!

When: 6th-9th December 2017
Venue: Queen's Hall, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester LE1 7RH
Time: doors open 7.30pm for all shows: "Audience are expected to have arrived by 7:20pm. If you have reserved but not paid for tickets, we reserve the right to reallocate tickets on a first come first served basis on the door if you do not arrive by this time. "
Tickets: £8 (members £4; concessions £5). To reserve tickets, go to http://bit.ly/2AdNiWa and fill in the relevant parts of the form

http://su-lutheatre.wixsite.com/lutheatre/productions
https://www.facebook.com/LUTheatre/

* LORDS AND LADIES IN NORWICH (DECEMBER)

The Youth Theatre Company will present their production of the Irana Brown adaptation of Lords and Ladies in December.

When: Thursday 14th – Saturday 16th December 2017
Venue: Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RL
Time: 7.30pm all shows (includes audio described performance on the 16th)
Tickets: £10 (jobseeker/over 60 £8.50) plus £1.20 per order for Postage and Packaging. To purchase tickets, go to http://bit.ly/2gemJKI and select your desired date.

https://secure.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk/Online/

4.2 PLAYS IN 2018

MORT IN STAFFORDSHIRE (JANUARY 2018)

The Tower Players return next year with a new Discworld production! Director Andy Moseley writes:

Having had only a brief cameo in 2012's Wyrd Sisters, Tower Players are putting everyone's favourite anthropomorphic personification front and centre in their new production of Mort. This is Tower Players' second outing to the second hand set of dimensions that is home to Discworld, following their highly commended staging of Wyrd Sisters in 2012.

Stephen Briggs' adaptation brings to life this humorous tale that tackles classic themes of unrequited young love, the nature of mortality and the impulsive, hormone driven disruption of the entire history of the future.

Book your tickets now for a great night in the company of Princesses, Wizards, hormonal teenagers and the most efficient short order cook ever to grace the kitchen of Harga's House of Ribs!

Tell your families. Tell your friends. Tell your enemies. Tell your colleagues. Tell the person sat next to you on the tube/train/bus. Tell your taxi driver. Tell random strangers in the street. Tell everyone!!

When: 11th-13th January 2018
Venue: Prince of Wales Centre, Church Street, Cannock, Staffs WS11 1DE
Time: TBA
Tickets: £12, available from the Box Office (01543 578 762) or online at https://boxoffice.wlct.org/event_description.aspx?eventid=655

If you have further enquiries, contact towerplayers@live.com

* MASKERADE IN READING (JANUARY 2018)

The Progress Theatre will be staging their production of Maskerade in January next year.

When: 18th–27th January 2018
Venue: Progress Theatre, The Mount, Reading RG1 5HL
Time: 7.45pm all evening shows, 2.30pm matinees on 20th and 27th January
Tickets: TBA

http://progresstheatre.co.uk/maskerade

* MEN AT ARMS IN BERKSHIRE *RESCHEDULED* (FEBRUARY 2018)

The Cranbourne Amateur Dramatic Society (CADS) have rescheduled their production of Men at Arms to February 2018:

"The Ankh-Morpork City Night Watch find their services are once more needed to tackle a threat to their city. A threat at least as deadly as a 60-foot dragon, but mechanical and heartless to boot. It kills without compunction. It is the first gun on the Discworld. The original Watch – Captain Vimes, Sergeant Colon, Corporal Carrot and Corporal Nobbs – are joined by some new recruits, selected to reflect the city's ethnic make-up – Lance-constables Cuddy, Detritus, and Angua. In a city, where Assassins are clowning about and Fools are dying, the Watch must keep control of themselves as much as its citizens."

When: 15th, 16th and 17th February 2018
Venue: St Peter's Church Hall, Hatchet Lane, Cranbourne, Winkfield, Berks SL4 2EG
Time: 7.45pm all evening shows, with a 2.30pm matinee on the 17th
Tickets: £9, available from the Box Office (phone 01344 886456) or by printing and posting a facsimile of the Booking Form below.

A rather adorable promotional video can be seen here (just remember to ignore the October performance dates at the end):
https://youtu.be/Dx_ndpHGevw

www.cadsact.org.uk/shows/

* MONSTROUS REGIMENT IN GEORGIA USA (FEBRUARY 2018)

Gainesville Theatre Alliance's 2017-2018 season will feature their production of Monstrous Regiment in a "February Festival of Theatre". "GTA is a nationally acclaimed collaboration of the University of North Georgia, Brenau University, theatre professionals and the northeast Georgia community that has yielded state and national awards."

When: 16th–24th February 2018
Venue: UNG-Gainesville's Ed Cabell Theatre, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood, GA
Time: 7:30pm evening shows on the 16th, 18th, 20th-24th, and 2:30pm matinees on the 17th & 24th
Tickets: $18-20 for adults, $16-18 for seniors and $12-14 for students, depending on seat location, available from www.gainesvilleTHEATREalliance.org or by phoning the Box Office at 678 717 3624. NOTE: by early August, 97 percent of the GTA performances were sold out. "Theater-goers may purchase tickets to one show or all five. They also may build their own custom ticket package, earning discounts for two shows or more."

http://blog.ung.edu/gta/performances/index/
http://blog.ung.edu/gta/performances/tickets/

* MASKERADE IN YORK (FEBRUARY 2018)

We Are Theatre's next Discworld play will be the Stephen Briggs adaptation of Maskerade!

When: 26th–28th Feb 2018
Venue: The Black Swan, Peasholme Green, York, YO1 7PR
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £10, bookable by phoning 07521 364107 (note that there is only limited seating available)

http://www.wearetheatre.co.uk/upcoming-productions.html

* WYRD SISTERS IN IFIELD, WEST SUSSEX (MARCH 2018)

The Ifield Barn Theatre Society are gearing up for their production of Wyrd Sisters in March.

When: 7th–10th March 2018
Venue: Ifield Barn Theatre, Ifield Street, Crawley, W Sussex RH110NN
Time: 8pm all evening shows, plus a 3pm matinee on 10th March
Tickets: £10 (£8 for members and children), available from http://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ifieldbarntheatre

http://www.ifieldbarn.co.uk/coming-soon.html

* GUARDS! GUARDS! IN CHORLEY (APRIL 2018)

CADOS (possibly once the Chorley and District Operatic Society?) will be staging Guards! Guards! in April: "This production marks what would have been Sir Terry's 70th birthday."

When: 23rd–28th April 2018
Venue: Chorley Little Theatre, Dole Lane, Chorley, Lancs PR7 2RL
Time: 7:30pm all shows
Tickets: 23rd, 24th, 25th £8; 26th, 27th, 28th £10, available online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/event/208113 or in person at Malcom's Musicland 01257 264362 or Ebb & Flo Bookshop or when the Theatre Box Office is open for shows.

http://www.chorleylittletheatre.com/chorleytheatre/index.php/event/552-cados-play

Editor's note: the theatre itself is absolutely adorable! Look:
http://www.chorleylittletheatre.com/chorleytheatre/images/ChorleyLittleTheatre1.jpg

* MORT IN BIRKENHEAD (APRIL 2018)

The Carlton Players will be staging Mort next April: "He gets board and lodging and free use of company horse, and doesn't even need time off for his grandmother's funeral..."

When: 24th–28th April 2018
Venue: The Little Theatre, Grange Rd West, Birkenhead CH41 4BY
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £8 (students and under-16s £6), available from https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/venue/FEDIFI or by ringing the box office on 0151 647 6593

https://www.carltonlittletheatre.co.uk/the-carlton-players/2017-18-season/mort/

* GUARDS! GUARDS! IN PLYMOUTH (MAY 2018)

City College Plymouth will be staging their production of Guards! Guards! in May 2018.

When: 16th–18th May 2018
Venue: Tilt Theatre, Performing Arts, City College Plymouth, Plymouth
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: TBA

https://allevents.in/plymouth/guards-guards-by-terry-pratchett/1943260799295027

* MEN AT ARMS IN BRISBANE, FOURECKS (OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2018)

It will be a bit of a wait, but the Brisbane Arts Centre's next Discworld production – Men at Arms – is already looking good! All props to Fourecks for keeping the Disc alive on stage:

"Men at Arms is the 15th novel in Sir Terry Pratchett's Discworld series, a comic fantasy universe with over 80 million books sold worldwide. Aficionados and newcomers to the Disc will love this adaptation, brought to life by the expertise of our Pratchett team."

When: 6th October through 3rd November 2018
Venue: Brisbane Arts Centre, 210 Petrie Terrace, Petrie Terrace (yes, the suburb and the road share a name), Brisbane, Queensland 4000
Time: 7.30pm Thursdays, 8.00pm Fridays and Saturdays, 6.30pm Sundays. "Doors close 5 minutes prior to performance. Late entry is not permitted."
Tickets: AU$34 ($28 concession or groups of 10 or more), available now online at http://bit.ly/2zHKO5a – and there will be Student Rush tickets priced at $15, available from the box office 15 minutes prior to curtain on the dates

https://www.artstheatre.com.au/menatarms

4.3 REVIEWS

* WYRD SISTERS IN ONTARIO, CANADA

By Robin Waples in the Sault Star:

"Director Richard Karhu does well with managing the technical aspects of the challenging piece, including a zillion scene changes, but he hasn't succeeded in bringing us the magic, which is so essential to this type of play. There is very little movement, the actors – with some exceptions - stand in a row and deliver lines in an uninspired fashion, dialogue with humour is understated, energy and pacing is lacking and, in general, there is no sense of playfulness... The witches are central to keeping us engaged, but there is surprisingly little effort here to make them interesting. Calista Jones, as young witch Magrat, does her best to lend her character some spunk, but Susanne Bugyra, as Granny Weatherwax, and Diana James, as Nanny Ogg, need to explore more ways to draw us in. Pirie Kaufman is a strong presence as the ghost of the dead King Verence and Craig Rooney is enjoyable as the not-so-foolish fool. Ron Bird has some entertaining moments as Duke Felmet – constantly washing his hands — and his duchess wife is played formidably by Taylor Emlaw. Sonya Ostrowski-Masotti, as Hwel, and a deliciously inventive Demon, and Harry Houston, as dim-witted Sergeant, deserve much credit for bringing life to the stage whenever they appear... The Bard barbs and the thespian jokes are welcome, but the theatre group needs to find the colour in the characters, the humour in the dialogue and the magic in the storytelling..."

http://www.saultstar.com/2017/10/25/technical-aspects-impressive-but-witches-hardly-entrance

* THE TRUTH IN ADELAIDE, FOURECKS

Reviewed in Stage Whispers by Kerry Cooper

Director Pamela Munt has assembled a large cast to bring its absurd mix of characters to life in Unseen Theatre Company's production... [Danny] Sag is amusing as the vampire hired to take photos for the paper; his work with flash is quite farcical. Nick Andrews and Paul Messenger play henchmen Mr Pin and Mr Tulip with hilarious results. Their oddball banter, complete with a speech impediment mixed in, equates to plenty of laughs throughout the play. Mr Slant (Pamela Munt), a zombie lawyer, is menacing as the criminal mastermind, but the misdeed is in danger of unravelling when the Lord's dog Wuffles goes missing. Aimee Ford is delightful as anonymous tipster Gaspode, the brains behind the mumbling beggar. The cast do an admirable job playing several roles throughout the play and each change in character is enhanced by well thought-out costumes. The multi-level set is practical and appealing, making use of established doors either side of the performing space. Whether or not you are a fan of Pratchett's work, you will be pleased with the results..."
http://www.stagewhispers.com.au/reviews/truthunseen

...and in The Advertiser by Ewart Shaw

"The arrival of 'fake news' and challenges to the freedom of the press make this Terry Pratchett story remarkable pertinent, and incidentally very funny... Unseen Theatre and founder Pamela Munt have developed a Bakehouse style of versatile performers, with many changes of costume, accent and beard, nipping out of many doorways. There's an energetic sense of improvisation carefully managed for maximum effect. Aimee Ford is Gaspode the talking dog. Hugh O'Connor and Natalie Haigh are William de Worde and Sacharissa Cripslock, accidental publishers of Ankh-Morpork newspaper The Truth, aided by Leighton Jones as Gunilla Goodmountain, dwarf engraver (I mean a dwarf who engraves, not someone who engraves dwarfs. Pratchett fans will understand the confusion). There's great support from the square jawed Mike Shaw as Commander Vimes, with Alicia Rabig as sidekick Angua, David Dyte as Lord de Worde and the man with amusingly shaped root vegetables and Ronald Carney as Drumknott. Danny Sag is outstanding as the vampire press photographer. There's a special mention for Nick Andrews and Paul Messenger as Mr Pin and Mr Tulip, a new firm of bad boys, and producer/director Munt reprises her role as the zombie lawyer Mr Slant. By law, the role of Vetinari can only be played by Philip Lineton, whose quiet authority is a still point in the chaos of the play..."

http://bit.ly/2gYtHEc

...and by Barry Lenny (or possibly Christine Pyman) in Broadway World:

"Mixed in with the concept of population gullibility and manipulation, is the story of the political machinations of special interest groups, and their employment of the epitome of amoral lawyers, Mr. Slant (Pamela Munt), and subsequent outsourcing to hired criminals, Mr. Pin and Mr. Tulip, played by Nick Andrews and Paul Messenger, respectively. This leads into a bit of a whodunit scenario, allowing the glory of the Ankh-Morpork Watch to add to the mayhem. This adaptation, by Stephen Briggs, directed by Pamela Munt, showcased perfectly the talents of the Unseen Theatre actors and stage management. Munt, herself, is perfect as the literally dry as death zombie lawyer, Mr. Slant. From her rolling, dry, crackling voice, to her green skin, she shows the deviousness of the Law, as we all suspect it of actually being. O'Connor's, de Worde, encapsulates the struggles of a wealthy and well brought up young man finding his way, and passion, in the world, against the traditional and very differing views of his family. As someone who is on stage for the majority of the time, he managed to completely have the audience's sympathy for his character... The humour of this story is reliant on many things, and this cast got all of them spot on, from absolute exact timing, intonation, stage direction to something that cannot be pinned down, but comes down to projection of energy of loveable, real, characters... Unseen Theatre Company just keeps on getting better, with its latest offering, The Truth, being the best yet."

http://bit.ly/2A4v4WD

* MORT IN ERITH

By Helen Elisabeth Macdonald aka Girloutside

"Martin Gilby gives a superb performance as Death, taking the character literally in his stride as he glides about the stage, white-faced and sunken-eyed on stilts, swathed in a black cloak, his voice amplified with an eerie, booming effect. He is an absolute sight and sound to behold and his creation is clearly not only a product of the director's vision and his own spot-on interpretation, but a brilliant team effort by Wardrobe (Elizabeth Foster), Props (Sue Newman), Sound (Steve Nash) and Lights (Simon Dinsmore, Adam Davis and Hazel Watts). Mark Fromings as Mort is equally triumphant, bringing the character to life and delighting the audience from the off with his ginger wig and the affable, easy demeanour he brings to all of his roles to make acting look far too easy. Someone remarked it was as though he had stepped straight from the pages of the book. Rebecca Liquorish as Death's daughter, Ysabell, who also becomes Mort's unlikely love interest, also puts in a strong performance as do Roger Butler as Albert, Kate Richardson as Princess Keli and Anthony Denford as Cutwell. They are supported by an excellent ensemble, who not only play five or six roles each but, along with a hard-working backstage crew, act as 'scene-setters', manoeuvring flats to effect a whopping twenty-five seamless changes. Special mention must go to Suzanne Whitnall's spectacular interactive door knocker and Jane Ghost-Cavanagh's insalubrious lady of the night who takes Death's experience of mortal life to another level. Terri McCann's staging is simple, yet effective, interspersed with special light, sound and multimedia effects to create a version of Discworld that visibly delighted the audience. I must say, as a Pratchett novice, I found the story a little difficult to follow at times, but this did not detract from my enjoyment..."

http://girloutside.co.uk/2017/10/16/mort-erith-playhouse-october-2017/

* DODGER IN BIRMINGHAM

...given four stars by Roger Clarke on Behind the Arras:

"Add all the other characters from minor German princes, ladies of the night and Jewish tailors and watchmakers and the play has a population of 56, which rivals audience numbers in the intimate confines of the studio, so directors Roy Palmer and Daniel Robert Beaton have brought it down to a more manageable (a relative term) cast of 25 with plenty of doubling, trebling, and, in one case, quintupling up... we have Esther Roden doing a fine job as Jewish craftsman Solomon Cohen, Dodger's kindly mentor, with a gentle accent and laboured walk, and Jack Heath changing accents and clothes at the drop of a topper, as Disraeli, a dodgy German Prince and the benevolent Mayhew, while Richard Scott weighs in as both engineer Balzalgette and the unfortunate Sweeney Todd, here suffering from battlefield induced PTSD rather than his more usual involvement as a supplier in the pie production business. Daniel Robert Beaton plays Mr Charlie, Dickens to you and me, with the air of a man with his finger on the pulse, making notes for future novels as he goes along, and making it a family affair, his sister Emily Beaton does a fine job as Dodger, giving us a streetwise tosher... like all the doubled-up parts, apart from physical similarities, which are hard to disguise without extensive make up and costume changes, the actors managed to give their different characters different personalities, making the cast look bigger than it is. The whole production is enhanced by excellent period costumes..."

http://bit.ly/2hwyhXd

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05) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS

5.1 DISCWORLD.COM NEWS

Some Hogswatch gift suggestions...

