The English Concert

Tonight, back with London Classical Music and Theatre Group, for an English Concert of Bach, at Wigmore Hall. Lovely, it's been ages since I heard Bach..

Of course, this is very close to St. Christopher's Place, which is packed with eateries - not all exceptionally cheap. But there is a Cote there.. and I do love Cote.. and it's been a while.. I figured there was no need to book, and I was right. Despite all the people bravely eating outdoors in the cold, there was plenty of space inside. Although I didn't recognise him, the guy who showed me to my table remembered me from the Barbican branch! which was nice. And as I was happy with the selection on the Prix Fixe, I ordered from that - steak frites, and a chocolate mousse for dessert. The steak frites is quick - and the frites were gorgeous, as ever - and while I'd have preferred truffles for dessert, the mousse is quite acceptable. All of this - and a lovely glass of chardonnay - left me just enough time to get to the venue; had I had a starter, I'd have been late.

I went to the bar first, for another glass of chardonnay - I know not to get the sauvignon blanc at Wigmore Hall, it's a ridiculous price. Where we were to meet, the organiser and one other had secured a table - I grabbed another chair, and we chatted convivially until we were the last in the room. As I remarked, they sure do jump at the announcements, here! As our organiser remarked, it's just as well to wait a few minutes after the main bulk of people start to move - less of a queue, that way.

I was in Row AA, at the side of the stage - excellent seats, just with a side view. The music, of course, sounds perfect - and did so for this, a concert that mostly consisted of Brandenburg Concertos. As the helpful text on the back of our free programmes explained, these were composed for a Margrave of Brandenburg-Schwedt - not all of whose family were so interested in music as he was! Well, we must be thankful that Bach composed for him - this is some of the loveliest classical music composed, I think. And as those sitting beside me remarked, very impressive playing on the harpsichord from the director of the group - Francesco Corti, a substitute, not originally slated to play. Simply stunning.

Sadly, I didn't meet the others again - hope to meet them at another event before too long! Good to have an early night, though..

Tomorrow, it's film again - this one is a BFI presentation of Joyland, an Indian film about a young man who joins a burlesque show, and becomes infatuated with the trans lady who runs it. I'm normally suspicious about Indian film, having had some bad experiences - but this trailer looks excellent, so I'll risk it. Showing in the Vue Islington - which I've booked, for once, as they now have theatre-style seat pricing, different seats in different locations at different prices!

On Thursday, back with TAC for Feel More X Lately, showing at the Lion and Unicorn.

Then I'm back to Ireland for the weekend. Where the choice of films is very limited. Mostly kids' films, in fact. Best for me seems to be What's Love Got to Do with It?, a romcom in which Emma Thompson plays the mother of a young lady whose good friend (of Pakistani heritage) decides enough is enough, and he's going to let his parents arrange his marriage. She's a budding filmmaker, and decides this would provide excellent footage for a new documentary. No prizes for guessing how it turns out, I suspect - but it seems harmless enough.

There follows a mostly Up in the Cheap Seats (UITCS) week. On Monday, back with them for Lemons, Lemons, Lemons, at the Harold Pinter Theatre. This is a rom-com about a couple living in a dystopian state, which limits the number of characters they can speak. Lots of body language then, I guess! Frankly, I was delighted to see that, by the time I booked, the Balcony was sold out - the legroom there is woeful, and good luck to those who've booked up there. The cheapest price bracket left when I booked included some in the Dress Circle - and thanks to Seatplan, I seem to have identified a decent seat among them. Watch this space.. cheapest tickets from the official site, but I booked with From the Box Office, which had tickets at the same price, but without the booking fee.

Next Tuesday, my one non-UITCS day next week - back with Over 40 Living the Life, for a dinner at Greenwich Yacht Club. Ooh la la..

On the 1st, back with UITCS at the Arcola for Afghanistan is Not Funny, the true story of a British comedian and photographer in war-torn Afghanistan.

On the 2nd, with them again at the Peacock (think I can walk to that!) for Bat Out of Hell, a musical based on the music of Meat Loaf. Awesome - just a pity it isn't one of the singalong nights..

On the 3rd, ending a run of UITCS with Lucrezia Borgia, by the English Touring Opera Company, at the Hackney Empire.

On the 4th, back cat-herding - Ivan suggested that whole day for, well, a lot of drinking. And food - he wanted to go back to O' Neill's. Well, he must have been reading the blog - because the other day, he got in touch. To say that, unfortunately, he can't now make it. My other coworker from that company still can, though - as they've both said, it's been so long since they actually met each other! They can never seem to coordinate..

On the 5th, back with Discover London at last - she does excellent walks, but sometimes they clash, and sometimes they sell out before I get to them! This one is Discover Historic Chelsea: From Quaint to Quant - 1660s to 1960s.

On the 6th, back with - you guessed it - UITCS, for Romeo and Julie, at the Dorfman.

On the 7th - not so much appeals on Meetup. Free Stuff and Free Events does have Free Community Singing with Ros Hone and the Global Fusion Sound Singers, which you can attend on Zoom, or in person at Fossdene School Community Hall. Which sounds just fine - except that this is the sort of thing I keep cancelling! So I'm not confirming until nearer the time.

