Thursday 20 December 2012

Day 26- A Good "Sign" of the time!

“I have always thought it would be a blessing if each person could be blind and deaf for a few days during his early adult life. Darkness would make him appreciate sight; silence would teach him the joys of sound.” –{Helen Keller ~ Blind and Deaf American Author and Educator 1880-1968}

I chose this quote because the cast, crew, theatre staff and probably the audiences have experienced a few humbling shows this week past, and I thought special reference should be made to them.  On Friday passed we did a special "relaxed performance", where parents of children part of the autistic spectrum and similar learning difficulties, were catered too in a special one off showing.  What is a relaxed performance - well I'll list the main principals...

  • House lighting remains on at a low level.
  • Band and microphone levels reduced.
  • Sound & special effects are removed.
  • Actors coming down into the audience removed or frequency reduced.
  • A special chill out zone for all patrons.
  • Theatre doors left open and normal social rules "relaxed".
The aim of the theatre was to provide an atmosphere where, families who would normally avoid the theatre due to their anxieties, could gather and enjoy themselves knowing that they wouldn't be judged or frowned upon by other (perhaps) ignorant patrons.  The families had been sent out information packs the week before, so that parents could prepare their children for what was to come - these packs included pictures of the actors.

The feedback I have heard and seen seems fantastic and so many parents said that their children thoroughly enjoyed the show, and due to the set-up of the performance parents felt able to enjoy themselves too, without having to worry about their children.  They all seemed to enjoy the meet and greet at the end, where all the principals went front of house to say goodbye.  This gives them a closure to the show.  I'm not an expert on these matters, so I hope I haven't relayed of this information too erroneously, but it all seemed worthwhile and something that will be repeated annually.  Why has this not be thought of sooner and on a more widespread playing field?!  Hopefully plans are in action to rectify this!

Following this up we were joined on stage for the Tuesday evening performance by Anne McAllister, who gave a BSL signed performance.  She receives the script in advance so she knows what is coming.  Bless Anne, it's not an easy job - there's a lot to get through and it's sometimes quite quick.  I remember having some good banter with Anne the last time I was here, as she frantically relayed our tongue twister to the audience!  She's brilliant - and probably did it better than myself and Lloyd (2008/9's Wishee Washee).

I couldn't let her get away without a bit of a mention this year, so with "I am PC Pongo of the Old Peking Police force" came "And that ay easy to say in this authentic Chinese accent!  Hey Anne - how are you going to cope signing in a Brummie accent!"  It got a good laugh and more importantly a smile from Anne herself!  Good on her!

The highlight of the special guests for me was probably the veterans from Headley Court.  A soldier rehabilitation centre not far from here, where men & women, injured whilst on active service, can rebuild their lives.  We had people without arms and legs,  but lacking no spirit whatsoever!  They were an inspirational group of guys.  Royce stepped forward at the end of the show and made a short speech about them, their struggles and their successes to date, and congratulated them on how far they'd already come!  The audience were very receptive!

Down in the bar afterwards we met them all, and had a good chat about them and the show.  I moan and grumble when I get bruises from the mangle and here are these folks, beaming smiles, high spirits and full of the vigour of life, I imagine highly focused on the old adage "when you've stared death in the face..."  I think everyone left the bar both touched and uplifted, after signing programmes and taking pictures - although the chaps wanted far more pictures of Emma than they did any of the rest of us!!

Thank you to everyone at the Yvonne Arnaud who arranged for these choking yet inspirational and heart warming events!  I always feel good after a show - but this was on a different level!

Best wishes,
Pongo
X

Wednesday 19 December 2012

Day 24 - "Everyone's a critic!" - but not here (SO FAR!)

“The public is the only critic whose opinion is worth anything at all” {Mark Twain}

That I would argue is a fair comment - as long as the audience enjoys a show, why worry about the critics?!  As much as I agree however it's hard for a lot of (but not all) actors to dread reviews and take them to heart (or to their heads) when they finally get to read them! Personally I haven't been reviewed enough to have developed an aversion to them... I'm eager to read what has been said (if anything) about my performance.  Thankfully, so far, all of our reviews have been very positive and complimentary!!  I do hope I haven't jinxed anything there!!!

The legs and arms are still getting battered and bruised!!  I'm absolutely covered in them.. but as I keep saying if things get a laugh, each bruise seems worth it.  It'll probably look like I have tanned legs for months afterwards!

We've developed a little "false corpse" in the show now.  Things are starting to develop as we all settle into the show, and everyone is feeling more comfortable to ad-lib if required.  This particular false corpse though has been around in one form or another since rehearsal - in fact I spoke about it a couple of weeks ago.  Royce loves to take the mickey out of my accent, in particular at the top of Act II, the word "money" which apparently I say as "Munaaaaaay!"  The audience LOVE him ridiculing me and my "embarrassment" of being 'caught out'.  Obviously they believe it's happening for the first time - but we know the truth - and now so do you!

On Saturday, the rest of the cast decided to get in on the action.  Emma came in as Aladdin saying "Mom, I always said I'd come back rich with lots of 'munaaaaay!'" and PG added "Isn't it great having all this "munaaaaay PC Pongo!'"  So to keep it up... I changed my rhyming couplet at the end of the show to "We hope you liked our Pantomime and that you found us funny, for giving up your Saturday night and spending all your 'munaaaay!'"  which seemed to go down well!!!

After this little comic moment I headed off to the dressing rooms, undressing Aladdin and vice versa, as is our ritual - it's not what you may think from reading that statement... it's just that myself and Emma have beautiful costumes that are quite difficult get ones self out of!  Anyway... I carried on down the corridor and wondered "who's been in my room?!"  Dressing room door wide open!  The answer soon hit me, as I walked in and was greeted with "SURPRISE"  from The Jarvo!!  Sunday was Sandy's day off so she decided, very sneakily, to come down and surprise me!  And that she did!  I was so shocked I literally fell out of the dressing room!  Pure shock.  I hugged her, then pushed her away because I was "so sweaty", then pulled her back, and pushed her away again.  I was so taken a back, i didn't know what to do with myself!

So, I had a lovely evening... although not resting my voice as planned, catching up and chilling our with Sandy!  It was just the tonic for both of us - and had given us the drive to get through to Christmas day, without seeing each other!  Aaaaaaaah - Pongo's got a soppy side!

Best wishes!
Pongy!
X

Friday 14 December 2012

Do we actors put too much faith in this stuff?!



Day 21 - Pongo and his Magic LUMP!!

"The delights the ten thousand million delights of a pantomime." {Charles Dickens}

Hello readers... Pongo is back for a quick update from pantoland after another busy few days.  "Momma & Poppa Pongo" we're in on Saturday followed by a very tasty curry, so I had little chance for an update then and Sunday was the crew party night.  Mom and dad really enjoyed it, so that was good to hear... they're always very honest with me and wouldn't pander for the sake of it.

Come party night I'd already told people that I was going to have one or two and then head home - as so often happens though that one or two turned into seven or eight or more...!  It was a lovely evening... spent mostly chatting to Mr Barber, Jane my agent, Emma, Leighton and the third Jamie of the group (Mr Attle - costume designer).  I'd bedded down and claimed the Belvedier room as "the Quiet spot!"  where people could have a chat instead of the party music - I must be getting old!  but there was sense as well - saving ones voice!

The party ended up moving on - as it so often does to a certain agents house!  The wonderful Jane!!! She's looked after us all so often, with her seemingly endless supply of gin and wine!!  That's what happens when you're so popular and get given so many gifts!! I was up quite late to say the least and ended up spending most of my day off in bed... SLEEPING!!  The sleep that I have been so desperately craving!!!  This snoozing was broken by a delicious steak dinner at the D&P, a quick Skype to "The Jarvo", a soak for my bruised and battered bones and then.... back to sleep!  What a day off!!!