* The Discworld Imaginarium!

"Paul Kidby was Sir Terry Pratchett's artist of choice. He provided the illustrations for THE LAST HERO, designed the covers for the Discworld novels since 2002 and is the author of the bestseller THE ART OF THE DISCWORLD and TERRY PRATCHETT'S DISCWORLD COLOURING BOOK. Now, he has collected the very best of his Discworld illustrations in this definitive volume, including 40 pieces of never-before-seen art, 30 pieces that have only appeared in foreign editions, limited editions and Book Club editions, and 17 book cover illustrations since 2004 that have never been seen without cover text."

The Discworld Imaginarium is priced at £35. For more information, and to order, go to:
https://discworld.com/products/bookloversday/terry-pratchetts-discworld-imaginarium/

* The Little Blue Book!

"Launched to celebrate the new exhibition at Salisbury Museum, Terry Pratchett: HisWorld, this collectable book features an introduction by exhibition curator Richard Henry and a guide to some of the Discworld's most memorable characters, all illustrated by Paul Kidby. Text is by Stephen Briggs. An extremely limited print run, this book is available embossed from Discworld.com while stocks last."

The Little Blue Book is priced at £20 plus shipping. For more information, and to order, go to:
https://discworld.com/products/collectables/little-blue-book/

* Tiffany Aching Pendants!

"These beautiful pendants are based on Paul Kidby's illustrations taken from the Tiffany series. We also have the beautiful Tiffany pendant consisting of a clear blue stone, golden bee and a tiny silver shepherd's crown."

For more information, and to order, go to:
https://discworld.com/products/hare-pendants/tiffanys-hare-pendant-silver/
https://discworld.com/products/hare-pendants/tiffanys-hare-pendant/ (gold)
https://discworld.com/products/jewellery-discworld-merchandise/tiffanys-white-horse-pendant/
https://discworld.com/products/characters/tiffanys-necklace/

* Discworld Keyrings

"These Discworld keyrings are the perfect stocking filler... They may prove very helpful in preventing even the most professional of thieves from liberating keys from your pockets…"

Available keyrings are The Luggage, Great A'Tuin, the A-M City Watch, Feeglespotting, Blind Io, Mr Fluffy (Greebo) and Reaperman (Death), and all are priced at £6.99 except for the City Watch keyring (£7.99) and the limited edition Blind Ion keyring (a godly £9.99). For more information, and to order, go to: https://discworld.com/products/keyrings

* Tote Bags!

"Forget the stocking, these totes are perfect to stuff with Discworld goodies. We have three designs to choose from - Death, the Unseen University Crest or one of the last few remaining Terry Memorial totes, printed on 100% cotton material. Each bag measures 34cm wide x 41cm high and can be carried by hand or conveniently slung over the shoulder."

Each tote bag is priced at £8. For more information, and to order, go to: https://discworld.com/products/tote-bags/

* Bookmarks!

A selection of gorgeous 3D bookmarks priced at only £1 each!

https://discworld.com/products/critters/bee-more-terry/
https://discworld.com/products/critters/feegle-sheep/
https://discworld.com/products/critters/hedgehog-can-never-buggered/

* Temporary tattoos!

A brilliant idea at party time! "Unlike a real tattoo, this is guaranteed not to hurt your body or your bank account! Simply rub on with water. Lasts 1 – 5 days, skin safe and non-toxic."

Each temporary tattoo is priced at £2.25. For more information, and to order, go to:
https://discworld.com/products/new/rob-anybody-temporary-tattoo/
https://discworld.com/products/new/great-atuin-temporary-tattoo/
https://discworld.com/products/new/city-watch-crest-temporary-tattoo/

Time left for Christmas orders...
UK: 14 days
Europe, USA, Canada: 10 days
Rest of Roundworld: 4 days

5.2 PAUL KIDBY.COM NEWS

"New limited edition Discworld prints are now available from my website, including my portrait of the much missed Sir Terry."

Prices start at £40. For more information, and to order, go to:
https://shop.paulkidby.com/prints/

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

06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS

The Broken Drummers, "London's Premier Unofficially Official Discworld Group" (motto "Nil percussio est"), will be meeting next from 7pm on Monday 4th December 2017 (Drummers Christmas party) at the Monkey Puzzle, 30 Southwick Street, London, W2 1JQ. "We welcome anyone and everyone who enjoys Sir Terry's works, or quite likes them or wants to find out more. We have had many visitors from overseas who have enjoyed themselves and made new friends. The discussions do not only concern the works of Sir Terry Pratchett but wander and meander through other genres and authors and also leaping to TV and Film production. We also find time for a quiz."

The Drummers have also taken up doing the odd afternoon meetup. 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 from 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." Future events will include the Did You Bring a Beer Along meeting (celebrating 20 years of The Last Continent) in April 2018.

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 CoSG events will be the Monthly Dinner and Games at the Caledonian Hotel on 30th November, and the City of Small Gods End of Year Picnic in Tusmore Park on 3rd December.

The CoSG also have another identity. Here's the skinny:

Round World Events SA Inc is a not-for-profit incorporated association whose aim is to run fun social Pratchett-themed events for people in South Australia. Our first major event was the Unseen University Convivium held in July 2012. We have also run three successful and booked out Science Fiction and Fantasy themed quiz nights named Quiz Long And Prosper, in 2013, 2014 and 2015! We are also running the next Australian Discworld Convention, Nullus Anxietas VI – The Discworld Grand Tour – taking place in August 2017. You can find more out about it on this very website (_http://ausdwcon.org/_)! The association will run some events under the City of Small Gods banner, but you do not have to be a Round World Events SA member to be part of City of Small Gods. However, we are always on the look out for new members for Round World Events SA to help us organise future events! Membership is $20 a year (for Adelaide locals) or $5 a year (for those not quite so close) and has the following benefits:

A shiny membership certificate all of your very own
Discounted entry price to some of the events we run
A warm, fuzzy feeling deep down in your chest (no, not quite that deep)
For more information, or to join as a member, please email RoundWorldEventsSA@gmail.com

www.cityofsmallgods.org.au

*

The Broken Vectis Drummers meet next on Thursday 7th December 2017 (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 1st December 2017 (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. 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 December 2017 at 6.30pm 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 December 2017 (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) IMAGES OF THE MONTH

The stunning "Ankh-Morpork Post Office" wall at the Salisbury Museum's Terry Pratchett: HisWorld exhibit, photographed by Richard Henry:
http://bit.ly/2AzdRZ3

A few iconographs from Hall Green Theatre's recent production of Dodger (see item 4.3):
http://www.behindthearras.com/reviewsam/2017/reviewsAMJul-Sept2017/dodger1.jpg (Dodger and Solomon)
http://www.behindthearras.com/reviewsam/2017/reviewsAMJul-Sept2017/dodger2.jpg (Dodger and Charlie)
http://www.behindthearras.com/reviewsam/2017/reviewsAMJul-Sept2017/dodger3.jpg (Dodger and Simplicity)

Leighton Jones and Hugh O'Connor – with an actual physical copy of the Ankh-Morpork Times! – in Unseen Theatre's 2017 production of The Truth:
http://bit.ly/2z3Rs2r

Some cast photos from the current production of Mort in Western Australia's Roleystone Theatre (see item 4.1):
Mort and Death: http://bit.ly/2k0BYJ6
Cutwell and Keli: http://bit.ly/2A9NpSM
Death and Ysabell: http://bit.ly/2zAV0wE

The well-attended Broken Drummers November 2017 meeting in London:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DN-YcXyWsAEAyFY.jpg

The Royal Librarian gets a banananana!
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DN-5W1vX4AEjQry.jpg

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

08) CLOSE

For what it's worth, the rather pricey Little Blue Book (see item 5.1) is a thing of beauty, and I'm glad I bought a copy of it.

Take care, and we'll see you next month...

– Annie Mac


ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

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

Copyright (c) 2017 by Klatchian Foreign Legion

News from the Discworld Emporium...

"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":

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


*


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/

Wossname
Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
November 2015 (Volume 18, Issue 11, 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, Wolfiekins, 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) THE TERRY PRATCHETT SCHOLARSHIP: A REPORT
04) ODDS AND SODS
05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
06) DISCWORLD GAMES NEWS
07) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS
08) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
09) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS
10) ROUNDWORLD TALES: THE UNDELIVERED LETTERS
11) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE
12) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
13) CLOSE

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH

"I have reached the conclusion that a person may make a decision to die because the balance of their mind is level, realistic, pragmatic, stoic and sharp. And that is why I dislike the term 'assisted suicide' applied to the carefully thought out and weighed up process of having one's life ended by gentle medical means."
  – Sir Terry Pratchett, 2010, in his Dimbleby Lecture "Shaking Hands with Death"

"We should always debate ideas that appear to strike at the centre of our humanity. Ideas and proposals should be tested." – ibid.

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

02) LETTER FROM YOUR EDITOR

  Hogswatch is a-coming, the sausages are fat... and as winter sets in around the lands of the Ankh-Morpork Consulate and the dwellers in Fourecks start to gear up for BBQ season, the naughty and the nice are making their hopeful lists to send to the Hogfather. Item 7 is full of excellent suggestions from the assorted artificers at the Discworld Emporium and Discworld.com, should you be in the market for fanworthy gifts. And if you're thinking of gifts of the dead tree variety, don't forget your local booksellers, both real and virtual (_http://www.myindependentbookshop.co.uk/_).

  There is quite a lot of Discworldly art featured in this issue, both official and fan-made. Some of it requires staying within the lines. Some of it is also edible. I hope you enjoy the various art links we've gathered for your delectation...

  And that will do for the moment. But first, a word about a kerfuffle. In last month's issue, item 9 ("Fanac") was devoted to a string of Discworld-centric limericks sent in by one of our Newshounds. As no source was given apart from "found this on Facebook", I did a number of searches (as I normally do) but found nothing to indicate where the limericks thread came from; but as it was obviously fan-made and definitely fun, I decided to include it in the issue. Then, not long after the month's issue went out, I received an email from Jason Anthony of Discworld Monthly newsletter, explaining that the limericks came from a thread on the Discworld Monthly Facebook group, which is a private group. Jason and I have since discussed this and all's sorted. But as offence was taken, Wossname hereby apologises to the Discworld Monthly Facebook group for the uncredited sharing of a thread posted in that group.

  The very purpose of Wossname, since its beginning back in the 1990s, has been to make fans aware of both direct news of the life and work of Terry Pratchett and various international activities of Pratchett fans, including links to fan art and reposting of forum threads and assorted fan poetry and essays; and that will continue to be our policy and raison d'etre. But to anyone – staff or civilian – who wants to send in any fan-based items from less than public sources in future, do let us know the origins...

  On with the show!

– Annie Mac, Editor

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

03) THE TERRY PRATCHETT SCHOLARSHIP: A REPORT

A special report by Danny Sag of the Australian Discworld Convention Committee

  As you may have heard, Sir Terry Pratchett has – posthumously – created a perpetual scholarship at the University of South Australia, allowing Masters students to undertake their research at the Hawke Institute at UniSA and the Long Room at Trinity College Dublin.

  On Monday September 28, Rob Wilkins – Terry's long time PA, Business Manager and friend presented the scholarship to UniSA Vice Chancellor Professor David Lloyd. You may have seen some of the news articles, or the official video from UniSA (links below), but I'm here to tell you about a fan's perspective.

  Members of the Australian Discworld Convention committee including myself were fortunate enough to be invited to this event, and so we stood there nervously amongst many other university dignitaries, feeling a little out of place - until Rob came in, recognised us, and gave us all hugs!

  Once the formalities began, Professor Lloyd introduced Rob and the scholarship, Rob spoke for a short while about Terry's life since the embuggerance, and the relationship Terry and Rob had developed with Prof. Lloyd at his time at Trinity College Dublin and later UniSA. Terry was given an honorary doctorate at Trinity College in 2008 and at UniSA in 2014, and for some of the time in between, Terry was a visiting Professor at Trinity College giving some lectures on writing. Rob then told us how last October – on the day after Prof Lloyd had visited to present Terry with his UniSA doctorate (together with a graduate's hat with corks), Terry wrote letters to his family and to Rob, which were not opened until Terry's birthday this year, after his passing.

  The letter to Rob included a phrase similar to "I fancy a memorial scholarship in my name. Speak to David Lloyd and make it so." – and it has now happened! This is special as it's a perpetual scholarship - worth AU$1,000,000 (there or thereabouts) – which should tie the two universities together in Terry's name forever.

  After the speeches, Rob presented Professor Lloyd with a large novelty cheque from the Royal Bank of Ankh-Morpork, the official documentation was signed (and stamped with Terry's bee), and a few of us had Rob sign our copies of The Shepherd's Crown.

  A fun morning all around, and we were *also* lucky enough to catch up privately with Rob a little later to discuss the 2017 Australian Discworld Convention, which will be held in Adelaide. But we can't possibly tell you about that.... although if you sign up to the mailing list at http://ausdwcon.org you'll find out about Nullus Anxietas VI when we have stuff to announce!

  Here be more photos: http://imgur.com/a/MlZfc

[Editor's note: there is indeed fresh Nullus Anxietas VI news! Scroll down to item 9.1]

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

04) ODDS AND SODS

4.0 PTERRY STATUE UPDATE

From the Salisbury Journal:

  "A campaign get a statue of the late Sir Terry Pratchett installed in Salisbury has gathered more than 2,500 signatures. Organisers say they are now working [with] an artist and Sir Terry's management team to draw up concept designs for the statue. Campaigner Emily Brand said: 'We've had some fantastic support and media coverage for the project, and it just goes to show how much love the community in both Salisbury and across the world had for Sir Terry. It's been a little quiet the last couple of weeks, but we are now working with artist Paul Kidby and Sir Terry's management team to create some concept designs for the statue in the near future. Once we have some designs I can go forward with the official pitch which I have been invited to put forward to one of the local councils. This project is going to be a long time coming to fruition, but I am so overwhelmed by the positive responses we've had so far, and I hope you'll all continue to follow us we work together to see this tribute to one of Britain's great authors come to life.'..."

http://bit.ly/1OlfWFA


4.1 THE FIFTH AND FINAL LONG EARTH NOVEL

The final Long Earth novel is due to be published in June 2016. Here be blurbage from Goodreads:

  2070-71. Nearly six decades after Step Day and in the Long Earth, the new Next post-human society continues to evolve. For Joshua Valiente, now in his late sixties, it is time to take one last solo journey into the High Meggers: an adventure that turns into a disaster. Alone and facing death, his only hope of salvation lies with a group of trolls. But as Joshua confronts his mortality, the Long Earth receives a signal from the stars. A signal that is picked up by radio astronomers but also in more abstract ways – by the trolls and by the Great Traversers. Its message is simple but ts implications are enormous:

  JOIN US.

  The super-smart Next realise that the Message contains instructions on how to develop an immense artificial intelligence but to build it they have to seek help from throughout the industrious worlds of mankind. Bit by bit, byte by byte, they assemble a computer the size of a continent – a device that will alter the Long Earth's place within the cosmos and reveal the ultimate, life-affirming goal of those who sent the Message. Its impact will be felt by and resonate with all – mankind and other species, young and old, communities and individuals – who inhabit the Long Earths...

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25859268-the-long-cosmos

...and here be an interview with Guardian journalist (and fan) Alison Flood, back in 2010, when the Long Earth series was a mere project in its infancy:

  "Both authors are determined to put the parameters of their world(s) down in concrete before getting started. 'Once you've got the science and the background you have to be true to it. One of the problems of Doctor Who-type fiction is that you can make it up as you go along. If you do it right, you use the modelling clay you've got,' said Pratchett. 'You only get one chance to put down the parameters of what's possible. I've been phoning doctors and people like that and saying "Can this work?" You have to find something which seems right and not too blatantly bad from a scientific point of view'..."

http://bit.ly/1P1tMzZ


4.2 THE BOING BOING REVIEW: THE SHEPHERD'S CROWN

By Cory Doctorow, with little to no spoilage:

  "The Tiffany Aching books were Pratchett's personal favorites, a fact that had puzzled me, because as good as they were, they seemed slight alongside of the Moist von Lipwig books, whose exploration of the way that modernity and technological change rippled out through society really resonated with me. But in The Shepherd's Crown, I've come to realize what it is about these books that makes them so special and endeared them so well to Pratchett's own heart: it's their compassion... In The Shepherd's Crown, Tiffany's coming of age arrives at its climax, and Pratchett uses her challenges to bring her into contact with a much wider piece of the Discworld. More importantly, he makes her confront impossible situations – wicked problems where someone must lose. Into this action, Pratchett introduces all kinds of symmetries and touches in on some of the Discworld's old threads: the old romance between Granny Weatherwax and Archchancellor Ridcully, the ongoing story of the railroad (see Raising Steam), the social pecking order of witches, and the relationship of gender to witchcraft and wizardry, first explored in 1987's Equal Rites.

