NEW BLOG LINK

Hi all. Patently, this blog hasn't been updated in a while - but it isn't dead. What happened was - I lost my phone - so, also access to my Google account, because my (lost) phone is its 2-factor authentication. And that's how I access my blog. So I can now only access it from devices from which I've accessed it before!

I had to restart. My new blog is at London Still Rocks - check it out for updates on what I've been doing in the meantime! To avoid confusion - and because I'm not sure I can fix this Google problem - I'll continue there.

Hope to see you all there..

All the best.

C

Film: Hello, Bookstore

Tonight, was thinking film again - and top of the list was Hello, Bookstore, a documentary in the Curzon Bloomsbury again.

Glad not to have to go too far, on what was a rainy day. I had to run around getting things to post my laptop back to work - they're supposed to be collecting it tomorrow. I've ordered a new one - they really do get cheaper all the time - but they can't guarantee delivery before Saturday. Well, whatever, this is probably the last post I can write on the work one (my old one gave up the ghost months ago). After this, I'll be packing it up and saying sayonara.. So, we'll see how I feel about writing posts on my mobile, before the new laptop arrives. If it's too much trouble, you might have to wait until Saturday (or Sunday) for the next instalment..

After all that, there wasn't time to eat beforehand - so I went straight to the cinema, and had my usual wine and chocolate honeycomb bites. Funny thing is, I'll probably still be coming here on occasion after I move - so much is on here exclusively! Not this film, although from either my new or my old flat, this cinema is the closest it's showing in.. Well, I settled into my comfy seat and started on my "pre-dinner". The one thing I've often remarked on here is that there are no drink holders - so it's quite unnerving, trying to manage a drink as well as chocolates, a coat, a bag.. I usually use the seat beside me as a table. Handily, there's hardly ever anyone booked to sit in it - and the last time there was, she took one look and agreed to sit somewhere else..

Well, the film is a loving look at a bookstore called The Bookstore, in Lenox, Massachusetts. Which has been run by the same chap since 1976! And a more loving bookstore owner you could not find. It truly looks like one of those places you could happily spend a day browsing in - they have lots of nooks and crannies, and comfy seats to snuggle in.. and a wine bar at the back, thank you! where the owner also acts as bartender. Now, he has a fascinating story about the man in whose honour this wine bar was opened - I won't go into it, but this bookstore owner is a man full of stories! He's always in the middle of a book - and happy to pore through his collection for exactly the right one for a customer. Not only that, he can probably give an anecdote about it - perhaps quote half of it to you!

The film, however, starts in the sad days of the pandemic, where everyone is wearing a mask, and the front door is locked - people browse only through the window, or on the website, and put their orders in by phone or email. He then posts the books, or people show up and he puts them on a stool outside. Card payments only, and the details are communicated through the door. We also find out how badly his business was affected - he only did about a day's worth of normal business in a week. So he started a GoFundMe campaign - and wouldn't you know it, the good people of the community gave him the funds he needed in under a day! Now, that's what I call community spirit.

The film also introduces us to his family - and a few customers willing to be put on camera! There's one endearingly candid shot where he's talking to someone on the right of screen - but in the background, on the left, are a completely star-struck couple, grinning inanely at the camera and frozen stiff! It's a tellingly true moment.

Really, if you love books, if you've ever happily browsed a bookshop, you should go see this - it's absolutely charming. And all I can say is, if I find myself in the area, I am so paying a visit..

Ate at Nando's after, and how cosy it was to be inside looking out at the rain..

Next, two more days with UITCS - well, they book so much stuff! Tomorrow, it's Robin Hood: The Legend - Rewritten, at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre. Today's rain is supposed to clear overnight, fingers crossed..

On Thursday, it's School Girls: Or, the African Mean Girls Play, at the Lyric Hammersmith.

On Friday, London Baroque Music Lovers lately advertised a concert, by La Nuova Musica, at St. Martin-in-the-Fields, of Handel's Coronation Music. Oh, lovely - I found this music so moving at the recent coronation! My sometime companion from UITCS suggests we eat there beforehand - which is fine, as long as we can find each other!

Saturday could be a landmark moment - could I get my four ex-colleagues together in a room at the same time?! So far, so good - nobody's yet said they can't make it - although one is worried about the planned train strikes. And although I'm already supposed to have moved, well, I'm between places - particularly with the constant mix-ups with my keys! so I just booked The Lucas Arms again.

On Sunday, heading with Cultureseekers, for a Historic Hampstead Treasure Hunt. We'll be split into groups, apparently, and the clues relate to historical plaques and the likes in the area. Official guides not allowed to participate. Hmm - how much can I remember from Laurence's walk there..?

On Monday, booked with TAC for an interesting-sounding show - Blood, Gold and Oil is about Lawrence of Arabia, and showing at Riverside Studios. Part of their "Bitesize Theatre" series.