So, I was all well, rested and bursting with energy for press night, which unfortunately did see a couple of extra cuts come my way.  It was a big shame to lose mine and PG's slapstick business with the axe BUT "that's showbiz!" and ultimately the cuts are only made to improve the pace of the show.  I think a little grieving from me and PG and the moment will soon pass!  It's a pitty you don't get "theatre extras" like you do on a DVD!  Maybe we'll set up a private viewing for anyone interested!  (I jest!)

My arnicare rubbing skills have developed enormously the past couple of days... bumps, bruises and lumps seem to be popping up from no where - it does mean I can justify having a bath every night to "soak away the pains!"

The feedback from press night has been great and the reviews will hopefully follow soon... positive if possible please Mr Critic!!  Apologies for the "Diary" delays... but I seem to be some kind of Internet curse as I've had no connection at the theatre or at home since the weekend!  Hopefully we're back on track!
Pongo
x

Saturday 8 December 2012

Opening night whistle and flute!

Sharp as a button for Madame Mayor, who gave a brilliant speech pre show. Short, sweet, funny and relevant! Best mayoral speech I think I've heard!

Pongo meets "Oliver!"



Panto Pants!



Day 16 - We have lift off (on a magic carpet!)

"The Roar of the Greasepaint, the smell of the crowd!" {Musical title from 1965}

Dear readers never fear Pongo and his diaries have returned after a short hiatus. many apologies for this but as you can imagine it's been a very busy week and in turn very tiring. Every night this week I've trundled home and gone straight to bed without penning a few words - but don't worry - we're back!!

So what have you been missing?! Well let me give you a run down.

Wednesday saw us finishing the tech. it was a long old day but nice to know we finally had everything set. The problems with our mangled mangle were fixed as suggested by our wonderful crew and all the timings for the quick changes and slosh recoveries have been figured out. It was all starting to take real shape by this point.

Come Thursday we were ready for our two dress rehearsals. After working a couple of moments Gerry had issue with, got into costume make up and started the first dress, which Brian of Fox Photography was capturing on film for us. I can't wait to see the shots - Brian tends to get some fantastic show shots!! Hopefully there'll be a few to use on Jamiebrook.co.uk - WHAT?!?! You haven't visited the website.... I think you should.....! the first dress had a couple of problems, more to do with pace and keeping the story prominent.

I somehow managed to swallow a massive gob of shaving foam in the slosh scene. i couldn't believe it, I took a massive gasp and inhaled said gob, prompting much gagging and spluttering mid scene. Funnily enough the exact same thing happened the last time I was here. Believe me it's not a nice feeling having foam down your windpipe!

I personally thought the second dress was a lot better, and I managed to get through without swallowing any more foam.  Thankfully, although a little raw from all the coughing, my voice held out… it was home to rest with a bit of a steam and a healthy dose of port & brandy!! Purely medicinal of course! The nerves were starting to really kick in by this point though… we’ve had this stuff down for so long now – without an audience, we tend to forget if we’re funny or not.  There is of course a sure fire way of judging your funniness – the imminent opening show audience!

In they spilled on Friday, our first 14:30 show – minus Abanazer!  Kit was off doing his annual comedy gig for Prince Charles with comedy legends such as Ronnie Corbett & Jimmy Tarbuck to name but two!  I would have loved to have seen the show – unfortunately it’s an invited audience and more importantly – I had my own show to be getting on with!!!

It went ok I think.  Very quiet audience and there were still a couple of points that seemed to have stickiness to them, but we got through the first one and got the much needed laughter.  For Pongo I don’t think the audience warmed to him as I’d have hoped, so made a couple of self-imposed notes to try and win them over quicker!  Thankfully for the opening night performance – in front of the Lady Mayor of Guildford – I felt a little nicer!!  Although there was a comment or two that I was a bit nasty and vicious with my truncheon to start with!

We had a lovely moment, where Joe reacted to a bash on the head a little late.
“That was a bit delayed!” I said getting a nice titter.  If things like that are happening in show two – it’s a good sign that we’ll be having a few laughs with each other as we settle in and develop the show.

Afterwards, I jumped into my whistle and flute, for the function, laid on by the Arnaud management.  I was greeted by some old faces from my ushering days, who were eager to know if I remembered them.  Such a warming feeling to be remembered back! The annual crew party has been postponed to Sunday night instead this year (the night before our day off) so we all tootled over to the Brit for a little gathering!  Such fun was had by all – especially with the relief of finally being OPEN!!!

Best wishes and "We'll see you on the Green!"
PONGO
X

Wednesday 5 December 2012

The Panto Tree



Day 13 - Technically Technical Technicalities.

"And on the first day the lord said. . . . . .LX1, GO! and there was light." {Dan Mills}

So... Tuesday was the start of the technical rehearsal.  Here's where we finally get the chance to work with all the props, our costumes and of course the set - which in one of my scenes is VERY important.  A lot of actors don't like the tech, saying it's tedious and boring - I  for some reason love it.  I think what these actors forget is that it's not their rehearsal.  We've had two weeks to practice our bits, for the crew this is their first crack of the whip, so surely they can be forgiven nedding to go over things a couple of times, after all it's only going to make the cast look better!

My first job of the day was to settle in to my dressing room!  I'd collected my decorations from my parents a few weeks ago, which have been sitting patiently in my bedroom waiting to be freed!  Now - they have been!  I parked by the dock doors and off loaded thirty odd bottles of water, some food, fruit & goodies and most importantly... thirty-two heavenly little cans of GINGER BEER!!!!  I'm now ready for whatever panto throws at me!

So Panto Christmas tree, deco's and tinsel all up, with a nice mince pie and a wee dram (of sherry) just to toast the start of my Christmas.... I do this with my parents at home.  Now onto the rest of my dressing room.  Different actors have different rituals and routines they follow when they get into their dressing rooms - I'll explain mine...

First and foremost for me is my little "teabreak" set up.  I always have my own mug, (this year supplied by the wonderful folk at the D&P) teas and coffee and my little travel kettle - which boils just enough for one.  But never fear - should I have a guest... i have smaller cups!  Then on to my Make-up.  Then come the laptop, set up and ready with itunes, internet and Spotify, for a little music or research. 
I have to have a box of tissues and wipes, and my heavy duty make-up box to hand, when I apply it I'll sort out what I need for this particular show and leave that out - nice and neatly, because I'm a little O.C.D with things like that.  Then I have my towels... need a couple of those... nice and soft for wiping my 'boat race' when taking the make-up off.  There's my mini Boots chemist (other good pharmacies available) with my Vitamin C, cod liver, multi vits, Echinacea, Propolis, smelling salts,  lip balm and tiger balm - with a spare head pack available in case of any aches in the lumber region and finally my trusty Arnicare.  Reading it back I realise how camp that all sounds - but it's best to be prepared. 

Once all my bits and bobs are out, then it's time for photos and cards etc, just to make it a little more homely.  The script is always to hand, just in case (especially as I'm having to learn understudy lines) as is my inhaler just as a relief for a sudden "wheeeeze!"  We move to the sink; mouthwash, aftershave, hair stuff, deodorant, hand soap and shaving apparel.  "One has to be smelling sweet for my public Darlings!" Talking of sweet smells, there's a nice candle to improve the sweaty aroma and for down times, my journal (handwritten this time) and my book!  And finally... as it's crimbo, a bowl of sweets for guests and a stack of Christmas cards... yet to be scribbled on.  So there we have it... five minutes to read how I tart up my dressing room!  What a Queen!

