Good timing for the Man with the Hat, scheduling an event for the evening of the frantic day in which I had two phone interviews! I needed some moral support, y'know? Anyway, it was Top Secret again, with Brendon Burns highlighting. Of course I booked. And although we were subsequently told he wouldn't be appearing - well hey, I wanted to meet the folks anyway!
So, off I set yesterday evening. Now, I've often thought of just getting the bus there, but it's never happened that I had time. Well, yesterday I did have time! And wouldn't you know, the 87 arrived at the stop just as I did. Fate, thought I. Fate took a funny turn down the road a bit though - traffic was heavy-ish, and just past Wandsworth Road Station, the driver got on the tannoy and told us he'd just found out there was a bad accident ahead, and he'd let us off right there if we wanted.
I'm destined never to get a bus all the way to Top Secret, eh? So, I got off, figured any kind of bus or car was out of the question - the closest station was Wandsworth Road, which I made my way back to, but that's Overground only. Which didn't take me anywhere useful except back to Clapham Junction, which is where I went. Was lucky enough to stumble on a Waterloo-bound train just as it pulled in. Getting somewhere now. The last leg was to get a bus from Waterloo - but it's only a few stops away, and several buses head that way: unfortunately, from various stops! Thus it was that I ended up scuttling in one direction after another in Waterloo, consulting Google Maps on my phone, adjusting my departure time, and desperately trying to figure out whether I could get to the bus stop in time for whatever it said was coming.
The solution was Stop F, which has three buses that stop at it, all of which head that way, and had buses due in three, and six, minutes. So I took the first one that happened along, got off at Aldwych, and walked ahead, then took the next left onto Drury Lane. Which turns out to be very long, especially when you're in a hurry! Was I ever glad to come across the club. The person checking names was at the top of the stairs this time, checked my name, and stamped my hand with something incomprehensible. Now, I was just in time for the show, pretty much, and it was quite crowded - I couldn't see anyone I knew, so when I found a seat over the side, I just took that. A scrum at the bar made me reluctant to queue for a drink, which meant that, for the first time, I was watching completely sober..
Great show, great audience! After the mc's traditional routine - which regulars will recognise - we opened with the very funny Francis Foster, who played on his Latino heritage, with a mother from Caracas.. to be followed by a clever set from Abigoliah, before the first break. Where the Man with the Hat wandered by (hello!), but there wasn't much point in my moving at that point.
Next pair up were the Malaysian Nigel Ng, who, of course, played up the Malaysian angle, and went down a treat - and Elliot Steel, son of Mark, who did a decent set, buoyed up by the remains of his pint of beer. To be followed by the second break, where the Man with the Hat wandered by again, saw me reading the property pages, and said enough was enough, rescuing me and depositing me among his flock, near the back. (Hello, all!)
A couple I knew next - Josh Robertson, who has a loyal following there, I think, and Bobby Mair, who had fun with a drunk heckler at the back of the right-hand side section. The night ended with someone whose name I can't remember at all, I'm afraid - but like Bobby Mair, he's Canadian. And apart from the drunk guy to the side, the audience proved highly entertaining - well done to all! Poor Josh was stood at the exit, brandishing branded hats, but I don't think he was doing much business..
As usual, we congregated outside afterwards, in the chilly night. Some of our number got caught downstairs, and took an age to get out - and then most didn't feel able to stay, as it had got quite late. So we were a small group, and the Man with the Hat said, well in that case, why not just cross the road, to the Sun? So we did, and got a table in the corner. Under the telly that was showing football. And yes, the men in the group were inspired to discuss that topic. While the ladies sighed pointedly, and discussed - other stuff.
Just what I needed, thanks guys! Handily, on the way home, maximum fare had kicked in (what with my shenanigans earlier), and I got a cheap bus trip, and a free train journey back from Waterloo. Still too late to blog though, being in Guildford again today.
Tonight, I'm back with the Crick Crack Club, for The Grateful and the Dead, their first event in the Arthouse, Crouch End. And the story is being told by the famous Ben Haggerty, no less!
Then I'm back to Ireland for a long weekend, it being my mother's birthday on Monday - I'm taking a couple of days off. (Still haven't got her a card yet!) Anyway, on Saturday we're off to a Mario Lanza tribute at the University Concert Hall, Limerick. Tickets wouldn't display, for some reason - I rang them and got them to print and hold them for us.
I fly back early on Tuesday, because I'm booked with London Dramatic Arts that night, to go to Amadeus, at the National.
Wednesday is something I've been looking forward to for a while - I'm off with London for a Tenner or Less (Funzing, not Man with Hat!) to Step on Board the Haunted Tube Express! Hallowe'en starts here, eh?!
And Thursday of next week is the next of the Man with the Hat's long season at the Opera House, where we're headed to see the comic opera, The Nose. I'm going cheap, as usual, of course, and sitting in the slips, with London for Less Than a Tenner. And wouldn't you know it, that's the day of my second interview..
Thursday, 20 October 2016
Wednesday, 19 October 2016
Talk: Insights of a War Crime Investigator
Ah, the great night of talks finally arrived. London Speaks Sessions (i.e. Funzing) arranged no fewer than 10 talks last night, in different parts of London. In fact, the only reason I didn't book earlier was that I simply couldn't decide which to go to.
I finally plumped for Insights of a War Crime Investigator. On in Haggerston - turns out that's the Overground stop before Dalston Junction, but although I've been to Dalston Junction before, I never got off in Haggerston. Google Maps sent me by a route that didn't sound like the Funzing directions - handily, Funzing had included a directions link from the venue, which made more sense.
Arrived home and headed straight out again, just in time to catch the Overground that goes straight there. Very crowded, but I eventually got a seat, and most got off at Canada Water. Haggerston was the second-last stop on my train:
Head right from the station- a handy sign directs you to Kingsland Road. Left at Tesco, cross the road, take the path just before the bridge, leading to the towpath. Pity it was dark already - I bet it looks lovely. Barges were moored all along - no railing to prevent you falling in though, and what with the lack of lighting, you wouldn't want to be too drunk! The main danger, however, may have been the cyclists - heavens, what with canals and cyclists, it could've been Amsterdam.