Next Tuesday, back with UITCS - really excited to see The Pillowman, by Martin McDonagh, at the Duke of York's Theatre.

On the 12th, back with the World Music Meetup (and Tuned In London) for a concert by the Scottish/Zambian singer Namvula, at City Hope Church. Tickets through Billetto. And yes, closer to my new place, so it'd be really nice to be able to stay there that night..

On the 13th, back with UITCS for Cuckoo, at The Royal Court. Then it's back to Ireland for the weekend again.

On the 17th, back with UITCS for Song from Far Away, at Hampstead Theatre. I suspect this is one that Meetup just declined to notify me about.. I don't remember seeing it advertised before, although it's been up for a while.

On the 18th, I've signed up for the Epic Film Location London Tour Part 1, with London Socials, a new group to me.

And on the 19th, another new group - London Circus Cabaret and Burlesque Meetup is headed to Fool's Moon, a drag circus act at Soho Theatre. Meeting beforehand at the Nellie Dean - aw man, it's ages since I was at these places! I'm the only person to join, at time of writing..

Play: A Playlist for the Revolution

Last night, I was back with Up in the Cheap Seats (UITCS) for A Playlist for the Revolution, at the Bush Theatre. First though, back to the lettings agent to get yet another set of keys, in the hope these will work - haven't yet had a chance to schlep down there to check. The lettings agent's office is, in itself, a schlep - not an insignificant trip across town!

By the time I got done there, there was about enough time to eat, then head to the theatre. I couldn't see anywhere I fancied eating out in the direction of the lettings office, in Stepney Green, nor much around the theatre - so I decided to break my journey at The Lucas Arms. Not much longer that'll be an option.. after that, the only reasonable choice was Tube, to get to the theatre in time. Sadly, no papers available to read on my journey - they weren't quite out yet. I'll say this, it's dead handy to get to the theatre from the station - a sign at the exit tells you which direction to turn in, and it's right across the road! I got a drink and searched for the others, finding them in the "library" at the back. It was nice to be able to unload to them - and when it was time, we went in, me having to switch my drink to a plastic container. Funnily enough, even though we'd all got "Count Me In" tickets - cheaper, but you don't find out your actual seat until the day - we turned out to be all sat together!

An interesting set design sees a whole pile of blocks around the central stage area. They kind of resemble buildings, so could be taken for the skyline of Hong Kong, where this is set - however, they also act as storage boxes for props, and can be removed, to act as props themselves! The story starts with a meeting between a native Hong Kong-er, a conservative young man, into playing the piano - and a kooky young woman, of Hong Kong extraction, but living in the UK, who has taken some time out to visit Hong Kong and explore her roots. Both are students - he, of economics, she, of law. They meet at a nightclub, and there's an instant attraction - but she's on the point of going back. Still, they exchange numbers - and bond over their shared love of music (albeit different kinds).

Back in the UK, she's fascinated by the Hong Kong revolution - he hasn't the heart to tell her he's not involved. And they start to collaborate on a "playlist for the revolution" - he with the help of a cleaner at the university he attends, who's big into protesting. This actor, by the way, pretty much stole the show, in the opinion of someone sitting near us - and I agree. Meantime - I was fascinated that the play went in this direction; I guess I hadn't thought long enough about the title: but certainly, the latter part of the play is all about the revolution.

This revolution is something I've had a longtime interest in - the last time I came across anything about it though was over a year ago, with the memorable film, Revolution of our Times. It's such a titanic struggle - and ultimately, a pretty hopeless one. Very well depicted here, with only two actors and limited props - but some clever lighting - as our Hong Kong student finds himself inspired to join the cause at last. An excellent production, which flashes up the Hong Kong skyline on the back wall, after the interval:

A message displayed at the end offers anyone who needs it the chance to stay in the theatre for up to 15 minutes afterwards. Very sensitively done - recommended. Runs till the 5th of next month.

Couldn't blog last night, I had to be up early for the cleaner's last visit. Tonight, thinking film again - and it's looking like Hello, Bookstore, a documentary in the Curzon Bloomsbury again.

Then two more days with UITCS - well, they book so much stuff! Tomorrow, it's Robin Hood: The Legend - Rewritten, at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre. Hope today's promised rain clears for that..

On Thursday, it's School Girls: Or, the African Mean Girls Play, at the Lyric Hammersmith.

On Friday, London Baroque Music Lovers lately advertised a concert, by La Nuova Musica, at St. Martin-in-the-Fields, of Handel's Coronation Music. Oh, lovely - I found this music so moving at the recent coronation! My sometime companion from UITCS suggests we eat there beforehand - which is fine, as long as we can find each other!

Saturday could be a landmark moment - could I get my four ex-colleagues together in a room at the same time?! So far, so good - nobody's yet said they can't make it - although one is worried about the planned train strikes. And although I'm already supposed to have moved, well, I'm between places - particularly with the constant mix-ups with my keys! so I just booked The Lucas Arms again.

