Hels Bels tels

Blogging on

2010-06-01T13:19:00.000-07:00

I am in the process of moving over to wordpress:
www.helsbelstels.wordpress.com
Please come and find me there.

We've Got a Fuzzbox and We're Going to Use it

2010-06-01T02:05:00.000-07:00

Two things I learnt from seeing Fuzzbox last week:

(a) they are still a little bit rubbish
(b) I still fancy the little lesbian one (Although I wasn't sure she - or I - was in those days)

It was a really fun blast from the past. They seemed to much prefer - hurrah - singing their older punkier songs than the hits that made them famous International Rescue and Pink Sunshine.

Vix and Jo hadn't changed one bit but Maggie, bless her, looked like she was trying a bit too hard, and had stuck her finger in a plug socket.

We had a great night. and whilst I'm not convinced their comeback single - pop musik - is going to catapult them back into the spotlight. I would definitely see them again and would advice anyone else to do so.

The only time I enjoy bouncy young men!

2010-04-26T03:02:00.000-07:00

Last week I went to see the nice young boys - the f**k buttons. I have seen them a few times before but was a little worried about the fact that they were playing Koko. Had they got to big for their boots, would they still be enjoying themselves and bouncing up and down?

The good news it they were good, and they were bouncy. I thought they were the best ever actually, but maybe happy hour wine previously helped!

Later in the week I went to see some weirdness at the Roundhouse. it featured a tattooed woman, giving a talk about zombies, a contortionist and a vague attempt to saw someone in half. It was bizarre, probably quite crap really, but intriguing!

Pirates is certainly back

2010-04-20T02:24:00.000-07:00

I went to the wonderfully shabby chic Wilton Hall last week to see the all male version of Pirates of Penzance. Having never seen anything by Gilbert and Sullivan before I had no idea what to expect, especially as men played all the female characters.

I have to say it was amazing. The venue was small and the action took place everywhere without the aid of microphones. I have never heard a man with a falsetto like that of the leading lady. I was totally wowed. It was funny and touching, and there was never a dull moment.

We went home singing and then listened to it all again on Spotify!

Debbie Harry gorgeous

2010-04-06T09:05:00.000-07:00

A bit of buggery on a Sunday afternoon is not everyone's cup of tea but I went to see the exceptionally well executed play "Rip her to Shreds" at the Old Red Lion Theatre last week (http://www.icarustheatre.co.uk/shows/rip.html)

In the first few minutes - there weren't many people there, and the initial acting was a little shaky - I was a bit worried but once it settled down it was funny, sad and endearing all at the same time. It was a bit over the top in places but all in all I really enjoyed it and the brilliant support roles played by the mother, father and brother helped. It was made all the better by having a lovely meal in Cubre Libre afterwards and a full and frank discussion on the practicalities of the sex scene!

Cultural girl about town

2010-03-16T04:22:00.000-07:00

I've been pottering about like a little pottery thing lately and have been enjoying multiple visits to galleries, films and a random one day course on the Green Man. It must be Spring!

I went to see Alice in Wonderland, and it was all right. I think my expectations were so low by the time I went to see it that I took it all quite well. I wasn't very impressed with Alice, she seemed to suck all the joy out the film. Johnny Depp to seemed to be struggling. As for the White Queens eyebrows, well there is no need for that! She looked equally as unpleasant as the Red Queen, who I did like. Most of my love in this film goes to the animals, I liked the cat, the dog and the frogs! Don't bother though, really.

I then went to see a Guy Maddin double bill: Careful and the Saddest Music in the World, mental and marvellous are the only words I can find to describe these. Incest in the Alps and beer bathing singing contests are some more. Go and see them. I want to see My Winnipeg now.

Finally at the weekend I went to the Simon Anand exhibition at the V&A of photos taken before actors go on stage. It was wonderful and full of famous faces having a fag, putting on lippy, looking whimsical in grease paint. This was followed by Henry Moore at the Tate Britain. Who would've thought he was such a good artist. His war and mining pictures were amazing. It was really good to see a lot of his earlier and more random work. Shame you couldn't touch them though. I gave the one outside the Tate a big hug afterwards.

Curiouser and curiouser

2010-03-08T06:10:00.000-08:00

No its not the supposedly rubbish Alice in Wonderland! I went to the Old Red Lion to see a play called Alice's Adventures in the New World.

It had a brilliant summary on the promo info which made it essential viewing in my book:

It is 1882. You are a seventeen year-old girl and you have just discovered your deceased mother is still alive and living in America. You set off to find her and meet:

a) an artist with an opium addiction
b) a depressed Socialist preaching free love
c) a hypochondriac debutante
d) a cattle rustler whose four husbands have all mysteriously disappeared
e) Oscar Wilde

f) your mother or
g) all of the above.

If you get a chance you should really go and see it. With an all female, corset wearing cast - the male characters were distinguished by a paper moustache - its very clever and even breaks into a song and a little dance every now and again.

We were left a bit deflated by the ending but the journey itself was superbly acted, funny and touching.

My life in three acts

2010-02-23T02:42:00.000-08:00

I went to see the rather marvellous life story of Bette Bourne the other day at the Soho theatre. It was a moving and amusing slice of living history that is usually hidden in the LGBT world.

Although it was slightly scripted - a re-enactment of a conversation between Bette and Mark Ravenhill - it was still pretty amazing.

I could have listened to Bette talk for hours. It made me wonder why we never get to hear from the older LGBT crowd. If you listen to Bette's story it make's you realise that many of his peers probably never made it that far.

I think we should listen more to wonderful people like Bette and learn from the tales they have to tell.

Lesson number 1: If someone picks you up in Soho, takes you back to their flat, and tells you they are not queer, they are probably lying. As Bette said, 'turned out he was very queer indeed!' LOL

Middle aged minge but still hot!

2010-02-04T02:27:00.000-08:00

How rude! I saw the lovely and liberated Ursula Martinez last night. She did a show at the Barbican, telling short stories from her life, and then recounting emails she recieved after a copy of her Hanky Panky magic show appeared on the internet a few years ago.

For those who haven't seen it, this is the clip she showed us

The emails she read out were hilarious and accompanied by photos of sad looking middle-aged American men, nudists who wanted to use her as a poster girl to champion their cause, or those who just wanted to do something else to her.

I enjoyed both halves of the show but I really could have just listened to her telling the snippets of stories from her life all night, especially as she is from the same 'manor' as me.

Oh, and she did get naked at the end!

Wotever Winter Ball

2010-02-03T08:03:00.000-08:00

I got dressed up in a lovely 80s style frock to go to Wotever's great winter ball on Saturday. The venue was a throwback to a bygone era, and was decorated like the prom I never had (lunch time school discos aren't quite the same I feel).

The music was great cheesy 80s, the dance card with the slow dance power ballads was inspired and the table of cupcakes had to be seen - and tasted to be believed.

There was a prom photographer, a kissing booth and at midnight we got two rather saucy bedtime stories from writers Shaun Levin and Helen Sandler.

My prom photo on the left.

Modest me, no immodest!

2010-01-21T05:53:00.000-08:00

Last night I went to the premiere of Burlesque Undressed, with a promised appearance by Immodesty Blaize. Although this event had her stamp all over it, the appearance was more the fact that she was sat in the audience.

The film was really interesting. With the history and interviews with burlesques' golden girls being a highlight. It was filmed at events that I have actually seen so in one respect it didn't hold anything new, but it was good to see close ups of the acts, and the audience - in which a friend of mine features.

The camera work was a bit low budget and all over the place occasionally, and my advice to Immodesty would be not to go into acting! Sometimes speaking ruins the mystique. She is stunning though, and its a stunningly colourful film. Oh and as always, Dirty Martini you rock!

100 club, 100s of people

2010-01-21T05:44:00.000-08:00

I went to the beacon of Oxford Street, the 100 club last week to see Macavitys Cat and the Men They Couldn't Hang. It was a packed night and lots of exuberant bouncing ensued. I had a slight sense of humour failure when a drunken bouncer managed to simultaneously knock my drink and step on my feet repeatedly. After managing to shimmy away my mood improved, although perhaps it didn’t for those who were now standing around her.

Macavitys cat have been around in various guises over the years. They are lots of fun, and it increases proportionally to the amount of them on the stage. They seemed a little unhappy in there early time slot, and referred to it frequently in a good natured way!

When the Men they couldn't hang came on, serious politically rousing tunes commenced, well for a while anyway. It turned into a moshing, throng of beered up bodies, and we all went home happy.

Turner, a bit of a copycat

2010-01-11T12:04:00.000-08:00

I went to the Tate Britain at the weekend to see the Turner exhibition and I have come to the conclusion he was a bit of a sod.

He used to find artists he liked, and copy their work, attempting to make it bigger or better. He also used to find out what people were due to exhibit and then paint the same subject, he made final touches to works, and even turned up to exhibitions with a blank canvas, that he filled when he had looked what everyone else was doing.

I admire that kind of steely determination, however, the exhibition made me realise that in 9 out of 10 cases I preferred the original, and that's why this exhibition was so good. A must see for compare and contrast purposes.

Smile for the camera

2009-12-31T03:38:00.000-08:00

I went to see the very interesting Points of View exhibition at the British Library the other day as an antidote to Christmas.

Its my first visit to the library, and I really liked the space. The exhibition was interesting, and engaging, although I did hit exhibition saturation point about 5 mins before the end.

My favourite bits were the tales of set up pictures, depicting supposed far away lands and people. And, the thought that as people were travelling more, the advent of photography must have stunned and amazed everyone. Seeing their first hippo or foreign land.

Definitely worth a visit.