  "What makes this book so great – what made Pratchett so great – is his commitment to making jokes into something more than gags. The early Pratchett Discworld novels were rather thin by comparison to the later ones (he confesses as much in some of his essays), because Pratchett got better as he went along. Pratchett's early work was dominated by puns, Douglas-Adams-ish comic footnotes (that often fell short of Adams's high standard) – cheap yucks. But Pratchett got better. Lots better. He didn't get better by giving up on those cheap yucks: he got better by making them into something more than cheap yucks. The Nac Mac Feegle are a silly gag about Scottish, drunken, ultraviolent Smurfs. In the Wee Free Men, Pratchett played with this notion, figured out where and how he could push it around. Five books later, the Nac Mac Feegle aren't a gag anymore. They're full-blown characters, and if there are running gags about them all being called things like No'-as-big-as-Medium-Sized-Jock-but-bigger-than-Wee-Jock Jock, they are garnish, not the main dish, which is a deft way of using these spear-carriers to move the story into complicated places where Tiffany's wisdom, self-confidence, compassion and sense of duty are all tested... I loved this book. I loved it even when it tore my guts out. If you love Pratchett, I guarantee it will tear your guts out too, and even though I'm not someone who worries much about spoilers, this one is big and I'm going to leave it to you to discover. But you've been warned..."

http://bit.ly/21ccap7


4.3 DISCWORLD COLOURING-IN PAGES!

A set of Paul Kidby's Tiffany Aching novels illustrations for all ages, generously made available on Terry Pratchett Books to print out and colour...

Tiffany and her frying pan:
http://bit.ly/1Hh1ejm

Rob Anybody Mac Feegle of the Chalk Feegles, looking fearsome as a Big Man should:
http://bit.ly/1MwAcn8

Miss Treason's Boffo skulls, Enochi and Athootita:
http://bit.ly/1PISjdc

...and a rendering of the original Paul Kidby cover for The Shepherd's Crown:
http://bit.ly/1QCM0bt

And to get ready for next October, you can download the Shepherd's Crown Halloween Pack, complete with costume suggestions and plenty of other things, by going to http://bit.ly/1MwAkTw and clicking on the download button


4.4 ADOPT A DRAGON!

From the Discworld Emporium and the creative genius of Paul Kidby...

  "Please don't let our flames go out! At Hogswatch the Sunshine Sanctuary is 'swamped' by countless dragons in desperate need of love and care. By adopting a dragon today you'll help provide vital aid for the sanctuary's most needy residents. In return for your contribution and support, you'll receive 3 own baby swamp dragons, lovingly and exclusively sculpted by Mr Paul Kidby! Produced in a beautifully glinty cold-cast bronze finish, these dragon babies really glow! But that's not all – you'll also receive adoption certificates to name and keep safe with your dragons, all presented in transportation gift boxes to prevent escape! Please remember: 'A Dragon is for Life, not just for Hogswatch!'

  "Our dragons are house trained but will sit happily outdoors should they become too much of a handful. It is also worth noting that these dragons are 100% unexplosive, and pose no risk to your home or possessions."

There are several different dragons...

Swamp Dragon #1: "This little cutie measures 160(l) x 95(w) x 60(h)mm." Priced at £30. For more information, and to order, go to http://bit.ly/1MfT73b

Swamp Dragon #2: "This little cutie measures 95(l) x 100(w) x 95(h)mm." Priced at £30. For more information, and to order, go to http://bit.ly/1MfTb34

Swamp Dragon #3: "This little sweetheart measures 115(l) x 85(w) x 100(h)mm." Priced at £30. For more information, and to order, go to http://bit.ly/1LUvpeV

Full set of three dragons: "These little b-lighters measure (mm): 95(l) x 100(w) x 95(h), 95(l) x 100(w) x 95(h), 160(l) x 95(w) x 60(h)." Priced at £80 the lot. For more information, and to order, go to http://bit.ly/1Hw6WZh

To view the main Adopt a Dragon page, featuring photos of Mr Kidby putting the finishing touches on his original dragon sculptures, go to http://bit.ly/1PepeWW


4.5 JIM VISION'S NEW DISCWORLD TRIBUTE ART

Nomes! On a boat!

  I've been following Jim Vision and End of the Line's Twitter feeds ever since the Brick Lane Pratchett mural made the headlines many moons ago, and I was gratified to find that there was further Discworld tribute art to be had from the same artists in London. But as it.'s been several months since the post about the "Terry Pratchett boat" and the starboard side photos never materialised, here be the post with its incomplete set of art photos:

http://www.endoftheline.co/the-terry-pratchett-boat-starboard-side/

Another straight-on view, from Jim Vision's collection:
http://bit.ly/1XTWbcx

  "Following the production of the Terry Pratchett tribute wall by Jim Vision & Dr Zadok, fans gathered far and wide to marvel at the spectacle. One of them being barge owner and London resident Faith. Faith got in touch with us to request her very own Terry Pratchett mural to be painted along the side of her house boat which moors on the east London canal. Jim Vision headed on over last week to get started and completed the starboard side with signature Josh Kirby gnomes and frogs. Take a look below. The port side still needs completing, so you can find Jim & Faith's brand new boat on the canal this Saturday. Final images to come next week.."

Photo credit on the page: T.Elhaj

http://jimvision.co.uk/

Also, here be an action replay of the Brick Lane mural, which has been partially changed by the same artists to Star Wars figures, after an unusually long tenure with minimal vandalism:

http://www.endoftheline.co/the-terry-pratchett-tribute-mural/


4.6 JOSH KIRBY GIVEAWAYS!

From the dedicated Josh Kirby Facebook page:

  "In December we have two big giveaways planned so please share this page with friends, family and fans of Josh Kirby, Terry Pratchett and Discworld."

https://www.facebook.com/officialjoshkirby/

Editor's note: the page can be viewed even by those who don't have a Facebook account. If you're not familiar with Kirby's non-Discworld art, go give yourselves a treat! And be sure to have a shufti at Mr Kirby's biography:

http://www.artofjoshkirby.com/about.html


4.7 STEELEYE SPAN WINTER 2015 TOUR DATES

The wonderful co-creators of the Wintersmith songs, live on tour:

Tue 24 Nov The Stables, Milton Keynes – Box office/info: 01908 280800
Wed 25 Nov New Vic Theatre, Newcastle Under Lyme – Box office/info: 01782 717962
Thu 26 Nov Prince of Wales Centre, Cannock – Box office/info: 01543 578762
Fri 27 Nov Town Hall, Cheltenham – Box office/info: 0844 576 2210
Sun 29 Nov Royal & Derngate, Northampton – Box office/info: 01604 624811
Mon 30 Nov Epsom Playhouse, Epsom – Box office/info: 01372 742555 / 742227
Tue 1 Dec The Winding Wheel, Chesterfield – Box office/info: 01246 345 222
Wed 2 Dec Huddersfield Town Hall, Huddersfield – Box office/info: 01484 223200
Thu 3 Dec Sage, Gateshead – Box office/info: 0191 443 4661
Fri 4 Dec Leeds Town Hall, Leeds – Box office/info: 0113 224 3801
Sun 6 Dec Great British Folk Festival, Skegness – Box office/info: 0330 102 5295
Tue 8 Dec The Apex, Bury St Edmunds – Box office/info: 01284 758000
Wed 9 Dec Corn Exchange, Ipswich – Box office/info: 01473 433100
Thu 10 Dec St Mary's In The Castle, Hastings – Box office/info: 01323 841414
Sat 12 Dec The Lighthouse, Poole – Box office/info: 0844 406 8666
Sun 13 Dec Queen's Theatre, Hornchurch – Box office/info: 01708 443333
Mon 14 Dec Cadogan Hall, London – Box office/info: 020 7730 4500
Tue 15 Dec St George's Bristol, Bristol – Box office/info: 0845 40 24 001
Wed 16 Dec Portsmouth Guildhall, Portsmouth – Box office/info: 0844 847 2362
Thu 17 Dec City Hall, Salisbury – Box office/info: 01722 434434

To purchase tickets online for any of these dates, go to http://steeleyespan.org.uk/tour/ and click the button for the desired date.


4.8 THE RETURN OF... GREEBO?

In the Nottingham Post:

  "A missing cat returned to its owners having lost an eye after five years in the wilderness – and weeks before the couple perform in a play featuring a one-eyed feline. Half-Persian tabby Silva was feared dead when she went missing from her Colwick home in 2010. But last Monday owner Gale Brammer received a call from Cat Rescue saying microchipped Silva had been picked up by one of their volunteers. The news came as Gale, 56, and her husband Richard, 48, were rehearsing the Colwick Theatre Club's production of Terry Pratchett's Maskerade. Richard, producer of the show, said: 'It's the most bizarre coincidence. It was almost too coincidental to be true. In the play, Nanny Ogg has a tomcat called Greebo, who only has one eye. Silva had two eyes when we last saw her, so she must have been through some awful things. It's very sad, but she's home and safe now.' The couple toyed with the idea of casting their cat in the role but decided it would be too cruel to put her on stage in front of live audiences. 'If it was being recorded like a film, I'm sure we could have involved her,' said Richard. 'But it's just not fair on her and we don't want to frighten her.'..."

http://bit.ly/1GHnOky


4.9 THE OXFORD ENGLISH DICTIONARY BLOG: THE LANGUAGE OF DISCWORLD

An excellent Oxford Dictionaries blog entry about the language of Discworld!

  "What first started life in 1983 as a parody of the fantasy and science fiction genres has now blossomed into a minutely detailed world. One of the most enjoyable aspects of Pratchett's writing is that, despite the fantastical setting, the people and places seem very real and relatable. One of the ways that Pratchett has achieved this is through richness of language... The Disc is both 'a world and mirror of worlds', filled with different countries and cultures which have more than a passing resemblance to our own, and it's clear that Pratchett has had a lot of fun creating the linguistic identities of Discworld's various inhabitants... With so many different languages spoken on the Disc – Morporkian, Klatchian, Ephebian, and Omnian to name a few – there's no wonder that language barriers, as anywhere, can cause confusion. For example, Ankh-Morpork might be the Disc's greatest metropolis but to a native of Uberwald (a 'very wild' place indeed!) Morpork is a word for an item of ladies' underwear. The Borogravian national anthem is another familiar example of the problems of translation. While probably a rousing call to arms in its native tongue, the Morporkian (or English) translation is somewhat mystifying... If human language differences weren't problematic enough there are also Trollish and Dwarfish to contend with. A clear parody of Tolkien's own inventions, Discworld dwarves speak a guttural language which, to the untuned ear, sounds like someone in need of a throat sweet or two. Dwarves famously have no single word for rock and can also communicate through a complex pictorial language known as Minesign. Trolls, on the other hand, are much more physical beings, communicating mainly by hitting each other with rocks. They do, however, have both a written and a spoken language and are perhaps responsible for the oldest writing on the Disc... Aside from the amusing names and satirizing of cultural confusion, language forms an important part of the underlying philosophy of the novels as Pratchett recognises how language creates the reality it describes. He also demonstrates the power of language in shaping the way we relate to our own identities and the past..."

http://blog.oxforddictionaries.com/2012/06/the-language-of-discworld/


4.10 REVIEW: THE WORLD OF POO

In The Missoulian (of Missoula, Montana), a review by Marjorie Doyle:

  "If you have a child around 9 or 10 years old and are a fan of Pratchett's 'Discworld,' this is the book for you. If you've never read Pratchett and need some humor in your life, this little book will have you hooked. One of the only authors that my spouse and children have in common, Pratchett's use of word play and irreverent humor will have most chuckling all the way through this book 'for all ages.' The story of young Geoffrey – who is sent off to visit his grandmamma while his mother is preparing for childbirth – and his quest to collect samples of poo of every variety is more amusing than can be imagined..."

http://bit.ly/1ShyN5F


4.11 A CHAMPION DISCWORLD CAKE!

In the South Wales Argus:

  "An Ebbw Vale woman and her five-year-old son were 'over the moon' after they were given top prizes in an international cake competition at the weekend. Jay Humphris won gold for her two-foot goblin and fairy cake while her son Toby Ashman, five, was given a certificate of merit for his creation at the Cake International show in Birmingham. The pair entered the decorative exhibit category alongside Emma Phillips, who runs Ebbw Vale-based Epic Cakes and also won a silver prize for her elaborate Terry Pratchett-inspired cake... Ms Phillips, who owns Epic Cakes and runs classes in Ebbw Vale learning action centre, won silver in the competition. She said: 'This is the first year I've entered. We were delighted to bits. My cake was a bit of a nod to Terry Pratchett because he passed away last year and my husband is a huge fan.'"

http://bit.ly/1NIhW85

And here is a photo of Emma and her award-winning cake: http://bit.ly/1XgblXB

[Editor's note: for more amazing Discworld cakes, go to the Images section!]


4.12 TERRY PRATCHETT, MIRROR(ER) OF (REAL) WORLDS

Here be a well-crafted piece by Shweta Taneja about how speculative fiction can provide a truer picture of reality, on the Indian culture site Scroll:

  "In 2001, while receiving the Carnegie Medal for his children's book The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents, author Terry Pratchett said, 'We categorise too much on the basis of unreliable assumption. A literary novel written by Brian Aldiss must be science fiction, because he is a known science fiction writer; a science fiction novel by Margaret Atwood is literature because she is a literary novelist. Recent Discworld books have spun on such concerns as the nature of belief, politics and even of journalistic freedom, but put in one lousy dragon and they call you a fantasy writer.'... For fantasy, be it in gaming or books or movies, is perceived by the majority as escapism and a desire to live in alternate realities. But for many authors like Pratchett, the purpose of fantasy is not to immerse yourself in another world so as to forget your own, but to reflect on your own society, to gaze into its gaping holes. In the same speech, Pratchett says, 'Far more beguiling than the idea that evil can be destroyed by throwing a piece of expensive jewellery into a volcano is the possibility that evil can be defused by talking. The fantasy of justice is more interesting that the fantasy of fairies, and more truly fantastic. In the book the rats go to war, which is, I hope, gripping. But then they make peace, which is astonishing.' And the skilled writer that he is, he manages to reflect our society's political and social milieu through satire, mirroring international bickering on climate change, the modern day obsession with television, ambitious politicians who force war in the name of justice, and even the disruptive role that everyday greed and cowardice play, all through a bunch of monsters and wizards..."

http://bit.ly/1N4t0zW


4.13 "RISE OF THE TOMB RAIDER" CONTAINS A TRIBUTE FROM RHIANNA TO HER DAD

In Gamezone:

  "The daughter of beloved fantasy giant Terry Pratchett, she had the opportunity to learn at the knee of one of the greats, but she's stood out on her own skills and has carved an niche into the world of gaming with writing credits for the 2013 reboot of Tomb Raider, Mirror's Edge, Heavenly Sword, Overlord, and she's back with Rise of the Tomb Raider. Lara's father has been a specter and motivator for the titular archaeologist since her inception, exploring Croft Manor and traversing tundra following his clues and with the passing of Terry Pratchett, the younger saw a good opportunity to include an homage to the late author. 'There is one journal ... when my dad was being interviewed about his Alzheimer's, he said that there was one particular memory he didn't want to lose,' Pratchett recently told GamesRadar. 'It was about the time I was born. The night I was born. I immortalized that memory in one of Richard [Croft]'s diaries. So it's a little– it's a riff on that memory of my father's, rolled into Richard's memories.' Pratchett described the experience as cathartic and it's nice to see such a genuine tribute to someone who was not only clearly dear to her, but to the many Discworld fans around the world...."

http://bit.ly/1NjV1pp

There's also a full interview with Ms Pratchett in The Telegraph, about the game and other things:
http://bit.ly/1O9ohxO


4.14 ON READING THE SHEPHERD'S CROWN

Tracy Briseno of the Ames Public Library has written a reflective essay about the end of new Discworld novels:

  "I am having trouble reading this book. Usually, I buy the newest Pratchett book the day it is released and read it cover to cover that day or at the very least, within that week. I devour the book, then often go back and re-read it again once I've finished. Pratchett's books are fun and interesting, thought-provoking, and make the reader see the world around them with different eyes. I've read most of them multiple times and regularly recommend them to friends (and strangers). The point remains, that I don't want to finish this book. I dearly want to read it, but when it is over, there will be no more new adventures in this wonderful world I've come to love. That breaks my heart... The interesting thing for me is that the loss is felt anew when you discover an author you love, read through their whole body of work, then get to the end... For me, this doesn't translate to wanting others to continue ghostwriting (which Pratchett's daughter has assured fans will not happen in his case.) I mourn the finality, but anything else would feel like a sham, not quite right..."

http://amestrib.com/news/memory-terry-pratchett

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05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS

5.0 NEW: UNSEEN THEATRE'S NEW AUDITIONS!

Unseen Theatre's next Discworld play will be Feet of Clay! The play will run from 15th to 30th April 2016 – but first, a cast is needed. Director Pamela Munt says, "This is a 'City Watch' play so I am hoping that lots of you male actors out there are jumping in to attend auditions. Female roles are also available of course. Basically we need a cast of thousands."

Auditions info:

When: Sunday 29th November 2015
Venue: Bakehouse Theatre, 255 Angas Street, Adelaide
Time: 5pm

Rehearsals will be held each week on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday evenings, running to this schedule:

December 8th to 20th (Christmas break)
Jan 3rd to Feb 11th (Fringe break)
March 15th to April 14th (Production Week commences Sunday April 10th)

If you are interested in auditioning, contact Pamela Munt at pamela@unseen.com.au to let her know. "No appointment time is necessary because the auditions will be run in a group format. BUT we do need an idea of numbers."