On the 8th - back with the Crick Crack Club, woohoo! for Goddesses in the Garden, at the Chelsea Physic Garden. Features my favourite, Clare Murphy, along with Sarah Liisa Wilkinson, Laura Sampson, and Xanthe Gresham.

On the 9th, my final booking - for now - with UITCS, for Brilliant Jerks at Southwark Playhouse. And wouldn't you know it, I still had credit on my Pay as you Go subscription, so got it for free! And then it's back to Ireland for the weekend again.

Concert: Hagen Quartet

Tonight, my first meeting of the year with London Classical Music and Theatre Group! We were off to Wigmore Hall, to listen to the Hagen Quartet play Mozart. They're Austrian, so that's appropriate.. I just needed to remember not to drink the ultra-expensive sauvignon blanc! Was to meet my sometime dinner companion beforehand, down the road at Olivelli.

The next bus supposed to come was the #205. Yeah, right - the bus that never comes. Except.. this time it did! And en route, I got an early classical fix - the little girl in the buggy, in that area reserved for buggies and wheelchairs, had a book. And every page that you turned over in this book revealed a button, which, when pressed, played a classical tune! Excellent idea - and I got treated (several times) to the Ode to Joy. Lovely.

Arrived early at the restaurant, ordered a bottle of sauvignon blanc, and waited. Internet access was only sporadic - and when my companion still hadn't arrived, 15 minutes past when she was due, I ordered. And messaged her to find out where she was. Which was when she messaged me, saying she was "there". (?) Not in my room, she wasn't. My food wasn't long in arriving - veal, in a mushroom and white wine sauce. The waitress offered the suggestion that she might be next door - in Cote. I went to have a look - sure enough, there she was. She'd ordered, too - her food was sitting in front of her, having obviously just arrived. So, she ate hers, I went back and ate mine - the veal was tough at the edge, but otherwise fine - and she nipped over to mine to finish the wine with me.. Caveat, apparently this isn't the first time this has happened at this restaurant!

And so to the hall, and met the organiser - and a lady at the next table, who turned out to be one of ours! And we chatted a bit before taking our seats.

So, this was a selection of string quartets - of which, I think we all agreed, the best was the last. It was a lovely concert though, a pleasure for me to hear classical music again, first time in a while. They have a busy weekend, actually - three days in a row of these. The free programme we were given on the way in gives a most detailed description of all the pieces played over the weekend - most foresighted of them!

Afterwards, we thought about returning to Cote - only to find it was already closing, at just 9.40pm on a Friday! So we repaired to the Lamb and Flag, where the two of us had more wine, and the others beer. And some very enjoyable conversation! Good to be back with this group again, and with people who are prepared to socialise a bit after.

Speaking of which, tomorrow, well, Laurence Summers and the 45+ Not Grumpy Old Londoners are back to Greenwich again. Now, I have been there with him before.. not sure how "new" this one will be, but hey, it was a great day last time! And that evening, meeting Ivan - and another ex-boss with whom I'm still friendly, Martin, for dinner: and wouldn't you know it, I actually managed to book O' Neill's. Wonders shall never cease.. of course, Christmas is over now, so things might calm down. Also, although the Six Nations is on that day, the matches are in the afternoon..

On Sunday, nothing on Meetup appealed massively - I thought I might go for a walk along the Ken's Events route, if I feel like it! (on my own). Or Over 40 Living the Life has advertised a walk along the New River.. I'd have to see, as I have to pay to sign up (refunds given to those who then come). And I might well change my mind.. which I finally did, when Free Stuff and Free Events advertised a blues concert at the Earl of Chatham, Woolwich. It's a way out, is all - but then, it's free, if I wanted to cancel. And.. now I have, because London Herstory Guided Walks! has finally advertised a walk I can go on. I was recommended this group by someone a while ago - they run guided walks with a female theme. Sunday's is Deeds Not Words! Suffragettes, Spies, & Warrior Queens. Delighted to be able to go on one of theirs, at last - they're usually on during working hours. Only thing is, they don't specify how to pay - cash on the day, I'm guessing, as they don't take payment on booking. Mercifully, it's in the afternoon - I might need the rest, after Saturday!

On Monday, my first actual event with the Over 40s. We're off to How Not to Drown at the Theatre Royal, Stratford East - the first event of theirs for which I couldn't get a cheaper ticket! So I decided, if I couldn't beat them, I might as well join them. True story of an unaccompanied, 11-year-old asylum seeker.

On Tuesday, excited to be headed to see Derren Brown in Showman, at the Apollo Shaftesbury Avenue. Cheapest tickets with Official London Theatre again.

On Wednesday, off to The Lehman Trilogy, at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. Based on the true story of the bank that collapsed. Got the last £39.50 ticket!

On Thursday, back with Up in the Cheap Seats for Winner's Curse, at the Park Theatre - an interactive show about a peace negotiation. Turns out North London Friends are headed to it the same night - what, are they now copying this group, as another group did some time ago? (since closed down). And then I'm back to Ireland again.

And on the 13th, I'm headed to Allegiance, starring George Takei in a musical based on the true story of his time in an American internment camp during the Second World War. Showing at the Charing Cross Theatre.