Its not Christmas unless you have seen the Pogues

2009-12-31T03:32:00.000-08:00

We ventured out from our usual Brixton gig this year and went to see the Pogues in Sheffield.

A much smaller venue, it was good - but slightly more in range of the beer-soaking mosh-pit - to be more in the fray, and to see the band better. Not that you could see Shane, the only singer in history to demand darkness around him. Not a spotlight in site.

They were however the best I have ever seen them, seemingly getting on, exchanging some banter, and staying in time, and in tune. All in all a great night out, and I only got covered in beer once!

ATP: the eventful year

2009-12-10T13:04:00.001-08:00

I always look forward to All Tomorrow's Parties and this year was no exception. However, there were a few things set to try us: we were ill, I drove my car into a wall, I was burgled. These events will probably make it one of the most memorable years, but really, it should be remembered by the music.

Here are the bands I saw:

Friday

De La Soul - Used to love them when I was younger but on the day I hadn't had enough to drink yet
Primal Scream - Not as good as I thought they would be. Bit serious musio rather than fun 'god is this Primal Scream as well!'
Josh T Pearson - I like him, a bit Nick Cave/Seasick Steve
Buzzcocks - Fantabulous jumping around music
Television Personalities - Good fun, another blast from the past, featuring the violinist from Le Volume Courbe

Saturday

The Tyde - Looked like a seventies porn star, very happy chappy
Sun Ra Arkestra - I recognise they are fab but not for me
The Horrors - Have had a makeover since we last saw them. Not so much black and leather, pretty good.
J Mascus and the Fog - Far to serious musio project by Dinosaur Jr blokey
Spectrum - I came, I saw, I can't remember!
Fucked up - Jolly Canadian Punk
Le Volume Courbe - I really liked these, French with cute violinist
That Petrol Emotion - Back to the old school, much better than I thought they would be, and so loving it.
Lightening Bolt - The highlight, WOW really
Ariel Pink - We had about a 30 min discussion on whether the lead singer was a boy or a girl. Also a strange man turned up in a raincoat who turned out to be the lead singer from the Lily's

Sunday

Lily's - His camp chirpy pop amused me for a while but then he began to get on my wick
Th' Faith Healers - Quite grew on us after a while.
Dirty Three - fabulous druggie violins
Swervedriver - a little disappointing
Bob Mould - bless! Dull, dull, dull
My Bloody Valentine - Good music but couldn't hear the vocals
The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - Good fun, we didn't stay for it all though because it was a fight between them or the Dirty Three, and the Dirty Three one

Alphonse Mucha

2009-12-02T15:15:00.000-08:00

Whilst swilling gluhwein at the Christmas markets of Munich I took time out to go and see the retrospective exhibition of Mucha's work which was pretty amazing.

Mucha is a world-renowned Art Nouveau figure head. He was famous for his poster designs, particularly of Sarah Bernhardt, book illustrations and jewellery creations. What I didn't expect to see though was a very occult/religious driven, spooky body of work which was also exhibited. It was beautifully executed, using pastels and chalk and all in all this was a pretty special exhibition.

Wham Glam Jam

2009-12-02T15:09:00.000-08:00

Staying local the other night I went to see the lovely Lady Imelda and her erstwhile glamorous assistant at the Piano Bar at 286.

Having not been there for a while I had a fab, and very late night out. Enhanced by watching Jedward being kicked out of the xfactor first over a few drinks.

They are both terrific singers, and the members of the audience who got up and sang where also very good.

Roast potatoes at half time (be that about 11.30) reminded me of pubs of time gone by and did help to mop up the alcohol. All in all a very glam jam indeed.

Wacky Le Clique

2009-12-02T15:02:00.000-08:00

We all had a fun night out to Le Clique at the Roundhouse the other day culminating in lots of drunken hilarity and that was just the performers!

My favourite acts were The Wau Wau Sisters - acrobats with a rock twist and Ursula Martinez - hailing from Spain via Croydon.

Some of the more bizarre acts included a Queen obsessed juggler, a purposely rubbish Swedish magician and Meow Meow, who got 4 unsuspecting guys from the audience to try and shape her arms and legs into a swastika (why I have no idea).

Atheist's Guide to Christmas

2009-11-19T00:29:00.000-08:00

I went to the very packed launch of this book at Foyle's the other day. I was intrigued by the selection of guests: David Baddiel, A C Grayling, Richard Dawkins and Derren Brown.

As I wedged myself into a chair hanging on the end of a row the whiff of B.O. in the air was vaguely reminiscent of the socialist conference I went to in the Summer. As people asked ridiculous questions, this feeling intensified. However, as I found at the socialist conference, any excuse to feel like my brain isn't leaking out of my ears, and I enjoyed it.

I found A C Grayling very interesting and Derren Brown was a bit of a revelation. Having previously thought he was a bit of a tit, I was surprised to find a slightly awkward, intelligent, endearing guy. I am now intrigued by the Croydon boy. It may not be enough for me to watch his programmes, but I may check out his new book.

Bit of John Barrowman

2009-11-11T14:28:00.000-08:00

Yes he's everywhere at the moment, and I was a little unsure, but I thoroughly enjoyed going to see Le Cage Aux Folles last night.

The cast, performances and set were amazing. I had tears in my eyes at the end and it was genuinely wonderful.

The funniest moment of the evening may well have been provided by a member of own family though who said very loudly 'you do realise this is about homosexual lifestyles don't you'. Funnily enough, we all did :-)

Everyone should go. With or without the Barrowman its great.

Halloween spookiness

2009-11-11T14:20:00.000-08:00

Punchdrunk did themselves proud again on Halloween in Holland Park. A big fan of their's I was very quick off the mark when it can to get tickets, and we turned up at the gates with our pumpkin lights and masks at twilight.

Inside were paths lit with pumpkin lights, a treasure trail and a spooky fair. In punchdrunk style at one point my friends and I were dragged off to look at the moon, sung too, and then I was taken to see a man about signing my soul away to the devil for 7 years of wine. Of course I obliged!

We finished this off with the late night Halloween gig at the Miller. Everyone was dressed up. I think the man dressed as a robot was regretting it. Most of the bands were quite rubbish but funny. There was spooky burlesque, involving a tampon; The Reverend, a performance poet; and a band called Slapper - with a Freddie Mercury lookalikey with a sparkly moustache, leather apron and nipple accessories. It was a sight for sore eyes indeed.

Whirlwind San Fran

2009-11-11T14:10:00.000-08:00

There is loads I haven't mentioned so far: The Story of Sleeping Beauty at the Cartoon Art Museum (amazing attention to detail on the story boards); seeing both the exhibition of Maurice Sendak's works, and the film of his most famous book Where the Wild Things Are; seeing the history of punk told in pictures at the main library (admitting that punk did not come from California!); and the inspiring work of Victor Arimondi.

A highlight of my trip was watching the Gossip on pretty much home turf. Despite a sore throat Beth Ditto still out sung most people I have seen live and was endearing, sweet and strong on the night. An incredible mix and a great atmosphere. Its the first gig I have seen in San Fran and was interested to see that although the smoking ban is very much in effect, the smoking of pot is not considered to be included. Makes for a docile crowd!

Cool sea dragons

2009-10-24T20:17:00.000-07:00

I went to Monterey today and got the opportunity on the 'scenic road' to Carmel to see where the really posh people live. I also got the chance to visit the aquarium, and fell in love with the grass sea dragons, they look like leaves, its mental.

Despite hoards of tourists I managed to press my nose against most of the glass cases and also loved the sea otters and the jellies.

We then got our future from Zoltare (featured in the film big), so there is a chance I will wake up trapped in a small child's body tomorrow.

Reinacting Harvey Milk

2009-10-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

I had my moment of shimmying up the steps of City Hall yesterday. It had to be done. I pushed those brides out of the way and it was all about me. Well in my head it was.

The City Hall tour is a good one. You get to see the room where the city supervisors sit, the Mayor's office and a lot of marble. There are only so many times a guide can say, 'here's a nice bit of marble!'

Impressive as the building is, my friend and I decided that it was similar to the building we used to work in (The Institution of Civil Engineers) but on a larger scale. The guide clearly loved it so we would never suggest that there may be something equally as grand elsewhere.

Stateside artyness

2009-10-24T20:04:00.000-07:00

Went to see Richard Avedon at the SFMOMA the other day, famed photographer who focused on the personality behind famous and un-famous faces.

I realised that I could have done with an American interpreter. There were 69 portraits of American politicians, most of which I had never heard off, and there was a queue to grab the card of names, many of which still meant nothing. As I had guessed there was a Kennedy and a Bush in there.

My favourite pictures where of him and Twiggy, Bjork looking young and vulnerable and Katherine Hepburn looking sharp - literally.

My favourite un-famous person was a 13 year old snake skinner. I have never seen a photograph of snake guts before!

Hanging with Barry and Terry

2009-09-13T11:20:00.000-07:00

I went for the first time ever to the Proms in the Park. It was a lovely day for it and we had a very impressive picnic array and lots to drink.

No amount of drink however could have prepared me for Barry Manilow. Apart from looking like a preserved head Futurama style, he really was singing quite badly. At one point he appeared to be slurring. He was saved in one song by the appearance of the eternally perky John Barrowman, and that's probably saying something.

I was also slightly distrubed by the singing of rule britannia by lots of flag waving, middle class, drunkards. But I did like the fireworks.

Day of culture

2009-08-20T05:23:00.000-07:00

I spent a day (over a month ago now - sorry for my slackness) doing culture in London. I enjoy have a London day every now and again. I always fall in love with it all over again and stop dreaming of moving to places by the sea.