5.1 NEW: ERIC IN CARDIFF (FEBRUARY 2016)

Monstrous Productions are going from strength to strength! Having raised over £16,000 for Alzheimer's Research UK so far through ticket sales for their Discworld plays – including £4,000 for their recent and much lauded production of Night Watch – the company is now set to tackle Eric in the new year!

When: 18th, 19th and 20th February 2016
Venue: The Gate Arts Centre, Keppoch Street, Roath, Cardiff CF24 3JW Box Office (029) 2048 3344
Time: 7pm all evening shows; 2pm matinee on Saturday 20th
Tickets: £7 (£5 concessions). To purchase online, go to http://7889269b08cd.fikket.com/

"Tickets are now on sale for Eric! They're a bit cheaper than usual as the play is shorter. Please be aware that there is one performance less than usual too so there will be fewer tickets available."


5.2 REMINDER: MASKERADE IN CAMBRIDGE (DECEMBER)

Discworld plays and home of the Cambridge Footlights – what's not to like? The ADC Theatre will present their production of Maskerade in December.

  "After the sell-out success of Wyrd Sisters, Bawds bring another Discworld to the ADC Theatre with their unique mix of film, music and comedy, directed by a former President of the Footlights and dedicated to the proposition that 'in opera, no-one can hear you scream'."

When: Tuesday 8th – Saturday 12 December 2015
Venue: ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge CB5 8AS (phone 01223 300085). "Parking is available in Park Street Car Park operated by Cambridge City Council. Street parking on Jesus Lane is often available for minibuses and other large vehicles. Approach must be made via Victoria Avenue or Maids Causeway due to traffic restrictions."
Time: 7.45pm
Tickets: £12/£10 concessions (Tue & Sat Matinee £10/£8 concessions). To book, go to https://www.adctheatre.com/whats-on/drama/maskerade.aspx and select a date from the drop-down menu on the right of the page

https://www.adctheatre.com


5.3 REMINDER: WYRD SISTERS IN HEXHAM (NOVEMBER)

The Queen's Hall Theatre Club are presenting their production of Wyrd Sisters this week.

When: Thursday 26th – Saturday 28th November 2015
Venue: Main Theatre, Queen's Hall Arts Centre, Beaumont Street, Hexham, Northumberland NE46 3LS (Box Office 01434 652477)
Time: 7:30pm a shows
Tickets: £10 (concessions £9, under 18s £7). The Box Office is open from 10.00am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday & 10.00am to 4.00pm Saturday and one hour before the start of every performance. To buy online, go to http://bit.ly/1O5eIAp and click on the tab marked BOOK, then click the BOOK tab for the date of your choice.

http://www.queenshall.co.uk/events/terry-pratchett%E2%80%99s-wyrd-sisters
http://www.queenshall.co.uk/


5.4 REMINDER: WYRD SISTERS IN BELFAST (NOVEMBER)

The Bart Players will present their production of Wyrd Sisters this week.

25th–28th November 2015
Venue: Bart Players, 183 Stranmillis Road, Belfast
Time: 7.30pm all shows
Tickets: £10.00 (Concession for Under 18/Over 60s/Students £8.00; groups of 10 or more will earn a discount). Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/bartplayers – or by email to bartplayersbelfast@gmail.com,
or by phoning 028 9020 2280.

http://bartplayers.co.uk/


5.5 NEW: MORT IN YORK, 2016: AUDITIONS!

We Are Theatre, a performance group particularly dedicated to engaging community and disability, will be presenting their production of Mort next June – the 21st and 22nd, at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre in York. But first, it's auditions time! Charlotte and Donna of We are Theatre tell us: "York is readily accessible via transport and as a company, we have an open door policy, so we do not have a core membership, instead holding open auditions and casting from those auditions for each show."

When: 10th, 17th and 24th January 2016
Time: late afternoon/early evening. To book an audition, contact wearetheatre@googlemail.com or ring 07521 364107, and give the following information: name, age (if under 18), email address, telephone number, and preferred audition date.

Rehearsals for the June dates will be held on Sunday afternoons/evenings "from Spring 2016 onwards".

www.wearetheatre.co.uk


5.6 REVIEW: MASKERADE IN LINCOLNSHIRE

by Winston Brown in the Spalding Guardian

  "The ever-ambitious Act II Theatre Company set its drama group the task of bringing Pratchett's reworking of The Phantom of the Opera to theatre audiences at Spalding's South Holland Centre... The production turned into an epic, two-hour, 40-minute marathon with catchphrases like 'It's all about the music', 'the show must go on', and 'if your house is on fire, what's the first thing you would take out?' Kelly's remarkable turn as Nanny Ogg, plus steal-the-scene turns from Lily Bergin (Sgt Detritus) and Summer Milnes (Corporal Nobbs), added to reliable performances by Morgan, Hayley and the precocious Alex Gilman (Greebo)..."

http://bit.ly/1NIgSkD

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06) DISCWORLD GAMES NEWS

6.1 LEGO NO-GO

Some disappointing news for Lego and Discworld fans:

  "Lego has just reported the results of Lego Ideas, in which it crowdsourced suggestions from Lego lovers for new products. And the news is bad. Not one of the ideas, all of which received the required 10,000 supporters, has been given the green light. In total, 13 ideas were rejected, including a Lego set that replicated the living room from '80s sitcom The Golden Girls; minifigures of the two elusive members of dance act Daft Punk; a scene from the Discworld novels; a Tyrannosaurus rex; the International Space Station; video game The Legend of Zelda and an ice palace from Disney movie Frozen. Each suggestion received at least 10,000 backers between January and May this year, making it eligible for Lego Review. But the Danish company decided not to forward any of the projects to the production stage, an unwanted first in Lego history. Lego did not divulge the reasons behind its decisions, although one factor could be the challenge of securing intellectual property rights on certain ideas."

http://yhoo.it/1X44u8M

However, some people remain undaunted, especially amazing large-scale Lego sculptor Eero Okkonen, interviewed here by Lego aficionados "The Brothers Brick":

  "TBB: What was the hardest aspect of a Discworld character to capture in LEGO?

  "Eero: Probably the Librarian's shapes and proportions, especially with my limited dark orange collection. The Dean's leather coat's text 'DEAN – BORN TO RUNE' was tricky too. Most of the MOC was built simply around it, as it set the scale for it.

  "TBB: Did you have a moment of 'Eureka' when a particularly odd part just seemed to fit?

  "Eero: The Librarian's face, definitely. It took lot of shaping, but came out surprisingly fast in night-time, two or three hours. I tried all sorts of odd parts to capture his rubbery baggy face. The minifig arms connected to the hip piece were going to be used as the brow but they ended up in the lower jaw instead. The handlebar piece had the most important 'Eureka' moment here, as it made a great upper lip and framed the eyes. It also made it possible to move the yellow teeth a bit forward, giving a bit less human-like and more orangutan-like overall shape to the face.

  "TBB: How much time does it take to complete a build? Do you revisit for improvements before you are satisfied?

  "Eero: The time taken differs... But I think I am quite fast builder. These usually have taken something like six hours each, some less, some more. Ridcully, who was the first one built, was done in a weekend shortly after Sir Terry's death in March and it took a bit more; I somehow found the legs challenging as most of my character builds usually have longer cloaks. Rincewind, on the other hand, took a lot less. His facial features took some shaping and SNOT work, but everything else came together in hour or two, the shaping being very simple here. I always revisit my old creations, but usually after they are photographed and posted online..."

http://bit.ly/1lAcNse

If you haven't time at the moment to read the full interview, do take a moment to look at these amazing photos of his Discworld work!

Ridcully, Rincewind, the Dean and the Librarian:
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5687/23056056312_22b5f5c521_z.jpg

The amazing Vimes, with cigar, truncheon – and proper bare toes:
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5707/21719775158_55b8f10547_z.jpg

...and Susan, dressed for The Duty and accompanied by the Death of Rats:
http://farm1.staticflickr.com/733/21808725266_2fdb0855ae_z.jpg

6.2 "CLACKS": A HOGSWATCH REMINDER!

No, there's no new news (or indeed, new ODs) since last month. But this is where your Editor imp-lores all and sundry who haven't bought Clacks yet to go to your nearest Roundworld game-seller and demand they present you with a copy to buy. While I have no full review to offer yet since it's taken a while to arrange a proper multiplayer session (December issue will have the review), we at Wossname Central have tinkered a bit with the game and can assure you that it's a goer. And what better way to liven up your post-Hogswatch dinner family games, right?

http://www.backspindlegames.com/clacks/
http://discworld.com/products/games/
http://www.discworldemporium.com/Clacks

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07) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS

7.1 DISCWORLD.COM UPDATES

It looks like Discworld.com have got their hands on Tiffany's goddess-of-summer cornucopia, when it comes to Discworld merchandise...

  "Crunching snow, snorting boar and rolling turnips in the office herald the approach of Hogswatch at Discworld.com HQ, and we're delighted to invite you to explore our range of seasonal gifts on our NEW festive favourites pages. Here you'll find tempting treats to delight every Discworld fan, unusual stocking-fillers and some new ideas from the Roundworld goodies vault. But do avoid disappointment and heed our last ordering dates as we cannot guarantee postage of items ordered after the following:

UK – 11th December
Europe – 4th December
USA – 4th December
The rest of the world (including Australia & New Zealand) – 1st December

http://discworld.com/products/festive-fun/
http://discworld.com/products/stocking-fillers/

Stocking fillers

  "We have a ton of treats to stuff the stocking of any Discworld fan and a host of affordable Roundworld gifts too so please take a browse through our new Hogswatch pages, where everything is grouped together for simpler, faster shopping! Brighten up your desk with one of our quality mousemats, which are now all priced at just £5 – stock is extremely limited so grab your favourite design while it lasts. Or order one of our canvas bags and cover it with badges from our massive selection – we even have a colourful range of six 'festive specials'. Our quality Dweenie badges are always a hit but when the Hogfather turns up who can resist! He's only available for a limited time so snap one up while you can. And don't forget to deck your Christmas kitchen with magnets and coasters from our Dweenie range, again the Hogfather is only available for a short time. And grab the hugely popular rat chopping board and NEW Death chopping board while we still have stock!"

http://discworld.com/products/stocking-fillers/
http://discworld.com/products/bags/
http://discworld.com/products/badges/
http://discworld.com/products/dweenie-badges/
http://discworld.com/products/coaster/
http://discworld.com/products/gimlets-kitchen/rat-chopping-board/
http://discworld.com/products/gimlets-kitchen/death-chopping-board/

And for under the tree...

  "We're delighted to offer you a huge range of high quality goodies featuring all your favourite characters from the Discworld. We have t-shirts and hoodies, Tiffany's exquisite pendants, stunning artwork (some still signed in person by Terry Pratchett), DVD's (including Terry's 'Living with Alzheimer's', now back in stock) and a hog-load more."

http://discworld.com/products/t-shirts/
http://discworld.com/products/hoodies/
http://discworld.com/products/jewellery-discworld-merchandise/
http://discworld.com/products/signed/
http://discworld.com/products/dvds/terry-pratchett-living-with-alzheimers/

Festive Favourites...

  "All your festive favourites are here in our Hogswatch special page, from Death as the Hogfather specials to our seasonal range of high-quality A5 Hogswatch cards. Beautifully illustrated gloss cards featuring the artwork of Paul Kidby, they include a lineup of Discworld characters guaranteed to titillate even the most cynical scrooge. Cards feature The Hogfather, The Librarian (We all need a little extra 'Ook! in life!) and Nanny Ogg in a festive mood. All cards have individual messages and come complete with colourful envelopes."

http://discworld.com/products/hogswatch-cards/
http://discworld.com/products/festive-fun/

A really special gift...

  "We have limited stocks of items that were personally signed by Terry Pratchett. Keep a little piece of history and remember him by tucking these items away on your shelf at home. A truly irreplaceable and precious Hogswatch gift. We also have limited numbers of collectable items and keepsakes for you to choose from for those extra special gift ideas."

http://discworld.com/products/signed/
http://discworld.com/products/collectables/

  "Books, books and more bOOKs! As well as a vast range of Discworld novels in paperback and hardback, embossed with Terry's golden coat of arms, we have a wonderful selection of gift books ranging from the sublime Nanny Ogg's cookbook, Terry's incredible & moving 'Shaking Hands with Death' and the wickedly funny 'Good Omens', to the glorious Death's Domain and other Discworld mapps! We're all engrossed in the NEW Discworld atlas too, well worth a read! This stunning work brings to life the lands and locations of the Discworld stories in a way never seen before. Accompanied by lavish full-colour illustrations and a detailed world map, this is a must-have for any Discworld fan."

http://discworld.com/products/paperbacks/
http://discworld.com/products/hardbacks/
http://discworld.com/products/books/book-nanny-oggs-cookbook/
http://discworld.com/products/books/shaking-hands-with-death/
http://discworld.com/products/books/book-good-omens-paperback/
http://discworld.com/products/books/book-deaths-domain/
http://discworld.com/products/books/book-a-tourist-guide-to-lancre/
http://discworld.com/products/books/the-discworld-atlas/

  "Organise your year with us... With 800 days, 13 months, two of each season and more festivals than Vetinari has mimes in his dungeon, a Discworld year is hard to keep track of! But we CAN help you keep tabs on a Roundworld Year with the 2016 Collector's Calendar. This unusual collection features twelve pieces of original art from Joe McLaren, cover artist for Gollancz's hugely successful Discworld Collector's Library. The calendar includes all major realtime calendrical data for Great Britain, Eire, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA, as well as notable Discworld dates. And the delightfully illustrated 2016 diary is a must for any Pratchett fan's Hogswatch stocking! A durable, high quality hardback, with heavy weave pages, this beautiful book comes with all the functionality of an everyday diary but also packs the charm, wit and wonder of the Discworld into every month – a must for the modern witch!"

http://discworld.com/products/books/discworld-2016-collectors-edition-calendar/
http://discworld.com/products/discworld-library/
http://discworld.com/products/books/discworld-2016-diary-a-practical-manual-for-the-modern-witch/

  "Collect all your favourite characters from the Lancre Coven now easily accessible in our special selection pages. From Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, Magrat Garlick and Agnes Nitt to our youngest star, Tiffany Aching. We have a wonderful selection of magical merchandise to please every fan of the delightful Discworld witches."

http://discworld.com/products/the-witches/

  "Cheer up the tree this Hogswatch! You asked for them and we're delighted to announce the launch of three heavenly Hogswatch decorations to brighten up the tree of any Discworld fan! These cheerful designs feature Paul Kidby's ever-popular artwork. The reverse is printed with festive mottos and each aluminium disc is suspended from a jolly red ribbon – Happy Ho Ho Hogswatch from us all!"

http://discworld.com/products/hogswatch-decorations/

  "We've launched three quality new phone cases just in time to make the Hogswatch of any iPhone 5 or 6 user. Sporting three of our most popular designs these cases are proving to be a huge hit so order while we still have stock. And for those of you who don't have an iPhone, don't worry, we're looking at stocking other covers so keep checking our Facebook, Twitter and website!

http://discworld.com/products/phone-covers/
https://www.facebook.com/discworldofficial/?ref=hl
https://twitter.com/Discworld_com
http://discworld.com/

7.2 DISCWORLD EMPORIUM UPDATES

First off, the Hogswatch delivery news:

  "'Nether rain nor snow nor glo m of ni t...' As an official branch of the Ankh-Morpork Post Office we pride ourselves on offering swift and reliable delivery all over the Roundworld."

For delivery in time for Hogswatch please make sure you order by the following dates:

Asia, Cyprus, Far East, Japan, South America, Eastern Europe – 6th December
Australia, New Zealand, Greece – 9th December
Germany, Italy – 13th December
Canada, USA – 14th December
Rest of Europe – 15th December
UK – 18th December

  "We will cease shipping from Friday 18th December. Orders placed after this date will not be sent until we re-open on Tuesday 5th January. Check the postal system for worldwide incidents or status updates by visiting
http://www.royalmail.com/service-updates."

Editor's note: for the full info, go to http://bit.ly/1lBEUXP

Now, for some new stuff...

* The Great A'Tuin game mats!

  "A generously proportioned Discworld game mat from Micro Art Studio featuring Great A'tuin, the Star Turtle by Paul Kidby. This marvellous mat isn't just for gaming though, oh no. In fact, we've been using ours as a general desk mat but it is also ideal for crafting, table decor, pet bowls and as a mouse mat for trolls for example! Measures 60 x 40cm, fabric with 2mm rubber non-slip backing."

Each Game Mat is priced at £10.00. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://www.discworldemporium.com/discworld-atuin-mat

* The Flora & Fauna of Discworld tea towel!

  "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. Measures 78 x 48cm."

Each Discworld Flora & Fauna tea towel is priced at £9.95. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://www.discworldemporium.com/discworld-flora-and-fauna-teatowel

* The Death's Cloak pin!

  "A replica of the Omega cloak pin worn by Death and Susan in the film adaptation of Hogfather. Made in pewter with a heavyweight brooch clasp, and delivered in a stylish presentation box. Measures 70 x 40mm."

Each Death's Cloak pin is priced at £10.00. For more information, and to order, go to:
http://bit.ly/1vleZlt

...and the Kidby Dragons latest...