On Sunday, heading with Cultureseekers, for a Historic Hampstead Treasure Hunt. We'll be split into groups, apparently, and the clues relate to historical plaques and the likes in the area. Official guides not allowed to participate. Hmm - how much can I remember from Laurence's walk there..?

On Monday, booked with TAC for an interesting-sounding show - Blood, Gold and Oil is about Lawrence of Arabia, and showing at Riverside Studios. Part of their "Bitesize Theatre" series.

Next Tuesday, back with UITCS - really excited to see The Pillowman, by Martin McDonagh, at the Duke of York's Theatre.

On the 12th, back with the World Music Meetup (and Tuned In London) for a concert by the Scottish/Zambian singer Namvula, at City Hope Church. Tickets through Billetto. And yes, closer to my new place, so it'd be really nice to be able to stay there that night..

On the 13th, back with UITCS for Cuckoo, at The Royal Court. Then it's back to Ireland for the weekend again.

On the 17th, back with UITCS for Song from Far Away, at Hampstead Theatre. I suspect this is one that Meetup just declined to notify me about.. I don't remember seeing it advertised before, although it's been up for a while.

On the 18th, I've signed up for the Epic Film Location London Tour Part 1, with London Socials, a new group to me.

And on the 19th, another new group - London Circus Cabaret and Burlesque Meetup is headed to Fool's Moon, a drag circus act at Soho Theatre. Meeting beforehand at the Nellie Dean - aw man, it's ages since I was at these places! I'm the only person to join, at time of writing..

Film: Jesus Revolution

I'm back to Ireland for the weekend again. How surreal it seems, to travel above the clouds - the views can be amazing:

Was waiting to hear what rating the new Indiana Jones film would have - Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny sees Harrison Ford, back again as the coolest archaeologist in the Western world. And yes, your eyes don't deceive you - that is Phoebe Waller-Bridge, tagging along as the female interest (his god-daughter). So, expect some good lines. Antonio Banderas shows up as - someone scruffy-lookin'. Mads Mikkelsen is the baddie, Toby Jones a professor. And I'd be happy to see it - if only for the CGI that makes Harrison Ford look young and gorgeous again.. (there's some time travel, I believe).

However, now that its rating is out, the highest rated was Jesus Revolution, based on a real-life spiritual movement across America in the 70s. Stars Kelsey Grammer as the straight-laced pastor whose daughter convinces him to give these long-haired hippies a go.. Showing, as is Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, in Limerick Omniplex. (Actually, it was also showing on Wednesday evening in London, but I really wanted to see Asteroid City, so although it wasn't as highly rated, I executed an executive override..)

Naturally, my mother presented me with a whole range of jobs to do - so timing was tight. Funnily enough, on the drive in, Take Me to Church was playing on the radio. I arrived in the cinema just as the film was starting - people being baptised in the ocean, a journalist interviewing a young man who's sketching what he sees. We then get the backstory, which starts a year before, basically following the story of the pastor, and of this young man.

It's an interesting take - very much, the focus is on the hippy movement, and a charismatic preacher called, ahem, Lonnie Frisbee, who by chance meets the pastor, and enthuses him with the sheer simplicity of his message - of peace and love. (Apparently he was also a homoesexual, but they decided to leave that bit out, despite focusing on his character quite heavily.) It's actually really moving, as the pastor brings all and sundry into the church, openly defying the church committee. Drugs - whose use we do see, but outside this Christian community - are described, by Lonnie, as a way to try to find God, but a false high; our protagonist, in fact, goes down that route first before finding Jesus.

Once this Utopian community is established, it starts to go pear-shaped, of course - Lonnie gets a bit too fond of the limelight and moves on, and our protagonist wants to marry his girlfriend, but gee, discovers that her wealthy father views him with some suspicion, having no money and no apparent direction in life. But hey, it all resolves itself - a set of snippets at the end describes how everyone turned out.

As I say, I found it quite moving - honest belief always is, and this really does start with the naive beliefs of a movement of teenagers. Whatever your belief about religion in general, it's refreshing to take it back to basics. You could say it's biased in favour of Christianity, but this was a real movement, and people's enthusiasm for it deserves to be noted.

Only a few others at the screening - and Lordy if some of them didn't try to evangelise me! One lady gave me a leaflet about herself, for goodness' sake - and a couple of guys at the door were giving away free copies of the New Testament. I passed. So, careful.. to be fair, they just seemed enthusiastic, rather than creepy. And it is an interesting film.

On Monday, I'm back with Up in the Cheap Seats (UITCS) for A Playlist for the Revolution, at the Bush Theatre.

On Tuesday, thinking film again - and it's looking like Hello, Bookstore, a documentary in the Curzon Bloomsbury again.