I went to see the Gay Icons exhibition, Jeff Koons, and Gardens and Cosmos at the British Museum.

Here is the point where I admit that I have never been to the British Museum before! Doesn't it look fab. Inside and out. It was a good exhibition, but for me there was actually a bit too much stuff in it. Some were wonderful, some didn't really hold my attention.

Jeff Koons on the other hand was quite a bite sized exhibition. The Serpentine isn't the world's biggest gallery and I did have to queue for a little while. It was a very fun, random and bonkers display of items. I do like my art with a comedic edge.

My favourite of the day was the gay icons exhibition. It was a very personal portrait of the people famous gay people held as icons. The best ones for me were the ones that made me think, 'I will google him/her when I get home.' I will soon have compiled a reading list purely from suggestions here...

Only to be read of course when I finish reading about Edward Carpenter. I found out about him at a LGBT talk and although I am enjoying the book (A Life of Liberty and Love). It is very big. There is only so much culture a girl can take before she reverts to reading the latest Mary Janice Davdison!

Very over excited

2009-08-20T05:15:00.001-07:00

My blog has been a bit neglected of late. Mainly because I haven't been doing anything! This has been due to ill health, rather than the recession but it has had a favourable effect on my bank balance.

So last night I spent some of my cash and went to the London Follies, a stage show that consisted of mixology, musical burlesque, machete juggling, and the apparent fastest tap dancer in the world, who looked, and dressed, like our mate from down the pub.

I really enjoyed it, perhaps enhanced by it being the first time I have been out in a month, and the fact that we supped some wine at the wondrous cork and bottle first.

Anyway... Its also a lovely venue. The bar is inside the theatre (result!) and it has a nice horseshoe shape so the acts can come to you. My only criticism was that it only lasted an hour and a half. Which at £35 a go might be considered a little steep.

Gay shame goes girly

2009-07-09T11:07:00.000-07:00

I had a fabulous night at Duckie, Brixton Academy on Saturday. They had surpassed themselves with the side shows. My favourite was the girls world care bear stall. You could get a wig and a make over from bears, dressed in fluffy care bear outfits with fluffy slippers.

Other delights included having a bed bath, a wax, learning how to sew, visiting the lipstick museum, buying a handbag, posing nude, or clothed, having your nipples cast in chocolate, or, eating the nipples cast in chocolate. There was also people going around as slummy mummies with tracksuits and pushchairs, and someone selling tupperware. Genius.

Gaffer tape madness

2009-07-03T15:03:00.000-07:00

All the focus of the Haywood exhibition 'Windows in my mind' has been focused on the spotty lady. So, imagine my surprise at the series of tunnels created with gaffer tape, featuring the blowing up of philosophical texts, and silver foil adorned figures, torsos and tiny people. Quite disorientating and pretty inspired. We had to go in twice, just to make sure we hadn't missed anything.

The spotty room was wonderfully spotty. It made your eyes go a bit mental, and I started seeing spots between the spots. It took a while for my eyes to adjust and take in the black web room with the white dresses. Spooky and lovely.

I wasn't so convinced about the dark room with the disembodied voice going 'You are a butterfly', but maybe its just me.

Laughing cows

2009-07-03T14:54:00.000-07:00

Not an insult, but the name of the comedy club I went to last night. We went to see the wonderful V G Lee. Author of such classics as 'The woman in Beige' and 'Diary of a provincial lesbian', who has decided to become a stand up comedienne.

What a brave move, I envy her ability to put herself in the position of scaring herself stupid. Not that she need worry. She was great, and very funny, very observant humour.

We also saw Zoe Lyons, who was practising her Edinburgh material. She was good, witty, sharp and a little bit rude.

It was a good night. I wasn't quite as impressed with the venue - private eye's dining room - as I thought I would be, and the lack of mike may have affected some performances, but I would definitely go again.

Edinburgh rocks

2009-07-01T13:27:00.001-07:00

I spent last weekend in Edinburgh. Town of extreme weather and a haar at the drop of a hat. It was nice to go back to the familiar - Royal Mile - but also to see some new things - we stayed in Broughton, and walked to Leith to see the Royal Yacht Britannia.

I rediscovered my love for fudge, tried tablet and Edinburgh rock (I don't normally have such a sweet tooth, honest!)

I also discovered that it was pride weekend. Turning up for the march 15 minutes late (I have never known a pride start on time) we discovered a small patch of ground with leaflets and balloons on. It had been, gone, and was nowhere to be seen.

We made up for this with some post pride bar hopping and also bumped into the other parade of the day - forces day - luckily we did not get the two confused.

Jason Donovan's crotch...

2009-06-04T03:43:00.000-07:00

...was a bit too close to me the other night when I went to see Priscilla Queen of the Desert. We had front row seats you see. It made things quite interesting. Especially when Jason had a wardrobe malfunction with his wrap-around skirt. Revealing himself in a leotard, lets just say that he doesn't tuck it in.

But, we'll made a drag queen of him yet. It was fantastic, all the characters were brilliant and Jason is a very good actor, albeit an adequate singer.

My friend is still traumatised by the fact that they bought a kiddie on stage. She may need therapy for that. And those moments were a little cheesy. All in all though a fab night out, made all the better by the wine in the cork and bottle before hand.

Bit of culture and Brazil

2009-06-01T03:42:00.000-07:00

Saturday started off with a trip to the Kuniyoshi exhibition which was amazing. We went round backwards as it was already busy when it opened at 10. Unfortunately, by the time we got to the end (or the beginning) the 11 o'clockers had arrived and it got a bit congested. The prints are very detailed so you need to be up close. One (slightly crazy) guy was running from one to another when no one else was there, and declaring loudly - this one!

Next was a trip to the Barbican to see the Brazilian dancers, Balé de Rua. It was a bit mental. It consisted of a group of men, and one woman. In the first scene they were all in men's suits, in the second, all in women's dresses. Then they all came on in their pants! The screaming harpies behind me, seemed to think that they were somewhere else at this point.

They did a lot of acrobatic stuff, then covered each other in paint, including spitting it at each other. The piece de resistance was them wearing bras with flowers on, also with flowers on their knees and heads. They did a little dance, reappeared in their pajamas, and that was the end.

This critique may sound like I didn't like it but the dancing was amazing, it was just quite eccentric, at one point one of the dancers sang a song. Dancing in your pants is one thing, singing in your pants, its just creepy!

TJ, Tunnel 228 and The Dirty South

2009-05-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

I have had a busy couple of days this bank holiday weekend, starting with laughing my head off on the waltzer at Blackheath fair. Followed by going to Blackheath Halls to see T J Higgs with some friends.

I have never been to Blackheath Halls before and I was struck by what a lovely venue it was, I shall definitely be looking at what is on there in the future. I have never seen T J Higgs before, and I thought she was very impressive; entertaining and insightful. She strikes me as a woman who doesn't suffer fools gladly.

Next on the agenda was tunnel 228. How to describe this? Mysterious, a little spooky and a little scary too.

I previously saw The Masque of the Red Death, so had a bit of an idea what to expect. This was more arty than the previous one. I did however, get a personal play when I ended up in a room which was decked out like an old fashioned office.

Having pushed the door and started to walk away, I was surprised when it opened. The monologue that was delivered to me as I sat in the chair was unnerving as he was standing, I was sitting and he was stroking my face! It was uncomfortable, but provoking. Exactly what I would expect from them.

I am glad I wasn't the person who got taken into the room with the guy watching a lap dance! Other highlights included the the light bulb room which when lit displayed a chair with Jesus sitting on it, the coffin with baby quail chicks breaking out, and the table with a woman and a crow sat at it.

After a full post theatre debrief we headed off to see Alabama 3 acoustic at the Dirty South. They were the most pissed I have ever seen them when they came on gone midnight, but they were at their most fun and I had a very good night.

Sisterwrites

2009-05-15T00:45:00.000-07:00

I stayed close to home last night to see the showcase at Lewisham Library of 5 lesbian writers. Its the first time I have been to a library event and I really enjoyed it.

VG Lee was the only author I had heard of. In fact I own a copy of her novel Woman in Beige, which is hilarious. She was telling us that she has started a new career as a stand up comedian. Good on her, she is a much braver person than me. I will be going to see her next gig to offer my moral support.

The other person who stood out was Kate Foley. She looked like a woman who had a few interesting tales to tell. Now living in Amsterdam, her new novella in prose is set there, and after hearing her read a few excerpts I just had to buy it, and get it signed of course. My friend said I went all shy and girly, for shame...

Burlesque has left the building

2009-05-15T00:40:00.000-07:00

The lack of crowds at Koko gave the impression that the popularity of burlesque has passed. That's fine by me! I could actually see the stage, Immodesty Blaize looked in the best form I had ever seen her and the crowd that were there loved it.

Marc Almond seems to be growing down, rather than up. He looked really young, apart from a few dodgy gold teeth. I still find it really odd though that he can sing now. I was a bit soft cell fan in my youth.

Julian Clary was a good host. I think he may be getting on a bit though for the corset he put on later on. It was a bit of a sight. Sorry Julian, not that I am expecting him to read this, but I really do think he is fab.

One of my favourite acts were the 3 blokes, who were dressed up to look as if they had all walked out of the Zoolander film, doing mad, slightly suggestive dancing, a la flash dance. I was still laughing the next day.

Tiger Lillies songs of horror

2009-05-09T12:23:00.000-07:00

I went out to see the brilliant Tiger Lillies yesterday. Their macabre songs had the audience in constant fits of chuckling and I especially enjoyed re-hearing the songs from Shockheaded Peter.