Eventually after getting fitted up with my mic pack by the leg-end that is Christoff Tindalson... we do a quick sound check and prepare to begin.  It went well last night.. and we managed to get up to Act 1 Scene 3; stopping when the set that I have to "go through" decided to malfunction.  To but it bluntly I "mangled the mangle!"  No doubt our fabulous crew will have a solution sorted come morning.

After all that it was home, to steam and chill out before early doors!  Long day today = tired Pongo!  And it's going to be even longer tomorrow!

Night all
Pongo!

Our wonderful ensemble & band "sitz probing!"



Days 11 & 12 - "I'll be HOME for Christmas!"

"The ornament of a house is the friends who frequent it.”  {Ralph Waldo Emerson}

Hello dear readers... numbers are on the up, so I'm obviously reaching an audience somewhere.  It's very flattering that people are returning to read my blog, so please do spread the word and get all your friends to have a butchers!  Combining two days into one here, as I've been off enjoying myself over the weekend, minus the laptop. Starting with Saturday...

...which was the day we’ve all been waiting for… and at the same time dreading.  The producers run!  I was looking forward to it, as it was the first time we ran the show from start to finish, which again is a good indication (even without all the props and effects) of what state our little baby is in.  For the same reason therefore you fear it a little.  What are they going to think? Why aren’t they laughing at this bit?  What DID they laugh at that bit?!  The end result of course is that everyone is always very kind with their thoughts.   Absolutely fantastic to catch up with some of the Arnaud crew, who were present AND…. Mr Nick White, who paid us a visit after moving on to the new St James’.
 I think we all knew there were gaps in the show and a few moments where the “ball was dropped” for whatever reason.  This run through gave Gerry and Jamie (Barber) the chance to access what should “go”.  We were running massively overtime as predicted, so I wasn’t surprised to receive an e-mail on Sunday night with a couple of snips.  Nobody likes cuts, especially if it’s a section or line you’re fond of, but they are unfortunately inevitable.  I have been lucky so far, but expect further cuts may follow by opening night. 

The early finish meant I was free to quickly pop into town and pick up my swanky new suit for opening night!! 
“Who’s that sexy beast of a man?!”
“It’s….. It’s…… IT’S PC PONGO!” or at least this is the response I’m imagining/hoping for!  I somehow doubt I’ll be getting it!
Then for me it was the long drive up to my Homelands, to see Sandy.  It was great to spend some time with her and my parents.  A couple of vinos and the “Celebrity final” were a wonderful way to relax before the mayhem of tech week begins!  It also gave me the chance to see Sandy in her panto – and she was fantastic!!

Monday saw us in the Methodist Church – our homely rehearsal room for the last time.  We did another run to work the bits that needed working and put into practice the suggested cuts.  We’ve had to lose a number in Act one, so unfortunately the audience won’t get the chance to see the wonderful Royce giving us his Dolly Parton and singing “9 to 5”.  It was a very entertaining number, so it’s a shame you won’t get to see it… the idea’s there for future shows though!  I show felt a lot smoother with the cuts – it just flowed better.
After lunch we went through all the Abanazer scenes for Gerry.  Kit is otherwise engaged for a special Royal gig on our opening performance, and Gerry has the task of filling the boots, so to speak.  Gerry, ever the pro already knows all the words – so it didn’t take long.

Eventually it was time to move into our “home” for the next 6 weeks, and my “home from home” theatre – the YVONNE ARNAUD!!!!!  I’ve been put into dressing room 7, this time around – my lucky number, and on arrival found a lovely gift and card from Mr Barber.  Now this is how thoughtful the folk at the Arnaud are and how well they know me… instead of the usual bottle of wine welcome… I had two giant bottles of ginger beer!!  “WHAT?!?!  No booze!”  I hear you cry…?!?!  Well it’s a bit of an in joke, but 4 years ago, myself, PG and Lloyd Hollett found ourselves in the daily ritual of a pre-interval ginger beer gathering…. And so the Ginger Beer club was born! 
Final part of the day was the Sitzprobe, which for anyone not ion the know, is  German phrase meaning “Seated rehearsal” – where everyone gets to sing with and hear the band for the first time.  It was a great atmosphere in the Circle Bar, where we held it and it was joyous to finally hear all the arrangements! Well done to Anthony and the band!

So, we’re in, we’re settling and we’re ready for it…. So BRING ON THE TECH!
Best Wishes,
Pongo X

Friday 30 November 2012

Day 10 - "Aladdin: Im a real boy....!"

Friday has come around again ladies and jellyspoons, and today, as a special weekends treat, you get two entries for the price of one… continuing with this one from Day 10….!

"The best things in life are silly!" {Scott Adams ~ Dilbert}

Another early morning today, made more entertaining by shared looks and digs relating to last nights revelations!

Straight into things with “12 Days” to get us all nice and sweaty at 10 in the morning, first time around with understudy Adam, as PG was “slacking off” again.   Thankfully I’ve brought a spare shirt… I may be Pongo by name, but I’d prefer not to be Pongo by nature!  The scene’s very manic and can only get more exciting once all the props, custard pies and an audience are added!  I think this is going to be a crowd pleaser, beyond what has been experienced in previous versions!  But if you’re reading this and thinking “Oh no… I’m not going if I’m going to get soaked!”  never fear… we have a very sensible cast this year, who will merely tease you with a sprinkle of water as opposed to drowning you!  WE HAVE BEEN WARNED!
Today followed the same format as yesterday, working through the scenes and working where necessary.  Act 2 had received a little less work than the first, BUT, does contain certain set pieces that came together very quickly without much rehearsal, such as Guildford’s beloved Ghost gag.  We had the debate today about whether we liked the gag or not… I think myself and PG were the only two that were…  such a shame I’m not in it this year… but it just isn’t possible.  If everyone was crammed into the scene, it would probably resemble a subs bench!  Overall I think we all found today very beneficial, for our own clarity and peace of mind.  We all seemed a bit more focused on the job at hand today – I do hope Gerry wouldn’t disagree! 

Now despite the hard work today was also the bringer of surprises!!  Lucy (our Jasmine) getting the biggest of all whilst rehearsing the garden scene with Emma.  Emma has the joy of humping Aladdin’s lamp around with her for a sizeable chunk of the second act, for the purposes of plot… the story would be over pretty quick;y if Abanazer got his mitts on it!!  So, to make it easier for Emma, the lamp will be attached, by some means, to her belt, meaning her hands are free and the lamp doesn’t become a hindrance.  Now our lamp isn’t small… so imagine if you will the look on Lucy’s face when she was whisked up into Emma’s arm only to find something reminiscent of an “appendage” pressing into the groinal area!  It was of course the lamp… but Emma very quick wittedly called out “I think I’ve found my manhood!” adding “Tell me that’s not going in the blog!” and indeed it has….  Talk about having that “little extra something…!”
We then set about a run through of the act, again stopping where Gerry thought necessary.  He also spent much of the afternoon session brushing up the final scene – which isn’t an easy job, as it’s a lengthy scene and has lots of action, excitement and a couple of upsets in it!  For example the male principals share a lovely skit at the start of the scene which involves a lot of whispering and a few “bumps in the night”.  We’d marked it all out earlier in the week, but it really got took up a notch today… it’s a lot tighter, and as a result I believe much funnier; another example of Gerry “seeing the whole picture” and altering things to suit!

We’ve also started making a few cuts this afternoon.  It’s a shame to lose anything, as no one wants to lose lines or stage time, but it is a bit of an “In joke” at the Arnaud that we have to make cuts before opening.  Better to have too much and lose some quality than have to bulk out with drivel!  As a result we’ve lost a lovely bit of business, dumping Kit into a chest and us all sitting on it, but we agreed as a cast with Gerry that something needed to go, to make the final moments less wordy.  I hope everyone was happy with the result, they seemed it and the scene now seems a lot slicker and, as a result, pacey and inevitably more exciting!  I think we managed to achieve this without the loss of any humour or shortcuts when it comes to the plot.
We have a full run through tomorrow for the theatre producers and the crew, so… first opportunity to see how things lie with an audience!  Will what has been making us laugh, transfer to a fresh audience?!  I have no doubt it will!  So tune in tomorrow for a full report!