"Cross a little bridge" it said on the directions - yep (avoiding the cyclists), and on the other side, a gaily busy building was full of people. The actual venue was just past that, though- helpfully indicated by a sign. I arrived just before 7 - turned out I hadn't read the blurb properly (well, I've been preoccupied), and the talk didn't start till 7.30. So I busied myself staring at the rather interesting art on the walls, until the organiser arrived. Heavens, she turned out to be the organiser of London Social Detours! I only ever signed up to one of her events, then ended up not going because I drove part of the way, then turned back when I discovered I'd forgotten my Oyster card.
A couple more arrived - she explained how drinks were available at the bar, but for toilets you'd have to visit the restaurant next door. And we were duly let in. Pity, actually, that I was there so early - those seats were not the most comfortable. Hey-ho, our speaker was already there, and just after start time, he took his place at the front and began his talk.
Quickly, he established that the theme of his talk was "communication". Said we don't have enough face-to-face talks anymore (I have to agree), and implied that lack of communication was the root of many international conflicts. He's had an interesting career - from a small Shropshire town, he joined the army and got himself sent to Northern Ireland, for his pains: a baptism of fire, and a good opportunity to experience lack of communication first-hand. Showed us a photo of a bombed-out bus, on which a colleague of his was killed.
This was followed by a stint as a police detective - a perfect combination for what he did next, answering an ad in the paper to become a UN war crime investigator! The rest of the talk was a fascinating tour through various trials and conflicts he's been involved with, and slightly interactive bits; we were asked to close our eyes and listen to the sound of air strikes; we were shown a video clip about an Israeli bombing of Gaza, asked a series of questions about it, and then had it proven to us how we could be misled by false reporting..
So, a fascinating subject, and what a career he's found for himself! Of course, he did point out to us how he was frequently terrified - it's not easy, being in conflict zones. Pity that, despite his emphasis on communication, his technology played up - as he apologised profusely, he kept saying that he wouldn't mind, but he was there hours early, testing it all! Never mind..
And so home, just about early enough to eat, and started the blog on the long Overground journey. Really needed some sleep though - would you believe it, I have no fewer than two phone interviews this afternoon! Ooh, wish me luck.. Tonight, it's back with the Man with the Hat, whee! - who's taking London for Less Than a Tenner to Top Secret again. Helen might come, but needs to get her car back from its MOT first. Anyway, a good day to have friends around me.
Tomorrow, I'm back with the Crick Crack Club, for The Grateful and the Dead, their first event in the Arthouse, Crouch End. And the story is being told by the famous Ben Haggerty, no less!
Then I'm back to Ireland for a long weekend, it being my mother's birthday on Monday - I'm taking a couple of days off. (Still haven't got her a card yet!) Anyway, on Saturday we're off to a Mario Lanza tribute at the University Concert Hall, Limerick. (Jeez, must print off the tickets beforehand!) It's hard to remember everything..
I fly back early on Tuesday, because I'm booked with London Dramatic Arts that night, to go to Amadeus, at the National.
Wednesday of next week is something I've been looking forward to for a while - I'm off with London for a Tenner or Less (Funzing, not Man with Hat!) to Step on Board the Haunted Tube Express! Hallowe'en starts here, eh?!
And Thursday of next week is the next of the Man with the Hat's long season at the Opera House, where we're headed to see the comic opera, The Nose. I'm going cheap, as usual, of course, and sitting in the slips, with London for Less Than a Tenner..
I finally plumped for Insights of a War Crime Investigator. On in Haggerston - turns out that's the Overground stop before Dalston Junction, but although I've been to Dalston Junction before, I never got off in Haggerston. Google Maps sent me by a route that didn't sound like the Funzing directions - handily, Funzing had included a directions link from the venue, which made more sense.
Arrived home and headed straight out again, just in time to catch the Overground that goes straight there. Very crowded, but I eventually got a seat, and most got off at Canada Water. Haggerston was the second-last stop on my train:
Head right from the station- a handy sign directs you to Kingsland Road. Left at Tesco, cross the road, take the path just before the bridge, leading to the towpath. Pity it was dark already - I bet it looks lovely. Barges were moored all along - no railing to prevent you falling in though, and what with the lack of lighting, you wouldn't want to be too drunk! The main danger, however, may have been the cyclists - heavens, what with canals and cyclists, it could've been Amsterdam.
"Cross a little bridge" it said on the directions - yep (avoiding the cyclists), and on the other side, a gaily busy building was full of people. The actual venue was just past that, though- helpfully indicated by a sign. I arrived just before 7 - turned out I hadn't read the blurb properly (well, I've been preoccupied), and the talk didn't start till 7.30. So I busied myself staring at the rather interesting art on the walls, until the organiser arrived. Heavens, she turned out to be the organiser of London Social Detours! I only ever signed up to one of her events, then ended up not going because I drove part of the way, then turned back when I discovered I'd forgotten my Oyster card.
A couple more arrived - she explained how drinks were available at the bar, but for toilets you'd have to visit the restaurant next door. And we were duly let in. Pity, actually, that I was there so early - those seats were not the most comfortable. Hey-ho, our speaker was already there, and just after start time, he took his place at the front and began his talk.
Quickly, he established that the theme of his talk was "communication". Said we don't have enough face-to-face talks anymore (I have to agree), and implied that lack of communication was the root of many international conflicts. He's had an interesting career - from a small Shropshire town, he joined the army and got himself sent to Northern Ireland, for his pains: a baptism of fire, and a good opportunity to experience lack of communication first-hand. Showed us a photo of a bombed-out bus, on which a colleague of his was killed.
This was followed by a stint as a police detective - a perfect combination for what he did next, answering an ad in the paper to become a UN war crime investigator! The rest of the talk was a fascinating tour through various trials and conflicts he's been involved with, and slightly interactive bits; we were asked to close our eyes and listen to the sound of air strikes; we were shown a video clip about an Israeli bombing of Gaza, asked a series of questions about it, and then had it proven to us how we could be misled by false reporting..