Concert: Takács Quartet

Tonight, not having been with London Classical Music and Theatre Group for ages, I was with them for the second time in a week! Heading to Wigmore Hall this time, for the Takács Quartet, who were playing Beethoven. Sold out - and I'm not surprised, given that when I booked, I got one of the last three (top price) seats! Ah well, it wasn't astronomical - and I do love Beethoven.

As all the buses I was recommended to get left from the same stop - which is a hop, skip and jump from O' Neill's - that's where I ate. Plenty of room downstairs, for once - but as I was about to order on my phone, I suddenly remembered how I'd decided to switch from rice to chips with my curry. Unfortunately, that turned out to be something I couldn't do online - just as well it wasn't busy, because I ordered from the bar for the first time. AND he remembered me (this is becoming a habit - I now have three local eateries that know what I want the minute I come in!). I did cause him a bit of a headache, changing to chips - and had to remind him of the onion rings - but he did well! especially considering the last time I was in here was the week before last. Oh, and I'll be having chips in future - they were very moreish. It's so long since I had curry chips! Yum to the curry in general, it's been too long.

And so down to the hall, in plenty of time - just as well, because the bar seating area filled up completely. I secured a table, and went in search of a glass of wine. Just as well I got a peep at the menu before ordering - I have NEVER before seen anyone charge (wait for it) £15.50 for a large glass of sauvignon blanc! And I thought the £12.70 I've seen in other places was bad. I baulked - went for the chardonnay instead, at £5 less..

And so back to the table I'd grabbed. I had it to myself for a long time, then an elderly lady, seeing every other table was taken, asked whether she could occupy one of my chairs - and I said yes, I can let you have one! And when the organiser of our group arrived - and we started talking about the opera, and Tube strike - she chipped in to say that she'd been there that night too! So we had a bit of a natter about that production, and how much we'd enjoyed it! and as she spotted an old friend, and got up to leave us, she remarked how glad she was to meet us. So, that was nice.

I've never seen the hall so full. My seat was dead centre of the row - an excellent seat, indeed. And when the musicians arrived, they played with great vim and vigour - it was an enthusiastic rendition, and a lovely concert. Good to meet up with the organiser again, too. And a nice, early finish.. and on the way home, I discovered that Byron was born in John Lewis..

Tomorrow, back at the QT Bar - for the RB and Soul Revue. Now, they put on a great show - but, given my experience last time, I'll know to buy my drink at the upstairs bar and take it down with me - better choice! And at least this time, I'll know where I'm going.. Pity I didn't think to check CT first, who have cheap tickets!!

On Wednesday, I booked at Conway Hall, for a concert called Sing Like a Vagabond - Shouts and Cries of Victorian London. Tickets are free, but you do have to book.

Of course, when something is free and I'm going on my own, you know my plans can change.. Well now, I did think it funny that the one free, solo, and therefore changeable, event that I was going to this week.. coincided with Bono's stopover in London (at the Palladium) on his book tour; he's promoting his autobiography, Surrender. Which, of course, I have already - plus the audiobook. Couldn't resist, given that Bono himself narrates it. Anyway, tickets for his live appearances went on sale a month ago. Could I get one?! Not a hope - Dublin sold out in five seconds, London in seven, I hear. (They are smaller venues than usual for U2 concerts - not that U2 is actually playing on this tour, he has a few stand-in musicians.)

But lately, there have been ticket drops.. so I checked when I woke yesterday. And would you credit it, London was advertising about eight tickets.. literally shaking, I booked the closest I could get to the stage - Stalls, Row M. Had the wrong password for my Ticketmaster account, of course.. but managed it, in the end. (At this stage, only the London one is convenient.) And then - I wept tears of joy and relief. Goes to show - never give up. (Now sold out again.) Oh, and the ticket comes with a free copy of the book.. Lordy, at this stage I'll be gifting everyone a copy for Christmas!

On Thursday, I'm back with Up in the Cheap Seats at the Coliseum, for a performance of Yeomen of the Guard, by Gilbert & Sullivan. And knowing the steepness of the steps in the Balcony - and the irregularity - and what with my stairs phobia - I've done my best to get a seat at the side, so I can use the handrail to get down. Oh, and an aisle seat, what with the restricted legroom..

Then I'm back to Ireland again. On Saturday, UL is hosting a PhD reunion, with a tour of the campus and, crucially, free lunch. And I'll be using the occasion to catch up with an old friend and, hopefully, find out what finally prompted him to quit lecturing at last, more than 10 years after I did, considering he was bullied even worse than I was! With a late flight the next day, I might get to a film as well..

Mario Brunello Plays Bach

Tonight, I was headed to see The Throne, a comedy at Charing Cross Theatre, in which the Queen gets locked in a portaloo with a staunch republican. Time Out had an offer of £10 tickets for the cheapest seats for this - a saving of more than 50%! Sadly, I then got word that remaining performances of this production have been cancelled, due to covid. Still with nothing on Meetup that appealed, instead I went with TAC for a classical concert - Mario Brunello is playing Bach on the violoncello piccolo, at Wigmore Hall. He's playing this evening as well - and London Baroque Music Lovers (LBML) are now going - but cheap tickets were available for the matinee.