Shockheaded Peter is the opera that introduced me to their wonderousness. Based on an evil German fairytale of what happens to little boys and girls when they are naughty.

My favourites were:
Harriet and the matches
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7P2xTxCS_Q
Snip Snip
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OinwHOZ2Erw
Fidgety Phil and Flying Robert.

The Tiger Lillies act is pure cabaret, and the stage make up and twitches add to the drama of the evening. They played 2 shows last night and i was very tempted to pop back in again. We also star spotted David Dimbleby at the theatre.

May Day Morris

2009-05-04T12:21:00.000-07:00

I headed to Whitstable today to see the May Day Morris dancing. Not very cool I know, but I love a pagan festival.

Its little known that I once went to a Morris dancing class. The problem being that this particular one was too girly. Skirts were compulsory. If I am going to do Morris dancing, I want trousers, sticks and swords, not skirts, hoops and tissues.

My favourite were the Manic Morris from Crayford. A cross between a pirate and a biker, not that's my idea of a Morris dance. I also liked the Morris from Rippon who seemed to have whole shrubberies on their heads.

Its good to see somewhere keeping the May Day traditions alive.

Swedish weirdness

2009-04-29T14:01:00.001-07:00

On Monday I went to see the odd, but strangely wonderful 'Let the right one in'.

The first unusual thing was that it was Swedish. Somehow, that doesn't seem to go with vampires, but it works. Its a boy meets vampire story of friendship and the responsibility that comes with it. I won't spoil the fun but the boy in it is as cute as a button and has the most wonderful facial expressions.

There were a couple of scenes in it which didn't seem to make a whole lot of sense. Whether this is from scene cuts, or I was meant to read more into it I don't know. Anyway, I have ordered the book now so hopefully I will be enlightened soon.

Canada in Brixton

2009-04-18T12:20:00.000-07:00

I went to Brixton on Thursday to see the ever wonderful Rae Spoon. Its been a while since I last saw him - in fact last time I saw him he serenaded me in a toilet for charity - but that's another story! I was surprised to find he had gone electric. I still enjoyed his quick wit and interesting lyrics, but I felt that sometimes he was drowned out by his guitar.

http://www.myspace.com/raespoon
Of the new songs, I particularly enjoyed Come on Forest Fire and Burn the Disco Down and We Become our own Wolves. A Rae Spoon set is never dull.

I don't have as much praise for the support bands Headfall and the Balky Mule. Maybe I just wasn't in the mood for arty, experimental noise but Headfall made me want to fall on mine. The Balky Mule were slightly more cheerful, although the lead singer looked like Sad Sac from the Raggy Dolls. It was a bit of a poor mans All Tomorrow's Parties act.

Talking of All Tomorrow's Parties, tickets are on sale now. Curated by My Bloody Valentine. Can't wait.

Blogs don't fool me...

2009-03-24T06:54:00.000-07:00

...said the wonderfully animated lecturer who took my Saturday course on 'The Wisdom of the Fool'. I am not sure how he would feel about me blogging about him but I will say that it was an interesting and illuminating day.

I have left with the feeling that I am not, in actual fact brain dead, I have a reading list as long as my arm, and a desire to find out some more about the courses Ken Rees teaches.

The day spent some time looking at the traditional fool in the courts of kings, the village idiot, the fool in tarot, the modern day fool (those of a comedic nature), the fool in myth and the holy fool.

I have never been on a course which included spontaneous singing and had we been more organised (which was against the spirit of the day) I'm sure we could have fit some juggling in there also. All in all a very strange, and very good day.

I finished off my foolish day with the 13th to 15th century paintings in the National Gallery. I was hoping for more myth and less religion to round off my experience, but then there's no fool like a hopeful fool.

All aboard...

2009-03-16T06:19:00.000-07:00

...for a very surreal evening at the Transport Museum. A group of us went to the Friday late to see the poster exhibition before it finishes.

When we arrived we were dismayed to find that the late nights hadn't been going so well so they had decided to do a themed night instead. This meant 50s dancing and singing, a poet, and a lovely woman dressed as a bus conductor. All this was very well and good but they had shut the poster exhibition because they were allowing alcohol in there.

We weren't very impressed but decided to give it a go anyway. A very nice man also gave us all free tickets to come back another time.

Anyway, we played on the buses, sat in the carriages and listened to the fairly disturbing Summer Holiday on a loop.

Then...the same nice man said that due to popular demand they were going to open the poster exhibition - hurrah! Mission accomplished. I really enjoyed it but I would have liked it to be a bit better. But you can't have everything.

Bongo Mangos or something like that

2009-03-13T08:51:00.000-07:00

I described them as this for a week before we actually went to the Dirty South last Friday (sorry, slacking on the write up this week).

They are actually called Los Mondo Bongos and consisted of Mike Peters (the Alarm), Pablo Cook & Smiley (Mescaleros) / Derek Forbes (Simple Minds) and Steve Harris (Gary Numan). They were quite entertaining for Friday night down the pub and I liked the pub itself and was ashamed I had not managed to make it there sooner. I should start a new campaign to drink local - maybe I need some help from the Man from Catford on this.

The support band were the recommended Penny Black Remedy. I thought they were interesting and the cowboy style boy and the gypsy style girl made an interesting mix. My only complaint is that there set wasn't long enough.

All in all a good night. I thought I had pulled at the end of it, but that's a different story...

Kiss my buttocks

2009-03-03T04:58:00.000-08:00

A bit rude I know, but this was the catchphrase for Buttocks - one of the characters in the alternative panto in Brighton - Sinderfella.

I went to see it on Friday and really enjoyed it. Especially Sinderfella on a mobility scooter - you shall go to the ball - and Dave Lyn as Amy Winehouse.

It sells out every year and deservedly so. Although its all over until next year there are still the monthly absolutely dragulous performances to look forward too.

They are bunch of very clever boys - oh yes they are.

Magic numbers hoedown

2009-02-24T02:19:00.000-08:00

Saturday night saw me at the Conway Hall, a venue I have never been to before but ideally suited to the charms of Betsey's Winterlude. Run by the Betsey Trotwood pub it was a folk based affair which seemed to consist of the magic numbers (who played their first ever gig at the pub) and all their mates (namely Danny and the Champions of the world - who at one count had 15 people in their band).

We missed the first couple of acts but I enjoyed the Moon Music Orchestra, despite the fact that the lead singer accessorised her dungarees with a cap which cast an unfortunate shadow on her face - it gave the impression that she had no teeth. A proper hillbilly.

I also thought the See See were very professional, not so much my cup of tea though, or fitting in as much with the theme of the day.

Danny and the Champions of the world arguably have the best band name in music, and they seemed to take their music very seriously. I liked them, but they had the magic numbers chap on stage to and all seemed content to play facing each other, and looking like they were enjoying themselves much more than we were. Good on them.

Milk of magnificence

2009-02-10T00:59:00.001-08:00

Last night I went to see the marvellous milk. What a fantastic actor Sean Penn is. My friend asked afterwards if he really was gay. Maybe Madonna turned him but as far as I know he is as straight as a die.

The acting was truly great and the characters sensitively portrayed with all their flaws. I cried a bit at the end and didn't fidget too much (it was quite a long film). I would recommend going to see it and its definitely worth some Oscar mentions.

It's just a shame his life ended so tragically and that of the Mayor (freaking me out a bit as he is the boss in Eli Stone!)

It was one of those films that makes you want to do something with your life when you see it. Except get shot of course!

The goddess

2009-01-28T02:11:00.000-08:00

Last night I rediscovered my age old awe for Grace Jones. That woman is amazing. It was like 30 years had not passed, she looked great, strong, confident and very fit. With a nice line in hats and her trademark feistiness she could have been singing anything and I still would have been stood there with my mouth open.

Luckily, her songs were great too, and I liked most of her new album and the laser off her hat effect and the hurricane final song - which saw her flying across the stage, without the aid of a safety belt - were brilliant.
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=PcsXHywptHk&feature=PlayList&p=5904C22DEACB8AB8&index=124
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5cHLYMl6t0&feature=PlayList&p=5904C22DEACB8AB8&index=126

The drumming in my head

2009-01-27T03:55:00.000-08:00

I have been back from Spain for a few days now and still I can hear it. The magnificent tunes that accompany the drumming festival The Tamboradda. The Spanish really so know how to party and running through the streets following increasingly intoxicated chefs and Napoleon's was good fun.

For those who think I have lost my mind this should explain some of it:
http://www.spanishunlimited.com/spain/fiestas/tamborrada.asp
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=bSv1PcM_qXg

It was a great holiday. San Sebastian was beautiful despite increasingly bad weather and the pinchos were pretty good too. We also went to Bilbao and did the nerdy stuff, going across a 100ft transporter bridge - the world's oldest - and having a ride on the funicular.

Here are my photos:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=71619&l=52c7b&id=611030754

Bits and bobs

2009-01-14T10:18:00.000-08:00

I've been a bit quiet of late. Mainly because I have had the plague, and now the famine is following in the form of the so called 'credit crunch'.

I haven't been out too much doing exciting things, instead I have been nesting, with my new cookbook from Christmas on frugal food and my new wii games.

Hopefully service will be resumed soon as a) I actually went out last night to see Slumdog millionaire - storyline is a bit far fetched, how many horrible things can happen to one person! The cinematography of India is beautiful though. b) I am going with my mum and Aunties to see the filming of loose women tomorrow - god help us. c) I am off to Spain Friday.

Hurrah for holidays but boo for the Euro.