So, a fascinating subject, and what a career he's found for himself! Of course, he did point out to us how he was frequently terrified - it's not easy, being in conflict zones. Pity that, despite his emphasis on communication, his technology played up - as he apologised profusely, he kept saying that he wouldn't mind, but he was there hours early, testing it all! Never mind..
And so home, just about early enough to eat, and started the blog on the long Overground journey. Really needed some sleep though - would you believe it, I have no fewer than two phone interviews this afternoon! Ooh, wish me luck.. Tonight, it's back with the Man with the Hat, whee! - who's taking London for Less Than a Tenner to Top Secret again. Helen might come, but needs to get her car back from its MOT first. Anyway, a good day to have friends around me.
Tomorrow, I'm back with the Crick Crack Club, for The Grateful and the Dead, their first event in the Arthouse, Crouch End. And the story is being told by the famous Ben Haggerty, no less!
Then I'm back to Ireland for a long weekend, it being my mother's birthday on Monday - I'm taking a couple of days off. (Still haven't got her a card yet!) Anyway, on Saturday we're off to a Mario Lanza tribute at the University Concert Hall, Limerick. (Jeez, must print off the tickets beforehand!) It's hard to remember everything..
I fly back early on Tuesday, because I'm booked with London Dramatic Arts that night, to go to Amadeus, at the National.
Wednesday of next week is something I've been looking forward to for a while - I'm off with London for a Tenner or Less (Funzing, not Man with Hat!) to Step on Board the Haunted Tube Express! Hallowe'en starts here, eh?!
And Thursday of next week is the next of the Man with the Hat's long season at the Opera House, where we're headed to see the comic opera, The Nose. I'm going cheap, as usual, of course, and sitting in the slips, with London for Less Than a Tenner..
Monday, 17 October 2016
Free Comedy in Hammersmith
Tonight, I was supposed to be off to another of those over-advertised free comedy nights in Hammersmith - I booked with Free Comedy Nights in Hammersmith, Wimbledon and Farringdon: London Live Comedy: London Art, Comedy and Culture Lovers (who, for once, didn't charge extra for booking): and London for a Tenner or Less. Who will probably cancel the listing halfway through the event - hilarious when you see they've done that, and you're actually at the "cancelled" event.
Thing is, this is one of the events I'm most likely to cancel on, myself. It's free, and it's not unmissable - it's of variable quality, and frankly, one of the mcs makes a terrible comedian. Having said that, it's ok, and they're friendly - but if there's a good reason to stay away, I will. Now, today actually went quite well - much better than expected, and almost entirely due to the absence from the office of someone who shall be nameless. Who might also be away tomorrow, fingers crossed. Anyway, all of this has put me in a decent mood, and I don't need cheering up. Besides, I'm tired, I'm hungry, and it's intermittently lashing outside. Think I'll stay in and wash my hair!
And, of course, I am booked up for the rest of the week. Tomorrow proved difficult - not because there was so little on, but because there is so much! LDN Talks@Night is running no fewer than 10 talks, simultaneously, and I had to figure out which I'd prefer to go to. All run by London Speaks Sessions, i.e. Funzing. Anyway, the winner for me was the one on Insights of a War Crime Investigator. Which (a) sounds more interesting than tonight, and (b) I've paid for. So the odds are better that I'll go.
On Wednesday, it's back with the Man with the Hat, whee! - who's taking London for Less Than a Tenner to Top Secret again. Helen might come, but needs to get her car back from its MOT first..
On Thursday, I'm back with the Crick Crack Club, for The Grateful and the Dead, their first event in the Arthouse, Crouch End. And the story is being told by the famous Ben Haggerty, no less!
Then I'm back to Ireland for a long weekend, it being my mother's birthday on Monday - I'm taking a couple of days off. (Jeez, that reminds me, haven't got her a card yet!) Anyway, on Saturday we're off to a Mario Lanza tribute at the University Concert Hall, Limerick. (Jeez, must print off the tickets beforehand!) It's hard to remember everything..
I fly back early on Tuesday, because I'm booked with London Dramatic Arts that night, to go to Amadeus, at the National.
Wednesday of next week is something I've been looking forward to for a while - I'm off with London for a Tenner or Less (Funzing, not Man with Hat!) to Step on Board the Haunted Tube Express! Hallowe'en starts here, eh?!
And Thursday of next week is the next of the Man with the Hat's long season at the Opera House, where we're headed to see the comic opera, The Nose. I'm going cheap, as usual, of course, and sitting in the slips, with London for Less Than a Tenner..
Thing is, this is one of the events I'm most likely to cancel on, myself. It's free, and it's not unmissable - it's of variable quality, and frankly, one of the mcs makes a terrible comedian. Having said that, it's ok, and they're friendly - but if there's a good reason to stay away, I will. Now, today actually went quite well - much better than expected, and almost entirely due to the absence from the office of someone who shall be nameless. Who might also be away tomorrow, fingers crossed. Anyway, all of this has put me in a decent mood, and I don't need cheering up. Besides, I'm tired, I'm hungry, and it's intermittently lashing outside. Think I'll stay in and wash my hair!
And, of course, I am booked up for the rest of the week. Tomorrow proved difficult - not because there was so little on, but because there is so much! LDN Talks@Night is running no fewer than 10 talks, simultaneously, and I had to figure out which I'd prefer to go to. All run by London Speaks Sessions, i.e. Funzing. Anyway, the winner for me was the one on Insights of a War Crime Investigator. Which (a) sounds more interesting than tonight, and (b) I've paid for. So the odds are better that I'll go.
On Wednesday, it's back with the Man with the Hat, whee! - who's taking London for Less Than a Tenner to Top Secret again. Helen might come, but needs to get her car back from its MOT first..
On Thursday, I'm back with the Crick Crack Club, for The Grateful and the Dead, their first event in the Arthouse, Crouch End. And the story is being told by the famous Ben Haggerty, no less!