Got myself in in good time - for once, giving somoene correct directions on the best way to get to Oxford Street! Poor woman, she had two small kids with her, didn't know London at all - and all she wanted was some bus from that stop that would help. Happily, the #73 goes from there to Oxford Circus - which would have to do. And there was one just approaching. My good deed of the day, I guess! When I got to where I was going myself, I hardly recognised it - the entrance is covered with scaffolding. They're revamping the entrance, it seems - I walked past it while consulting my phone! Inside, I queued for the box office - I've made the mistake before of going to the "prepaid ticket" desk, but that turned out to be for press. When it was my turn, he asked for my confirmation - first time in years that's happened! They usually keep a list - not here, I guess. Anyway, I confirmed that I just needed one ticket, and he tore one off for me.

Not a bad seat, huh?! Row H, dead centre - they hadn't opened the balcony for this performance. And wow, what a powerful performance - I rarely see a solo instrument in concert, and when I have, it's been piano - this was the first time I'd seen a stringed instrument in glorious isolation, live on stage. Bach wrote some stirring solo pieces, and we heard three of them today - two before the interval, one after. And throughout, it was absolutely engrossing - well worth a visit. The only problem was the continual banging that plagued most of the first half - from the building works, doubtless. Still, it didn't drown out the music, which was fabulous. Particularly for £3.60 for a seat I would probably have had to pay £35 for at full price - a nearly 90% discount..!

Afterwards, I was hungry, so headed down to St. Christopher's Place - an absolute hive of eateries. A preponderance of Italians - and the large outdoor space of Isola caught my attention, so I ate there. They have two adjacent premises - only one entry and exit though, so you have to go through the interior to get to the other side! And it being such a nice, sunny day, with a cooling breeze, I ate outside, under their extensive awning. Mind you, some were complaining about the sun catching them through gaps between the sections of awning - as he rightly pointed out, even if they moved table, the sun would catch them sometimes..

They do half bottles of wine, so I had one - not cheap, but what the hey. It took a while to arrive, so I asked another waiter, who said she'd get it for me - meanwhile, the wine waiter arrived with my bottle: and was in the process of opening it when she appeared with another, and gave him a dirty look. :-) Good atmosphere among the staff.

I had calamari to start - again, not cheap: but a massive plate! I managed them, and they had an interestingly tangy taste - very moreish. For main, I had spatchcock chicken. They're not terribly clear what it comes with - it actually comes in a kind of pan, on top of a whole bed of baby new potatoes! Very nice.. but far too many spuds, even for me. I had an entertaining waiter, mind, who asked whether I was defeated - and when I said I was, he waved his white napkin in the air as a flag of surrender, exclaiming "She is defeated!" He might have been Middle Eastern - he spent a while chatting to a couple that he established were Kuwaiti.

I finished with a chocolate bombe - well, it has to be done! He served it just as they did in the Ivy, pouring salted caramel sauce from a height onto a dark chocolate shell, encasing vanilla ice cream - unlike the Ivy, it didn't melt it, and we stayed staring at it for a moment. "It's supposed to melt!" he exclaimed. Yes well, it might have if the sauce had been hot.. Anyway, it was a good meal, but not worth the price. And for chocolate bombes, if you're having one here, remind them to heat the sauce.. Anyway, I was glad to get home at last and digest! It was all quite heavy in the end.

Tomorrow - tan-ta-ra! I finally managed to get a decently priced ticket to Jerusalem, at the Apollo. I have heard so much about this, and it's always at the top of the Time Out listings - nearly as hard as Hamilton to get a reasonably priced ticket for, so I'm delighted to get one, if only not to have to look any more.

On Wednesday, I was to head back to Summer by the River again.. for Bumper Blyton: Improvised Adventures for Grown-Ups! Improvised comedy in the style of Enid Blyton books. But now, I'm headed with LBML to a Grimeborn opera at the Arcola - I' Incoronazione di Poppea. I'm in the stalls - could have got a cheaper ticket in the balcony, but you can't take a drink up there! Just as glad not to be headed outdoors really - the very hot spell has passed for the moment, and the weather is cooler and in-between.

On Thursday - another Up in the Cheap Seats event that Meetup finally decided to flag to me. So I've booked to go with them to see Briefs Factory's show, Bite Club! at Queen Elizabeth Hall. Drag, burlesque.. should be fun!

On Friday, I was thinking about the National Theatre's River Stage 2022. This will be the first night of the Hackney Empire's Young Producers Weekend, and there'll be some dance and some music. But now, Civilised London has organised an Ecuadorian meal at El Inca Plebeyo - so I'm going to that instead. His choices are always good. Meeting beforehand at The Canonbury Tavern.

On Saturday, back in Greenwich with Bucket List London - we're starting with the Old Royal Naval College and National Maritime Museum. Was originally supposed to be the Queen's House to finish, but turns out they're booked out all day for a wedding, despite not having clarified that on the website! Then in the afternoon, we're headed to Eltham Palace and Gardens. Quite the packed day.. Unless the rail strike scuppers it! He's considering cancelling. Well, I don't think the tickets are refundable, so if I have to head out there by myself, I will..

On Sunday, back with TAC for the opening night of I'm Not Myself Today: A Villainous Cabaret at the Bread and Roses in Clapham. An hour in which someone discusses with us why we all love the villain!