For now though… Pongo’s off to watch a bit of Ant & Dec!
Night all
PongoX

Post Script: As it’s “Follow Friday” on twitter, I’d like to introduce you to all of the ensemble I’ve been talking about! Enjoy reading about panto? Then why not follow them too!
Amy Reader @amyreaderr                             Sarah Louise Jones @sarahloujones1
James McArthur @jamesCmcarthur             Ben Gillett @bengillett94
Charley Maclaren @ Cherleynicola7              Lydia Bannister @Lydiabannister
George Hankers @iamGRH                            Adam Haigh @adamhaighltd

Day 9 - "TGI's" The Gang Initiations

Friday has come around again ladies and jellyspoons, and today, as a special weekends treat, you get two entries for the price of one… starting with this one from Day 9….

Yeah, I love doing ensemble pieces. You get to meet so many new people and make new friends. {Devon Sawa}

Today has been a very looooooong day!!  All the principals were in at 10 to work through Act one, which, although it ended up taking longer than expected, did prove to be very useful.  We walked through the act slowly, picking up any bits that needed clarifying or cleaning up with Gerry, which continued into the afternoon after lunch, and then did a full run of the act, with all the songs and dances before the Juves arrived.  The run was worth the hard work of the morning, getting to see the act as a whole.  It highlights the sticky points, which inevitably are present – but at least Gerry now knows what needs work, and we have plenty of time before we open.  There are some things though that we won’t be able to work on properly until we’re in the space and working with the set and props.  The laundry scene for example, lacks the pace and timing it requires at the moment because we have no choice but to mark it through.  I can’t wait to practice with the mangle!!!  
We had a surprise visit from Jamie Barber yesterday afternoon, who popped in to say “hello” and check on how things are progressing.  He even turned his hand to making me and Royce a cuppa… “forget our pay boss” I thought… the world’s alright as long as there tea, coffee and preferably an ample supply of biscuits.
The evening session, with the babes was spent completing the finale number and practising it a few times.  It’s so much fun – I can hardly believe that I’m enjoying DANCING!!!  What has happened to me?!  In all seriousness, the reason I can enjoy it is because of Jill’s choreography.  She knows (from my GSA days) that I’m not a superb dancer, but she really makes me feel at ease, she laughs with me rather than at me, and is always on hand to help and go through things, if she can see I’m struggling.  I don’t know how they do it (Gerry & Jill), they work so well together!!  The pieces are so well put together, very entertaining and everybody gets featured.  Jill is also an expert at dealing with the babes; I can imagine it’s hard not to patronise when teaching children, but she doesn’t and she gets so much out of them in such a short space of time!
Despite all the fun and laughter we’ve been having, I think everyone was feeling it yesterday; coming towards the end of the second week, a busy tech week ahead of us and with other things going on for people such as radio shows, auditions and families etc, you could tell that we were feeling tired.  What better way to chill out then, than to go for a company shindig – or… dinner at TGI’s!  Myself, Joe and Lucy along with all the ensemble (minus James who wasn’t feeling well) went for a bit of grub and then on for a drink or two.  I really enjoyed myself, and as I predicted, it was a perfect way to get to know “the gang”.  We were sharing some funny stories, after Amy instigated “never have I ever”…. which I couldn’t possibly repeat for fear of offending or embarrassing; Suffice to say I’ll be looking at certain people in a different light today!  I’m already looking forward to the next time – and I can see the Brit is definitely going to do a booming trade when we get into the theatre! Hic!
I mentioned this a couple of days ago, but I’ll repeat, how pleasant it is to have such a comfortable atmosphere with good banter amongst the cast.  Things can be a tad awkward and unsettling if people don’t get on and mingle with each other… a separation between, ensemble, principals and crew is the last thing you want;  after all “we’re all in it together!”  Thankfully that is not the case here, and there’s no diva-ishness and snobbery.  [Lifts head from screen and shouts…. “Gordon get me a coffee!!!!”]

On that note, I’ll bid you farewell and see you shortly on “DAY 10” – go on…. You know you want to!
Pongo
X

Aladdin's Mug....!



Thursday 29 November 2012

Day 8 - The start of the end!

There is a bit of insanity in dancing that does everybody a great deal of good. {Edwin Denby}

Good evening dear readers.  Another day done and another day closer to opening night [Cue song from "The Producers"]!  Just  a short one today as we didn't do too much script work today.  Gerry concentrated more on the blocking of the musical numbers, whilst the actors not involved, had a chance for a cuppa or two and go over lines etc.  I managed to sneak in a quick crossword.... just to keep the grey matter alive!

The other benefit of not being involved with these songs is... we get to watch!  Emma, Susie and our wonderful ensemble were working on the closing of Act 1 and it was amazing watching Gerry and Jill put it all together and seeing it all slot into place!  Emma and Susie looked like they were really enjoying it as well - although only they know whether this is true or not...!

The spectating didn't last for long though... tonight we started to set the finale number - which is my one and only dance set.  Now, I have no shame in saying that my dance moves leave much to be desired.  "Fairy on a gob of lard" does not do my skills justice... I'm more like a blindfolded Bambi on ice!  So you can imagine my surprise and adulation when I seemed to pick up the moves.  The ensemble would probably have something to say on the contrary - but for me.... it was a good start!

Took some funny pictures during the day for display on Twitter, including one of PG in some funky looking yellow jogging bottoms!!  You wouldn't have missed him today if you tried!  But fair to say, he pulls them off better than I ever could!  Whilst on the topic of PG, I forgot to mention a classic moment from yesterday...  We were having a run through with all the principals in the downstairs room.  Me and PG walked on for the start of our scene, when he turns upstage and starts  delivering the dialogue, back to the "audience" or in this case the director and the rest of the cast!  Cue laughter from the rest of us and many digs about "why he's on radio" - he took the stick gracefully!

Off to TGI's with the ensemble & Joe for tea tomorrow... apparently we're wearing "flats and lipstick!" - I may struggle with the flats!  I'm looking forward to that, they seem a great bunch and it'll be good to get to know them all better!  There's already been plenty of twitter banter flying around!

Early one tomorrow unfortunately as we're running through the whole show and working where required... so to avoid the God awful Guildford traffic I've got to be up at a ridiculous hour, so for now...

Night night!
Pongo
X



Tuesday 27 November 2012

PG bashed me up a bit today!!! Here's the proof!


Day 7 - Rubbing rings and giant lamps and an abundance of boxes!!

Our show proves that some pretty incredible things can happen when people come together. {Ty Pennington}

The second act is blocked folks!!!  We're nearly there... with plenty of time left to tighten things up and improve any bits that may feel a bit sticky.  It feels so nice to be at this stage with 4 days of rehearsals left to go.... but I can't wait to get into the theatre and be reunited with the theatre staff and crew!!!

First thing this morning - after sitting for an hour in traffic again, we brushed up the loose ends from yesterdays work.  Gerry had rethought a section of one scene, so that Pongo was involved a little bit more, as he's present but not speaking, so that was very much appreciated and of course reassuring - Gerry looks at things as a whole and will change them if the bigger picture doesn't work.  You'll very often hear him talking about things "reading" right and the best trait of his direction.... the plot.  So many panto's nowadays, simply get a z-list celebrity from 1984 on the bill, cram loads of naff jokes in and do away with the story... not Gerry!  That's the most important thing to him, and he's right - kids aren't interested in reeling off their set list - they want to see the princess progress and marry her Prince (etc).