Then I'm back to Ireland for a long weekend, it being my mother's birthday on Monday - I'm taking a couple of days off. (Jeez, that reminds me, haven't got her a card yet!) Anyway, on Saturday we're off to a Mario Lanza tribute at the University Concert Hall, Limerick. (Jeez, must print off the tickets beforehand!) It's hard to remember everything..
I fly back early on Tuesday, because I'm booked with London Dramatic Arts that night, to go to Amadeus, at the National.
Wednesday of next week is something I've been looking forward to for a while - I'm off with London for a Tenner or Less (Funzing, not Man with Hat!) to Step on Board the Haunted Tube Express! Hallowe'en starts here, eh?!
And Thursday of next week is the next of the Man with the Hat's long season at the Opera House, where we're headed to see the comic opera, The Nose. I'm going cheap, as usual, of course, and sitting in the slips, with London for Less Than a Tenner..
Sunday, 16 October 2016
Film: Hell or High Water
Whoop-de-doo, got the film list done in time and got to a film today! Not only that, but what with several films associated with the BFI Film Festival - which ended today - being sold out, and the Ritzy being on strike (dearie me!), I made it all the way down the list to Hell or High Water.
Now, I've been dying to see this for ages - it's not easy though, with so much else on, and so many highly rated films. Plus, the last time I wanted to see it, it was only on at silly times. So I was thrilled to discover that it was showing in Cineworld Chelsea at 8:30 - and that I could get a variety of buses from the end of the road, which would get me there in about 15 minutes. I wouldn't think it was that easy to park up there, so bus it was..
It all went beautifully. It was late enough that I could eat comfortably beforehand, the #49 came just as I approached the stop, and sure enough, within 15 minutes, I hopped off just down the road from the cinema. It's a very small one - only four screens, as it turns out, and this was showing in No. 4, in the basement. With no-one to check my ticket, I just wandered down there - they were still cleaning it, so I waited around for a bit. When I did get in, I discovered that the screen was quite short - as one guy later remarked, the diagram online was misleading, implying that it stretched all the way across, while actually, sat at the side as I was, I was at something of an angle. Didn't prove a problem, in the end.
Hell or High Water is a modern-day Western, set in Texas, where two brothers set out to rob the bank that is threatening to foreclose on the family farm. One is played by Chris Pine - I thought he looked familiar, and indeed, he's Captain Kirk in the new Star Trek films. Wow, he looks so much more grown-up in this! What a difference a beard makes. Jeff Bridges plays the Texas Ranger on their trail.
The writer, Taylor Sheridan, also wrote Sicario. Ah, now that should prick up a few ears - and sure enough, it seems this guy can do no wrong. From the very, very first scene - just like Sicario - you can tell you're watching something special. In a way - like Sicario - it should be relentlessly depressing. We're left in no doubt about the economic straits the locals of these small, Texan towns are reduced to - the first scene includes graffiti about war veterans not being entitled to a bailout, and almost every single character (the Rangers excepted) holds the banks in contempt. The banker that's trying to foreclose on the farm? Absolutely sleazy, when we finally see him, near the end. Wouldn't trust him not to pick your pocket.
But oh, the cinematography is beautiful - wide landscapes, broad skies. And the soundtrack - including Nick Cave - is achingly good. I bought a copy straight away after coming home. Mark my words, this is a classic - I would hate not to have seen it. At the start of another miserable week at the office, this is the kind of film that reminds me of what's good in the world.
Tomorrow, failing better offers, I'm off to another of those over-advertised free comedy nights in Hammersmith - so I've booked with Free Comedy Nights in Hammersmith, Wimbledon and Farringdon: London Live Comedy: London Art, Comedy and Culture Lovers (who, for once, aren't charging extra for booking): and London for a Tenner or Less. Who will probably cancel the listing halfway through the event - hilarious when you see they've done that, and you're actually at the "cancelled" event. Anyway, hope they're good - I'll probably need some cheer, after my first day back in the office after the weekend..
Now, I've been dying to see this for ages - it's not easy though, with so much else on, and so many highly rated films. Plus, the last time I wanted to see it, it was only on at silly times. So I was thrilled to discover that it was showing in Cineworld Chelsea at 8:30 - and that I could get a variety of buses from the end of the road, which would get me there in about 15 minutes. I wouldn't think it was that easy to park up there, so bus it was..
It all went beautifully. It was late enough that I could eat comfortably beforehand, the #49 came just as I approached the stop, and sure enough, within 15 minutes, I hopped off just down the road from the cinema. It's a very small one - only four screens, as it turns out, and this was showing in No. 4, in the basement. With no-one to check my ticket, I just wandered down there - they were still cleaning it, so I waited around for a bit. When I did get in, I discovered that the screen was quite short - as one guy later remarked, the diagram online was misleading, implying that it stretched all the way across, while actually, sat at the side as I was, I was at something of an angle. Didn't prove a problem, in the end.
Hell or High Water is a modern-day Western, set in Texas, where two brothers set out to rob the bank that is threatening to foreclose on the family farm. One is played by Chris Pine - I thought he looked familiar, and indeed, he's Captain Kirk in the new Star Trek films. Wow, he looks so much more grown-up in this! What a difference a beard makes. Jeff Bridges plays the Texas Ranger on their trail.
The writer, Taylor Sheridan, also wrote Sicario. Ah, now that should prick up a few ears - and sure enough, it seems this guy can do no wrong. From the very, very first scene - just like Sicario - you can tell you're watching something special. In a way - like Sicario - it should be relentlessly depressing. We're left in no doubt about the economic straits the locals of these small, Texan towns are reduced to - the first scene includes graffiti about war veterans not being entitled to a bailout, and almost every single character (the Rangers excepted) holds the banks in contempt. The banker that's trying to foreclose on the farm? Absolutely sleazy, when we finally see him, near the end. Wouldn't trust him not to pick your pocket.
But oh, the cinematography is beautiful - wide landscapes, broad skies. And the soundtrack - including Nick Cave - is achingly good. I bought a copy straight away after coming home. Mark my words, this is a classic - I would hate not to have seen it. At the start of another miserable week at the office, this is the kind of film that reminds me of what's good in the world.