Then two more days with UITCS - well, they book so much stuff! On Wednesday, it's Robin Hood: The Legend - Rewritten, at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre.

On Thursday, it's School Girls: Or, the African Mean Girls Play, at the Lyric Hammersmith.

On Friday, London Baroque Music Lovers just advertised a concert, by La Nuova Musica, at St. Martin-in-the-Fields, of Handel's Coronation Music. Oh, lovely - I found this music so moving at the recent coronation!

Next Saturday could be a landmark moment - could I get my four ex-colleagues together in a room at the same time?! So far, so good - nobody's yet said they can't make it. And although I'm already supposed to have moved, well, I'm between places - particularly with the constant mix-ups with my keys! so I just booked The Lucas Arms again.

On the 9th, heading with Cultureseekers, for a Historic Hampstead Treasure Hunt. We'll be split into groups, apparently, and the clues relate to historical plaques and the likes in the area. Official guides not allowed to participate. Hmm - how much can I remember from Laurence's walk there..?

On the 10th, booked with TAC for an interesting-sounding show - Blood, Gold and Oil is about Lawrence of Arabia, and showing at Riverside Studios. Part of their "Bitesize Theatre" series.

On the 11th, back with UITCS - really excited to see The Pillowman, by Martin McDonagh, at the Duke of York's Theatre.

On the 12th, back with the World Music Meetup (and Tuned In London) for a concert by the Scottish/Zambian singer Namvula, at City Hope Church. Tickets through Billetto. And yes, closer to my new place, so it'd be really nice to be able to stay there that night..

On the 13th, back with UITCS for Cuckoo, at The Royal Court. And then it's back to Ireland for the weekend again.

Musical: Ain't Too Proud

Tonight, thought of heading back to Watkin's Bookshop, for the first time in an age - they had an author talk called Holy Waters - Searching for the Sacred in a Glass. There's a new book about this, which considers the use of alcohol in religion - sounded interesting!

But then I saw someone on the list of attendees that I really didn't want to meet, in what is a very small venue.. so I implemented Plan B. The London International Meetup was heading to Ain't Too Proud, the story of The Temptations, tonight - they had their own, limited, tickets, and were sold out, but I figured I could just head on my own. Several outlets have tickets for just under £30 - I picked the first of them I came across, which was London Theatre Direct.

Searching for eateries nearby, I realised it's quite near Chinatown - so I decided to head to New Loon Fung, for a change. Had to take two buses - and in each case, just missed the one I wanted, only to have another come along in a couple of minutes. Got fed to bursting at the restaurant - except it could be quite hard to catch the waiter's eye, in what was quite an empty restaurant. Anyway, it was then a short walk to the Prince Edward Theatre - which I realised I'd never been to before! Now, that is rare.. 

Well, it turned out to be a gorgeous, art deco building: and my seat, one of the cheapest in the theatre, was in the rear stalls - and despite its description as having a restricted view, had one of the least restricted views I've ever seen! Strangely though, as I went in, the usher didn't ask me my seat number, but actually my row - I think there's a separate entrance for the rows towards the front:

I'd love to try the boxes on the next level - they protrude past the rest of the seats up there, and look like they have a terrific view.

Well! Now, I'm no expert on The Temptations - but, like everyone else, I know some of their stuff: not all. But enough to sing along to some, as we were encouraged to do. And I mean, this puts me in mind of Motown: The Musical, which remains one of the best musicals I've ever seen! This is beautifully sung, beautifully choreographed: I sometimes wonder whom I'm applauding at the end, the performers or the playwright - not here, the standard of performance is so high.

Not just a jukebox musical either - this doesn't hold back in telling us all about the personal and professional problems that dogged the band. And it tells a really moving story, from the early days in Detroit, through the fame, the drink and drugs, the many changes in lineup - right through to when people start passing away. So, engaging as well as entertaining - well deserving of that standing ovation! and a pretty packed house. Delighted to have seen this at last. Currently booking until the 7th of January - run and see it!

On the way home, didn't have quite as much luck in the timing of buses - but on the other hand, it wasn't as cold as predicted.

Tomorrow, I'm back to Ireland for the weekend again. Was waiting to hear what rating the new Indiana Jones film would have - Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny sees Harrison Ford, back again as the coolest archaeologist in the Western world. And yes, your eyes don't deceive you - that is Phoebe Waller-Bridge, tagging along as the female interest (his god-daughter). So, expect some good lines. And Antonio Banderas shows up as - someone scruffy-lookin'. And I'd be happy to see it - if only for the CGI that makes Harrison Ford look young and gorgeous again.. (there's some time travel, I believe).

However, now that its rating is out, the highest rated is Jesus Revolution, based on a real-life spiritual movement across America in the 70s. Stars Kelsey Grammer as the straight-laced pastor whose daughter convinces him to give these long-haired hippies a go.. Showing, as is Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, in Limerick Omniplex. (Actually, it was also showing yesterday evening in London, but I really wanted to see Asteroid City, so although it wasn't as highly rated, I executed an executive override..)