  "Thank you! Our baby swamp dragons, exclusively sculpted for us by Mr Paul Kidby, have twice sold out, meaning that lots of little dragons have been adopted, helping to provide vital aid for dragons in desperate need of love and care this Hogswatch. Each dragon is hand-cast, polished and finished to achieve their special glow – so it takes time for them to be created, but we're working hard to get them restocked soon and will let you know when they are ready for re-homing once more."

http://www.discworldemporium.com/

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08) 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 December 2015 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 has a new Discworld fan group, 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."

*

There is a new public Facebook meeting group, "The Gathering of the Loonies (Wincanton chapter)": "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. Next event Loonies Christmas Party. Same weekend as Hogswatch would have been. ie 27/28/29 November."

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. Our recent 'Murder In Morpork' mystery party was a great night out. With 26 people attending, we had 24 suspects, our special guest – Vetinari, and one dead mime! It was a fun night of food and murder and we are planning another Murder in December so stay tuned. We also attend opening night at Brisbane Arts Theatre's Discworld plays." The Partisans currently have about 100 members who meet at least twice a month, usually in Brisbane.

Upcoming events hosted by the Pratchett Partisans include:

Homicide at Hogswatch. Sat 19 December 6pm-10pm. Grand Central Hotel Dining Car. Will another Murder will be committed in Ankh Morpork? More details will be released soon.

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. For more information on their upcoming activities, go to www.cityofsmallgods.org.au

"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."

Upcoming events include:
Nov 26th Monthly Dinner and Games, Seven Stars Hotel, 187 Angas St
Nov 29th Planning Picnic, Botanic Park, 11.30am
Dec 6th Round World Events SA Annual General Meeting
Dec TBA End of Year Dinner

For more info, go to http://ausdwcon.org/fan-clubs/adelaide/quiz/

*

The Broken Vectis Drummers meet next on Thursday 3rd December 2015 (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 December 2015 (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 December 2015 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 December 2015 (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>

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

09) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS

9.1 AUSDWCON 2017 NEWS

Nullus Anxietas VI – The Discworld Grand Tour – will take place at the Lakes Resort Hotel, West Lakes, Adelaide, South Australia on 4-6 August 2017. Read on...

Announcing The Discworld Grand Tour!

=======================================
  Ladies, Gentlemen, Dwarfs, Trolls, Vampires, Werewolves, Goblins, Feegles, sundry others and Nobby Nobbs – the Ankh-Morpork Tourism Board invites you to a journey of wonder, whimsy, and, er, wossname at *Nullus Anxietas VI – The Discworld Grand Tour – The Australian Discworld Convention.*

  The Discworld Grand Tour will be held on 4th-6th August 2017 at the Lakes Resort Hotel, Adelaide, South Australia. This convention will be a way to escape on a luxurious trip to the Discworld to enjoy three (or four) fabulous days of fun and frivolity with your fellow fans of the late, great Sir Terry Pratchett.

  Our wonderful new website has just launched and can be found at https://ausdwcon.org
Please visit the site to read all about the upcoming convention and to book your tickets!

Let Rincewind tell you all about it:
https://youtu.be/j80m1JdktQA

Terry Pratchett Folio Special Offer

=======================================
Thanks to the kind generosity of Rob Wilkins, the first 50 people to purchase tickets to Nullus Anxietas VI will receive a very special gift – a limited edition Terry Pratchett Folio, containing some short writings by our very favourite author. These have only been previously available to attendees at the UK Discworld Convention in 2014, at Nullus Anxietas V in 2015 and for a very short time at Discworld.com. This is your chance to get one of the few remaining copies, simply by buying your ticket to Nullus Anxietas VI!

For more information, see https://ausdwcon.org/shop/folio-special-offer/

HO! HO! HO! Buy your loved one a Hogswatch present!

===================================================
Also now available in the Australian Discworld Convention shop are Hogswatch Presents – vouchers you can buy for a friend or loved one which they can use at a later date to buy their Nullus Anxietas VI ticket! This is a special limited-time sale – Hogswatch Presents will only be available until December 20th.

Meet your fellow tourists

====================
You can find out more about Nullus Anxietas VI – The Discworld Grand Tour – The Australian Discworld Convention and chat with other potential tourists at:

Website: https://ausdwcon.org
Facebook page: https://facebook.com/Ausdwcon
Facebook group: https://facebook.com/groups/ausdwcon2017
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ausdwcon


IDWCON LETTERS

The Irish Discworld Convention committee have now released a collection of these letters, from members of Team Pratchett and members of the public, in .pdf form.

  "Throughout the Convention, we ran a memorial event called 'Letters to Terry', where attendees were encouraged to write a letter celebrating the impact of Sir Terry's work on their lives." A few extracts to whet your interest:

  "Well, if the old adage is true: 'no man is truly dead while his name is remembered', then there are millions of us remembering your name old darling, so many in fact that perhaps by some strange alchemy of fate the concept you so wonderfully explored in 'Small Gods', of deities being created by the prayers of their followers, then you might yet appear in some vision to a virgin or as a rocking statue in the grotto of your choice..."
– Bernard Pearson

  "So many of us mourn you not just as an admired author, a fiction producing superstar glimpsed from afar, but for the very real way your writing touched our lives, widened our world view, improved our sense of justice and made us laugh."
– Shivers

  "I had never been part of a fan community. I knew nothing of fan conventions or fan culture... And so, when the 2008 convention rolled around, I, at age 48, packed up my bags and flew to England from New Delhi to attend and it was the first time in my entire life that I had gone somewhere alone, to be amongst people I had never met before for any purpose, least of all for the purpose of celebrating works of fiction and their author. I arrived, met a few people, started gophering and the first duty I was given was to carry your bags. I was in awe..."
– Elizabeth Ann Warner Gaw

  "I am a religious believer, and you weren't, and we had many a good discussion on this. But ultimately, once one has crossed the black sands under the starry skies, these speculations will disappear in the light of reality. So it is my confident prayer that one day we shall see one another again, and talk, and talk, and talk..."
– Jacqueline Simpson

  "I was a geek when that was a thing that got you beat up regularly in school, long before it turned into an ironically cool label. You were a refuge, an example that people who unabashedly spent their time thinking about witches and elves could be spectacularly successful and not apparently bothered if others didn't care for the same thing... You gave me joy, Terry, when I needed it. You gave me a way to connect with those I love. You let me look at the world in a different way, and continue to do so. I miss the idea that there is more to be heard from you, but I know that's incredibly greedy when you've already given me so much."
– Kris Vasquez

To read the whole collection, go to http://idwcon.org/index.php/convention/2015aftermath.html/ and click on the Letters to Terry link. Beware, the whole document is 54 pages long and may cause strong emotions...

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

10) ROUNDWORLD TALES: THE UNDELIVERED LETTERS

As told by Maev Kennedy in The Guardian:

  "Thousands of pieces of correspondence, many still unopened, were stored away by Dutch postmaster and are now being examined by academics... an extraordinary trove of thousands of pieces of correspondence, never delivered, many still unopened and sealed closed, found packed into a leather trunk and stored away for centuries in the Netherlands. The collection includes letters from aristocrats, spies, merchants, publishers, actors, musicians, barely literate peasants and highly educated people with beautiful handwriting, and are written in French, Spanish, Italian, Dutch and Latin... The letters were sent between 1680 and 1706, a time of constant war and political upheaval in Europe, and were kept by a married couple, Simon de Brienne and Maria Germain, the postmaster and mistress in The Hague. They were a canny business couple who spent a period in England as court officials to the newly crowned William III before selling their positions for £1,550 and a barrel of Burgundy and returning home. At the time the delivery of letters was paid for by the recipient, and many may have been undeliverable because the recipient had changed address – one had been forwarded to a series of different addresses, in vain – or even died. Smith believes that they were kept in the hope that one day they would be collected and paid for. 'Something about these letters frozen in transit makes you feel like you've caught a moment in history off guard,' he said. 'Many of the writers and intended recipients of these letters were people who travelled throughout Europe, such as wandering musicians and religious exiles. The trunk preserves letters from many social classes, and women as well as men. Most documents that survive from this period record the activities of elites – aristocrats and their bureaucrats, or rich merchants – so these letters will tell us new things about an important section of society in 17th-century Europe. These are the kinds of people whose records frequently don't survive, so this is a fantastic opportunity to hear new historical voices.'..."

http://bit.ly/1HBvVKP

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

11) AROUND THE BLOGOSPHERE

Here be another thoughtful review by the excellent Kokay Maramot. This time it's Jingo:

  "Jingo is easily Terry Pratchett's craziest stunt. Unlike most City Watch novels, Jingo didn't start with a murder or death (or at least not obviously criminal). It starts with squids and fishermen! It is fair to say that everything would have continued peacefully where it not for a freak geological movement which caused an island (much like Atlantis, though possible less grander and definitely smellier), to surface. Crane up to Ankh-Morpork where the social weathercocks are stirring in the direction of war! From the humblest citizen to the bigwigs in the war councils of Ankh-Morpork, everyone is talking big and thinking small. But this being a City Watch novel and our main heroes and heroines [are] policemen, it's not going to be about the merits of diplomacy. It's going to be about the delights and excites of proactive crime fighting... But while Jingo had a lot to say about the stupid things people do that gets them into stupid wars, most of the novel is just gratuitously fun. And that fun goes a long way when your subject matter is something as grave as war. And I realized something peculiar at how Terry Pratchett frames his omniscient authorial voice. One can't help but laugh when Colon goes on with his aggressive jingoism, but feel truly disgusted when the nobles do the same..."

http://bit.ly/1X5s9FR

...and here we have a fascinating blog post by one Jamie Gibbs, covering all the stages of being in a Discworld play (this on being Monstrous Productions' recent Night Watch), from auditions to final bows and post-run celebrations, complete with terrific iconographs:

  "It was a strange experience – I've not done any kind of performing for about a decade, so suddenly being back in that world again was a little nerve-wracking. I read Carcer's monologue at the audition – not too successfully as I fumbled the words and didn't come across as menacing at all. The dialogue scenes were easier as the nerves had worn off and there was less of a deer-in-headlights feeling. Thankfully, that night after the audition I'd been told I'd got a part and could become a member of Monstrous Productions! As the play progressed, I was lucky enough to get an upgrade to my role not once, but twice, due to cast members leaving. And so it was that I went from Waddy to Billy Wiglet to Ned Coates, earning me the award for 'Most Promoted' at the Night Watch after-show party... When it came to the first day of show week, I'd started to get a little nervous. Thankfully the rest of the cast and their backstage shenanigans did away with any nerves pretty quickly. One of the most satisfying things was, during a fight scene when I get winded by John Keel and go down like a sack of potatoes, there were audible gasps from the audience. Jes and I had practiced the fight numerous times, but it was great to get confirmation that it was believable..."

http://bit.ly/1PUEo2k

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

12) IMAGES OF THE MONTH

12.1 FAN ART

A selection of Discworld fan art...

A funky group portrait by FaQy:
http://faqy.deviantart.com/art/discworld-456356452

...and one by Yenefer:
http://yenefer.deviantart.com/art/Discworld-characters-121973566

...and one by Jesskat:
http://bit.ly/1PH0NS4

Bob Greyvenstein's fabulous take on Granny, Nanny, Lily and Tiffany:
http://bit.ly/1X5Eo5q

A (literally) eye-popping Rincewind by a-discworld-guild:
http://bit.ly/1NJmhHY

A collection of assorted Discworld fan art from the sublime to the, um, less sublime:
http://bit.ly/1MJRVoR

...and a fine collection of Discworld animal life in sepia, by Andrew Salt:
http://bit.ly/1SRmVHl

Wossname has featured several "Discworld Doodles" drawings by the extremely talented Amy Simmonds, who says, "I would just like to say thank you very much for featuring some of my Doodles on the Wossname newsletter and crediting me by name :D I have absolutely no problem with you using any of my Discworld fan art but might I ask that you also provide a link to my Discworld Doodles Facebook page please?" Of course we will, Amy!

Amy's Facebook page:
https://t.co/Yf7B37PMKe

Amy on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/InkaDoodleDo

12.2 MORE CAKES!

A small but perfectly formed iconograph of possibly the best Discworld cake ever, made by Mrs Barracude-Bruce, as posted on Cake Wrecks:
http://bit.ly/1MG1iVL

Natalie Porter of Immaculate Confections, cakemaker extraordinaire and dedicated Discworld fan, made an amazing Grim Squeaker cake for Hogswatch at the Discworld Emporium:
http://www.immaculateconfections.co.uk/grim-squeaker-hogswatch-cake/

Jo Orr of Ciccio Cakes made an amazing Hogfather from Rice Krispies Treats, fondant, white chocolate and edible lace, for UK children's charity Bake a Christmas Wish:
http://bit.ly/1SRljxc

And from Cake International 2013, a fine Luggage:
http://bit.ly/1lBIpO9

12.3 OTHER IMAGES

A marvellous montage! Some characters who will be in the Studio Theatre's 2016 production of The Shakespeare Codex:
http://bit.ly/1kM3LIl

From Paul Kidby's official page: "Here is Granny's cottage in the Ramtops, one of the endpapers I created for The Shepherd's Crown collectors gold edition."

http://bit.ly/1KXd64F
https://www.facebook.com/paulkidby

We all know what Paul Kidby looks like, but if you ever wondered what Josh Kirby looked like, here you go:
http://bit.ly/1KYaC6i

A set of photos from Uppingham Theatre Company's recent production of Wyrd Sisters:

http://mdbaines1.jalbum.net/Wyrd%20Sisters/Friday%20Photos/index.html

Also, Magrat and Verence caught (almost) in the act:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CSqGZT3WwAAYNnl.jpg

...and some of the audience, who definitely got into the spirit of things:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CSrH5vWWUAErhxr.jpg

Some of the Alexandra Players' cast from their recent production of Wyrd Sisters:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CSo4Ef8WIAA0rKx.jpg
and https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CSp8aoeXIAEEPT8.png
and https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CSz0RM0WEAEyftn.jpg

...and finally, possibly the best Discworld cosplay ever – one David Mountain and friends, doing true justice to Moist, Angua, Colon, Vimes and Mort at a convention in the UK:

http://bit.ly/1Yn7quu

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

13) CLOSE

And that's the lot for the moment, apart from a few items:

  The superb Good Omens radio play has been nominated for a BBC Audio Drama Award in the Best Audio Drama (series or serial) category. Judging for the awards will be on 31st January 2016 at Broadcasting House in London.

*

  According to the Random House website, there will be a graphic novel version of Small Gods, to be published in July of next year. Stay tuned for updates!

*

  Granny Weatherwax made it easily into a "top ten greatest witches of all time" list in the Huffington Post:

"There are loveable witches aplenty in Terry Pratchett's Discworld series, from the earthy Nanny Ogg to would-be opera diva Agnes and YA heroine Tiffany Aching. Esme Weatherwax is exceptional in that she is far from loveable, but will always do right by her village, even sitting down to play dice with the Grim Reaper on occasion it it means saving a life..."

http://huff.to/1NJhlD5

*

  There's an interesting blog entry on The Oxford Student, about authors and their "look". Included, of course, is The Hat:

"A distinctive look can reinforce, or play against, a reader's perception of what an author is like based on their work. No-one is surprised after reading Neil Gaiman's work to find him a slightly dishevelled, tousle-haired goth with a fondness for black coats... The late, great Terry Pratchett was known not only for his unique prose style, but in his public appearances for his trademark black hat, to the point where it was disconcerting to find pictures of him not wearing it..."

http://oxfordstudent.com/2015/11/13/an-author-after-a-fashion/

  In closing, I'd just like to point out that Pratchett superfan Emily Whitten is truly amazing. In addition to being bright, beautiful and clever, she has written a top-notch topical essay that references a certain Discworld book that can be said to reflect certain current events. Do have a read: http://bit.ly/1NlGmtM

  Wossname wishes our USA readers a very happy Thanksgiving. See you all soon!

– Annie Mac

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

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

Copyright (c) 2015 by Wossname for the Klatchian Foreign Legion

The sixth official Australian Discworld convention aka Nullus Anxietas VI – The Discworld Grand Tour – will take place at the Lakes Resort Hotel, West Lakes, Adelaide, South Australia on 4-6 August 2017. Read on...

Announcing The Discworld Grand Tour!
=======================================
Ladies, Gentlemen, Dwarfs, Trolls, Vampires, Werewolves, Goblins, Feegles, sundry others and Nobby Nobbs – the Ankh-Morpork Tourism Board invites you to a journey of wonder, whimsy, and, er, wossname at *Nullus Anxietas VI – The Discworld Grand Tour – The Australian Discworld Convention.*

The Discworld Grand Tour will be held on 4th-6th August 2017 at the Lakes Resort Hotel, Adelaide, South Australia. This convention will be a way to escape on a luxurious trip to the Discworld to enjoy three (or four) fabulous days of fun and frivolity with your fellow fans of the late, great Sir Terry Pratchett.

Our wonderful new website has just launched and can be found at https://ausdwcon.org
Please visit the site to read all about the upcoming convention and to book your tickets!

Let Rincewind tell you all about it: https://youtu.be/j80m1JdktQA

Terry Pratchett Folio Special Offer
=======================================
Thanks to the kind generosity of Rob Wilkins, the first 50 people to purchase tickets to Nullus Anxietas VI will receive a very special gift – a limited edition Terry Pratchett Folio, containing some short writings by our very favourite author. These have only been previously available to attendees at the UK Discworld Convention in 2014, at Nullus Anxietas V in 2015 and for a very short time at Discworld.com. This is your chance to get one of the few remaining copies, simply by buying your ticket to Nullus Anxietas VI!