Tomorrow, failing better offers, I'm off to another of those over-advertised free comedy nights in Hammersmith - so I've booked with Free Comedy Nights in Hammersmith, Wimbledon and Farringdon: London Live Comedy: London Art, Comedy and Culture Lovers (who, for once, aren't charging extra for booking): and London for a Tenner or Less. Who will probably cancel the listing halfway through the event - hilarious when you see they've done that, and you're actually at the "cancelled" event. Anyway, hope they're good - I'll probably need some cheer, after my first day back in the office after the weekend..
Musical: A Man of Good Hope
At pretty much the last minute, London Dramatic Arts announced tickets for last night, for a performance of A Man of Good Hope, at the Young Vic - again. And given that all I'd booked was a free ghost walk - well, that was a surmountable obstacle. So I booked this instead.
They promised rain, so I dressed for it - didn't hurry out though, given the organiser's habit of arriving late: and I didn't want the same thing to happen as last time, where I was the first to arrive, and couldn't find a table - and even if I had, wouldn't have been able to order food for fear of losing the table, and would have had nowhere to eat it without a table. So I needed someone else there to help me get - and mind - a table, see.
Anyway, I was doing my film list for today. Would have gone a bit further with it, but that time was passing, and I figured I'd better move. Sure enough, it was lashing down as I left - made my way to catch the bus, but after a while, with no sign of the bus coming, I figured I'd better take the train instead. Arrived at the Young Vic and made my way upstairs, where I found the organiser - she'd been late again (unsurprisingly), but had mentioned it on the Meetup page (surprisingly). The other two were trying to get the bus and had been delayed - in the event, one made it, the other didn't. Traffic is always heavier in the rain, of course. But guess what? The Young Vic was so busy - on a Saturday night, yet - that she hadn't been able to get a table. Hmph. So when we three had gathered, we went straight in - I was starving, and could have made good work of their tapas, but never mind.
Good seats, as normal with this group:
No readmission, and you can see why - the actors come on from the aisles. The play is based on the true story of a young Somali boy, orphaned by the militia, almost every member of his family killed, who ends up working for an operation in Ethiopia, then wends his way down to South Africa, hearing that's where the money is to be made - hence the title.
Surprise, surprise - it's a musical! Well, that's what I'd call it - it's full of music, starting with an orchestra of xylophones at each side, and some really beautiful singing. The whole thing is permeated with singing of the region - or tribe - in which the story is currently set. In my opinion, the music gets better as they head south - but it's all funky. You could see there were bits where they would have welcomed us clapping along - sadly, because no-one did (well, I did, quietly). An Irish audience would have, I can tell you..
And what a story. Another tale of the plight of the refugees, which should shame anyone who thinks badly of them. Each border is represented by a door - some have to be opened, some they can step through, as they continue their journey. A terrific, entertaining, and tense show, as we wonder what the outcome will be - and a fantastic cast. Hugely recommended - runs until 12th, Monday to Saturday with two shows on Saturdays. Booking recommended.
At the interval, I went to the bar with my companion - who disappeared while I was queueing, and whom I couldn't find after. The same was to happen when the show ended - no sign of either her or the organiser, although I scoured the place for them. My phone reception was acting up, which didn't help. So, after several minutes of this, I gave up and left. Sitting at the bus stop, waiting for a bus that never did come - someone beside me said the #77 had developed a habit of not coming - my reception came back, and I left a message on the page to the effect that I hadn't been able to find them, and was leaving.
Ended up taking the train again, with no sign of the bus - and the entertainment of a traffic light that pretty much stayed stuck on red, to the frustration of the drivers - someone said it had been like that all week. It wasn't until I got home that I got a text from the organiser, saying they were on the sofa by the terrace. Ah now. Of course it was too late by then for me to join them, and it was a shame that my phone had been playing up, so I couldn't communicate properly. But it goes to show - had the organiser been the Man with the Hat, I can guarantee two things: 1. He wouldn't have been caught out beforehand, he'd either have booked a table or suggested we just go straight in - any fool could have predicted how busy it'd be. And 2. He would've made damn sure he was findable at the interval, and afterwards. Some Meetups are better than others, eh? I've always said so.
Right, well, it took till this afternoon, but I finished the film list! Tan-taraa.. how long is it since I finished one in time? Interesting thing, when I did finish - top of the list was a Japanese film called Your Name, showing today in the Ritzy only. Well, with such a high rating, and only one showing today, I thought I'd better check the website to see whether they were sold out. Got an interesting message:
Heh. Ok then - I continued down the list. Several, part of the BFI Film Festival, which ends today, were sold out - and so it was that I finally came down to Hell or High Water. O HELL YEAH! Been dying to see this tale of two brothers who decide to rob the bank that's foreclosed on the family farm. Jeff Bridges plays the sheriff. Now, when I wanted to see this before, the problem was it was only showing at ridiculous times - and again, I see that Vue Shepherd's Bush is only showing it at 11pm. However, whaddya know, Cineworld Chelsea is showing it at 8:30. So I've booked (cheaper to do that with Cineworld) - now, they don't have a car park, and I doubt I'd get onstreet parking easily. But hey, I can take any of three different buses from the end of the road, and get there in about 15 minutes. Fantastic - an easy day, for once. Really looking forward to that.
Tomorrow, failing better offers, I'm off to another of those over-advertised free comedy nights in Hammersmith - so I've booked with Free Comedy Nights in Hammersmith, Wimbledon and Farringdon: London Live Comedy: London Art, Comedy and Culture Lovers (who, for once, aren't charging extra for booking): and London for a Tenner or Less. Who will probably cancel the listing halfway through the event - hilarious when you see they've done that, and you're actually at the "cancelled" event..
They promised rain, so I dressed for it - didn't hurry out though, given the organiser's habit of arriving late: and I didn't want the same thing to happen as last time, where I was the first to arrive, and couldn't find a table - and even if I had, wouldn't have been able to order food for fear of losing the table, and would have had nowhere to eat it without a table. So I needed someone else there to help me get - and mind - a table, see.