On Monday, I'm back with Up in the Cheap Seats (UITCS) for A Playlist for the Revolution, at the Bush Theatre.

On Tuesday, thinking film again - and it's looking like Hello, Bookstore, a documentary in the Curzon Bloomsbury again.

Then two more days with UITCS - well, they book so much stuff! On Wednesday, it's Robin Hood: The Legend - Rewritten, at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre.

And next Thursday, it's School Girls: Or, the African Mean Girls Play, at the Lyric Hammersmith.

Film: Asteroid City

Today, was thinking film - and delighted to see that Asteroid City had risen in ratings, and was now top of my list! Ah well, that's a no-brainer - a Wes Anderson comedy, with an all-star cast, including Jason Schwartzman, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks, Jeffrey Wright, Bryan Cranston, Edward Norton, Maya Hawke, Rupert Friend, Steve Park, Liev Schreiber, Matt Dillon, Steve Carell, Tilda Swinton, Jeff Goldblum (playing an alien, appropriately I guess..), Adrien Brody, Willem Dafoe, Margot Robbie.. and probably some other people I recognise. Anyway, I love Wes Anderson's stuff - and it's on in my local cinema (for flat #1). And there were showings all today, so, given that I hadn't any other demands on my time, until I get another job, I could go to whatever suited!

5.30pm was what suited, and off I trotted, stopping at recycling on the way. And wouldn't you know it, I never before heard that they have cheap tickets on Wednesdays in Curzon! Obviously never been to the Curzon on a Wednesday before.. I was the first into the Plaza, one of the screens it's on in, which is a small one - I'd chosen an aisle seat near the front. Mine was a popular row - with another couple sat inside me, one seat away, when the lady who'd booked the seat beside me came and saw all my stuff on her seat, she volunteered to go into the (empty) front row. Quite sensible - who wants to have people on either side of them anyway, if not necessary?

Ah, Wes Anderson. Quite surreal. First, we meet Byran Cranston, who's hosting a tv show about the writer (Edward Norton) of this play called "Asteroid City". That bit's in black and white - then we're into the technicolour of the desert, where Jason Schwartzman is driving the kids to Asteroid City, where there's a science event for which his son, Jake Ryan, has qualified. His daughters are of similar age, if not actually triplets - and a right little coven they make. Also accompanying their children to this shindig are Scarlett Johansson, a famous actress, and Liev Schreiber. Maya Hawke is a teacher, accompanying a school group to observe. Jeffrey Wright plays the local military general. Rupert Friend is a local cowboy, who hangs out with a gang of cowboys, playin' music, mostly. Tom Hanks is Jason Schwartzmann's father-in-law, who drives to the rescue when his car conks out - Matt Dillon is the mechanic. Steve Carell runs the motel. Tilda Swinton is a local scientist involved with the event. Margot Robbie plays (spoiler) Jason Schwartzman's deceased wife.

And then it gets weird. So, Adrien Brody doesn't apparently exist in this version, he plays Jason Schwartman's character in - the stage version, I think? Lives on the set, gives advice to Jason Schwartzman at one point. Willem Dafoe shows up as a kind of talk-show host, interviewing Edward Norton. Really, some of them are only in it for one scene - you can imagine them joining for fun, then kind of hanging around the set chuckling at the rest of it, once they're finished and can relax. And fun it is - gloriously funny, in that weird, Wes Anderson way. Absolute star of the show, for me, however - is Jeff Goldblum, who plays an alien like nobody else can. Ah yes - won't be for everyone, but if you like Wes Anderson, you'll probably love this. Oh, and why not stay for the road runner's antics, over the closing credits..

Tomorrow, thinking of heading back to Watkin's Bookshop, for the first time in an age - they have an author talk called Holy Waters - Searching for the Sacred in a Glass. There's a new book about this, which considers the use of alcohol in religion - sounds interesting!

Then I'm back to Ireland for the weekend again. Was waiting to hear what rating the new Indiana Jones film would have - Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny sees Harrison Ford, back again as the coolest archaeologist in the Western world. And yes, your eyes don't deceive you - that is Phoebe Waller-Bridge, tagging along as the female interest (his god-daughter). So, expect some good lines. And Antonio Banderas shows up as - someone scruffy-lookin'. And I'd be happy to see it - if only for the CGI that makes Harrison Ford look young and gorgeous again.. (there's some time travel, I believe).

However, now that its rating is out, the highest rated is Jesus Revolution, based on a real-life spiritual movement across America in the 70s. Stars Kelsey Grammer as the straight-laced pastor whose daughter convinces him to give these long-haired hippies a go.. Showing, as is Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, in Limerick Omniplex. (Actually, it was also showing this evening in London, but I really wanted to see Asteroid City, so although it wasn't as highly rated, I executed an executive override..)