Royce was on form again this morning.. having everyone in stitches with his reactions and ad libs.  We have one scene together where he mocks my accent, and I don't think I've managed to get my words out yet without corpsing.  He very sweetly asked if I was ok with him taking the mickey - of course, I am, I quite enjoy it when it's done in good humour, in fact most of the crew at the Arnaud shout "alroooit Jaaamaay!" whenever they see me - so I'm used to it!  Either way it was very nice to be asked.

To the non actors out there corpsing is the term used for when an actor breaks his/her character and laughs on stage.  Thankfully in panto, the taboo of corpsing isn't as frowned upon by people as it may be if you we're doing Chekhov, say!  In panto land it can actually add to the experience for the audience, as I have mentioned previously.

Lunchtime came and we enjoyed a very amusing game with the ensemble and Anthony (MD) where one of us would call out a musical and people had to sing a line from that show.  in the end it turned into a challenge to find a musical that Joe didn't know!  He's got a very good muso knowledge.

I also had a couple of lovely chats with Gerry, Royce and Susie today, starting off on the topic of Mrs Brown's Boys... a favourite of us all.  They soon went off on a tangent about theatre folk of old and sharing stories of previous jobs, but it didn't matter I love to listen to this - I find it so interesting.  My good friends Jeff, Dawn and Jamie also have this wealth of knowledge, simply from occupying the world of theatre on a day to day basis, and I always look forward to hearing anecdotes.   Jamie sometimes references sitcoms of the seventies etc, with the post script "but that's before your time"  and I quickly have to remind him I'm an eighty year old man in a twenty six year old's body and know exactly what he's talking about!  (Mostly!)   They have such a wealth of knowledge, I can only hope I'll be lucky enough to have gained that knowledge in the future.  Susie was sharing stories from her "Wicked" days and Gerry and Jill we're telling me about forgotten panto's... I think a revival may be in order.

No slapstick today - we were given a break.  I was quite relieved because I've started to ache from my stint at the gym on Sunday.  Wimp!  instead we did a bit of singing and worked on the finale song... You are going to love it Guildford!!!  Absolutely love it!  Put it this way... the song we are doing is one of 2012's biggest hits and although I loathe the original, the lyric change Gerry has orchestrated is phenomenally funny, and the dance which we are learning tomorrow, I have no doubt will be likewise!

I drove past the Arnaud today to go and see the huge lamp that has been installed for myself; it looks brilliant on the roof between the Christmas trees.  Rumour has it that it smokes - so I can't wait to see that!

I wish I had counted how many times we have all said "Rub the ring" "Rub it" [in regards to the lamp] and heard "put him/her in the box".  We seem to have boxes coming out of our earholes today, so it caused much amusement for the actors.  And the ring rubbing innuendo never fails to amuse, especially with myself and Kit.

Righto, I promised myself I was having an early one tonight to try and catch up with my sleep, so I'll sign off for now before going to learn some more lines.  I've got Pongo sorted so now it's time to move onto the understudying - but that's a whole different blog!

God Bless,
Pongo!

P.S.  In my haste to get into the bath I forgot to mention the beating I suffered at the hands of one Mr Peter Gordon today.  We'd discussed, a little tap or brush off in one of our scenes to just try and help a gag land better.  When we did it however , PG fancied himself as the next David Haye and smacked me on the chest!  I shall be claiming for damages, and as a policeman, I will be filling my own report!

Monday 26 November 2012

Day 6 - Slapsticking and stick-slapping!

"Whenever you fall, pick something up"  {Oswald Theodore Avery}

Are we all well rested after the weekend?!  I certainly am... a little too much perhaps.  I've had a weekend of watching Norman Wisdom films and the old ITV pantomimes... "it's all research Darling!"  Also threw a bit of reading from Bob Monkhouses "unpublished articles" to top up the one-liner bank!  Other than that all I seemed to have done is eat and drink, mugs of tea - one after another!!  That's the only problem when I'm home alone with nothing to do... I get bored and end up just waiting for the next meal or cuppa!  I think of should have tea and coffee on intravenous drip.

Saying that I did manage to get some stuff done on the Internet and go to the gym; a funny thing to do on a Sunday evening, but I'm very glad I went... turns out I've hit my magic target weight of 12 stone and a BMI of 24.8 - that's quite an odd thing for a bloke to get excited about - but considering I used to be 15 stone it feels like quite an achievement AND... with sixty odd manic panto shows coming up, hopefully it'll continue to drop off... unless those mince pies and Eggnog lattes prove to tempting, too often!

Today was the day I've been looking forward too!!  It's back folks - The "Twelve Days of Christmas" is back by popular demand.  if you haven't seen the skit before: a) where have you been and b) you're in for a treat - it's a panto classic and very funny.  If you have seen it before (maybe even in Guildford as recent as last year) FEAR NOT.... we've played around with it, so it's something new and exciting for everyone!   I was a little worried to start with, I don't mind admitting, because we haven't followed the usual format.  However... there's so much slapstick and mayhem in such a short period of time the audience should be howling!  Being the stooge I spend most of my time on the floor, being sloshed or picking stuff up off the floor!  Plus we have an additional large prop within the scene which will add to the mayhem, especially for Joe Allen.  PG will be losing even more weight over the run, judging by how much we were all sweating this afternoon (there'll be nothing left of him at this rate) and I will be paying a few visits down to the stalls - so if I zip past you... do say "Hello!"

Slosh is the theatrical term used for the "messy scene" which features in most but not all pantomimes.  It means to spill or splash.  The most known slosh scenes include, in the kitchen (Cinderella), The dairy (Jack & the Beanstalk), a bathroom or something like the 12 Days.  other examples include dummy (filled) hats and custard wellies. 

So that's the slapsticking but what about the stick slapping?  Well we ran the first few scenes with the babes today to incorporate them into the action and believe me Pongo doesn't hold back with his truncheon!!  There's poking and head bopping in at every opportunity and then some!  Gerry's even created a nice little first entrance for me using the ensemble girls!  I've no doubt the opening scene will develop even more before we open as it's so free.  It's a fun scene!

I got to see my glorious walkdown costume for the first time today!  My God Jamie Attle, is a genius.  All of the costumes for the show look amazing, so vibrant and striking.  the stage is going to be awash with colour.  The poor guy was up at 5:30 today working on bits and bobs, which is unsurprising, considering how much he does.  I think virtually everything is made by hand, give or take the odd helmet or wig - I don't know how he does it!  If you're coming please take a moment to appreciate the brilliant costumes!!

I did my first "Panto Plank" today - a twitter craze from "Panto_Day", an online organisation attempting to promote pantomime and create a community for performers, crew and panto panto lovers alike!  I can't believe I hadn't found this sooner - I've ordered my T-shirt and some badges, so do take a look at www.celebratepanto.co.uk and support them in anyway you can!!it's such a brilliant idea and proves not just how popular Pantomime still is  but also the sense of community and belonging it can rouse; people from all the rival production companies and theatres, united for the main cause, promoting panto! PANTO DAY = WED 5th DEC!

Right I'll leave you with my first plank photo and for now sign off.  A cuppa and my bed are calling!
Night all!
PONGO X




Saturday 24 November 2012

Happy Birthday to our "Title Protagonist" from The Pongo Diaries!


Day 5 - The rule of three... Adorable Genie, Cheeky Emperor & Hilarious Villain!

"What is that unforgettable line?" {Samuel Beckett}

Hooray readers... the weekend has arrived... the perfect opportunity for you to catch up with reading the days of the blog you may have missed!  I am not called tomorrow as it's a dance call with the juves, so I too have the weekend off and will be catching up with "the lads" from Brownhills (my home town) - for a very untheatrical weekend.  Tomorrow is also our "title protagonists" birthday!!  So Happy Birthday Emma!!!  Hope you have a good one!!