Anyway, I was doing my film list for today. Would have gone a bit further with it, but that time was passing, and I figured I'd better move. Sure enough, it was lashing down as I left - made my way to catch the bus, but after a while, with no sign of the bus coming, I figured I'd better take the train instead. Arrived at the Young Vic and made my way upstairs, where I found the organiser - she'd been late again (unsurprisingly), but had mentioned it on the Meetup page (surprisingly). The other two were trying to get the bus and had been delayed - in the event, one made it, the other didn't. Traffic is always heavier in the rain, of course. But guess what? The Young Vic was so busy - on a Saturday night, yet - that she hadn't been able to get a table. Hmph. So when we three had gathered, we went straight in - I was starving, and could have made good work of their tapas, but never mind.
Good seats, as normal with this group:
No readmission, and you can see why - the actors come on from the aisles. The play is based on the true story of a young Somali boy, orphaned by the militia, almost every member of his family killed, who ends up working for an operation in Ethiopia, then wends his way down to South Africa, hearing that's where the money is to be made - hence the title.
Surprise, surprise - it's a musical! Well, that's what I'd call it - it's full of music, starting with an orchestra of xylophones at each side, and some really beautiful singing. The whole thing is permeated with singing of the region - or tribe - in which the story is currently set. In my opinion, the music gets better as they head south - but it's all funky. You could see there were bits where they would have welcomed us clapping along - sadly, because no-one did (well, I did, quietly). An Irish audience would have, I can tell you..
And what a story. Another tale of the plight of the refugees, which should shame anyone who thinks badly of them. Each border is represented by a door - some have to be opened, some they can step through, as they continue their journey. A terrific, entertaining, and tense show, as we wonder what the outcome will be - and a fantastic cast. Hugely recommended - runs until 12th, Monday to Saturday with two shows on Saturdays. Booking recommended.
At the interval, I went to the bar with my companion - who disappeared while I was queueing, and whom I couldn't find after. The same was to happen when the show ended - no sign of either her or the organiser, although I scoured the place for them. My phone reception was acting up, which didn't help. So, after several minutes of this, I gave up and left. Sitting at the bus stop, waiting for a bus that never did come - someone beside me said the #77 had developed a habit of not coming - my reception came back, and I left a message on the page to the effect that I hadn't been able to find them, and was leaving.
Ended up taking the train again, with no sign of the bus - and the entertainment of a traffic light that pretty much stayed stuck on red, to the frustration of the drivers - someone said it had been like that all week. It wasn't until I got home that I got a text from the organiser, saying they were on the sofa by the terrace. Ah now. Of course it was too late by then for me to join them, and it was a shame that my phone had been playing up, so I couldn't communicate properly. But it goes to show - had the organiser been the Man with the Hat, I can guarantee two things: 1. He wouldn't have been caught out beforehand, he'd either have booked a table or suggested we just go straight in - any fool could have predicted how busy it'd be. And 2. He would've made damn sure he was findable at the interval, and afterwards. Some Meetups are better than others, eh? I've always said so.
Right, well, it took till this afternoon, but I finished the film list! Tan-taraa.. how long is it since I finished one in time? Interesting thing, when I did finish - top of the list was a Japanese film called Your Name, showing today in the Ritzy only. Well, with such a high rating, and only one showing today, I thought I'd better check the website to see whether they were sold out. Got an interesting message:
Heh. Ok then - I continued down the list. Several, part of the BFI Film Festival, which ends today, were sold out - and so it was that I finally came down to Hell or High Water. O HELL YEAH! Been dying to see this tale of two brothers who decide to rob the bank that's foreclosed on the family farm. Jeff Bridges plays the sheriff. Now, when I wanted to see this before, the problem was it was only showing at ridiculous times - and again, I see that Vue Shepherd's Bush is only showing it at 11pm. However, whaddya know, Cineworld Chelsea is showing it at 8:30. So I've booked (cheaper to do that with Cineworld) - now, they don't have a car park, and I doubt I'd get onstreet parking easily. But hey, I can take any of three different buses from the end of the road, and get there in about 15 minutes. Fantastic - an easy day, for once. Really looking forward to that.
Tomorrow, failing better offers, I'm off to another of those over-advertised free comedy nights in Hammersmith - so I've booked with Free Comedy Nights in Hammersmith, Wimbledon and Farringdon: London Live Comedy: London Art, Comedy and Culture Lovers (who, for once, aren't charging extra for booking): and London for a Tenner or Less. Who will probably cancel the listing halfway through the event - hilarious when you see they've done that, and you're actually at the "cancelled" event..
Friday, 14 October 2016
Opera: Cosi Fan Tutte
Always liked Mozart. And here we were again, the Man with the Hat (who has started to remark on the fact that he's only ever referred to as the Man with the Hat) taking us to hear Mozart, two nights in a row. Tonight, Let's Do London - for less! was off to Cosi Fan Tutte, in the Opera House. Offering a variety of seats - I chose the slips, which were the cheapest. I'm consistent that way.
Anyway, I was working from home. And work I did - producing the most goddamn pointless report at the last minute, which meant I was rushing - and this being a long opera, it was starting early; indeed, the Man with the Hat had sent an extra message to warn us of the early start time. Well, fastest was train to Waterloo - and I have never resented more that infuriating delay, right outside the station.
I was pushing it by this time - I already only had about 10 minutes to go. So I hopped in a taxi, explained to the nice man where I was going, and just how fast I had to be there. And give it this, it's a scenic trip across the river. But oh my, traffic was horrendous. The driver started by complaining about all the minicabs hogging the road, then started to wonder whether there'd been an accident - he even remarked that Friday evenings are usually lighter than usual. Meantime, I was texting the Man with the Hat, who promised to leave my ticket at the box office.
When we were stuck in yet another jam on the other side, the driver said that honestly, he had no idea how long we'd be there, and I should probably hop out here - he wouldn't charge. Bless! and they complain about black cab drivers. Even pointed me in the direction of the Tube, which I caught to Temple, and finished by scuttling through the intricate back streets of the West End. (He'd come by Westminster, see, trying to avoid the traffic.. ironically, I'd have done better if he hadn't detoured.)