For more information, see https://ausdwcon.org/shop/folio-special-offer/

HO! HO! HO! Buy your loved one a Hogswatch present!
===================================================
Also now available in the Australian Discworld Convention shop are Hogswatch Presents – vouchers you can buy for a friend or loved one which they can use at a later date to buy their Nullus Anxietas VI ticket! This is a special limited-time sale – Hogswatch Presents will only be available until December 20th.

Meet your fellow tourists
====================
You can find out more about Nullus Anxietas VI – The Discworld Grand Tour – The Australian Discworld Convention and chat with other potential tourists at:

Website: https://ausdwcon.org
Facebook page: https://facebook.com/Ausdwcon
Facebook group: https://facebook.com/groups/ausdwcon2017
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ausdwcon


Editor's note: the image below is the property of the Australian Discworld Convention folks. Be sure to visit their website to see it in its proper place!

Wossname
Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
November 2014 (Volume 17, Issue 11, Post 1)

********************************************************************
WOSSNAME is a free publication offering news, reviews, and all the other stuff-that-fits pertaining to the works and activities 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, Wolfiekins
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) ODDS AND SODS
04) REVIEWS: RAISING STEAM; A SLIP OF THE KEYBOARD
05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
07) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS
08) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
09) CLOSE

oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

01) QUOTE OF THE MONTH

"Come on, you're supposed to be a hard-nosed journalist! Pick up your pen and ask me about my sex life!"
– Pterry, being interviewed for the Ashbourne News Telegraph by tongue-tied fan Natalie Wakefield

"We can determine almost every facet of our life, why can't we choose our death?"
– Travis Wright, Managing Editor of The Stylus

"It's a story about the Antichrist. There's nothing more festive than that!'"
– actor Colin "Newt Pulsifer" Morgan enthuses about the seasonality of the Good Omens BBC radio play

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

02) LETTER FROM YOUR EDITOR

So how was it for you, darlings? The new Wossname mailing list so far, that is. I can report that from this end things are going much, much more smoothly than ever during my editorship in the Yahoogroups era. We have had a few problems with new issues being falsely flagged as spam by some ISPs (most notably Yahoo – somehow, not surprising) but for the most part readers are reporting good deliveries of entirely intact, un-truncated Wossname issues. Many thanks to all of you for your patience, and especially to the indispensable Steven D'Aprano for doing the admin while I was down with yet another long-running illness (also not surprising).

This is the time of year when everyone with actual funds or a plastic imitation of same is madly shopping for holiday goodies, and at the moment, both the Discworld Emporium and PJSM Prints are absolutely on fire with excellent Discworld-themed merchandise – see item 7.

Last week I went with some friends to see "Pride", possibly the best "Brit feelgood film" since "The Full Monty". All through the film I kept wondering why George MacKay, the actor playing the lead/viewpoint character, looked so familiar. Eventually the penny dropped: he played Johnny Maxwell in the BBC miniseries of Johnny and the Bomb eight years ago! I heartily recommend both productions, the current film and the older miniseries (which in my opinion was an excellent adaptation, true to the spirit of the book even though they changed a few things).

And now, on with the show!

– Annie Mac, Editor

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

03) ODDS AND SODS

A very mixed bag...

3.1 COLIN MORGAN INTERVIEWED ABOUT BEING NEWT PULSIFER

From the Radio Times:

"Plenty of Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett fans are excited about the upcoming radio adaptation of the authors' joint novel Good Omens – but it turns out one of them is actually in the cast. 'I've always been a fan of Terry Pratchett, I think he's great,' Colin Morgan (who plays Newt in the fantasy comedy) told RadioTimes.com. 'So when Good Omens came along it was a bit of a no-brainer for me. I've always felt this about Terry's books and Neil's books – they're an absolute pleasure to read personally, but I think they're just an honour and a privilege to get the chance to perform professionally.'

"Also starring Mark Heap, Peter Serafinowicz, Sherlock's Louise Brealey and Fresh Meat's Charlotte Ritchie, Good Omens follows the attempts of an angel and a demon to save the world from the antichrist – but all is not as it seems. It was written by Gaiman and Pratchett in 1990, and became a bestseller that remains popular to this day – and while the authors haven't had too big a role in the radio adaptation (Gaiman has pitched in with the scripts), they will be popping up in cameos..."

http://bit.ly/13p4VAE

3.2 THE STORY MUSEUM'S SEASONAL GOODIES

"If you're searching for that perfect Christmas present, we may have just the thing: 60 copies of our 26 Characters exhibition book have been signed by every single author involved, including Philip Pullman, Neil Gaiman, Julia Donaldson and Terry Pratchett. These are on sale for £260, and all proceeds go to supporting The Story Museum's work."

The Story Museum's "26 Characters" exhibition, which includes Sir Pterry's "Just William" character contribution, reopens this weekend. The exhibition is recommended for age 4+.

When: from 22nd November
Venue: The Story Museum, Rochester House, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP
Times: Fridays 10.00 – 17.00; Saturdays 10.00 – 17.00; Sundays 11.00 – 16.00. Last entry 30 minutes before closing.
Tickets: Full price: £7.50. Concessions: £5 (Under-18's, full-time students, job-seekers, over-60s). Family ticket (for a group of 4, including at least 1 child): £20. Children under one year, and companions of disabled visitors: Free
To book tickets, go to http://www.oxfordplayhouse.com/ticketsoxford/#venue=530 or ring the ticket hotline at 01865 305305

Also, there is an excellent explanatory brochure in .pdf form about the exhibition and venue, downloadable for free:

http://bit.ly/1t5PT8N

And here be the Story Museum's dedicated Pterry page, complete with a link to an audio Q&A:

http://bit.ly/1quuISz

For more information, go to www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on/26characters/ or email honor.dawkinsstean@storymuseum.org.uk

http://www.storymuseum.org.uk/

3.3 THE HISTORY OF DRAGONS (AT CRUMBLING CASTLE, THAT IS)

On the Waterstones blog, Kirsten Armstrong – an editor for Terry Pratchett's children's – "explains how his new collection of stories for children provides an insight to the development of his extraordinary imagination.

"Dragons at Crumbling Castle is a collection of fourteen of these early short stories, and it shows that, even aged sixteen, Terry had a powerful wit and sense of humour. We are introduced to daring animals, useless wizards and scheming criminals, all vividly imagined to hilarious effect. Yet the stories in this collection derive added charm by the fact that they offer a unique insight into the mind of Terry as a young man – and what first inspired him. A keen astronomer from childhood, the colonization of the moon was clearly on Terry's mind when he wrote The Great Speck: 1969 was, after all, the pinnacle of the space programme, and as Terry has said, he – along with many other keen young boys with telescopes – had what seemed then quite realistic dreams of space exploration taking us to other planets in the near future... Abominable Snowmen turn up several times in Terry's stories for the Bucks Free Press. It may be that Abominable Snowmen, or yetis, are simply creatures that appealed to Terry; however, it is worth noting that in 1967 Doctor Who, which Terry has acknowledged as a major influence, introduced the yetis as recurring villains in the series called The Abominable Snowmen..."

http://bit.ly/1AQigAP

3.4 HEROINES FOR GEEKS – AND EVERYONE ELSE

In The Telegraph, a ten-strong list of "the best geek culture heroines" includes Granny Weatherwax ("Terry Pratchett's best heroines share qualities with his first, the redoubtable Granny: hard work, sense, withering sarcasm and a rigid control of the darkness they secretly fear in themselves.") and Pratchett the Younger's reboot version of Lara Croft ("Croft received a more realistic make-over for the franchise's 2013 reboot in which she became a fully-rounded character, and one that women were proud to play."). The list is quite impressive and also includes such fictional luminaries as Buffy Summers, Kara "Starbuck" Thrace, Gaiman's Death, and Rogue of the X-Men:

http://bit.ly/1BONmJE

3.5 DISCOVERING THE WONDERS OF DISCWORLD

By Laura Antonucci:

"You can find Terry Pratchett in the sci-fi section in any book store, but he should really have a section all to his own. Pratchett has written an insane amount of published works, and which are mostly in the realm of science fiction and fantasy. In a similar vein of Douglas Adams — author of 'Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' — 'The Color of Magic' is funny, weird and one hell of an adventure. 'The Color of Magic' is the first in a vast amount of novels, however you can pick up any of The Discworld Series and not need know any background and still get swept up in the insane world of A'Tuin. When you begin a book that describes a world balanced on a disk, balanced on the back of four elephants, balanced on the back of a gigantic turtle, you either think, 'huh, based in religious world theory, cool,' or 'what the heck.' And it just gets weirder from there... I can't even begin to talk about 'The Color of Magic' and do it justice in one column, but that shouldn't stop anyone from picking up a copy from whatever bookstore you choose..."

www.thetowerlight.com/2014/11/bookmarks-a-series-for-the-sci-fi-fan/

3.6 THE LIFE OF A PRATCHETT SUPERFAN

By Jane McFarlane in the Derby Telegraph:

"Natalie started to collect the Discworld series, scouring charity shops at weekends in the hope of finding them... Natalie has just read each of the previous 39, in chronological order, in preparation for the new release. 'It's the first time I've ever read all of them in order," she said. "I started in May and then was horrified to get to the end of the 39th only to realise I hadn't pre-ordered Raising Steam! While I was waiting for it to be delivered, I ended up reading all the books I have about the Discworld series, ones like the Science of Discworld – I couldn't break off and read something else!"... This summer, Natalie treated herself to a weekend away at the Discworld Convention at the Palace Hotel in Manchester, leaving the family behind and joining fans from across the country for the three-day event... Natalie threw herself into the fun, designing a costume to be the Goddess Anoia, who is the goddess of things that get stuck in drawers. 'Originally I was just going to wear a white robe and fasten some kitchen utensils to it,' she said. 'But then I started planning more and more and in the end my dad even made me a crown with bent spoons around it. I absolutely loved the convention and going on my own was brilliant. I could do my own thing and be completely selfish – Daisy wants to come with me next year and I'm gutted!' A bone of contention between Natalie and journalist husband Andrew is that years ago, while working on the Western Gazette, Andrew actually interviewed Terry Pratchett. 'He read a couple of the books when he was a teenager but never really got into them so I was so jealous that he'd interviewed Terry Pratchett,' said Natalie. 'He redeemed himself by getting up virtually in the middle of the night a few years ago to drive me to a book signing in Winchester, but I still almost held it against him that he'd interviewed my hero.'..."

http://bit.ly/1t7liqj

3.7 ALZHEIMER'S STRIKES A MUSIC WITH ROCKS IN LEGEND

From our favourite Author to one of the greatest rhythm guitarists in rock history, Alzheimer's is no respecter of artists:

"AC/DC founding member and guitarist Malcolm Young is suffering from dementia, his family has confirmed. It was announced last week the 61-year-old would not be returning to the rock band after taking a break earlier this year due to an unspecified illness. 'Malcolm is suffering from dementia and the family thanks you for respecting their privacy,' his family told People... The group said last week that 'due to the nature of Malcolm's condition' Young would not feature on the new recordings or participate in the tour. His nephew, Stevie Young, will accompany the band on tour after playing rhythm guitar on the album. The news confirms rumours that the musician was suffering from the illness. The Sydney Morning Herald reported Young had been moved into full-time care at a nursing home in Sydney. According to a family friend, the guitarist could no longer remember how to play AC/DC songs. 'If you were in the room with [Young] and walked out, then came back in one minute later, he wouldn't remember who you are. He has a complete loss of short-term memory,' the unnamed source said..."

http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-29439423

3.8 EARLY TEST FOR ALZHEIMER'S LOOK PROMISING

By Lisa Winter on IFLS:

"An early diagnosis is necessary to intervene and slow down the progression of neurodegenerative disease, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Unfortunately, the disease typically isn't spotted until symptoms have already appeared and amyloid plaques have begun to accumulate and cause damage to the brain. A new blood test claims to be able to accurately identify Alzheimer's disease 10 years before the onset of symptoms.

"The paper was published in The Journal of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology. Lead author Dimitrios Kapogiannis from the National Institute on Aging in Baltimore presented the research this week at the 2014 meeting of the Society for Neuroscience in Washington, DC. The blood test was performed on 174 patients with various degrees of neurological health: 84 of the participants were healthy adults, 20 were elderly adults with no dementia, and 70 had been diagnosed with AD. The researchers also had access to frozen blood samples from 20 of the AD patients that had been taken anywhere from 1-10 years prior to the diagnosis...

"There have been other AD tests announced this year that use different biomarkers to predict disease. Based on 10 proteins found in the blood, a team from Oxford predicted onset of AD within a year for over 1,100 participants, with 87% accuracy. A team from Georgetown University screened for 10 lipids in 525 participants, and was 90% accurate in predicting disease in three years. This current test is still in its early stages, and larger studies will be needed to replicate and validate these findings. The researchers are confident that using IRS-1 as a biomarker will be able to stand up to that scrutiny and will allow for early intervention of AD in the future..."

http://bit.ly/1v1emAB

3.9 IAN STEWART ON FLATLAND

Science of Discworld co-creator Ian Stewart loves the classic maths fantasy "Flatland":

"Mathematician Ian Stewart wants us to see what he sees. Which is kind of a problem, because he’s accustomed to envisioning some pretty impossible shapes: snowflakes in fractional dimensions, hypercubes in 4-D, 11-dimensional superstrings. So when the University of Warwick professor and author writes about these freaky geometries, he relies on an analogy — a way for us blockheads to understand realities above, below, and in between our three dimensions. His guide is a little mathematical fantasy he read over half a century ago: the cult classic Flatland. Written in the early 1880s by Edwin A. Abbott, the story follows A. Square, a regular quadrilateral who lives on a 2-D plane. He can’t conceive of depth, but his perspective expands when a sphere visits him from 3-D Spaceland. Though Square can’t experience all three of the sphere’s dimensions, he can see it in cross-section as a circle of various sizes. That’s the trick Stewart uses: By describing what it’s like for a flat object to imagine a solid one, he can help us imagine an object in four dimensions. For instance, a crazy 4-D sphere (called a glome) might appear to us as expanding and contracting spherical cross-sections. 'Starting with Flatland's point of view,' he says, 'you find a way in.' Stewart considers Flatland one of the earliest works of popular science..."

http://www.wired.com/2014/11/geometry-of-flatland/

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04) REVIEWS: RAISING STEAM; A SLIP OF THE KEYBOARD

4.1 RAISING STEAM

By N.C Sanders on Science Fiction.com:

"In any long running series, sequelitis is bound to set in at some point. It is an inevitability, along with getting the sniffles during flu season or craving anything and everything displayed on a cooking show. Someone neglected to inform Terry Pratchett of this fact, however. 'Raising Steam' is the fortieth book in his 'Discworld' series and it shows no signs of slowing down at all... This combination of playing around with real-world history and sprinkling it in with the magic and varying cultures unique to Discworld makes much of the adventure a real treat. It is the varying perspectives and continual shifts of narration which prove to be both a plus and a minus. Later on in the story, the character switching adds well-built tension into the drama filled final act, but can be a bit overwhelming in the beginning when trying to acquaint (or reacquaint) one's self with the ensemble cast. But this one wrinkle is far from enough to drag down this rousing tale which seems destined to pull an aged series into a new and exciting age..."

http://bit.ly/1x2NUpQ

...and by Cindy A. Matthews on Authorlink:

"Dick Simnel's creation of a prototype steam engine starts a commercial, transportation and technological revolution practically overnight, and of course it can't remain a secret for long. The newfangled invention inspires rabid trainspotters and Luddite-type detractors alike, as well as attracting the attention of those in power and those who are forced to maintain it, namely the Patrician Lord Vetinari and his right hand man, the amiable scallywag forever in his debt, Moist von Lipwig. Throw in a few grease-loving goblins, exercising their newly acquired civil rights, and some very angry dwarves, voicing quite a political agenda, and the fireworks begin in earnest. Pratchett constructs the conflict on his flat-disc fantasy world parallel to a Dickensian Earth where the steam engine shook up more than a few people's notions of how life could be and should be like..."

http://authorlink.com/2014/11/10/raising-steam-by-terry-pratchett/

4.2 ...AND A SLIP OF THE KEYBOARD

By Byron Gillan in the Buffalo News:

"Since his debut novel 'The Carpet People' in 1971, Pratchett has constructed an entire literary universe that some think is on par with the likes of Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, or such authors of the newer generation as George R.R. Martin and J.K. Rowling. So extensive is the Discworld collection, that there are fan-made guides for new readers first-approaching Pratchett's sprawling world. At times the author has branched out to write other works, such as his collaborations with the darling of the literary Comic-Con scene, Neil Gaiman (of 'Sandman' and 'American Gods' fame). However, Pratchett's attention has primarily concerned the world of Discworld and for good reason. The elaborate series boasts a massive fan base, with conventions, games, and more having grown and evolved around the books. As a result, Pratchett has achieved fame as one of the pillars of the modern fantasy community... His prose rails against the unjust ways of the world, and the circumstances of his own life. This image at once dispels the notions of Pratchett as the 'lovable-professor' as many have sought to describe him... We see Pratchett fighting to write down a few words of prose over an entire day in a novel's early pages; a weakness fans don't normally believe a talented and experienced author would possess. Later we see his frustrations with editors, event organizers, publishers and even fans. 'A Slip of the Keyboard' offers readers a candid, and extremely 'real' view of the world as Pratchett sees it. Warts included.

