Dario Fo’s ‘No Pay? No Way!’ Takes A Satirical Look At The Cost Of Living On The Rise

Oct 12 2023

In a world where the cost of living seems to rise relentlessly, leaving ordinary people struggling to make ends meet, the play “No Pay? No Way!” by Dario Fo, is set to provide a satirical and side-splitting take on the ever-increasing prices that afflict working-class communities. Produced by FM Theatre Productions and Theatre Next Door, this classic Dario Fo play promises to be a riotous and thought-provoking comedy that explores the chaos that ensues when supermarket prices double, pushing a neighbourhood into a state of uproar.

Set in a working-class neighborhood in the 1970s, the play centers on the lives of ordinary people trying to cope with the sudden and overwhelming spike in everyday prices, particularly at the local supermarket. The situation becomes so dire that it triggers a spontaneous revolt among the women of the town. Faced with empty pockets and bellies, they decide to take matters into their own hands and storm the local supermarket, helping themselves to whatever they can find on the shelves.

One of the lead characters, Antonia, returns home with piles of stolen goods, only to realize that some of her loot is utterly useless and impossible to hide when her friend Margherita arrives, just moments before Antonia’s devoted husband makes an appearance. Faced with an unexpected dilemma, the women concoct a plan to save themselves from the consequences of their actions – a fake pregnancy that involves hastily stuffing the contraband items up Margherita’s coat. From this point on, events in the play take a chaotic and hilarious turn as their not-so-little white lie spirals out of control.

Edward Mercieca, Managing Director of FM Theatre Productions and one of the actors in the play, emphasizes the timeless relevance of this comedic masterpiece. “This play was written in the 1970s by Dario Fo, where he talks about prices going up suddenly causing people to revolt and take food from supermarkets without paying for it. It’s a fantastically hilarious play which, even though it was written years ago, is very relevant to this day and age.”

Directed by Chris Gatt and adapted by Marieke Hardy, this rendition of Dario Fo’s comedy brings together a stellar cast of theater veterans. Pia Zammit, Edward Mercieca, Faye Paris, Nathan Brimmer, and Malcolm Galea take on the lead roles, expertly breathing life into the characters of this riotous and thought-provoking play.

“No Pay? No Way!” unfolds in a world where the working class has had enough of unfair wages and mistreatment, providing a satirical mirror to reflect the comedic and at times ridiculous aspects of the workforce. With witty one-liners, laugh-out-loud situations, and brilliantly portrayed themes of gender and inequality, the play invites audiences to ponder the power of collective action while delivering hearty laughter as the characters navigate through the uproarious twists and turns of the plot.

The production is set to take center stage at the Theatre Next Door from Friday, October 20th, to Sunday, October 29th. For those seeking tickets and additional information, visit the official website at www.tnd.com.mt.

The play “No Pay? No Way!” is made possible with the support of Arts Council Malta, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience that will resonate with audiences, offering both a humorous escape and a deeper reflection on the financial challenges that many face in today’s world. So, mark your calendars and get ready to join in the laughter and insights as this remarkable theatre production unfolds.

#MaltaDaily

Jellyfish The Size Of Pizzas!

Oct 12 2023

Local marine biologist Alan Deidun posted images on social media of more fried egg jellyfish (Cotylorhiza tuberculata), with the numbers seen in Maltese waters this summer being the highest on record.

Deidun described the size of the jellyfish as large as pizzas, ‘with individuals reaching diameters as large as 30cm!’.

The photos were taken along the south and west coast of the island and form part of Deidun’s ‘Spot the Jellyfish Campaign.’

Did you spit any of these majestic creatures whilst out swimming?

#MaltaDaily

1 Of 3 Youths Who Stole 6 Vehicles Sentenced For 2 Years, Suspended 3 Years

Oct 12 2023

Seybel Grech, one of three young individuals recently brought to court for various charges, including the theft of five cars and a quad bike, has received a two-year suspended prison sentence, along with three years of probation. At the age of 18, Grech was also found guilty of possessing two stolen cars from Raħal Ġdid. Two other co-accused, aged 18 and 14, are facing charges related to the possession of two additional stolen cars from Birżebbuġa. The main accused, Grech, also faces charges for possessing another stolen car from Imsida and a quad bike from Ħaż-Żabbar. He is further accused of using a falsified Colombian passport, failing to report it to the police, and violating a probation order issued almost a year ago in a separate case.

In addition to possessing two stolen cars, the 16-year-old co-accused is also facing charges for possessing a stolen electric scooter and not reporting it to the police.

Grech’s sentencing was scheduled for Thursday at 9 am. No request for bail release was made. While the prosecution insists on actual imprisonment due to the offense during probation, the defense argues that, now at 18, imprisonment with adult criminals may not be beneficial. They emphasize the necessity for a specialized program considering underlying issues.

Regarding the two minor defendants, the Court ordered their identities remain confidential, and their cases be transferred to the Juvenile Court. The defense requested their release from custody, which the prosecution did not oppose, provided strict conditions are enforced.

Presided over by Magistrate Astrid May Grima, the Court issued temporary supervision orders until the Juvenile Court’s sentencing. They must report daily to the local police station and remain at home between 7 pm and 6 am. They were granted release on a deposit of €500 each, along with a personal guarantee of €5,000 each. Grech, who received a two-year suspended prison sentence, will also be under probation for two years. Magistrate Grima encouraged Grech to distance himself from negative influences and expressed confidence in his ability to positively redirect his life for both himself and others.

#MaltaDaily

Teletubbies Sun Is Now Pregnant With Her Own Baby

Oct 12 2023

Jess Smith, the original Sun Baby from the beloved children’s TV show Teletubbies, is expecting her first child, as revealed through ultrasound photos shared on Instagram.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jess Smith (@j.smith_1995)

Having portrayed the iconic sunshine face from 1997 to 2001, Jess, now in her mid-twenties, is embarking on a new chapter.

Her announcement garnered an outpouring of congratulations from fans, with many expressing excitement over the “teletubbies baby” having a baby of her own. She was discovered while being weighed at a hospital, catching the attention of the show’s producer seeking cheerful infants.

Despite the widespread recognition she gained from the show, Jess chose to lead a private life away from fame. She now works for a security company, overseeing administrative tasks. Looking ahead, she envisions exploring different parts of the world before settling down and starting a family.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jess Smith (@j.smith_1995)

Jess had previously gone viral after she held the next Sun Baby for a Teletubbies reboot. This was misreported, with many thinking this child was hers.

#MaltaDaily