Picked up my ticket at the temporary box office - they're renovating, and the regular one is closed. Did the bag check, and the nice man looked at my ticket and apologetically explained that I was late. Well, duh, but it was nice of him to be apologetic, all the same. Anyway, he directed me to the manager, and the manager led me to the guy with the seating plan, and he had a look and said "there". Whereupon the manager led me up lots of stairs, and we ended up in.. the Director's Box! :-) And here was I thinking I'd be stuck in the (apparently quite plush) tv room. He did mention that this was a nicer seat than the one I'd booked. I asked him whether I could stay. He laughed. "No."
Note, in the second photo, the dinky little individual screens for people sat in the front of that box - they have the surtitles displayed on them, so you don't have to crane your neck. Aww.. Well, at the interval I bade farewell to my posh box and climbed lots more stairs, to my official seat in the slips:
Yeah.. hey-ho, apparently the acoustics are better up there. And certainly, it did sound lovely, and was a lighthearted production, with some hilarious moments. Mind you, I heard some negative feedback on the staging, which was quite unusual. Quite liked it myself, it had a feel of Pop-Up Opera about it, with people wandering in and out. There was a very obviously theatrical feel to it, with stagehands constantly moving bits of scenery around, everything happening on a stage of some kind. The Guardian carried an interview with the director, who explained that the theatricality is a kind of device to explain how the women in the opera can be deceived, not recognising their lovers - in a world where everything is false, you learn not to trust what you see.
It also makes it a fun opera to stage, and to watch - long though, and frankly, I was glad to stand at the end. The Man with the Hat (and the winged feet) had already nipped out, and we gathered outside, before heading to The Sun Tavern - a place that somehow I can never remember the way to. Upstairs, as usual, for a quieter experience, and more seating. And we had a great natter, about everything and nothing. As all great natters tend to be.
And so home, on the 87 - when I found the bus stop (don't know why, but I'm having trouble with that route these days).
And tomorrow, I was supposed to be going on another of those ghost walks - this time, it's London's Ghostly Haunts, with Free London Events and Talks. However, up popped LDAM with a last-minute ticket to The Man of Good Hope, at the Young Vic again. Sounds interesting, all about a man that hikes through Africa - and goodness knows, I can go on a ghost walk any time..
Anyway, I was working from home. And work I did - producing the most goddamn pointless report at the last minute, which meant I was rushing - and this being a long opera, it was starting early; indeed, the Man with the Hat had sent an extra message to warn us of the early start time. Well, fastest was train to Waterloo - and I have never resented more that infuriating delay, right outside the station.
I was pushing it by this time - I already only had about 10 minutes to go. So I hopped in a taxi, explained to the nice man where I was going, and just how fast I had to be there. And give it this, it's a scenic trip across the river. But oh my, traffic was horrendous. The driver started by complaining about all the minicabs hogging the road, then started to wonder whether there'd been an accident - he even remarked that Friday evenings are usually lighter than usual. Meantime, I was texting the Man with the Hat, who promised to leave my ticket at the box office.
When we were stuck in yet another jam on the other side, the driver said that honestly, he had no idea how long we'd be there, and I should probably hop out here - he wouldn't charge. Bless! and they complain about black cab drivers. Even pointed me in the direction of the Tube, which I caught to Temple, and finished by scuttling through the intricate back streets of the West End. (He'd come by Westminster, see, trying to avoid the traffic.. ironically, I'd have done better if he hadn't detoured.)
Picked up my ticket at the temporary box office - they're renovating, and the regular one is closed. Did the bag check, and the nice man looked at my ticket and apologetically explained that I was late. Well, duh, but it was nice of him to be apologetic, all the same. Anyway, he directed me to the manager, and the manager led me to the guy with the seating plan, and he had a look and said "there". Whereupon the manager led me up lots of stairs, and we ended up in.. the Director's Box! :-) And here was I thinking I'd be stuck in the (apparently quite plush) tv room. He did mention that this was a nicer seat than the one I'd booked. I asked him whether I could stay. He laughed. "No."
Note, in the second photo, the dinky little individual screens for people sat in the front of that box - they have the surtitles displayed on them, so you don't have to crane your neck. Aww.. Well, at the interval I bade farewell to my posh box and climbed lots more stairs, to my official seat in the slips:
Yeah.. hey-ho, apparently the acoustics are better up there. And certainly, it did sound lovely, and was a lighthearted production, with some hilarious moments. Mind you, I heard some negative feedback on the staging, which was quite unusual. Quite liked it myself, it had a feel of Pop-Up Opera about it, with people wandering in and out. There was a very obviously theatrical feel to it, with stagehands constantly moving bits of scenery around, everything happening on a stage of some kind. The Guardian carried an interview with the director, who explained that the theatricality is a kind of device to explain how the women in the opera can be deceived, not recognising their lovers - in a world where everything is false, you learn not to trust what you see.
It also makes it a fun opera to stage, and to watch - long though, and frankly, I was glad to stand at the end. The Man with the Hat (and the winged feet) had already nipped out, and we gathered outside, before heading to The Sun Tavern - a place that somehow I can never remember the way to. Upstairs, as usual, for a quieter experience, and more seating. And we had a great natter, about everything and nothing. As all great natters tend to be.
And so home, on the 87 - when I found the bus stop (don't know why, but I'm having trouble with that route these days).
And tomorrow, I was supposed to be going on another of those ghost walks - this time, it's London's Ghostly Haunts, with Free London Events and Talks. However, up popped LDAM with a last-minute ticket to The Man of Good Hope, at the Young Vic again. Sounds interesting, all about a man that hikes through Africa - and goodness knows, I can go on a ghost walk any time..
Concert: Mozart and Bach by Candlelight
As discussed later in the evening - the Man with the Hat's events show the passing of the seasons: the Globe and Pop-up Opera in the summer, St. Martin in the Fields in winter. Well, he took both of his groups to St. Martin in the Fields last night, for the first time in an age, for a concert featuring Mozart and Bach: Let's Do London - for less! were downstairs, London for Less Than a Tenner sat upstairs in the gallery. And so did I..