"That isn't to say there isn't humor, an iconic standard of Pratchett's work. Oh there is indeed that, and in spades. While he does not shy away from the darker aspects of his ascension to fame and fortune, Pratchett remains appreciative and loving of his ability, and the fans who made his rise possible. He shares many lovely and heartbreakingly-sweet tales of bonding with fans, experiencing the rising popularity of the Discworld series through conventions, and more..."

http://bit.ly/1xQPDPe

...and Colin Steele in the Sydney Morning Herald gives an Australian perspective:

"It's not all gloom and doom. Pratchett's dry humour and common sense pervades many of the essays, which are organised into three sections. A Scribbling Intruder covers his career as an author almost literally from rags to riches; A Twit and a Dreamer covers a range of subjects from school days to the meaning of Christmas, and Days of Rage covers issues relating to his struggle with Alzheimer's. Pratchett has been very outspoken about his diagnosis and the problems of the British National Health Service (NHS). His advocacy of assisted deaths is also emphasised in several essays, notably his reprinted 2010 BBC Richard Dimbleby lecture Shaking Hands with Death.

"Pratchett likes Australia, which he has visited more than a dozen times, and which features as the subject of his Discworld novel The Last Continent. His 1998 Australian signing tour is covered in a chapter diary, No Worries, which includes his Canberra Times/ANU lecture in which this reviewer features... Pratchett is very conscious of his working-class origins and reflects on his now rather stellar position, which includes a knighthood and a number of honorary doctorates. As a result, several of his essays emphasise the importance of education. He also emphasises the value of his school library and public libraries in general, although he deplores librarians calling themselves 'information providers'. Pratchett would much prefer the label, 'Shining acolytes of the sacred flame of literacy'..."

http://bit.ly/11Mmwlx

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05) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS

5.1 NEW: WYRD SISTERS IN BRISBANE

The Brisbane Arts Theatre, having just finished their triumphant run of The Amazing Maurice, are back with a new production of Wyrd Sisters, now open!

When: 22nd November to 13th December 2014
Venue: Brisbane Arts Centre, 210 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane, Queensland 4000 Phone (07) 3369 2344
Time: 8pm Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays; 6.30pm Sundays
Tickets: Adults $31, Concessions $25, Group discount (10+) $25, Large Group (75+) $20, Gold Members $15, Members $25AUD, Student Rush(10 mins before curtain) $10. Members can redeem their included season tickets for this show.
To buy tickets online, go to http://bit.ly/1AJ9lkw

http://artstheatre.com.au/show/wyrdsisters#sthash.3sCsVAE6.dpuf

5.2 NEW: AUDITIONS FOR MONSTROUS PRODUCTIONS' WITCHES ABROAD

Monstrous Productions are seeking cast and crew for their 2015 production of Witches Abroad:

"All roles are available and anyone aged between 18 and 70 is welcome. No experience necessary so why not have a go? Auditions will be held between 17th and 21st November with an open audition at Cardiff University Main Building on Thursday 20th; meet at 6pm in the foyer. Email us at monstrousproductions2012@gmail.com for your audition pack."

Witches Abroad will be performed at the Gate Theatre, Cardiff, from 8th-11th April 2015. Remember, all profits from Monstrous Productions plays and merchandise go to Alzheimer's Research UK. In fact, they exist solely to perform Pratchett plays for this very purpose!

http://www.monstrousptc.com/

5.3 REMINDER: WYRD SISTERS IN WEST SUSSEX

Stage-Door Theatre Company, having already tackled the Scottish Play some eleven years ago, will tackle the Disc-ish Play – Wyrd Sisters – this December.

When: 10th-13th December 2014
Venue: The Windmill Theatre, The Green, Littlehampton, West Sussex BN17 5LM
Time 7:30pm for evening performances, 2:30pm for the Saturday (13th) matinee
Tickets: £11 (concessions at £10). Please contact the box office at the Circle of Health, 67 Sea Lane, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 2RQ (telephone 01903 856801) for all ticket enquiries.

5.4 REVIEWS: WYRD SISTERS IN CARDIFF

In Wales Online:

"I don't know how they did it, but with no scenery and very few props, just the odd table or teapot, the Monstrous Productions Theatre Company managed to magic up the Discworld. From the opening scene where the three witches Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, and Magrat meet – all played brilliantly by Ellen Warren, Zoe Azzopardi and Lowri Belson – it was like seeing the much-loved book come to life... During one scene, there is a play within the play. Some of the actors sat down in the front row, my heart sank as I sensed audience participation. There is nothing guaranteed to put me on edge as much as joining in. I cringe at forced frivolity. To me, fun is a four-letter word, and not just because I can't spell. But I was wrong. I wasn't forced to take part, just sit back and enjoy the witches' hilarious heckling a few seats down from me. The entire cast did an amazing job, with many or them bringing multiple roles to life..."

http://bit.ly/1xc19FD

...and on Mithril Wisdom:

"The entire cast were superb, working well with Monstrous's hallmark minimalist stage decoration and allowing more room for all characters to shine. The witches themselves, performed by Ellen Warren, Zoe Azzopardi and Lowri Belson (Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg and Magrat) had great chemistry with one another and did justice to the roles. My favourite performance, though, came from Jes Hynes (Lord Felmet), whose descent from simpering hen-pecked nobleman into guilt-ridden madman was a delight to watch, giving the role a touch of pantomime villainy but with the gravitas of the Shakespearean tragedy the story satirises. Once again, Davies' direction gives the audience plenty of Easter eggs during the performance... As the second Witches story under their belt, Wyrd Sisters shows that Monstrous Productions can tackle even the most ambitious of Pratchett stories..."

http://bit.ly/1sdCha9

5.5 REVIEW: MORT IN QUEENSLAND

In the Inverell Times:

"The large audience laughed its way through the very entertaining Mort and enjoyed a light supper at interval. The cast for Mort was a mixture of actors that were either new to the stage or new to Inverell audiences. The roles of Mort and Death were brilliantly portrayed by Brendon Evans and Dayne Rosolen. They were ably supported by young actors Eloise Collins, Emma Muggleton and Lachlan McDonald. Audiences familiar with Inverell Theatre Company productions would have been very familiar with the actor who portrayed Albert, Peter Caddey..."

http://www.inverelltimes.com.au/story/2679078/on-the-pulse/

5.7 NEW FOR 2015: WYRD SISTERS IN UPPINGHAM

The Uppingham Theatre Company (under the patronage of Stephen Fry) will present their production of Wyrd Sisters in October 2015 at the Uppingham Theatre, Stockerston Road, Uppingham, Rutland LE15 9UD

Audition and read-through dates are not available yet, but keep an eye on http://www.uppthearts.co.uk/ for updates!

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06) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS

The Broken Drummers, "London's Premier Unofficially Official Discworld Group" (motto "Nil percussio est"), meets on the first Monday of every month at the Monkey Puzzle, 30 Southwick Street, London W2 1JQ: "We welcome anyone and everyone who enjoys Sir Terry's works, or quite likes them or wants to find out more. We have had many visitors from overseas who have enjoyed themselves and made new friends. The discussions do not only concern the works of Sir Terry Pratchett but wander and meander through other genres and authors and also leaping to TV and Film production. We also find time for a quiz. The prize is superb. The chance to set the quiz the following month."

Next meeting: Monday 8th December 2014, from 7pm onwards.

The Drummers' November meet report:

"We met on Monday. It seems a long time ago now. We had one new person, Marina, who we knew from the forum. We talked a lot about Hogswatch and did our best to encourage those who have never been to come along. There was discussion of the most recent Dr. Who. My impression from that discussion is that I enjoy it more than most because my expectations are a lot lower. I still think the 'moon is an egg' episode was utter crap, though and don't get me started on why anyone would repair a Dalek without disabling its weapon function first. The was a happy moment when the staff at the Monkey Puzzle brought us a free bowl of chicken goujons. I'm still not quite sure why but they were nice (as is their roast pork belly with crackling and an apple stuffed with black pudding. I'm having a Homer Simpson moment just thinking about it). Only other thing that sticks in the mind is that I mentioned that I avoid putting anything too smutty in meeting reports as they are seen by people who have never been to Drummers. Everyone pointed out that anyone who would be shocked would probably hate Drummers anyway. Very true."

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

*

The Pratchett Partisans are a new fan group who meet monthly at either Brisbane or Indooroopilly to "eat, drink and chat about all things Pratchett". Forthcoming events include:

Thursday, 27th November 2014: Dinner and games at Groove Train, King George Square, from 5.30pm

Saturday, 6th December 2014: Discworld board games +early Xmas dinner at Bris Square Library Theatrette, from 2pm (dinner from 6pm)

For more info about their next meetup, go to www.meetup.com/Pratchett-Partisans/ 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 regular monthly dinner and games nights, longer games days, plus play outings, craft-y workshops, and fun social activities throughout the year. For more info and to join our mailing list, visit http://cityofsmallgods.org.au "

*

The Broken Vectis Drummers meet on the first Thursday of every month from 7.30pm at The Castle pub in Newport, Isle of Wight.

Next meeting: Thursday 4th December 2014, probably, but do email to check.

All new members and curious passersby are very welcome! For more info and any queries, contact broken_vectis_drummers@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Wincanton Omnian Temperance Society (WOTS) meets on the first Friday of every month at Wincanton's famous Bear Inn from 7pm onwards. "Visitors and drop-ins are always welcome!"

Next meeting: Friday 5th December 2014 (probably).

*

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 on the first Monday of every month in Sydney at 3 Wise Monkeys, 555 George Street, Sydney,2000.

Next meeting: Monday 1st December 2014 at 6.30pm (probably). For more information, contact Sue (aka Granny Weatherwax): kenworthys@yahoo.co.uk

*

The Treacle Mining Corporation, formerly known as Perth Drummers, meet on the first Monday of the month (subject to holidays) at the child-friendly Carpe Cafe, 526 Murray Street, Perth, Western Australia.

Next meeting: from 5.30pm on Monday 1st December 2014 (probably).

For details follow Perth Drummers on Twitter @Perth_Drummers and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/Perth.Drummers/ – otherwise message Alexandra Ware directly at <alexandra.ware@gmail.com>

*

Western Drummers, also based in Sydney, meet at The Rowers, Nepean Rowing Club, Bruce Neal Drive, Penrith at 6.30-7.30pm for food, 7.30pm for games, quizzes and chat: "If you have never been, please come on down. You would be very welcome. We eat, have a drink, talk Discworld and play board games. Starts kind of 6 – 6.30ish and finishes kind of 9pm ish."

Next meeting: as there was a meeting last week, the next will probably be in mid-January. For more information, contact Nanny Ogg – lewis_oz@bigpond.com – or visit their Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/westerndrummers

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07) DISCWORLD ARTS AND CRAFTS NEWS

7.1 PJSM PRINTS UPDATES

PJSM Prints are back in action with a piggies-drawn sleigh-full of Discworld goodies:

"Hogswatch is approaching! Check out the latest range of calendars, diaries, cards, badges and more from PJSM Prints!

"After much discussion and deliberation with Terry we have decided that from now on all new titles will be exclusively embossed with his signature plate rather than hand signed. He would like to make it clear that this has absolutely nothing to do with the progression of his Embuggerance, but after more than forty years of signing he feels that his hand really could do with a bit of a rest. And so even though we still have a large stock of signed books and prints, we now think it unfair to ask Terry to work his way through the inevitable mountain of orders that land around publication time. The signature embossing is pressed directly onto the page and is further enhanced with a golden Pratchett Coat of Arms. Thank you for your understanding, but we first and foremost have to think of Terry while still being able to offer something exclusive to our Discworld collectors worldwide.

"UPDATE! Thank you for all your feedback, but Terry would like to point out that he really is very much okay and has just finished one book and has already started another. He's still writing every day!"

Some PJSM goodies presently available include...

Terry Pratchett's Discworld Collector's Edition Calendar 2015

"Exclusively embossed With 800 days, 13 months, two of each season and more festivals than you can shake a stick at, a Discworld year is hard to keep track of! Whilst we can't offer the same excitement here in Roundworld the 2015 Discworld calendar is bursting with colour and features the artwork of Discworld artist Stephen Player. Each month sports a glorious full colour picture of your favourite characters and ample space for notes."

Price £15.00. To order, go to:
http://www.pjsmprints.com/books/index.html#calendar

Discworld 2015 Diary: We R Igors

"Exclusively embossed with Terry's signature, this delightfully illustrated diary is a must for any Pratchett fan's Hogswatch stocking! A durable, high quality hardback, with heavy weave pages, this beautiful book comes with all the functionality of an everyday diary but also packs the charm, wit and wonder of the Discworld into every month."

Price £20.00. To order, go to:
http://www.pjsmprints.com/books/index.html#Igors

Badges

"Our quality hard enamelled badges are always a hit but when the Hogfather turns up you simply can't resist! Great for pinning onto anything from school bags to blazers, wear your Hogfather with pride! He's only available for a limited time and stocks will dwindle, so snap one up while you can! Great stocking filler for the Discworld fan in your life."

Price for individual 40mm/1.5" badges (including Susan, Twoflower, Moist, Granny, Death, Rincewind with the Luggage, Vetinari with the Eyebrow, Pterry himself, the Librarian, and the new Hogfather badge) is £3.50 each; for individual 25mm/1" badges – a huge selection – £1 each. To order, go to:
http://www.pjsmprints.com/badges/index.html

Canvas prints

"We love our new range of canvases and can't wait to share them with you! Printed on the best quality, robust material and wonderfully sturdy, these vibrantly coloured prints feature some of our most popular artwork and classic quotes from the Man Himself. 5 Exclamation Marks is the Sign of an Insane Mind !!!!!"

Prices vary from £15 to £35.00 for a wide selection of different sizes. To view the full collection and to order, go to:
http://www.pjsmprints.com/canvas/index.html

Hogswatch cards

"Wish your loved ones a truly merry Hogswatch with our seasonal range of high-quality A5 cards. These beautifully illustrated gloss cards feature the artwork of Paul Kidby and include a lineup of Discworld characters guaranteed to titillate even the most cynical Ankh-Morporkian denizen. Cards feature The Hogfather, The Librarian (Who doesn't need an 'Ook!' in their life?) and Nanny Ogg in festive mood. All cards have individual messages and come complete with colourful envelopes."

Priced at £2.95, the cards are all A5 size and come with coloured envelopes. To view the full collection and to order, go to:
http://www.pjsmprints.com/Hogswatch/index.html

Mousemats

"Cheer yourself up at work or home with one of our quality Discworld mousemats, your desk will never be dull again with Death of Rats to keep you company (squeak!) All mousemats are now reduced so snap them up at only £5 each! Once they're gone, they're gone."

Price £5. To view the full collection and to order, go to:
http://www.pjsmprints.com/mousemats/index.html

Mort and Greebo

"Our latest 2 designs in the ever popular magnet and coaster Dweenie range, we're delighted to offer you Mort and Greebo. Take a look at the full range to mix and match your favourites. Don't forget, the Hogfather is available for a limited time only."

Price per magnet is £2.00; per coaster, £2.50; a set of 22 magnets is £42.00, and a set of 22 coasters is £52.00. Each magnet measures 57mm square; each coaster measures 90mm square. To view the full collection and to order, go to:
http://www.pjsmprints.com/dweenie/index.html

Death Hoodie

"A black outfit... with a hood... who wears an ensemble like that? Oh yes, Death! And now we're offering you the chance to as well with our NEW Death hoodie! Made of superb quality, heavy woven cotton our new hoodies will see you through the coldest Hogswatch in style. With one of our most popular images screenprinted on the reverse, these are a fabulous buy and are selling fast."

Price £38.00, in a range of sizes from Small to Extra Extra Large. For full details and to order, go to:
http://www.pjsmprints.com/tshirts/index.html

Paper Panda Cards – New

"We're exceptionally proud of these versatile and unusual cards featuring some of the most popular Discworld characters. Seasonal enough to use for Hogswatch greetings but left blank inside for you to personalise, each design is reproduced in faithful detail on A5 card and comes complete with envelope."

Price £2.95 each (editor's note: these new cards are exceptionally beautiful!). To view the full collection and to order, go to:
http://www.pjsmprints.com/greetingscards/index.html

CMOT Badges – Popular and easy to pack, good stocking fillers

"Proudly display your affiliation to the various Ankh-Morporkian guilds, institutions, organisations and individuals with our range of best selling designed lapel wear. Cock-a-snook at mere undergraduates with [the] Unseen University Alumni Badge" (approximately 35mm high)... Cock-an-even-bigger-snook at holders of inferior degrees with [the] Unseen University Doctoral Badge" (approx. 40mm high)... and not forgetting the Ankh-Morpork City Watch Badge: "Essential for every budding Watch Man, Woman, Troll, Dwarf, Golem, Vampire, Pixie etcetera. Antique bronze metal – approximately 35mm high."