Next Monday, I'm going to the Kiln Theatre for The Darkest Part of the Night. Another troublesome website - I tried for days to get it to work..!

And on the 2nd, thinking vaguely about the Camden Fringe, which runs all next month - there's, for example, an interesting audio event called A Little Drape of Heaven, where you hold a precious item of clothing to your heart, then press play to access a YouTube link that you've paid for. Hmm.. Meantime, I had booked a walk with Laurence and the 45+ Not Grumpy Old Londoners for last Tuesday. This is The Magic of Midtown - and as I said to him, it finishes very near my new home! And wouldn't you know it - he postponed it, as a result of the heatwave, to this day. Not that I'm not glad he didn't run it last Tuesday - but I hope I can still make it..

Concert: András Schiff and Quatuor Mosaiques

Tonight, back with London Classical Music and Theatre Group (LCMTG) for a concert at Wigmore Hall. Happily, there were a few people coming that I know and it'd be great to see them, as always.

Well, I could have taken the bus - but wouldn't you know it, got tied up in other stuff, and it came down to a choice between bus and eating. Eating took precedence, so Tube it was - while I still can, what with yet another strike looming! So, that deposited me quite near the venue, quite quickly. And I was glad I'd taken the quicker option, because I met one of the group downstairs, where we'd agreed - the organiser had gotten stuck in work (ah, I remember that!), and came along later. Sadly, we never did meet with the others who'd said they were coming.

It wasn't long till concert time, and my seat turned out to be right at the front, at the side of the stage. I had the better side too, behind the pianist (András Schiff), so I could see what was going on! May I recommend Row AA, by the way, rather than Rows BB or CC. They're all to the side of the stage, but of the three, AA is the only one that faces the stage - in the others, you have to turn to see.

Now, this concert was beset by misfortune! We had email after email from the organisers - the singer dropped out (we discovered tonight that she'd lost her voice), so her numbers had to be dropped, the instrument that the pianist was playing was changed, and the violinist caught Covid and couldn't leave Austria! which meant the programme had to be changed (again), because they were one musician down and couldn't play anything meant for a quartet. Oy ve. The violinist's absence was only communicated today, and I guess it was too late to upload the new programme, because András announced each piece from stage instead. Now, this is part of a Haydn festival, so we could at least guarantee it was all Haydn. Oh, and they scrapped the interval.

After all that fuss, I have to say, it was the loveliest concert I've been to in a while. Those who are going to multiple concerts in the series were warned in today's email that there would be repetition, but that wasn't an issue for those of us only attending tonight. The guy sitting in Row BB - who was right beside me - remarked to his companion in awe, as we waited for the concert to start, that this pianist is regarded as one of the finest in the world! Well, I'm no expert, but he seemed quite accomplished to me. Also quite a droll MC, as he introduced the pieces and remarked on their bad luck! Which was compounded during the encore, when one of the remaining musicians broke a string..

Afterwards, it was just me and the organiser for drinks - we walked the other attendee we'd met back to the station, and headed, in the rain, for what was the nearest pub - the Berkshire Lounge Bar, part of the Radisson. Where I had a lovely Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, and he had a Chilean red, in comfortable surrounds, watching people scurry by in the rain outside. Ah, I miss staying in hotels.. Anyway, another lovely event with this group. And I got the bus home - I should have had more faith in the elusive #8 though; just because TFL has no idea where it is doesn't mean it isn't coming! as I found out when it rounded the corner just as I was wondering whether I was in the right place. Just as well, considering it passes so close to my house!

Tomorrow, Interesting Talks London is discussing - via Zoom - IEMT and Psoriasis - How Moving Your Eyes Helps a Skin Condition! Hmm.. well, saves me travelling on a strike day.

On Wednesday, wouldn't you know it, Helen is unexpectedly in town for a conference. But that evening, I'm back with Civilised London (CL) for a Turkish meal, at Liman - meeting beforehand at The Crown, as usual. And this group doesn't take +1s! Nuts. So I've agreed to head over to Earl's Court to meet her briefly before tearing across town for my other event. Whoever said my life wasn't complicated.. will have to keep a close eye on the Tube situation though.

On Thursday, I was supposed to be back with Guided Walking Tours in Brighton and Sussex, for what promises to be a very interesting talk: Dark Days Virtual Show - The Dark Days of Edgar Allen Poe. Love Edgar Allen Poe, myself. But it was then rescheduled, and I can't make the new date. Have requested a refund. So, looking for something else to do, I came across Over 40 Living the Life. Who are off to the Vauxhall Comedy Club. Two interesting things about this. Firstly, the group is charging twice what the venue is advertising - so fine, I won't go with the group. Secondly, the venue is adding a 50p booking fee to what they're advertising. So, you know, seems a bit rich to advertise an "early bird" charge, then add a booking fee. But whatever. I'm going. On my own. (Oh, it does include a free drink.) Tickets from Design My Night.

On Friday, Laurence Summers and the 45+ Not Grumpy Old Londoners have another walk - A Vibrant Village! Walking Tour of Marylebone. And as it's pretty unlikely that I'll have started my new job by then, I've said I'll go (provisionally). Lunch after as well, of course! and this time, I don't have a flight to catch.

On Saturday, back with them all again for the Heavenly Heights of Hampstead Walking Tour. Heavens, I shall be fit after the Hampstead hills..