Lets start tonight with a quick run down of last nights festivities at the Guildford light switch on.  It was great meeting "old friends, new friends and the girlfriend" for a drink or two and a catch up, I won't list everyone for sack of timing.  I sampled the mulled wine and German sausages available on the High Street - as I thought only polite to do so!  We had a cracking view of the town hall balcony, standing just by the Tunsgate arches.  We we're all cheering for the panto cast, including PG, Emma, Susie & Kit.  I was apparently very bashful when I got a mention and the others started cheering... "oh you guys!" Sandy couldn't stay with us all night unfortunately as she had to get back to pack... off to my homeland for her panto today.. so break a leg Jarvo!

It was a great turnout, despite the horrid weather and great PR for the panto!  Having PG on board is great for the show and the theatre as it gets more airtime than the other local pantomimes because of his personal connection.  PG is very good at what he does I have to say... not only on the radio but with people in general - he kept the crowds entertained for two hours yesterday - a personal highlight being the mascot that tried to upstage him: nearly succeeding.  He was also "busking for the trust" at lunchtime, so not only entertaining but doing good for local charities too!  Although... I think Gerry may have told him he needs some singing practice for his number with Royce!!

Today was spent going over sections of Act 1 and then doing a run through to see what stage we were at with it.  It was so enjoyable to see it coming together and to see/hear sections afresh.  The number between Kit & Susie sounds even better and the choreograph that goes with it is hilarious!  More ensemble numbers were also a nice surprise!  We've been really lucky with the ensemble this year, they are fantastic and they seem like a lovely bunch, so I'm looking forward to getting to know them all better over the run.

Emma and I had tears rolling down our cheeks this afternoon, talking to Kit.  He's so naughty but so funny.  I think he must have a "BA Hons in Unendo".  He has a such a wonderful voice too - very silky tones!  If you're not familiar with Kit & the Widow... look them up on YouTube and search for the Swansong!!  It's beautiful!  I can see already that we're going to have some fun with Kit over the coming months - I suspect mischief!  What i love even more about him is that he has converted the back of his transit van into mini theatrical digs!  So if you see a big van around Guildford over Christmas with strange sounds coming out of it, don't worry!!!  It'll just be Kit doing a warming up pre-performance!

I'm also looking forward to getting to know Susie better - she is such a sweetheart and has a wealth of experience!  She's also in or has been in two of my favourite programmes, Coronation St & Mrs Browns Boy's, which she's in again over the Christmas period for the specials and then the new series in 2013.  She's seems a very calm person when she's sitting around the rehearsal room or chatting to you, but then as soon as she's on stage - 'switch on' and out comes all this energy.  She's naturally funny and very giving to the other actors; she'll hiss & boo and call out when other people are doing scenes.  I think the children will love her and warm to her instantly!

There are some rehearsal shots that were taken this afternoon on the Yvonne Arnaud Facebook page... so do pop over and have a look!  And.. when you're there, why not follow them on Twitter too!!!  Their twitter account is brilliant and very active!  It's not just boring advertising like other theatres can fall into.

Right folks, enjoy your weekend and I'll see you again on Monday when we move onto Act 2!  I'm so excited to see what Gerry has in stall for us!!!

Best Wishes,
Pongo
X

Wednesday 21 November 2012

Day 3 - Pongo The Mug!!

"Acting is all about honesty. If you can fake that, you've got it made." {George Burns}

Hi-de-hi readers - Most important news out of the way first.... only 34 sleep until Christmas, so if you haven't already started buying your gifts, don't forget the big light switch on in Guildford tomorrow night, which signals the start of late night shopping every Thursday!!!

Not a great start to the day for me today... Took an hour to get from Brook to Guildford - which let me assure you is a very boring journey to be crawling along, especially when it's making you late!  My spirits were soon lifted however upon reaching the rehearsal room and seeing what the ensemble have done with the opening number.  It looks fantastic and it's only day three.

Royce was back to day and he was on fire!  He's had us all in tears again today.  He, Emma, Joe, Kit and myself were rehearsing the laundry scene, which has some beautifully funny business for all involved - especially me, as I come a cropper with the equipment - I'm hoping it will be one of the memorable scenes and probably one of the children's favourites. 

The highlight of the day for me was Kit (Abanazer) goosing Royce (Twankey).  I don't think Royce was expecting what came his way, but Kit was simply following his stage directions, creeping across stage and giving our Dame a massive squeeze on the 'arris!  Royce's lips pursed for an "ooooooooower" and his eyes rolled inwards - this reaction combined with his next line was priceless, and as so often happens in panto - it's stayed in! We also enjoyed an impromptu bit of ABBA mania today, which flung us all back to the seventies for a moment of madness - but as ever I don't want to give too much away.

Gerry worked on the dancing with the ensemble for a sizable chunk of the morning, which gave the rest of us plenty of opportunity for tea, coffee, biscuits and chats.  Theatrical chats of course... one topic being the late, great Danny La Rue.  Jamie Attle, our costume designer and wardrobe master mentioned that he purchased some of Danny's costumes and head dresses at an auction a couple of years ago, and that Royce would actually be wearing one of them in the show - it meant a lot to him as they were old friends.  Danny was actually in the first pantomime I ever saw at the Birmingham Hippodrome, when I was a little sprog.  Back in the days when it wasn't against health and safety legistration to throw sweets into the audience; apparently this is a safe move as low flying sweets could cause bruising, nose bleeds, blindness or even DEATH!  Oh and of course they rot your teeth... it really wouldn't surprise me if that is written down in some Westminster office!

We staggered through Act 1 this afternoon and it looks and feels in good shape - it's already packed with funny moments and we've got another fortnight before we open!  We we're allowed to leave early again today which freed me up to do a bit of shopping and get still get home nice and early!  Enjoyed the latest goings on from the jungle - great news that Brian Conley is shaping up well out of hospital!!  He can't be ill for long.... he's got panto (Robinson Crusoe @ Brum Hipp) to prepare for and "the show must go on!"

I also received a very thoughtful and personal gift from the guys at "the day job" today.  When I'm not trading the boards I have to do what every other job-in actors hate... swallow your pride and go back to the day job... bills have got to be paid somehow!  Thankfully for me I work at a beautiful little pub in Brook called "The Dog & Pheasant" with a lovely staff and probably the world's most understanding and accommodating bosses.  I've worked for them (on and off) for three and a half years now, at different pubs along the way - I say "on and off" because they very kindly let me have time off for theatre jobs (such as this two months) and then come back afterwards - it's very rare and so very much appreciated to have that kind of security... and I don't fancy McDonalds!  Anyway - the gift.  Adella (one of my work chums) had already given me a card, lots of choccies and some port on Sunday, but today she gave me a mug with another mug on it.  my ugly mug that is - dressed as Pongo from the posters, and wishing me Good Luck from all at the D&P... I'll pop a picture up for you.  this will be the cup that holds all my teas, coffees and manuka honey with echinacea over the run! God send - so thanks guys!

Anyway - I'll leave you for tonight.  Don't forget to pop down and see the lights tomorrow.  I'll be back on FRIDAY as there may be one or seven too many glasses of wine in the blood tomorrow night as we're all meeting for pre panto drinks! 
So "Cheers!"
Pongo X

Tuesday 20 November 2012

My new best friend!



Day 2 - Reunited with my old friend Arnie.... Arnicare that is!