On Monday, I'm back with Up in the Cheap Seats (UITCS) for A Playlist for the Revolution, at the Bush Theatre.

On Tuesday, thinking film again - and it's looking like Hello, Bookstore, a documentary in the Curzon Bloomsbury again.

Then two more days with UITCS - well, they book so much stuff! Next Wednesday, it's Robin Hood: The Legend - Rewritten, at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre.

And on the 6th, it's School Girls: Or, the African Mean Girls Play, at the Lyric Hammersmith.

Musical: A Strange Loop

This evening, back with Up in the Cheap Seats (UITCS) again - this time, for A Strange Loop, at the Barbican. Multi-award-winning, it seems - cheaper tickets available from WhatsOnStage (WOS), fulfilled by London Theatre Direct. Interestingly though, to get the cheaper offer, buy through WOS..

I had a yen to eat at Cote Barbican - but checked this evening, only to find they were completely booked up. Durnit! I didn't fancy eating at The Lucas Arms again so soon - and frankly, didn't leave myself much time to eat at all. So, Pret it was - and then Tube. The Northern Line promised the least walking - and my shoe was chafing - so that was how I went. Ran into one of the group as I was coming off the Tube, and together, we navigated the building works all around there, joining the rest eventually, downstairs at the Barbican. Not, perhaps, the wisest location for those of us sat in the higher levels.. Anyway, most of the bar was roped off for a conference: and wouldn't you know it, they'd literally drunk the bar dry! of white wine, at least. They had rose or prosecco, both of which give me a headache. So I passed. We were subsequently passed by a guy trundling a crate full of bottles of white wine, headed for somewhere else in the building.. I seriously considered an ambush..

And so we slogged upstairs, in due course. I then had to clamber down some more stairs, to reach my precarious seat at the edge:

There were a couple of people sitting inside me in the row - he congratulated me for making it all the way up there!

Ah, where to start. Multi-award-winning, eh? Well, someone beforehand did caution that that was in America.. Good point, and one that came back to haunt me through what I found a gruelling production. Now, I will happily concede that it's well-written - lyrically clever. The performances are top-notch. And I'm guessing the awards were mostly awarded on the basis of it being "woke". The protagonist - and author - is, by his own admission, fat, he's homosexual - of which his staunchly religious parents disapprove. He's in a dead-end job, which he hates, and his mother accuses him - with some justification - of wasting his expensive education. So he, em, decides to go off and write a musical about it.

Now, I love musical theatre as much as anyone - and as I say, this is award-winning in America - but could he not possibly have, I dunno, written a book instead? What in the name of all that's holy convinced him to write songs about this? And it's basically an autobiography - the "strange loop" of the title is an examination of the ego, as he explains to someone on the subway (actually a figment of his imagination, as are many of the characters on stage).

Someone was of the opinion that it went downhill in the second half - that there was something to applaud in the beginning, but after that, it became a feast of self-loathing. I agree about the self-loathing; I just failed to be much enthused about the first half either. As someone else pointed out, a lot of the American references were lost to a British audience - as a prime example, I was left wondering who on earth Tyler Perry was, who features so prominently! A couple of warnings, also - there's quite a graphic and disturbing sex scene, as well as a section where the lights are directed straight at the centre of the audience! A couple of our group were sat there, and one described being blinded - sure enough, that had occurred to me, sat safely over the side as I was.

This has been described in reviews as "hilarious".. well, I did laugh once. Mainly though, it came across to me as self-indulgent. And there he was on stage, with his "inner voices" telling him he had to let the audience know when to go home - and I was so tempted to yell "yes please!".. Now, some from our group absolutely loved it, and I'm happy for them. Me, I was first out of there.. Currently booking until the 9th of September, if you're curious.

Tomorrow, thinking film - and delighted to see that Asteroid City has risen in ratings, and is now top of my list! Ah well, that's a no-brainer - a Wes Anderson comedy, with an all-star cast, including Jason Schwartzman, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks, Jeffrey Wright, Bryan Cranston, Edward Norton, Maya Hawke, Rupert Friend, Steve Park, Liev Schreiber, Matt Dillon, Steve Carell, Tilda Swinton, Jeff Goldblum (playing an alien, appropriately I guess..), Adrien Brody, Willem Dafoe, Margot Robbie.. and probably some other people I recognise. Anyway, I love Wes Anderson's stuff - and it's on in my local cinema (for flat #1). And there are showings all day, so, given that I probably shan't have any other demands on my time that day, until I get another job, I can go to whatever suits!

On Thursday, thinking of heading back to Watkin's Bookshop, for the first time in an age - they have an author talk called Holy Waters - Searching for the Sacred in a Glass. There's a new book about this, which considers the use of alcohol in religion - sounds interesting!