I got back from Guildford in time all right, but not to take the bus - so, train to Waterloo it was, and a Tube to Charing Cross. I had a choice of Bakerloo or Northern Line - took the Bakerloo, for which signs came first, took the exit conveniently marked for St. Martin in the Fields, and when I came out, there it was in front of me. Now, the Man with the Hat - who has been known to stand in the church porch - wasn't, on this occasion; he'd asked us to meet him in the crypt, stairs down to which are located in a porch to the side of the church. Unusually, when I went down, it took me a minute to see him - but there he was, hat betraying his identity, head bent over his phone, skulking in the corner with nowt but a Meetup sign and a list of names for company. Seems the venue don't like him to be too conspicuous - some places are like that.
Hey-ho, I picked up my ticket, and much-appreciated free programme! (I believe the programmes were courtesy of Chris, the cellist - Concertante were performing that night.) He shooed me into the café, where he said others were sitting - well, they'd already gone in, but I was hungry and stayed a bit; he'd said it didn't really matter what time we went in for the gallery, anyway. I'd have loved a proper meal, but contented myself with a slice of their excellent chocolate fudge cake (and a much-needed wine, celebrating being shot of Guildford for the week). And when I'd had that, I headed straight into the church via the stairs from the crypt, and walking along the gallery, spied Mary. So I sat with her.
Now, the Man with the Hat had warned that there's really no view from there - which was fine by me, I've sat in pretty much every position in the church at one time or another, and the view of the wedding-cake ceiling is gorgeous anyway:
As well as the aforementioned, they included - as usual - Albinoni and Piazzola in their repertoire, and the expected jokes - oldies, but goodies. And as I remarked over the course of the concert, this was exactly what I needed! After a rotten week in a job I no longer enjoy or want, the music was sublime, and absolutely transported me. Heavenly.
At the interval, we headed downstairs to the crypt café again, and I had another wine - had to gulp it when the bell rang, I wasn't sure about being allowed in with it! Anyway, after a gorgeous evening, we headed down the road to the Amba, as is our wont. Quite a few newbies in the group last night, to whom this was a new venue, and who were most impressed - it might be quite grand, but it has a cosy feel to it, with comfy chairs, friendly staff, and excellent food. I just had chips (and wine), but those chips were excellent - huge, fluffy on the inside, crispy on the outside. Recommended. A terrific evening, and a good quota of men for once, which made a nice change for the Man with the Hat.
Bus home, although I mistook where the stop was. And by the time I got back, I was too exhausted to blog. Anyway, working from home today, and tonight Let's Do London - for less! are off to the Opera House, for Cosi Fan Tutte. Huzzah..
And tomorrow, I was supposed to be going on another of those ghost walks - this time, it's London's Ghostly Haunts, with Free London Events and Talks. However, up popped LDAM with a last-minute ticket to The Man of Good Hope, at the Young Vic again. Sounds interesting, all about a man that hikes through Africa - and goodness knows, I can go on a ghost walk any time..
I got back from Guildford in time all right, but not to take the bus - so, train to Waterloo it was, and a Tube to Charing Cross. I had a choice of Bakerloo or Northern Line - took the Bakerloo, for which signs came first, took the exit conveniently marked for St. Martin in the Fields, and when I came out, there it was in front of me. Now, the Man with the Hat - who has been known to stand in the church porch - wasn't, on this occasion; he'd asked us to meet him in the crypt, stairs down to which are located in a porch to the side of the church. Unusually, when I went down, it took me a minute to see him - but there he was, hat betraying his identity, head bent over his phone, skulking in the corner with nowt but a Meetup sign and a list of names for company. Seems the venue don't like him to be too conspicuous - some places are like that.
Hey-ho, I picked up my ticket, and much-appreciated free programme! (I believe the programmes were courtesy of Chris, the cellist - Concertante were performing that night.) He shooed me into the café, where he said others were sitting - well, they'd already gone in, but I was hungry and stayed a bit; he'd said it didn't really matter what time we went in for the gallery, anyway. I'd have loved a proper meal, but contented myself with a slice of their excellent chocolate fudge cake (and a much-needed wine, celebrating being shot of Guildford for the week). And when I'd had that, I headed straight into the church via the stairs from the crypt, and walking along the gallery, spied Mary. So I sat with her.
Now, the Man with the Hat had warned that there's really no view from there - which was fine by me, I've sat in pretty much every position in the church at one time or another, and the view of the wedding-cake ceiling is gorgeous anyway:
As well as the aforementioned, they included - as usual - Albinoni and Piazzola in their repertoire, and the expected jokes - oldies, but goodies. And as I remarked over the course of the concert, this was exactly what I needed! After a rotten week in a job I no longer enjoy or want, the music was sublime, and absolutely transported me. Heavenly.
At the interval, we headed downstairs to the crypt café again, and I had another wine - had to gulp it when the bell rang, I wasn't sure about being allowed in with it! Anyway, after a gorgeous evening, we headed down the road to the Amba, as is our wont. Quite a few newbies in the group last night, to whom this was a new venue, and who were most impressed - it might be quite grand, but it has a cosy feel to it, with comfy chairs, friendly staff, and excellent food. I just had chips (and wine), but those chips were excellent - huge, fluffy on the inside, crispy on the outside. Recommended. A terrific evening, and a good quota of men for once, which made a nice change for the Man with the Hat.
Bus home, although I mistook where the stop was. And by the time I got back, I was too exhausted to blog. Anyway, working from home today, and tonight Let's Do London - for less! are off to the Opera House, for Cosi Fan Tutte. Huzzah..
And tomorrow, I was supposed to be going on another of those ghost walks - this time, it's London's Ghostly Haunts, with Free London Events and Talks. However, up popped LDAM with a last-minute ticket to The Man of Good Hope, at the Young Vic again. Sounds interesting, all about a man that hikes through Africa - and goodness knows, I can go on a ghost walk any time..
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