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.

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