Then I'm back to Ireland for the weekend again. Still waiting to hear what rating the new Indiana Jones film will have - Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny sees Harrison Ford, back again as the coolest archaeologist in the Western world. And yes, your eyes don't deceive you - that is Phoebe Waller-Bridge, tagging along as the female interest (his god-daughter). So, expect some good lines. And Antonio Banderas shows up as - someone scruffy-lookin'. And I'd be happy to see it - if only for the CGI that makes Harrison Ford look young and gorgeous again.. (there's some time travel, I believe).

Failing a high rating, or any rating (although it shouldn't be long) for that, the highest rated is, ahem, Jesus Revolution, based on a real-life spiritual movement across America in the 70s. Stars Kelsey Grammer as the straight-laced pastor whose daughter convinces him to give these long-haired hippies a go.. Showing, as is Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, in Limerick Omniplex.

And on Monday, I'm back with UITCS for A Playlist for the Revolution, at the Bush Theatre.

Concert: From Swing to Soul

For today, got a cheap ticket with CT for From Swing to Soul, a concert series at Wonderville. I did wonder whether they fixed their tech issues from last time..

Couldn't see anywhere to eat out there that I fancied - and goodness knows, Wonderville itself was never known for its culinary offerings. So I ate at The Lucas Arms. Where I got a great welcome. They'd changed the seating arrangement slightly, and the only really suitable table for me ended up being that sole table for 1, beside the ladies' loos. Which is fine - my chair was only banged once by the toilet door opening - you have to do it with some force to achieve that. Anyway - sadly, I really couldn't finish my dinner; the steak and ale pie is delish, but a bit heavy for this weather. But I did eat most.

I kind of remembered where Wonderville was - certainly, off the bus, I made my way to Haymarket unassisted. Couldn't then quite remember where on Haymarket it was - but it didn't take long to find. Bless her, the receptionist was quite away with the fairies - didn't notice me standing there at all: in fact, I gave her an awful fright! She checked me off the list and waved me in. Now, seeing the entrance to the concert area open, I headed in there - only to find that they were still working on the soundcheck, and I was supposed to head back out to the bar. The maitre d' did ask whether there was a table I fancied - so I asked whether I could just leave my coat on a chair, to reserve it! He kind of made a face, then said ok.

I was delighted to find that the bar was now - unlike last time - taking actual verbal orders. So I had a glass of wine, and grabbed a sofa, while the going was good - the bar was completely full by half an hour before showtime, I was lucky I was early. As for the soundcheck being private - HAH! It was, in fact, deafening, from the perspective of the far side of the bar. And when it was time, in I went-  seating appeared unassigned, and lots of people were throwing dirty looks at my poor coat, which was in a pretty prime position. Thank goodness I left it there - I really don't know how that maitre d' would have reserved it for me otherwise!

Well, there I was, the only one at a table on my own, and feeling a bit sorry for myself - and just at that point, a young lady popped up and asked - very politely - whether she and her friend could gatecrash my table, as they didn't have a great view! Well of course, I said yes - and they turned out to be lovely, we had a lovely chat all evening.

The show is excellent - three singers, all top notch, a terrific backing band.

And they perform lots of classics - also some classical takes on more modern pieces. Highlight, for me, was the two-song tribute to Tina Turner - I could have listened to their adaptations of her music all night! Low point.. had to be their (swing) adaptation of, er - Creep. Now, I admire their willingness to try to adapt - pretty much anything. But honestly, how did those lyrics fit into this concert? ("I'm a creep, I'm a weirdo"..) No, no, this was just surreal.

At the interval, I gave up on trying to get another drink online, and headed for the bar again. Where a group arrived, wanting to know where their order was, it was taking so long! Yep, I guess DIY is the way to go - although we did note one group that got their orders delivered. But in general - nope, I don't think it's working yet.

Meantime, the performers were mingling with the audience, which was a nice touch. The second half is, as they say, our chance to dance. Now, we didn't - but plenty did. The atmosphere was great - I'd be delighted to come back. Highly recommended - runs on selected dates until the 15th of November.

Tomorrow evening, back with Up in the Cheap Seats (UITCS) again - this time, for A Strange Loop, at the Barbican. Multi-award-winning, it seems - cheaper tickets available from WhatsOnStage (WOS), fulfilled by London Theatre Direct. Interestingly though, to get the cheaper offer, buy through WOS..

On Wednesday, thinking film - and delighted to see that Asteroid City has risen in ratings, and is now top of my list! Ah well, that's a no-brainer - a Wes Anderson comedy, with an all-star cast, including Jason Schwartzman, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks, Jeffrey Wright, Bryan Cranston, Edward Norton, Maya Hawke, Rupert Friend, Steve Park, Liev Schreiber, Matt Dillon, Steve Carell, Tilda Swinton, Jeff Goldblum (playing an alien, appropriately I guess..), Adrien Brody, Willem Dafoe, Margot Robbie.. and probably some other people I recognise. Anyway, I love Wes Anderson's stuff - and it's on in my local cinema (for flat #1). And there are showings all day, so, given that I probably shan't have any other demands on my time that day, until I get another job, I can go to whatever suits!