Nightmare before Christmas

2008-12-09T11:31:00.000-08:00

Once again I went to the wonderful ATP festival at Minehead. Although more than a bit chilly, it was a brilliant mix from the eccentric world of music:

My top ten of the weekend were:

The Dirtbombs: fun, poppy, with a seemingly very camp front man (I think it was just his dad dancing) http://www.myspace.com/dirtbombs
Meat puppets: a tendency to wanky guitar solos but geniuses nonetheless. One of them has just got out of rehab, the expression on his face tells me it may have been too late. http://www.myspace.com/themeatpuppets
Os Mutantes: mad Brazilian people. I had no idea what they were singing about but it didn't seem to matter, there were sequins and capes, and that is important. http://www.myspace.com/osmutantes66
Junior Brown: Old school country with a kick preformed using a double necked guit-steel guitar. They all looked very smart and had permanent fixed grins on there faces. Do not be deceived by there wedding band look! http://www.myspace.com/juniorbrown
Fantomas: Mad and arty, they performed their directors cut album of interpretations of movie sound tracks, loud and brilliant. There new album is about the month of April. What's not to love. http://www.myspace.com/fantomasband
Taraf de Haidouks: Romanian Gypsy's who had people crowd surfing, caused havoc by playing outside the door of the venue when their time was up and generally had a good laugh. http://www.myspace.com/tarafdehaidouksbandofgypsies
Leila: despite being beset by sound problems that would have caused most people to flounce off in a girlie strop, she made a big noise and I would have liked the opportunity to see her under better circumstances. http://www.myspace.com/leilaarab
The Damned: I had forgotten that they weren't all commercial poppyness. They got back to their routes and made some loud punk noise. Oh, and Captain Sensible got naked whilst singing Happy Talk. Those were the days! http://www.myspace/officialdamned
Farmers Market: The most eccentric act of the weekend. A kind of pan-European jazz band with accordion and jingle bells mixed in. Fun to watch apart from a most terrible version of Ferry across the Mersey. http://www.myspace.com/farmersmarkettheband
The Melvins: No list would be completed without a mention to the Melvins. Consistently good. They played here in their current day and 1983 lineup. Mr Buzz Melvin ALSO popped up in Fantomas and Porn. I worked out that he played at least 3 gigs a day for 3 days. They don't call him Buzz for nothing. http://www.myspace.com/themelvins

Also, a note to the Fuck Buttons, I know you are brilliant, I did buy your album whilst I was there (have been meaning too for a while) and I enjoyed your DJ stint. However, there is no need to follow me around. You were everywhere I went over the weekend! Such sweet boys. http://www.myspace.com/fuckbuttons

Grease lightening

2008-12-01T09:52:00.001-08:00

Its all about Jamie again today as I went to see him as Danny in Drag Grease last night.

It was hilarious, Jamie's wig was stupendous, and I was very impressed with the dual outfit, one half pink lady and one half t-bird. The photos aren't on the site yet but should be soon.

http://www.absolutelydragulous.com/gallery.html

Apart from having a bit of an identity crisis it was really interesting to see the 'girls' drag kinged up. It opens up a whole new realm of possibilities around sexual identity.

Happy birthday Mr Berner

2008-11-26T09:00:00.000-08:00

Last night we ventured to a new venue to see the ever entertaining Geoff Berner. It was the last gig on his tour, and his birthday so we were all in a good mood.

The venue was good but a little small, Geoff has us all lined up like a school photo with the shorter people sitting on the floor at the front. He also played two sets so that we could rotate.

http://www.myspace.com/blackgardenia93
http://www.myspace.com/geoffberner

There was a lot of singing along and joviality, and a particularly hilarious moment when the management mistook my friend for Mr Berner and was asking him questions about his equipment! They are both bald! Anyway, it was a good but late night, I look forward to seeing him again when he comes our way.

Peter and the wolf

2008-11-24T05:48:00.001-08:00

I was with my nephew at the playing of Peter and the Wolf this weekend. He found it very exciting, and was on the edge of his seat throughout. My only complaint was you couldn't see the percussion section enough, and this is always the fascinating bit for kiddies.
http://www.halifaxorchestra.org/

3 observations:

The ladies in front kept turning round and glaring at us every time he wasn't completely silent.
The man behind us congratulated my nephew on his appreciation of Prokofiev's piece
The ladies in front glared at my nephew when it was in fact the man behind tapping his feet.

Note to miserable ladies: Do not expect silence at a family concert. Why don't you go home, listen to it on a CD and have a cup of tea or a nice sherry.

Berthing in Worthing

2008-11-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

The good ship Jamie's (http://www.jamiewatson.net/) birthday came to rest in Worthing on Saturday when we went to see the wonderful and quite rude Drag with no name (http://thedragwithnoname.com/).

Its been a while since I have seen him and I was reminded how very funny he is, so much more than just a drag act. My favourite bits where his spot on impressions of other Brighton drag acts, and his version of the lady from fat fighters.

It was a great night, and the Jack Horner pub seemed to be the hub of the community in Worthing. I would definitely go back.

The evening was finished off by a few drinks at Leg ends, always entertaining, and always dangerous to the liver (http://www.legendsbrighton.com/bar.html), it closes at 5!

We didn't last that long as the birthday boy was getting a little worse for wear. We ended the night drinking red wine/hot chocolate (both in my case) whilst watching the repeat of x factor - who says we are getting old.

Going loco down in Catford

2008-11-07T01:17:00.000-08:00

I was Miss local girly last night as we decided to investigate the area's pubs.

Yes I know its been a year since I lived in Catford but its the first time my mortgage has allowed me the luxury of willy nilly local drinking on a school night.

We tried the Blythe Hill Tavern as we were keen to try out the Irish music night. What a nice pub it is. The music was very good and quite unintrusive and there was a nice roaring fire, i.e. it was boiling :-)

Where next...maybe the Perry Hill?

Bagpuss: I met Emily

2008-10-30T08:36:00.000-07:00

Emily's Cat Bagpuss: The most Important, the most beautiful, the most magical, saggy old cloth cat in the whole wide world.

I met Emily the other day. In fact I have met her twice but she kept very quiet about it the first time.

Emily, is one half of totalpap
http://www.totalpap.co.uk/
an artist and illustrator, I went to visit her as part of the artists open house. She has a mad garden, with several sheds, workshops and a diving bell. She is a lovely woman, and looks remarkably like someone I once knew which shocked me last time as well.
Anyway, there was a dog angel looking at me and I have now adopted it.

Greetings from San Fran

2008-10-13T06:34:00.000-07:00

I thought I would write this now before I get home and the real world takes over.

Ten things I love about San Francisco:

my sister obviously otherwise I wouldn't be here
the food: the Senagalese and the Afghan restaurant particularly stick in my mind
the bookstores: I have bought loads of book bargains including a wonderful book on London travel called the London Spy, written in the 70s. Its hilarious
Yosemite: not strictly in San Fran but wonderful none the less. All the better as we narrowly missed the massive landslide that hit the camp in the days after we left
Alcatraz: so interesting. I never knew that the Indians claimed it for 19 months as their land.
village people Christmas tree decorations in sausilito
the mission, where the cool kids hang out
the castro theatre: never have I enjoyed Bridge on the River Kwai so much
finding spots that were the inspiration for Tales of the City. Including the legendary Safeway's.
Japantown: full of great Hello Kitty purchases.

Five things I hate about San Francisco - I actually couldn't think of 10!

Haigh Ashbury: commercialised hippiness at its worst
attracting too much attention: worse than walking through West Croydon!
tax on shopping: I don't do maths, I can't work it out and now I have an change mountain
nutters on buses: yes I know it happens in London too but I'm on holiday and they smell
hills: are you trying to kill me! after hiking to 6000ft in Yosemite I need a nice gentle stroll.

Seasick Steve - all washed up...

2008-10-13T06:25:00.000-07:00

...For me anyway. Lovely guy, brilliant musician, but the Royal Albert Hall killed it for me. Some people unfortunately don't suit being famous and he is on of them.

The evening though was hilariously helped by two guys having a punch up because one of them was singing too loud.

Random cabaret

2008-09-17T06:32:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I managed to persuade some unsuspecting friends to come with me to see the Whoopee cabaret which was part of the Thames Festival.

Comprised of various acts usually seen at Duckie I wasn't sure how good it would be. I love Duckie but the acts are usually improved by the intake of lots of beer and we were still on pint number one when it kicked off.

It was hit and miss, and some of the acts could not be as rumbuncious as usual because despite the time there were still some kiddies in the audience. However, it was really good to see alternative cabaret being given performance space (the lovely scoop) and some acts, particularly the dance act, where the woman got chucked around all over the place was good fun.

We finished off the evening with some gambian reggae in the neighbouring patch of green space and with me leaving my fleece in a pub in Borough - doh!

Hello Queenie

2008-09-08T03:57:00.000-07:00

On Saturday my friends and I did the touristy thing of going to Buckingham Palace. We decided it was about time. Surprisingly the queue had a lot of English people doing the same, and despite the rumours I did think it was worth the money.

Its actually quite cosy for a palace. I don't feel I would feel out of place reclined on a throne there. Come on Queenie, where's my invite.

Rhona get a haircut

2008-09-05T08:19:00.000-07:00

Poor Rhona Cameron, note to all lesbian comedians, do not play Croydon, it didn't work for Rhona, it didn't work for Sandra Bernhard, and it won't work for you.

Despite the lack of audience and dodgy mullet she was quite entertaining. I especially liked the bit about the Abercombie and Fitch shop and I will be going in there at the weekend to see how scary it really is.

Hiatus - hernia perhaps

2008-08-13T03:52:00.000-07:00

I've had a break from posting due to the vastly time consuming nature of looking after two small children.