On Sunday, it's back with the Crick Crack Club (CCC) for Atalanta, as recounted by Ben Haggarty, at the British Museum. Assuming their pipes are fixed. Well, he is the man for Greek mythology..

Next Monday, I'm back with Up in the Cheap Seats (UITCS) for a new version of Wuthering Heights, at the National. Well, this was my favourite book for a long time - let's see what they've done to it!

On the eighth, I'm at Anarchy at the Opera, at Hoxton Hall. Courtesy of TAC. Where we're going to hear some lesser known works..

On the ninth and 10th, back with LCMTG, The ninth, it's a concert at the Southbank Centre, where Sheku Kanneh-Mason plays Shostakovich. Apart from numerous other accolades, he achieved worldwide renown after playing at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

On the 10th, we're back to the Barbican for a concert of Haydn music by the Academy of Ancient Music. Then I'm back to Ireland for the weekend again.

On the 14th, more classical music at the Barbican - this time it's with London Baroque Music Lovers, and this is Handel with Les Arts Florissants.

On the 15th, headed with UITCS to The Woods, at Southwark Playhouse. Aw man, it's over a year since I last saw a performance from there, and over two years since I was last there in person! And would you believe it, I bought a PAYG subscription from them years ago, and it still entitles me to free tickets. So I used it for this! With the group having snapped up most of the front row, I'm in the row behind..

On the 16th, I'm back with LCMTG - for a play this time! We're seeing Straight Line Crazy, with Ralph Fiennes, at the Bridge. Just as well we booked early - availability is low for that night.

The 17th is, of course, St. Patrick's Day. In Ireland, it's a bank holiday - here, Kíla is playing the London Irish Centre again. A standing gig, this time. Should be mad.

On the 18th, I'm back with London European Club, for 24 Italian Songs & Arias, at Battersea Arts Centre. They're operating a "Pay What You Can" scheme, where you pay what you want, between £5 and £35 - recommended price, £16. They even sent me a survey afterwards to see what I thought!

On the 19th, back with Laurence and the 45+s - this time, it's Highgate: A Very English Village.

On the 20th.. someone I swore I'd never do a walk with again. Well, we'll see whether she's back on form - Walks, Talks & Treasure Hunts (WTTH) is off on a walk called Secrets of Belgravia. (Courtesy of her company, London Guided Walks.) The code MEETUP3 gets you a £3 discount on all her walks - which does cover the booking fee of £1, not advertised before you come to the point of purchasing the ticket. Well, it'll be a start if she shows up!

On the 21st, I'm at another Zoom talk - Quakers at War is the story of the Quakers and their pacifism. Courtesy of Surrey History Meetup.

On the 22nd.. I'm booked for Dear Evan Hansen, at the Noel Coward Theatre! Finally - I'd booked for this before lockdown, and of course it got cancelled. Cheapest tickets from the official site.

On the 23rd, back with CL - back at Le Sacré Coeur, meeting beforehand at The Crown, as usual.

On the 24th, back with TAC for Avocado Presents - Improv, at Etcetera Theatre. Eh, I think it's a jazz concert? Anyway, then back to Ireland for the weekend again.

On the 28th of next month, going to see Daddy at the Almeida. Having never seen a bad production here, I have high hopes.

On the 29th of next month, finally going to see Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cinderella! I hear good things.. it's playing at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, which is new to me - Seatplan was invaluable in choosing the best seating option. What's On Stage provided the cheapest price for that seat, though!

On the 30th of next month, back with CL - for a play this time. This is The Fever Syndrome, at Hampstead Theatre.

On the 31st of next month, back with TAC for One Night With Robbie Williams. This is at The Courtyard.

On the 1st of April, back with the CCC for - The Grand Annual Lying Contest! at Rich Mix.

On the 2nd of April, back with WTTH for a Regent's Canal Walk. Different guide.

On the 3rd of April, the CCC again! Emily Hennessey and Sheema Mukherjee are at the British Museum, with Holy Cow! Tales from the River of Life.

On the 4th of April, I'm back at the Park Theatre for the first time in nearly three years! This is for Clybourne Park, a comedy about a white family moving into a predominantly black neighbourhood.

On the 5th of April, I'm headed to But I'm a Cheerleader, a musical comedy at the Turbine Theatre.

On the 6th of April, back with UITCS at Southwark Playhouse, and another free ticket for me! This time, it's for Anyone Can Whistle, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.

On the 7th of April, Tommy Tiernan is playing at the Eventim Apollo! Now, I failed to get a ticket for this the first time around. Then it was rescheduled because of Covid.. and I got a ticket for the rescheduled event! Then that was rescheduled.. third time lucky?! Love Tommy Tiernan. The show is called Tomfoolery. And then it's back to Ireland for the weekend again.

And on the 11th of April, I've booked for The 47th, at The Old Vic. Written by Mike Bartlett, this imagines the American presidential elections of 2024. I am really looking forward to this play..

Concert: Gabrieli Consort & Players

So, the first adventure of the day was coming back from lunch, when the side of my foot kind of caught in one of the many cracks in London pavements - and down I went, like a cannonball. Ouch! Those pavements are hard - I banged both knees (not great at the best of times) and did something funny to my right foot, in particular the big toe. And so I was stiff, sore and sorry all afternoon.

