WADS staged Wyrd Sisters, adapted for the stage by Stephen Briggs, on 6, 7 and 8 December at Testbourne Theatre Hall, to near-capacity audiences.

Wyrd Sisters is based on the book of the same name by Terry Pratchett and is set in his extraordinary alternative universe of the Discworld. It features three witches, Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg and the young trainee witch, Magrat Garlick. (Continued below)

They live in that mountainous and unyielding part of the Discworld called the Ramptops and in this tale get involved with the evil goings-on in the tiny kingdom of Lancre. King Verence has been murdered by his cousin, Duke Felmet, who takes over as despotic ruler with his wicked wife by his side. Verence’s baby son is snatched away and taken to the witches for safekeeping. Granny refuses to interfere in the kingdom’s affairs until the land itself rises up against Felmet and Felmet stands up to Granny – a very bad move.

The play has a great deal of humour but also much to say on the subjects of good and evil, earning the right to rule and the power of words. There are also many echoes from Shakespeare, with a plot (very) loosely based on Macbeth, a troupe of theatrical players with a writer called Hwel and a Fool and an actor who are destined for great things. And, of course, there is plenty of magic.