"There must be quite a few things a hot bath won't cure, but I don't know many of them!" {Sylvia Plath ~ The Bell Jar 1963}

Salutations dear readers and a very happy Tuesday to you all.  I had the best start possible to rehearsals this morning... a delightful, warm and cosy lie in!  A 12 o'clock call provided just enough time for say 3 extra hours in bed... I felt so bad lying there all relaxed and at ease thinking of my old chum PG, who'd probably been up since 5am, to present the Breakfast show on Eagle radio (an avid supporter of the Yvonne Arnaud and it's pantomime).  "Life's tough at the top eh pal?!"
He was however afforded a method of revenge.... a piece of business that I think PG will relish in for the next 2 months.  He already demonstrated this relish by wanting to keep rehearsing the moment where he clobbers my round the noggin!!

After not managing to get on stage yesterday Peter (our Emperor) was determined to speak his first line as soon as he could, this providing me with the perfect opportunity to wind him up... just a little.  A quick word in the ear of Sir Gerry (our director and fellow panto geek) and it was done; just as poor old PG was about to walk on Gerry called "PG I don't think I'm going to do this scene now...!" we were amused even if he wasn't.  But it turned out that first line was going to cause more amusement as the rehearsal went on.

We discovered today that PG doesn't have much experience of marching, or more specifically - marching in time!  Numerous failed attempts lead to many fits of laughter and surely a gem of an idea for this year COD.

~ A COD for anyone not in the know stands for Crew On Deck.  Each year the crew write and perform their version of the pantomime, ribbing the actors, the script and all the funny goings on that may have cropped up over the run.  It's all done in very good taste and not meant to offend anyone - much.  it's an absolute treat and so amusing.  I went to last years even though I wasn't in the show and still howled as I saw friends being sent up.  If the crew don't pick up on something that you've done or a trait you may have then your either very lucky to avoid the nib of Vicky (the DSM and COD writer) or to put it plainly.... a bit boring?!?! ~
Thankfully PG takes the banter very well, and really does give as good as he gets... if not more, so we were of course laughing with him as opposed to at him.  Well at least I think so, unless he's sat at home reading this now, crying into the arms of his lovely wife Mel.

Another highlight of the day was hearing a couple of the numbers that Anthony England (MD) has put together.  It's still early days and the two numbers I heard sounded great already... I'm a little jealous that I'm not in the opening number after hearing it.  Gerry has choreographed a beautiful sequence for the ensemble, which without giving too much away, includes props and some seemingly simple moves... until of course the guys come to do it.  The best moment arrived when Gerry decided to demonstrate what he wanted with Amy...  throwing these buckets around, they were both unaware there was a little water inside one, which inevitably ended up spilling on Amy.. there's a video on Twitter for anyone who wants a giggle.

The second song I saw, just before I left - I had a double bonus today - not only did I start late but finished early too, was a duet with Abanazer (Kit Hesketh Harvey) and the Genie (Susie Blake).  We all applauded after hearing this little ditty, which to me has an air of musical about it.  It's a slightly re-worded Mel Brooks song, but I shan't tell you which one!

We also, after only two days in did a mini run of what we've got so far this afternoon.  Went well - obviously we don't have the freedom we will have when we're all off book yet, but you can see and feel it's going to be good!  There's lots of funny business going on, so the audience shouldn't have a moment to catch their breaths between the laughs.   The slapstick is coming thick and fast for me which I love!!  I adore playing the idiot, which of course my accent lends its self to quite easily.   I do therefore need to brush up on my tumbling... I gained a slight bruise on the derriere yesterday which after falling upon the same spot a couple of times today has left me with, shall we say a slightly "pummelled rump" - nothing which a hot bath and a healthy dose or Arincare can't fix.  I got through a couple of tubes last time I was here in Guildford.  Climbing into tight spaces during the magic illusions left me with battered knees, hips, arms and on occasion a bashed up "mic-pac" - if you'll excuse the expression!  So I feel a bruised leg is mild in comparison.

Another cast member who would probably benefit from a nice relaxing bath is Widow Twankey (the wonderful Royce Mills) who today unfortunately hasn't been with us, as he was feeling a little under the weather.  You can tell when Royce isn't in the room - it loses a certain energy - so we hope he's well and back with us soon. 

~A quick note on Royce - and don't tell him I said this... (I don't think he's into social media so he won't read this!) but he is by far my favourite Dame in panto land, well deserving the capital "D"!  I first saw Royce when I was ushering at the Arnaud.  I'd usually gone back up to the Midlands for the holidays at GSA, by the time panto kicked off and wouldn't see the show, but one year when Stephanie Beecham starred in "Snow White" I was lucky enough to see Royce play "Herman the Henchman" the bumbling subservient fool - the part I played last year in Buxton.  I couldn't take my eyes off him, and neither could the audience, they love him!  Coincidentally that was also PG's first year in Guildford's Panto, although only appearing as the recorded mirror.  The following year I saw them both again in "Jack and the Beanstalk" this time with Royce as Dame!  He has a wonderful approach... he wants the audience to warm to him and he never fails.  He has make up, a dress and a wig of course, but the wig is always ridding just a little up the back of his head so you can see his real hair, his make-up is jolly and suggestive rather than drag and he uses his own melodious yet manly voice.  He's playing a woman without sending them up.  And he doesn't like lots of references to him being 'a man in a dress'... I remember him saying "they know I'm a man - there's no need to bang on about it!" and he's entirely right!  Any references he does make to his actual gender are double entendre which are much funnier and suit Guildford's audience perfectly.  He is the Dame I eventually want to be and will be studying him to get all the knowledge I can... he's full of anecdotes and has lots of tips, jokes and ideas, which Gerry usually agrees with.  Anyway... the audience will make their own decisions but I think Guildford's very lucky to have him!" ~

I can't wait for Thursday night - the big light switch on in Guildford.  I always enjoy this night; chestnuts, lots of carols and christmas songs, fireworks and of course the lights themselves, usually with a little light entertainment thrown in from our very own PG.  As last year, I'm meeting up with my good friends Jeff & Dawn (both of whom are involved with the Arnaud) for what now seems to be our annual "light switch on drinks!"  Joe's (Wishee) joining us this year, along with Emma (Aladdin) as soon as she's finished up on the balcony!  Plus we have another very special guest joining us this year!  My girlfriend Sandy is popping down for the festivities before she jets off to the sunny land of - Birmingham(?!?!) for her own pantomime.  We're not going to get to spend much of the build up to Christmas together unfortunately so I thought Thursday would be a great opportunity.  So if you me and the gang around town.. do pop over and say "hello!"

Talking of Guildford, PG and myself were chatting this afternoon about the importance of local theatre and advertising.  The Yvonne Arnaud is a wonderful theatre and boasts an annually successful and traditional family pantomime, along with all the other delightful theatre it houses throughout the year.  If you're from the local area and haven't booked up yet... please do.  Don't waste extra money on travel expenses to panto's out of town!  You've got one on your doorstep - why not save on the travel and go out for dinner before hand instead?!  The cast and crew, along with all the folks who work in-house at the theatre are really pushing the social media this year - it obviously reaches a lot of people and can be both informative and entertaining.  Please help us to keep audience levels up and spread the word about Aladdin!  You wont be disappointed - and it would be a shame if you're reading this blog and never actually get to see the show!

My early finish meant I was free to do a little shopping and order my new suit for opening night - "You've gotta look good for your public darling!"  Is top hat and tails too much?!  Now though, after talking to you dear readers, I'm off into the bath (I'll leave that image with you) and then I'm going to snuggle up in bed, learn some more lines and watch one of the ITV pantomimes... just for research of course!

Night all.
Pongo X

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Day 1 - Day of the Doughnut!