UU Alumni Badge is £4.50; UU Doctoral Badge, £4.95; A-M City Watch Badge, £6.95. To view the full collection and to order, go to:
http://www.pjsmprints.com/cmot/index.html

"PLEASE NOTE OUR LAST GUARANTEED ORDERING DATES FOR HOGSWATCH 2014 ARE:

UK – 13th December
Western Europe – 6th December
USA – 5th December
The rest of the world (including Australia and New Zealand) – 27th November"

http://pjsmprints.com/


7.2 DISCWORLD EMPORIUM UPDATES

"Hogswatch is on the horizon, and our final recommended posting dates are here giving you plenty of time to peruse our range of Discworld delights and place your orders. To ease the burden of browsing we've compiled a handy selection of our favourite items for you to choose from":

New stuff: http://bit.ly/14kVeDD
Jewellery and apparel: http://bit.ly/1zo3EnE
Homewares: http://bit.ly/1oUaHDY
Printed gifts: http://bit.ly/1zo3QmT
Games and pastimes: http://bit.ly/1GV6ANA
...and of course, stamps: http://bit.ly/1wwj8Tn

USA: 11th December
EU: 13th December
UK: 18th December
Rest of the world: 3rd December

* Ankh-Morpork, the fiendishly difficult Discworld puzzle!

"Back in August we premiered our Ankh-Morpork Jigsaw, which promptly sold out at the International Discworld Convention. We've since been working on some tweaks and are pleased to announce that the Fiendishly Difficult Discworld Puzzle is now back in stock for Hogswatch!

"Ankh-Morpork, city of one thousand surprises – now in a thousand puzzling pieces! See the city unfold before your very eyes, but only if they can take the strain! Featuring artwork from The Compleat Ankh-Morpork, this fiendishly difficult Discworld puzzle is a must for any jigsaw collector and Pratchett fan. 'Compleated' puzzle measures 66 x 50cm, made in the UK. (Health warning; side effects may include head scratching, wall climbing and mild bouts of lunacy – but the view is worth it!). 2nd Edition."

Ankh-Morpork 1,000 piece jigsaw puzzle, is priced at £17.50. For full details and to order, go to:
http://bit.ly/1ww2SSd

* Hogswatch 2014 Update!

Hogswatch 2014, "A gathering of Discworld fans who really should know better", will take place on 28th-30th November:

"Join us [in] Wincanton on November 28-30th in for a festive celebration of all things Discworld in Ankh-Morpork's very own twin town. Enjoy a weekend of diverse entertainments including, games, talks, activities for little folk and Hogswatch staples such as the traditional Sausage Supper, Strut your Stuff, and the Grand Charity Auction – all held in venues throughout the town. Good little boys and girls may even be treated to a visitation from the Hogfather himself. Expect good food, a warm welcome, and plenty of charitable nonsense in the company of fellow fans and likeminded folk. A full programme of events will be available nearer the date...

"This year we're also celebrating three major book anniversaries – 10 years of Going Postal, 20 years of Interesting Times and 25 years of Pyramids, giving a huge range of costuming opportunity. Dressing up is wholeheartedly encouraged, so whether Noble Postman or Agatean Emperor, don your Discworld gladrags and paint the town Octarine!

"Hogswatch is an informal gathering, with a friendly atmosphere and easygoing charm. It's (mostly) free to attend but you will have to source your own accommodation – click the 'Where to Stay' button below for ideas on where to rest your head.

"Getting there – for directions and public transport information (Google Maps): http://bit.ly/1xE5Sl5 – CAR PARKING – Wincanton is blessed with three free carparks, for restriction information and a car park map:
http://en.parkopedia.co.uk/parking/wincanton/

"Don't forget to order your limited edition Hogswatch 2014 Medal of Honour – exclusive to our fearless and foolhardy Hogswatch attendees!" The Hogswatch 2014 Medal of Honour is priced at £3.50. For full info and to pre-order for collection at the event:

www.discworldemporium.com/Hogswatch%20Medal%20of%20Honour

*

FURTHER UPDATES

"Hogswatch is a special time for the Ankh-Morpork Post Office; the crisp crunch of snow under foot on the morning rounds, the back-breaking mail sacks full of Hogswatch cheer, the quivering excitement of stamp collectors as they await the Hogswatch designs... With previous guest artists including Paul Kidby and Peter Dennis, the limited edition Hogswatch issues from Discworld Stamps are always eagerly anticipated. We're excited to reveal that this year's designs are the result of an exclusive collaboration between The Discworld Emporium and guest artist Joe McLaren; cover artist for the stunning Discworld Collector’s Library Edition Hardbacks from Gollancz! A true Pratchett fan at heart (and a member of the Discworld Collector’s Club back in the 90s), Joe has used his distinctive style to depict a view of Sator Square on Hogswatch eve complete with wizards, beggars, dwarfs, trolls, the Hogfather in his sleigh, snow swirling around the Tower of Art and candlelit carols – a real Hogswatch treat!"

Here we go...

* "Fairytale of Ankh-Morpork" Minisheet

"This glorious image has been cleverly designed to incorporate four separate tableaus that make our new issues from the A.M.P.O. presented here as a limited edition minisheet measuring approx 90 x 90mm. An edition of only 300."

Priced at £5.00, the Fairytale of Ankh-Morpork minisheet will be available online on 2nd December (also available at Hogswatch 2014 Wincanton festivities next weekend). To see images of the Minisheet, and to order (in the fullness of time), go to: http://bit.ly/1yFbatF

* Hogswatch exclusive Little Brown Envelope!

"No Hogswatch would be complete without a festive edition of our Little Brown Envelope – a lucky-dip assortment of Discworld Stamps with a chance of rarities, sports and prizes. Each LBE in this edition will contain at least one of Joe McLaren’s Hogswatch stamps, along with a generous sprinkling of the two Hogswatch sport variants, rare Blue Triangles and Dead Letter Labels distributed throughout the edition. And that's not all! Being the season of goodwill there will also be TWO ultra-rare Blue Triangle Sports waiting to be found in lucky envelopes, along with prize tickets for 1 of 30 exclusive Sport Covers, or 1 of 30 Large Format Sheets of Hogswatch stamps – Now if that doesn’t get you in the festive mood, we don't know what will!

"ON SALE AT OUR HOGSWATCH EVENT IN WINCANTON FROM SAT 29TH, AND ONLINE IN TWO BATCHES AT 10:00AM & 6:00PM GMT ON TUESDAY 2ND DEC. For more information & a sneaky preview click the images!"

http://bit.ly/1uSUI8w
http://bit.ly/1xEC077
http://bit.ly/1raRx8o
http://bit.ly/1zNom0t

"N.B. Special Editions tend to sell our VERY quickly, often within the first ten minutes of release. To avoid disappointment we recommend the purchase of an LBE Season Ticket. Otherwise please have this page ready at the time of release and remember to refresh your browser. It is important to note that adding LBEs to your cart does NOT guarantee purchase - proceeding quickly to checkout once they have been added to cart is heartily advised."

The Hogswatch LBE is priced at £5.00. For more information and to order (in the fullness of time), go to: http://bit.ly/1torZEG

* "Hogswatch 2014 First Day Cover"

"A beautifully illustrated First Day Cover featuring this year's Hogswatch issues by guest artist Joe McLaren - cover illustrator of the stunning Discworld Collector’s Library edition Hardbacks from Gollancz. Joe has used his distinctive style to depict a festive view of Sator Square complete with wizards, beggars, dwarfs, trolls, the Hogfather in his sleigh, snow swirling around the Tower of Art and candlelit carols - a real Hogswatch treat! Each cover features all four designs, embellished with a limited edition Hogswatch frank from the A-M.P.O and accompanied by a decorative commemorative insert! An edition of only 250, each cover measures 110 x 220mm (DL)."

The Hogswatch 2014 First Day Cover is priced at £10.00 and will be available online on 2nd December (also available at Hogswatch 2014 Wincanton festivities next weekend). To see images of the First Day Cover, and to order (in the fullness of time), go to: http://bit.ly/1vaa7To


* "Hogswatch 2014 is only a week away and we are pleased to announce that our official programme of events is now LIVE! View on our website, or download a printable version for Acrobat-supporting devices – click below to view!"

http://www.discworldemporium.com/Hogswatch%202014


*** Editor's Choice: some recommended selections from the Discworld Emporium for your Hogswatch stockings...

a. "The Witches" board game

"The Witches is set in the magically charged land of Lancre. Players take on the role of trainee witches, such as Tiffany Aching and Petulia Gristle, learning their craft and dealing with all the problems that life on Discworld can throw at them. Our heroines will tackle everything from a sick pig to a full-blown invasion of elves - life can be tough for a young witch in Lancre! Fear not however, as an array of Discworld's most famous characters will be on hand to aid your quest. Along the way you'll meet the guiding forces of Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg and Magrat Garlick, along with a rich supporting cast of familiar faces from Terry Pratchett's bestselling Discworld series. Compete with your fellow 'hags' to master the witches' craft, and cooperate to prevent crises from escalating into catastrophes. Most problems can be solved with a little headology and a nice cup of tea, although at times you must resort to magic, but beware - too much may cause you to turn 'Black Aliss'. The Witches can be played with up to four players, competitively, co-operatively, or even played solitaire.

"The Witches is the second Discworld game from Martin Wallace and explores another corner of Discworld, where our brave heroines are forever on call to impart their wisdom, and battling evil is just part of the job. Suitable for ages 13+ Play length 90 minutes approx."

"The collector's edition of The Witches includes exclusive alternative cover art, a larger Lancre map game board, four exclusive pewter figurines of each playable character: Tiffany Aching, Petulia Gristle, Annagramma Hawkin and Dimity Hubbub, along with a rather stunning A1 poster of artwork from the game. This edition is limited to 2000 copies world wide."

The Standard Edition is £29.99. To order:
http://bit.ly/1zDU9ky

The Collector's Edition is £40.00. To order:
http://bit.ly/1uSqUKt

b. The Ankh-Morpork Post Office Collection Box

A cut out and build beauty!

"From the pages of Going Postal and the team who brought you the Unseen University Cut Out Book this cut-out and build collection box is an ideal activity to while away a soggy afternoon. When complete your Ankh-Morpork post box can be used to collect anything from small coinage to love notes, or simply used as a table decoration. Each pack contains four sheets of sturdy paper to cut out including the option to make either a clean and shiny post box or a graffiti-decorated version more often seen on the streets of Ankh-Morpork. Finished article measures 235cm high, glue and cutting implement not supplied. Supervision of little folk is advised."

The A-M Post Office Collection Box is priced at £5.00. To order:
http://bit.ly/1p1yRw6

c. "Raising Steam" Collector's Pack

"The age of steam has arrived in Ankh-Morpork, and to celebrate the Discworld Emporium is proud to offer this exclusive collection of stunning ephemera from Terry Pratchett's 40th Discworld novel, Raising Steam! Each set includes an A3 folded guide to Discworld's new Railway, featuring cover artwork by Peter Dennis and Ian Mitchell depicting the glorious Iron Girder, Discworld's first locomotive. Inside you'll find the official map produced by Ian Mitchell for the frontispiece of Raising Steam, only BIGGER and in FULL COLOUR! On the reverse you'll find a full explanation of services available to first, second and third class passengers. Each guide has been lithographically printed onto high quality 280 micron art paper.

"You will also receive a third class luggage label featuring additional artwork of Iron Girder - a souvenir from your journey on the Ankh-Morpork and Sto Plains Hygienic Railway. This label is robust enough to withstand even the most 'enthusiastic' baggage handler and is matt varnished for a tactile finish. Measures approx. 70 x 110 mm. And then there's the ticket – the ultimate keepsake! Printed on textured paper and punched at either end on our own perforator, each ticket is printed on both sides for an authentic 'age of steam' appearance. On the reverse of your ticket you'll find a few useful titbits of information to make your journey more pleasurable (No singing, spitting or micturating from the windows).

"Also Included is a postcard from Uberwald, featuring an illustration of the Fifth Elephant crashing into the hills surrounding Bonk and Schmaltzberg. On the reverse, you can read the missive of a young dwarf in search of his roots. Each card bears an Ankh-Morpork Post Office 5p Rail Mail stamp, featuring Iron Girder herself, franked in transit. (Discworld Stamp collectors, please note that mint examples of this stamp will be available in the near future).

"All of the above has been prepared with great care to contain no spoilers - only details that have been made immediately apparent in the press as approved by Sir Terry."

The Raising Steam Collector's Pack is priced at £12.50. To order:
http://bit.ly/1BNZBGf

d. The City Watch Pocket Notebook

"Uphold the law on the streets of Ankh-Morpork with the aid of the official issue pocket notebook - a trusty companion to the officer on the beat or in a bind. Contains 44 plain pages for your reports and scribblings, along with six pages of reference material to guide you about your duties. Includes quick-fire information on powers of arrest, chargeable offences, first aid and watch houses, equipment regulations, and the all-important watch oath. Features sketchbook-quality 190gsm off-white leaves made from 100% real paper, and textured card cover with rounded corners. Measures 105 x 147mm."

The City Watch Pocket Notebook is priced at £5.00. To order:
http://bit.ly/11v2cUE

e. The I ATE'NT DEAD Necklace

"The Feegles call her the 'Hag O' Hags', the dwarfs 'She Who Must Be Avoided', but we know her best as Esmerelda Weatherwax: Discworld's most formidable practitioner of headology. Our tribute to Granny Weatherwax is her iconic borrowing sign recreated as a beautiful silver pendant and chain. Created by our award-winning silversmiths in the historic workshops of Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, each pendant has been hand-crafted so that no one sign is precisely the same, and stamped with the Discworld and sterling silver hallmarks on the reverse. A precious and essential accessory for any aspiring witch!! Pendant measures approx 25 x 22mm, necklace (end to end) measures 480mm."

The I ATE'NT DEAD Necklace is priced at £45.00. To order:
http://bit.ly/1CdxRWp

f. And finally... Wintersmith! The Deluxe Edition of Steeleye Span's officially Pterry-approved concept CD

"An epic musical collaboration from mutual fans Steeleye Span and Terry Pratchett, based on the Discworld novel Wintersmith – a match made in folk-rock heaven! Steeleye Span famously played at Terry's 60th birthday party and they have been firm friends ever since. This deluxe double CD album features four extra songs, plus eight live tracks from the Wintersmith Tour and two exclusive demo versions. Features Maddy Prior, the voice of Steeleye for 40 years at the helm of the line-up, with band stalwart and fiddler extraordinaire Peter Knight, Rick Kemp on bass, Peter Zorn and Julian Littman on Guitars and Liam Genockey on the drum stool, With special guests Terry Pratchett, Kathryn Tickell and John Spiers."

The Deluxe Wintersmith CD set is priced at £15.00. To order: http://bit.ly/1xVb1E1

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

08) IMAGES OF THE MONTH

An excellently cast trio of Lancre Witches, from Monstrous Productions' Wyrd Sisters:
http://bit.ly/1zb1IPx

The title page of the BBC Good Omens radio play script, "signed by All Involved", which raised £360.00 in the 2014 Children in Need auction:
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTYwMFgxMDY2/z/cm4AAOSw1XdUW75P/$_57.JPG

...and the hardcover edition of Good Omens, signed by the authors, which raised £285.00 in the auction:
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTA2NlgxNjAw/z/UusAAOSwosFUW7zO/$_57.JPG

The Author has a new hat!
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B2Qe7mYIgAA99HT.jpg

The Treacle Miners of Perth, Fourecks did a creditable Ankh-Morpork City Watch for Comic Con:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BkCYy87CcAAibKs.jpg:large


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

09) CLOSE

As time continues to tick on and our favourite author's Embuggerance steals him away cell by cell, the subject of the freedom to choose one's own time and place of dying becomes ever more relevant. Here is a well-written, level-headed editorial piece on the subject in Brockport College's student newspaper. Well worth reading and considering.

"Terry Pratchett, a writer I admire, has Alzheimer's disease, which has recently begun affecting his ability to write.
Though he lives in the UK, which does not have any sort of Death with Dignity law, he sought information in Switzerland which does allow for physician-assisted suicide. He published 'Choosing to Die' which follows several patients as they travel to the Swiss company Dignitas to end their lives. In the documentary, Pratchett said if and likely when he loses his ability to write, he will most likely choose to end his life rather than live in a world where he can't write..."

http://bit.ly/1zEv5Kc

And here is another well-written and well-reasoned piece, this time from a demographic usually associated with social conservatism (i.e. corporate chartered accountancy):

"Our society has begun to move toward discussing death more frankly and re-examining many of our existing suppositions about what a good death looks like. A study released early this year found that most doctors surveyed would prefer a do-not-resuscitate, or 'no code,' order for themselves should they be diagnosed with terminal illness, though by default, most patients receive all available measures unless they specifically indicate other wishes. VJ Periyakoil, the study's lead author, observed that, 'Our current default is "doing," but in any serious illness there comes a tipping point where the high-intensity treatment becomes more of a burden than the disease itself.' Identifying this tipping point cannot be easy for doctors or loved ones, but surely when patients still have the capacity to do so, they deserve the power to make this call..."

http://bit.ly/1ucYPsg

In slightly cheerier news, Pratchett the Younger has now taken on writing the Tomb Raider comic, according to her Twitter feed: "Excited to announce that I'm writing the next run of Tomb Raider comics with @DarkHorseComics, starting with #13"

And a thought to finish on: according to the QI Elves, "The Aymara people of the Andes speak of the past as lying ahead and the future behind them". Backwards time among mountain dwellers? Sounds like a concept the Discworld troll community would find familiar...

And that's the lot for now. If there's any late-breaking news or other items of interest, we'll be back at the very end of the month. Otherwise, see you in December!

– Annie Mac

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

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