On Thursday, thinking of heading back to Watkin's Bookshop, for the first time in an age - they have an author talk called Holy Waters - Searching for the Sacred in a Glass. There's a new book about this, which considers the use of alcohol in religion - sounds interesting! Then I'm back to Ireland for the weekend again.

And next Monday, I'm back with UITCS for A Playlist for the Revolution, at the Bush Theatre.

Walk: Discover the Secrets of the 19th Century London Docks

Yesterday, back with Discover London - History Walks and Events to Discover the Secrets of the 19th Century London Docks. Always love this part of town - again, this was walking distance from my new place. So it would've been nice to stay the night.. still waiting on word of my keys. Anyway, I was so glad it wasn't on till afternoon, and I could lie in!

Still ended up rushing, knowing me - just made the bus in perfect time though. Wow - must have been the hottest day of the year (or one of them) - I felt like I was cooking from the minute I stepped out of the house. Glad I brought a hat. Was a bit early for the start, and took myself first to the nearby ice cream stand - never has an ice cream tasted better. And they had Flake to put in it - that shortage must have ended! Well now..

I finished it before joining the others - didn't want to have to multitask by eating, talking, and paying, all at once. We made sure to stand in the shade as we waited the usual 15 minutes for people to arrive. And indeed, we spent most of the walk in the shade - much pleasanter.

We started on the attractive St. Katherine Dock:

It's always lovely to be near water on a sunny day:

We moseyed mainly through less-trafficked, more residential areas: with, we decided, utterly unaffordable housing. Except for wildlife, which there was in plenty:

before coming to Tobacco Dock - most recently a conference centre, as, indeed, mentioned by one of our group, who had been to a conference there. The hogs' heads decorating the gate refer to the name of the large barrels they're depicted with:

We passed through Wapping Woods to get to Shadwell Basin, the largest remaining body of water in the docklands. Which seemed to be hosting a tightrope competition! Well, of all the days to get a dunking:

And so, finally, to the Prospect of Whitby - an attractive pub, with lots of cubbyholes, and a long history. Used to be called The Pelican - which is where the adjacent Pelican Stairs, down to the water, got their name. The tour actually ended down the stairs, but I've been down there before, and have a thing about stairs - so I gave it a miss.

Into the pub then, for what turned out to be a long afternoon - a couple of us had food. It's a Greene King pub, whose steak and ale pies I love, but I skipped it on this occasion, what with the heat. Decided on chicken kyiev instead. We sat upstairs, where there was more space - and handily, there was service up there too. Mind you, although the queue was shorter, it was still a pain - and the food took forever to arrive. When it did, the coating on my chicken was a bit burnt - and it didn't taste much of kyiev - but it was succulent, and hit the spot. My fellow eater had a burger, which she proclaimed lovely. And then the afternoon passed merrily, with a few of us sharing bottles of wine, and some excellent conversation. All in all, a most enjoyable outing! Pity I don't get to go with this group more.. Anyway, with all that wine, I was too tired last night to blog.

For today, got a cheap ticket with CT for From Swing to Soul, a concert series at Wonderville. I do wonder whether they fixed their tech issues from last time..

Tomorrow evening, back with Up in the Cheap Seats (UITCS) again - this time, for A Strange Loop, at the Barbican. Multi-award-winning, it seems - cheaper tickets available from WhatsOnStage (WOS), fulfilled by London Theatre Direct. Interestingly though, to get the cheaper offer, buy through WOS..

On Wednesday, thinking film - and delighted to see that Asteroid City has risen in ratings, and is now top of my list! Ah well, that's a no-brainer - a Wes Anderson comedy, with an all-star cast, including Jason Schwartzman, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks, Jeffrey Wright, Bryan Cranston, Edward Norton, Maya Hawke, Rupert Friend, Steve Park, Liev Schreiber, Matt Dillon, Steve Carell, Tilda Swinton, Jeff Goldblum (playing an alien, appropriately I guess..), Adrien Brody, Willem Dafoe, Margot Robbie.. and probably some other people I recognise. Anyway, I love Wes Anderson's stuff - and it's on in my local cinema (for flat #1). And there are showings all day, so, given that I probably shan't have any other demands on my time that day, until I get another job, I can go to whatever suits!

On Thursday, thinking of heading back to Watkin's Bookshop, for the first time in an age - they have an author talk called Holy Waters - Searching for the Sacred in a Glass. There's a new book about this, which considers the use of alcohol in religion - sounds interesting! Then I'm back to Ireland for the weekend again.

And next Monday, I'm back with UITCS for A Playlist for the Revolution, at the Bush Theatre.