"A friend is a person with whom I may be sincere.  Before him I may think aloud." (1841)

And relax.... a sigh of relief as the first day is over and done with.  Not relief because it's been a difficult or stressful day, just relief that "the first day" is done and dusted.  It's the same with any job or gathering of people; there's faces you'll know well, ones you recognise (maybe?) and others you've never set eyes on before.  Nervousness and excitement are usually bedfellows under these circumstances as everybody wants to get involved, but also feel they need to keep themselves a little guarded to start with and not be too forward. Despite the job we do, actors can be very shy.  I personally, although relishing friendships, socialising and (hopefully) entertaining chums, can be quite shy and reserved when I first meet someone.  I tend to take a step back and listen to their conversation with the person introducing us.  The joy about today was there's more people I know than not and within seconds I felt at home.

Going back into the rehearsal room gave a great sense of Dejavu of 2008, but it's a nice feeling.  Greeted with teas, coffees and the glorious Krispe Kremes I keep mentioning, people are soon put at ease as they try and introduce themselves and shake hands, with a mug in the right hand, half a doughnut in the left and the remaining half of the doughnut smothered across your cheeks or dripping down your chin.  It's the best way to do introductions, because people just forget themselves, relax and hopefully enjoy themselves.   

As always the Arnaud team have done a great job of putting the cast together.  Everyone seems so friendly and warm; it may sound a bit cliche but feeling comfortable in the rehearsal space is key if the director is to get the best out of people.  Again, if you're relaxed you'll be more willing to try new things and make a fool of yourself.  Feel like people are judging you and you tend to close yourself off and become very wooden - thankfully that's not something the Guildford audiences will be experiencing.

On the first day and after the meet and greet, where everyone introduces themselves and their job/role (think of it as a theatrical AA meeting, without the addictions) everyone will sit down for the read through.  This is where the script will come to life for most people - hearing the different voices and types of delivery, make it all very real.  I always enjoy the read through, but todays was made extra special by the wonderful Royce Mills.. how he makes me laugh.  He's a walking pantomime which is fantastic, but he's a lovely man to boot.  My favourite of all the Royceisms today was "My name is Euphemia Twankey and I'm a window...WIDOW!" 
The read through is also the 'performance' that gets the most genuine laughs from the cast and crew.  This is the first time we've all read it together, so everything is fresh and new.... once you've gone over something 40 times it's difficult to express genuine laughter as you're expecting everything - thankfully we've got Director Gerry, Choreographer Jill and our stage management team of Davin, Vicky & Laura to keep the enthusiasm up.

After a quick sing-a-long around the old Joanna, it was lunch and a new experience for me... Yo Sushi.  Joe (Wishee Washee) and Lucy (Princess) fancied some sushi and I tagged along for the ride on the "seaweed role conveyor belt!"  Nice.... but I was starving when we left, I'd need 12 of those little plates.  i will however be going back with Sandy... I'm not overly fishy normally but I really enjoyed it... despite the borrower portions.

Back at Panto HQ, we hit the road running and started with Act 1 Scene 1, which contains a lot of shouting for me!  Now, with it being day one, wanting to impress people and being high on the adrenaline of it all, I went full pelt all afternoon.  My poor throat is feeling a tad raw after it all, but that's not too much of a worry... a day or two of rehearsing and the vocal chords will right themselves and get used to the extra usage.  At least I hope so!  Thankfully when you're into show time you only have to do each scene once, so the voice and body isn't taken to such extremes - unless you have no technique at all of course... then you're destined for hoarseness and a multi-packet of locket losengers.

The Juveniles were introduced today as well and we spent the early evening working them and the ensemble into the scene.  Oh Pongo's a bossy, righteous little man - but I love him! I've got a lovely bit of business with the gang and one of the babes in particular.... but of course this blog isn't here to give the show away before you've seen it, so you'll have to wait and see!

So after the first day of fun and with a pair of screaming vocal folds it was off for a quick port, a spot of tea and a catch up with Jane our (me, Joe and Emma - Aladdin's agent).  It's been a great day and I'm certainly going to sleep well tonight after a little steam :-)

Night All
Pongo!

Saturday 17 November 2012

Panto Eve Eve.... Cramming the lines!

Every actor has his or her own method for learning their lines and I think it must be the most asked question from those not in the world of theatre; "how on earth do you remember all those lines?! I couldn't do it!!" Well in fact you probably could, you just haven't had the need or reason to do so. The way non theatricals seem to hold this skill in such high esteem does sometimes make me feel like I possess some kind of superpower. The truth is, it's simply part of the job. Unless you want to spend your entire career improvising, every actor knows they are going to have to study their script and cram in the authors words at some point.

For me personally, I like to read the script a number of times to simply familiarise myself with its structure before I start to actually "learn" the lines. I will take a section each day and learn a line or small section at a time, building it up more and more until a whole scene is memorised. night time is my preferred time for reading a script, apparently it is absorbed more? For me though the real learning doesn't really start until you're in rehearsal. When you're up on your feet, interacting with the other actors reading their lines, putting in stage directions and getting a feel for the pace of the piece. This is where everything seems to slot into place for me, and where the lines are solidified.

Other people wont even go into rehearsals unless they have every word and punctuation mark memorised. Others read the script the day they get it and wont look at it again until rehearsals start where as some lucky so and so's can read a script two or three times from start to finish and virtually remember the whole thing. During the rehearsal process however, things are inevitably going to change. Lines may be added, taken away or moved and of course you're going to need to learn your stage directions, your personal prop list and of course your exits and entrances, so a little bit of flexibility when it comes to line learning is always useful I find.

Of course with this being a panto, convention goes out of the window anyway. The audience want to see actors forgetting their lines, dropping a prop or tripping on stage. They rejoice in seeing the actors sharing a laugh or two during Snow whites death scene. it makes them feel a part of the experience, something that they have seen that no other audience has... it's no wonder that some directors will include a "false corpse" - personally though I think the real thing is a lot funnier as it takes the actors by surprise. And actors have a knack, I'm sure you wont be surprised to learn, of turning the smallest little blip into a massive affair... "Oh my God, I can't believe that just happened - you said that, then I said this... then the stage caved it!?!" You'll probably here the same story retold at least twelve times before your next show - but that's all part of the fun.

So what about 2012/2013?! Well the script for Aladdin is really exciting. There's a lot for me to look forward too... not least the doughnuts at the meet and greet on Monday.  It's an Yvonne Arnaud tradition that seems to go down well with everyone. What group of people aren't brought together by a cuppa and a sugary ring?! [see... the panto gags are creeping in already!]

So it all begins on Monday. For the cast that'll be it - our lives for the next two months become solely Pantomime - and for me that's never a bad thing!! I've already booked tickets to three other pantomimes for my days off.... "it's research darling!"  I am a self confessed Panto Geek!!  For now though, I'm going to my penultimate shift at "the day job" - it may not be as much fun as being on stage but it certainly keeps me out of trouble and affords me the lifestyle I live and enjoy.

Saturday 20 October 2012

Let the Blogging begin!

Why hello there!!!

At the start of the year I embarked on a tour around Austria with a new adaptation of Shakespeare's "Othello".  Whilst I was away I decided a great way to keep my family and friends up to date with what was going on, was to write an online travel journal. 

My readers have informed me that it provided three months of very interesting and highly amusing reading.  And so, the next step for me is to cross over to the bloggosphere!  With panto soon approaching I'm hoping my "Panto Blog" will give people a funny and insightful view of the acting profession and for those who are as highly addicted to panto as I am, a sneaky peak behind the scenes.

Now... if you're wanting to know what happens in the show before you've seen it.... this isn't the blog for you.  I'll keep you up to date with rehearsals, all the show gossip and share all the funny goings on we'll encounter - but obviously won't be revealing too much... we wouldn't want to spoil it for you!!
So please... spread the word about the blog and simply sit back and enjoy!