Yes, for my sins I have been babysitting my niece and nephew, aged 4 and 7 respectively.

They are not particularly keen on each other at the moment and as you know the weather has been pants. I am arts and crafted out. I no longer have a creative bone in my body. As such, I have nothing to say!

My super hero villan

2008-08-01T02:52:00.000-07:00

Your results: You are Magneto
You fear the persecution of those that are different or underprivileged so much that you are willing to fight and hurt others for your cause.

Click here to take the "Which Super Villain am I?" quiz...

Bonde de Role are hot - literally

2008-08-01T02:35:00.000-07:00

I took a trip down to the uber cool Hoxton bar and grill last night to see Bonde de Role. What a crazy night. The cool cats were sporting 80s perms and the place was hot, packed and apparently full of tossers - well so I thought in the 15 minutes we waited for them to come on. I thought I was either going to have a claustrophobia attack or faint in the heat!

But all was forgiven the minute they stepped on the stage. Four very over excited nutters. Drinks were thrown, clothes were taken off (I have never seen a woman so happy to be jumping around topless), I was hit on the head with an inflatable palm tree. They were crazy, sexy and cool and I would catch them now before they get calmed down by a well meaning record company.

I would like to apologise to all those on the train home with me. I did shower as soon as I got in honest.

Ahoy me hearties

2008-07-29T02:23:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to the wonderfully bonkers Rogues Gallery at the Barbican. This consisted of a group of 'Rogues' playing the songs from the album of the same name.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rogues-Gallery-Pirate-Ballads-Shanteys/dp/B000GGSMD0

Equipped with a random selection of people who didn't know the words, such as Chris Difford, Susanne Vega and Shane McGowan (Pete Doherty was a no show). They played the album in its entirety (over 3.5 hours).

We were fully encouraged to nip out to the bar, be rowdy etc. but still there were a lot of people who didn't move in that time.

As for my merry band of sailors, I think we had inhaled too many bottles of rum by the end - but the good ship sailed us home.

Please sir can I have some more

2008-07-28T02:40:00.000-07:00

Had a really good day in Brighton yesterday which culminated in watching Absolutely Dragulous do Oliver.

Dave Lyn as Fagin was inspired. http://www.davelynn.co.uk/ and the fight of the four nancies was rightly won by Maisie, Brighton's great dame. Jamie dressed as Oliver looked about 12 http://www.jamiewatson.net/ and I can't wait for next month's which is mamma mia.

There was a good turn out despite the hot weather and everyone seems to be getting in the Pride mood already. Roll on Saturday and fingers crossed for the weather.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=44210&l=0ffea&id=611030754

Squeezed out

2008-07-28T02:31:00.000-07:00

Went to see an old classic Squeeze at the British Motor Show on Saturday. It was a very muggy day and South London's transport issues weren't helping, but we got there.

For those who haven't been to the motor show, I wouldn't bother unless you are going to the gig as well. its not as big as I expected, there are some cool cars, but not enough for my liking. I did learn a valuable piece of information though, I am too tall for a smart car - they do not have adjustable steering wheels. Saves me looking longingly at the flower power one for when I have passed my driving test.

Squeeze on the other hand were worth the trip. And roll over Jools, Lord Large rocked.
http://www.myspace.com/lordlarge.
They all seemed to be talking again, and it was like a big South London geezer sing along. Most enjoyable. Makes me want to get a record player and dust off my vinyl.

Friends of Dorothy anyone

2008-07-25T03:15:00.001-07:00

I went, on my own like a bit of a saddo, to see the Wizard of Oz at the Royal Festival Hall on opening night.

I had been worried that no one would want to go with me, and that if they did, they wouldn't want to sit in the cheap seats (I am on an economy drive).

Although I was in the gods I had a great seat and I was really quite excited. I remember seeing the Wizard of Oz as a child, starring Charlie Drake as the cowardly lion. We met him afterwards as even then I had friends in high places!

It was fun watching all the mad children, exasperated parents and the queens before the show started. The show itself was pretty good too.

I had originally thought to myself that Dorothy had a bit of an annoying accent, however, after listening to the couple behind me bitching about everything throughout the interval, I felt quite sorry for her. They were even complaining that Toto was not the right colour. Correct me if I'm wrong but I imagine the acting dogs pool is fairly small, and toto was adorable - although white.

My favourite childhood memories were brought back by the chorus girls, the munchkins (have to admit I would have preferred little people to children) and the yellow brick road.

I loved it. I have been dreaming in technicolour ever since and have constant Wizard of Oz songs going round my head. Go, but only if you can leave your adult self behind.

Its a hard knock life

2008-07-08T01:33:00.000-07:00

Not only is this a plug for my friends next absolutely dragulous performance of Oliver at the end of the month but it also describes the way I feel at the moment.

I don't want to get into the whole credit crunch debate but I am having my own personal credit crunch which has stemmed from realising that yes I have just bought a new place to live and its about time I adjusted my style of living accordingly.

I feel a bit like a student again, and have started looking at the prices of food items intently. Since when did a bag of pasta get so expensive. I remember the days.... Yawn, yawn.

One thing I can not give up is my lovely fruit and veggie box. My little bit of luxury, some things have definitely changed from student days. 17p noodles still taste great though!

Decorating ideas

2008-07-01T01:04:00.000-07:00

Although I have been to Brighton a million times I had never set foot in the pavilion until this weekend.

Armed with free tickets (lucky me) I oohed and arrhed over this great over the top masterpiece. I am thinking something similar for my new house, or some of the dragon pictures turned into tattoos.

Truly amazing. You should go if like me you are always too busy in Brighton trying not to look like a tourist.

Also worth seeing was Absolutely dragulous' (and one diminutive diva - my mate Jamie) first performance of Chicago.
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=17965489129

I have never seen Chicago but it didn't matter, they were funny, professional and utterly fab. Next month is Oliver.

Touch of the Stephen King's

2008-06-26T01:33:00.001-07:00

Had a lovely evening out last night at Romeo and Juliet (open air theatre - nice but a bit windy), but it did occur to me on the way home that he does tend to revisit themes alot (or maybe my Shakespeare viewing has all merged into one).

Isn't there an - oh I've accidentally killed myself in Anthony and Cleopatra? Was he the Stephen King of the olden days - who seems determined to rehash stories of dogs and cars.

One other thing I always forget is how camply rude he is. Maybe also the Benny Hill of previous times.

Too young for chumbawumba

2008-06-18T01:38:00.000-07:00

Its not everyday you get mistaken for a minor celebrity. At a recent gig Geoff Berner gig at Sheffield, our motley crew were mistakenly taken to be Chumbawumba, who were expected.

Luckily for us, the nice door lady decided we were to young for Chumbawumba, and having since looked at a picture of them I am very glad she came to that conclusion.

It has continued to amuse me every since.

Glad drags and fag hags

2008-06-06T02:48:00.000-07:00

What can I say about the Sex and the City film that hasn't been said before. Well, nothing. But I loved it. It was like slipping on a pair of comfortable shoes. And believe me, I should know.

Psychic Sunday

2008-06-02T02:01:00.001-07:00

Went with my friend yesterday to see the very charismatic psychic phenomena that is John Edwards. Regardless of his psychic abilities, his abilities as a motivational speaker can not be faulted. He loves a chat, and he's good at it.

I found the whole process fascinating, and did wonder afterwards if I was missing a trick on the money front. Am considering becoming a life coach. Seems to be where the money is. A bit sad I know, but it seems that people need someone else to give them the courage to do the things they know they want to do anyway. I am the same. Why is is that we have learnt over the years to ignore our instincts? Is it because of mortgages, credit cards etc.

Sometimes the evidence tells me that I am a proper grown up even though I still don't feel like I am.

Disgruntled from the UK

2008-05-29T02:54:00.000-07:00

Why oh why did Russia win the Eurovision? Every year I turn a blind eye to the fact that no one votes for us but enough is enough. It was the worst song ever.

As a lover of Eurovision we had a party and for the first time in my history of scoring I gave minus points. I have given zero before but have never ventured into the minus zone. I can only think that they won because they were standing over all the Eastern European voters with big guns. When you go to these countries they all hate the Russians.

Lets hope Terry doesn't quit though. If he does I may have to quit watching it altogether!

The party was great. And there was some excellent fancy dress going on. We had pirates, Terry, the Ukrainian cross dresser from last year and an Abba throw back. And, I really did look like the little Serbian lesbian. It was uncanny!

Can we ditch our Americans friends and get back in the European fold before next years one - please!

Cinema museum

2008-05-19T01:30:00.000-07:00

Had an interesting trip to the cinema museum on Saturday. This quirky place is full of fascinating cinema stuff, based in an old work house in Kennington that used to house Charlie Chaplin's mum.

A lot of the stuff is boxed up due to lack of space which is a shame. I could have spent ages in the photo room, which was mostly files, but I had a delve whilst the guide was talking and cane across pictures of Harrison Ford, daleks and some dashing chap that I couldn't quite identify.

Unfortunately the museum has to move on at the end of the month. I hope though that they end up with a bigger space where they can display more of there items.

The collection of ashtrays for one is classic. There are also a couple of sets of cinema doors, some projectors, reels of film,a Felix the cat and lots of movie poster boards.

This trip was followed by an equally quirky expedition to the Little Apple in Kennington, which seemed to full of happy drunk people who possibly hadn't gone home last night.

Sausage by the sea

2008-05-14T06:38:00.000-07:00

I was in lovely Brighton last night for the camp fest that was girls aloud. Having taken the afternoon of work it felt very naughty browsing the shops and reading my book on the beach.