Tonight, I was back with London Classical Music and Theatre Group, for a Gabrieli Consort & Players concert at Wigmore Hall. Programmes available to ticket-holders to download. And wouldn't you know it, the organiser gave his seat number - so, when I saw the seat beside him was free, I booked it! I was glad I wasn't walking, given the state of me. A combination of buses would have got me there, in just under an hour - but as usual, work dragged on, and I ended up on the Tube. It was a quick journey, at least, if not so comfortable with all the stairs.. but I did discover, desperately trying to hurry up the stairs at the far end, that exercise seemed to help. Oxford Circus station has a simple enough exit system - East or West for Oxford Street, North or South for Regent Street, making four exits in all. Which didn't stop me nearly making an ass of myself by heading back onto the Tube again instead - what can I say, the first thing I saw when I passed through the barriers and came down the tunnel was - another set of barriers! So, not quite obvious.

I made the venue with five minutes to spare, and figured there was no point in dragging myself downstairs to the cloakroom where we'd agreed to meet - I was messaging to explain when the organiser appeared anyway! Handily, we'd got paper programmes, despite them urging us to read them on our phones. Anyway, he just had time to regale me with stories of sundry people involved with the music who all hailed from the same part of Ireland as we both did (!) before the concert started.

I hadn't realised it was Epiphany-specific.. gee, that's two days in a row, what with the Epiphany procession I saw yesterday! As a reminder:

Anyway, the music was glorious. I love Bach, and this being sung, it was lovely to have the printed lyrics, with translations alongside so I could see how much German I remembered. Definitely a language I'd like to pick up again, if I had the time. The second half, mind, was his Mass in F, and was in Latin. Truly an antidote to the daily grind, and in beautiful surroundings I hadn't seen in nearly three years!

At the interval, we went downstairs - and seeing the length of the queue at the bar, simply had water. The cloakroom turns out to be on the other side of the basement, and has seating that isn't used any more - most handy! And there we were, chatting away, when our third member showed up! Excellent - and we had a lovely time, then and again at the end. Another enjoyable and sociable evening. Oh, and I took buses back - handily, my first bus arrived - as usual, lately - exactly when I did. And it took me no longer than the Tube would have done, at that time of night - and with far less climbing. (and a better view!) Nearly stumbled again on the way- perhaps it's the shoes..

So, tomorrow is, of course, film - and what's coming up is Drive My Car, a Japanese film whose closest showing to me is in the Curzon Bloomsbury. Not yet booking out, so I haven't yet booked.

Wednesday, back with Invigorate, for a tour of "3 Historic Belgravia Pubs". My first event with them this year! I just hope my legs are working again.

On Thursday, my ex-coworker is talking about meeting up - dunno exactly where yet, but I did recommend the Duke of Sussex. And then I'm back to Ireland for the weekend.. and hallelujah, they've dropped the testing requirement again!

Concert: American Exploration - Visits to the New World

I planned to be back to film yesterday - not Oscar-nominated, for once! With a choice between Burning and If Beale Street Could Talk, I went for the former - fancying the ominous soundtrack on the trailer. It was in the Vue Islington, which I can walk to! and nice and early - and I didn't have an evening meeting that day.. I booked, which is always cheaper with Vue. And then - da boss decided he'd like to have a try of the red wine he'd ordered. And I decided I'd kind of rather hang on and do that. So - Burning fell by the wayside, I'm afraid. Still nice and highly rated, mind, if I come across it again.

That's it for film for a while. Tonight was my very first Meetup with the London Chamber Music group, finally. Well, they usually clash with something else! Delighted to make it at last. We were off to a concert in Wigmore Hall, and the organiser personally messaged me to let me know what he'd be wearing, and where he'd be, and expressed his hope that we'd meet.

And after last night's shenanigans, da boss was working from home, so no distractions from that quarter! No, I printed off the concert page from the website so I'd know what was being played, set off in good time, took the bus to the end of the line, and arrived early. It occurred to me that it's ages since I've been here! May, as it happens. Well, I hovered around the usher who was selling programmes - in what I hoped was a non-intimidating manner - till I finally saw an elderly gent in a red scarf, as he'd said he'd be. Jeepers, he wasn't kidding when he described himself as "stooped"! I didn't blame him for taking a seat in the lobby when one came available. Well, I moseyed over and struck up a conversation - unfortunately, it was like pulling teeth. He's a bit deaf, I think, and his conversation was strongly classically based. And while I do love classical music, I'd never describe myself as an expert. It was a mercy when the bell rang.

I was more central than usual - and handily, the seat to one side of me stayed free, which gave me somewhere to lean:

The Escher String Quartet consists of three gents - all in rather dull suits - and a young lady in a vivid, turquoise dress, who stood out nicely. The programme consisted of three pieces inspired by their respective composers' visits to the States - Britten and Shostakovich before the interval, Dvorák after.

I'm not a huge fan of Britten - but it seems that every classical event has to include one piece that nobody really likes! Discordant, I'd describe it as. The Shostakovich fared much better - and me constantly nearly nodding off during both these pieces was certainly not a reflection on what I was listening to! A late night and early start, combined with enough alcohol to bathe in, would be more to blame. Anyway, I was in good company - the organiser, who was sat a couple of seats over from me, dropped off completely at one point and started to snore..