When the troops joined me we checked in to our hotel (apparently not the only Girls Aloud customers they had) and set about the task of having a few pre gig drinks...

And its a good job we did. We all had a whale of a time but, the singing was terrible (except - it was universally agreed - for Nicola, who was fab [I know, I know I am a little biased but they even said so on the radio this morning so it must be true]).

They have great energy and I would recommend them, if like us, you don't take things to seriously.

Afterwards we did the obligatory pub crawl which included Legends - the only place really with a bit of life late on a Tuesday - and today I am feeling just a wee bit exhausted.

It was nice to get to Brighton again. Someone give me a highly paid job in the area so I can afford to live there :-)

...I love my wii

2008-05-11T05:44:00.000-07:00

...They really should rename them though...

Also, the wii fit is at the post office so I will be up with the larks tomorrow to go and pick it up. Very frustrating to have a free day and no wii fit to play with. Might have to have a go and play golf instead. I am pretty sure that my virtual golf playing is infinitely better than I would be at a real life game.

Had an interesting night last night. Went to see some custard jazz. It was all pretty civilised at the 100 club apart from the inordinate amount of pissed people there. Especially mad white top woman. You know who you are.

My frustration at not being multi-talented and able to play trombone, sax and trumpet was palpable. They were all very professional and bizarrely didn't seem to know each other at all. I prefer my jazz a bit free form so I would recommend a few nights out on the lash to get some creativity flowing.

Anyway...must go and be domestic. The garden waits for no woman.

Stay well back

2008-05-06T02:02:00.000-07:00

Went to a great gig yesterday, the Legendary Shack Shakers. They were as usual on bonkers, energetic form and we managed to get a good spot in the packed venue away from the path of bodily excretions.

For those of you who have not heard of the Shack Shakers - legendary or otherwise - the lead singer is well known for showering the crowd with snot and sweat - nice! I would also like to thank the cute punk girl for brightening up my day.

I also managed to finish my entry into a travel writing competition yesterday. I decided it was about time I actually started trying to be a writer, rather than always saying I'd like to and never finishing anything.

And...the hunt continues for a wii fit. I finally caved and have a wii winging its way to me now - hopefully. I tried out my mates wii fit and I really loved it. Here's hoping I can get one soon.

Hope not hate

2008-05-01T05:25:00.000-07:00

Yes its the day of the elections and everyone is talking about it. I'm not going to, but I am going to tell you about the gig I went to last night.

It was organised by Hope not hate and was a night of rock against racism. What surprised me where the amount of campaigners and cameras outside the event. I did have a bit of a feeling they were preaching to the converted. I didn't spot any nasties there.

Inside there were speakers in between the music. Tony Benn seems to be a lovely man and he is a very good motivational speaker. I would also like him to be my grandad!

It was fun to see the Levellers again. It made me think back to the days of greenpeace rallies and sunny drunken days in fields. Rainy wednesday nights in Brixton isn't quite the same but the thought was there.

Misty in roots were brilliant and I think the only downside to this brilliance was that Alabama 3 ended up having to do quite a short set which was a shame for them. They have been known to play for hours on end, so 20 mins or so seemed a little bit wrong. They were in fine form though. Except for the suit wearing with no t-shirt underneath - No! This is never a good look.

Ended the night by sharing a taxi with the pianist from the Ritz. What a very nice man he is. Lives round the corner from me.

Hibernation

2008-04-18T07:41:00.000-07:00

Have been having a quiet period lately. Partly due to lack of cash and partly due to lack of motivation. I'm not sure if its because the weather has been a bit pants but spring has not sprung in my house.

Hopefully I will perk up soon. Can some arrange me a windfall and a little bit of sun please, I'm sure it would help. I am off to the seaside next week so I'm sure some fresh air and some long walks will sort me out.

In the meantime I have been hanging out in my garden which needs lots more work, and watching some rather good telly at the moment. Am loving, Bones and Grey's Anatomy. Watching Meredith be so miserable makes me positively chirpy.

opulence and indulgence

2008-04-07T03:03:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to Claridges - ooh get me - for my friend's 40th. We had the chef's table and had a brilliant time. The restaurant itself has quite a somber atmosphere but it couldn't be any different in the kitchen.

We sat in a booth, a bit like being in a dinner and had views through to the main kitchen and the pastry kitchen. It runs like a well oiled machine and there were no tempers flaring or people flapping. I was very impressed.

We got a chance to try some cooking - of our own food I hasten to add, and each of the 8 courses was a new delight. I think I have now had the best tasting kidneys in the world and carrot salad was also surprisingly to die for.

We sampled many interesting wines - Luxembourg (who knew) and were all a little tipsy and more boisterous by the end.

To top it all, we have a limousine home. Top night.

Johnny Woo's face wasn't blue

2008-03-31T06:10:00.000-07:00

I went to duckie on Saturday and suffered two disappointments. Firstly, the lovely Amy Lame wasn't there. And secondly, the act Johnny Woo had not painted his face blue like he has in the publicity photos. It rhymed so well and everything.

I enjoyed Johnny Woo's (with black face) performance poetry, although my friends didn't look quite a convinced. As always the DJ was great and it was packed - note to self - arrive earlier next time.

In between gallivanting I have been trying to sort out the jungle that is my garden. It is now marginally improved but my back may never be the same again.

A busy week this week, Gogol bordello, Chas n Dave and Claridges all too follow. From the sublime to the ridiculous - moi!

Brighton boys

2008-03-17T04:33:00.000-07:00

Jamie had 2 gigs in the Croydon area this weekend so a carload came to my new gaff and we set about painting the town red.

What there was of it anyway...We braved the hideous weather and arrived at the Bird in Hand a bit soggy, and in need of a drink. Its not a bad pub, but it somewhere I don't frequent much, especially as I now live a way away now. I enjoyed it though, the audience were a little reserved but did seem to enjoy Jamie's act.

We then went on to Ego at the Southern Pride. The last time I went to Southern Pride, my friend fell off a table and we spent all night in casualty. Well the good news is that the table has gone, as had most of the people! There were only about 20 people in, and there were 6 of us. We made the best of it and I think a good night was had by all. It is a shame though to see a big space like that going to waste. Go to the Southern Pride everyone :-)

Sword mark of the red death

2008-03-13T02:08:00.000-07:00

I went to see the very popular Masque of the Red Death this week and after my initial uncertainties of wandering through dark corridors wearing a mask and not speaking I got quite into it.

They suggested losing your friends and although I was very reticent to do that in the beginning I soon wandered off. And got dragged off by various actors. Once to be force fed wine, have my face stroked and have a monologue delivered to me and another time to be threatened at sword point.

The "play" if you can call it that is really quite brilliant. As you come across different rooms you see different bits of the play. You are unlikely to see it all, and reading the programme afterwards I definitely missed bits. It is all about personal experience though and mine was fab. And the dancing and choreography, especially at the end was super.

I felt exhausted and elated afterwards. Do go if you get the chance.

Alternative panto

2008-03-04T03:21:00.000-08:00

I would like to congratulate my mate Jamie on his recent foray into the theatre world as Poppers in the annual Alternative Panto in Brighton. Sleeping Beauty and that little prick was wonderful. Although the site of Maisie (a slightly older lady) in swimwear and snogging Jason Prince was somewhat disturbing.

The Chicago scene was inspired and generally I laughed until I cried. We had a good night out following that and it was nice to catch up with everyone again. I can't wait to see what they come up with next year.

To stem the post holiday blues I am now planning a trip to San Francisco to see my sis in the Autumn, hopefully taking in San Diego and Santa Barbara that have both caught my eye. I also quite fancy the Russian River Women's Weekend.

There is also a cunning plan developing involving Vegas, Bette Midler and either and inappropriate car or a Priscilla style camper van.

Post holiday blues

2008-02-26T08:27:00.000-08:00

I have just had the holiday of a lifetime in SA and I am finding it too scarily easy to slip back in to main stream life.

I hoped the glow would last a little longer and the sense of well being would shine a little brighter. But hey-ho. That's life as they say and who am I to complain.

We started the trip in Benoni, and we apparently mirrored Celine Dion's tour with our own mini adventures. This caused me to utter the immortal phrase 'I'd rather be eaten by lions than go to a Celine Dion concert'.

The wedding the trip was planned around went very well and both bride and groom looked really happy and relaxed. We managed not to get too plastered and got up early for safari the next day.

Going on safari is easily the best thing I have ever done and I think everyone should try it. Rhino's at dawn was the best bit. And it all felt very Jurassic park, heading off in our 4x4 looking for adventure.

Our trip ended with 4 nights in Cape Town. A bustling city that it took me a while to get into after the quietness of the bush. It seems like a nice vibrant place and the coastline, table mountain and the botanical gardens are amazing. Not to mention seals and penguins.

I am deffo a wildlife freak on return from this trip. I am hoping to plan something fab for myself as soon as the old purse recovers, which may be some time.

Two good gigs

2008-02-06T06:21:00.000-08:00

For the last two weeks its been like a mini ATP renunion. The first week we went to see the wonderful Seasick Steve, who is enjoying quite a lot of fame these days. Apart from the fact I hate the Astoria with a passion, and that the media loveys in front of me were doing my head in, it was a good gig.

He is fab. And I really would like to adopt him as my grandad. KT Tunstall who turned up as well has gone up in my estimations. She couldn't really have gone much further down. Bland is a word I would have previously used to describe her. I think I may elevate her to mildly interesting.

All in all a good night made better by lovely food in the lovely first out and a visit to the new intrepid fox complete with psycho barman. Unfortunately it is now positioned in the place where the well loved Conservatory/Vespa used to be. I remember it fondly. Crap toilets en all.

The week after we reconveened to go and see Alexander Tucker and the Fuck Buttons at the ICA. It was very marvellous arty, experimental noise and we even bumped into someone we had randomly met at ATP 06. It was a good venue, just the right amount of arty people and the right amount of arty noise. A few glasses of red wine and I was well away. More of these please ATP, to tide us over until December.

One again its been a while

2008-01-21T02:47:00.000-08:00

Its been one thing after another Chez Helen. I seem to have been constantly ill, then my boiler broke and then I lost the will to live. But I'm back.

Despite displaying flu like symptoms and spending my birthday lying on the sofa I dragged myself off of it on the Sunday and hotfooted it down to Brighton for the HS christmas party (in January). This was a party full of drag queens - out of drag - and general hangers on like me.

There was some excellent entertainment from Sandra - who is so rude, in a good way. And some singing from various other people. Lady Imelda sticks in my mind most. He has a cracking voice and is an all round nice guy. My mate Jamie and his pal the Drag with No Name (Scott) were also fab.

We crawled home around 3/4 in the morning and the next day I had completely lost my voice. Not even a squeak. Too much singing along obviously.

The rest of the week was quiet, whilst I tried to recover. I had to text people to get someone to ring the boiler engineers when it broke down as I couldn't speak. It would have made an entertaining sitcom.

This weekend just gone I had a birthday party - I like birthdays to last at least 2 weeks - pudding and dessert wine was the theme and people really did make an effort. I now have a lovely selection of cheese, bread, fruit and some sweet stuff to last me the week.

Brighton Belles

2007-12-18T03:45:00.000-08:00

Had a great day out in Brighton on Sunday. My sis had bought us tickets to see the Kaiser Chiefs so we heading down there for the day.

After having a spot of lunch and hitting the shops we headed out with my friends to see some cabaret. One drag queen (the lovely Davina Sparkle), and two cabaret singers later (Jamie Watson and Jackie Kahn) we went to the gig.

I don't think my sis knew what had hit her as its not a scene she is used to but we had a whale of a time.

The gig itself was fab. Luckily they didn't leave all the good songs until the end because we had to leave a few minutes before for the train. They have boundless energy and passion and the lead singer was climbing over the stage as if possessed by some mischievous spirits.

Busy week

2007-12-15T03:10:00.000-08:00

Went off to see the Manic Street Preachers on Wednesday, via our favourite Brixton pub the Far Side. After bad days all round we got a bit tipsy which I think helped. The Manics were flawless and professional but I think ATP has ruined me a bit. There was no raw passion. It was more like a damp squib.

Afterwards we found a new pub down a side street, I couldn't tell you what it was called, but I could take you there! It was quite small, quite camp and definitely a good find. I do enjoy Brixton drinking. There is always something interesting going on.

Thursday I had my work Christmas do which was an opportunity to try out the food in the Dartmouth Arms. http://www.thedartmoutharms.com/. I wasn't disappointed as the food was lovely. A good time was had by all and I ended up asleep on the sofa watching re runs of neighbours! I was just tired honest.

Last night I went to the ballet to see the Snow Queen. Having once been in the Snow Queen play at school as the grandmother ( a very important part don't you know), I thought I would be clued up on what was going on. I am definitely losing brain cells as I was trying hard to remember the plot, and was a bit disturbed that I had always though Kay and Gerda were brother and sister, not lovers. Anyway it was lovely, although I was a little tired and enjoyed my hot chocolate on the train home far more than I should do at my age.

Today I'm off to town for the Frost Fair and the Louise Bourgeois exhibition
http://www.visitsouthwark.com/banksidefrostfair2007
http://www.tate.org.uk/modern/exhibitions/louisebourgeois/default.shtm
and then meeting friends for drinks.

Tomorrow I'm off to Brighton to see the Kasier Chiefs. Its all go...

ATP

2007-12-12T01:45:00.000-08:00

Had a fab time this weekend at ATP. We were a little worried when we got there that there weren't as many bands playing as before but it all turned out ok in the end.

We missed the first two bands we wanted to see which was a bit dissapointing but we checked out our chalets and they were better than last years so we were happy bunnies. A quick sloe gin later and we were off. Top bands of the weekend were Fuck buttons, Seasick Steve, Julian Cope and John Cooper Clarke.

I am still receiving councilling after seeing Jerry Sadowitz. Him wanking on stage made me glad to be a lezza and I was also glad I wasn't in the front row as he was very spitty. He also asked for no one to review his act. Many apologies Jerry.

Anyway back to reality. I can't wait to see who organises it next year. I am hoping for someone more upbeat (Julian Cope please step forward). I found Portishead to be a bit depressing in places.

I also hope Malakai are feeling better as the lead singer had man flu and his voice wasn't the best.

In a change of musical direction I am off to see the Manic Street Preachers tonight as my mate fancies the singer.

I'm back, and my house depression is over

2007-11-02T11:08:00.000-07:00

So it finally happened, after a month of living with the folks I am back online and back in my own house.

The new pad is ok. It needs a fair bit of work and the floorboard people haven't turned up today but I will get there.

Am going to pick paint for the living room tomorrow and then possibly carpet for the bedrooms. I will be a house bore for quite some time to come!

I be a zombie I be

2007-08-31T05:32:00.001-07:00

Well, maybe a zombie pirate. i am addicted to pirates on facebook at the moment. I just can't stop.

And I was a zombie the other day when I took part in the world record attempt at walking like a zombie. Sadly we didn't succeed as the record is currently at 884 and happened in Pittsburg. I think we got to about 400.

I am a stressed out bunny constantly at the mo. I still haven't exchanged contracts and my poor old nan is in hospital. Its not fun. But, it le weekend so am planning to chill out big time.

The glorious 80s

2007-08-26T08:59:00.000-07:00

We descended on Hastings last night to go to the 80s concert at Battle Abbey. I love the 80s. Our wigs and makeup bought back memories of ra ra skirts, grolsch tops in our shoes and luminous socks. In fact the wigs had me in near pant wetting hysteria and the night continued on that theme really.

We saw Toyah (always good), Carol Decker (bitchy as ever), Bananarama (Or banana, minus Siobhan), Nick Heyward (he should never try to be funny - he just isn't), Belinda Carlisle (beautiful but could have made more of an effect clothes wise. She looked like she was in her gardening outfit), and Midge Ure (he was loving it).

After the concert we went to a pub doing the best selection of the worst karoke ever, followed by a trip to the local Hastings nightclub KRASH! It really was like being in a car krash but we had a fab time. It has cheesy tunes and the dancefloor was practically our own. We managed to last till about 3.30 and then survived the kebab shop without getting in a fight.

We all looked like we had seen better days this morning. But hardcore as we are we went for a trip along the sea front, saw the castle and went on the funicular railway. A lovely weekend was had by all.

Any pork in a storm

2007-08-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

Whilst at the V festival this weekend we were left wondering why all picnic snack foods are pork based? After a frenzy of pork pies, scotch eggs, pepperami, sausage rolls and mini sausages we were suffering from pork overload.

Obviously we did not find the answer to this meaningful question over about 500 pints at the weekend but we did do lots of other things including walking 500 miles with the proclaimers and slagging off the Americans with Lily Allen.

The weather was terrible but we survived a serious drenching with the help of our wellies, emergency ponchos and offerings of pork based snacks to the sun gods.

These are the bands I saw:

The Proclaimers
Juliette and the Licks
The Thrills
The Fray
Baby Shambles
Paolo Nutini
Kanye West
Pink
Snow Patrol
Foo Fighters
Seth Lakeman
Lily Allen
Manic Street Preachers
Goo Goo Dolls
James Morrison
KT Tunstall
The Fratellis
The Killers

My faves were Juliette and the Licks, Lily Allen, Baby Shambles, Snow patrol, Seth Lakeman and the Manics.

Have come back to find out my buyer is going to pull out at the end of the week if we haven't exchanged. I am so bored with house buying!

Centreparcs are go

2007-08-16T12:37:00.001-07:00

Well, so much is going on at the moment.

As well as having big stress in the work and house buying worlds I have been away every weekend in Aug and its exhausting.

Went up North last weekend to meet up with my sis and my niece and nephew and went off to Centre Parcs. It was fab. But, archery, kayaking, swimming, nature walks and crazy golf all in one day for 4 days is a bit much. I did enjoy it massively though and the trip to the spa was well worth while on the Friday. We are already planning next years!

Yesterday was also hectic. I went to see Pink in the evening doing her V warm-up and it was fab. A small crush has turned into being a little bit in love with her. Enough to see her again Saturday anyway when I am at V...

Happy Pride

2007-08-06T09:31:00.000-07:00

Have just back back from another top Pride in Brighton. There was no rain on our parade and my look is now more white stripes than musicals.

The park was absolutely packed and I did have a bit of a sense of humour failure in the toilet queue for 30 mins in the baking heat with a very amourous couple in front of me. It was soon cured though by lots of beers and a bit of cabaret.

We pub crawled it back from the park and spent a few drunken hours at the street parties. As always we were done by about 11 as its such a long day so we staggered home via a takeaway.

Sunday was Jamie's day and we spent most of it in the R bar watching the cabaret after a nerve wracking 90 mins where the sound system didn't work. Poor Jamie was beginning to look really stressed but it got fixed and the show went on.

It was sad coming home today but it gives my liver a rest. Only 2 days of work and then a very different weekend at Centre parcs with my sis's family.

Pride photos:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=10736&l=30e93&id=611030754