The Dvorák was definitely the highlight of the evening - a beautiful piece that made it worth coming out. And they finished with a lovely Mozart encore. At the end, with my organiser engaged in conversation with the lady to the other side, I made good my escape - hearing him, as I left, say to her how, for him, it had improved steadily throughout. Well yes, I think that was the same for us all. Don't think I'll be rushing back to this group, though.

Waiting for the bus back, my bus app informed me that it'd be 18 minutes! Despite the timetable predicting 8-11. Nuts, sez I, and eventually decided to walk to the next stop - at least I'd keep warmer. Now, the bus takes quite a detour between these two stops, so I had a chance of getting away faster that way - sure enough, when I got there, I only had a couple of minutes to wait.

The next three events are with Up in the Cheap Seats! Great chance to catch up with people. Binge sessions permitting. Tomorrow, I'm going with them to The American Clock by Arthur Miller, at the Old Vic. I see London Dramatic Arts is also going, and sitting in the stalls - I guess we won't be mixing much.

On Thursday, to Aspects of Love, at Southwark Playhouse. Based on an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical. And on the event organiser's recommendation, I bought a subscription to the theatre, which entitles me to five tickets, and has no time limit - used the first for this, which made it very good value! Then I'm back to Ireland for the weekend.

On Monday, I'm with the group again, for another Arthur Miller play - this time, it's The Price, at Wyndham's. Oh, and for two of these, I could have used my Seatplan vouchers, which arrived last week. If I'd had them with me. Never mind - I hadn't been expecting to book so much so soon, but they don't expire anyway.

And next Tuesday, Let's Do This is off to Tango Fire at the Peacock. They booked a box, so had a very limited number of seats, and I wasn't in time for theirs - but I got my own ticket, and have agreed to meet them for a drink afterwards.

Concert: Leading Lights Before the English Civil War

Today, I really didn't see anything on Meetup (again!), so I was back with my £3.60 club - for safety, I picked the classical concert they were selling cheap tickets for, in Wigmore Hall. Can't really go too far wrong with that.

Hell, I started off the day tired though. Now that I've switched - for reasons of proximity and price - to flying to and from Stansted (therefore Ryanair), I'm a victim of Ryanair's perpetually delayed flight from Shannon to Stansted on a Sunday evening. Last night - due, apparently, to severe air traffic controls in Italy - was the worst delay yet. The 9.40pm flight left at 12.05am, landed at 1.15am, too late for the Stansted Express, so instead I was on the National Express bus. Have to try and motivate myself to claim that on travel insurance. Well, I hoped I was on the bus.. the queues were biblical, and while I was already in the queue for the 1.45am bus, it filled before I got to it. I was damn lucky to get one of the last seats on the 2.05am (the next wasn't for over an hour after), which got into town at 3. A couple of buses later, and I got into my room at about 3.40am. Needless to say, I didn't get a full night's kip.

Well, I dragged myself out this evening, arriving just in nice time for my bus. Nearly fell asleep en route, getting off at the last stop. Wigmore Hall isn't far from there - I collected my ticket at the box office, returned to get a programme (they like you to, and I wanted to know the repertoire anyway), and took my seat. Which turned out to be one of the top price ones, normal price £38, if you please! Ooh, and I'd forgotten the lovely, plush red velvet seats here. Well, I haven't been that often:

The programme consisted entirely of alternating works by William Lawes and John Jenkins, composers for the viol in the court of King Charles I. Phantasm is an award-winning group of viol players, and gave a virtuouso performance - and the music, while recognisably 17th century, had a quirkiness that made it stand out. The programme attributed this to the freedom of writing for Charles I, who, it cannot be denied, despite his faults, was a patron of the arts of great taste and discernment. Absolutely gorgeous - and a good excuse to rest my eyes, especially since I was attending alone, and didn't have to be sociable. Only two quibbles: one, they took FOREVER to tune their instruments between tunes: and two, it got a bit samey towards the end. But a lovely, restful evening all the same. And home early, yay! Especially given how cold it is out there, brr.. at this rate, I'm going to have to start dressing even more warmly!

Tomorrow will be interesting - I'm going to Return to the Forbidden Planet, at the Gatehouse. Sold out now, I believe. What's most interesting is that I'm signed up with both North London Friends and Up in the Cheap Seats, who are both there that night! Maybe I can introduce them to each other..

On Wednesday, back with Let's Do This for another Turkish meal at TAS. The last was excellent, so they're doing it again! which I think is a very good idea. And the second host is attending, for the first time in ages..

On Thursday, London Literary Walks is taking us for A Night in Knightsbridge - sure to be as good as ever.

And on Friday, North London Friends is going to Quiz, at the Noel Coward Theatre. This is based on the true story of an audience member who coughed at the right answers from the multiple-choice selections, in Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, thus enabling his co-conspirator to take away the top prize. Well, the group have onstage seats, which they sold themselves - they didn't show any availability when I looked, though, so I booked my own in the rear stalls, with the benefit of a Theatre Token I'd earned with Seatplan reviews. I then let them know I was coming.. no response yet. Hope they're still talking to me after tomorrow..!