My Weekend in London - Follow Up Blogpost - SATURDAY

  For those of you who have watched my vlog which showcased everything I got up to in th capital of the United Kingdom, this is a follow-up blog post which is just for you. I mean I didn't cover EVERYTHING in the video, there was no time for that! This post is going to uncover my thoughts and feelings on things in more depth and I'm also going to review Phantom and Sweeney Todd now it's been a few days for me to take them both in!
  It was midnight on Friday 3rd April, and I was still frantically trying to pack for going away the same morning. I like to procrastinate and leave everything until last minutes, so as a result, I only got 4 hours sleep. But let me tell you, I wasn't tired in the slightest.
  I got to the station and after yawning a couple of times (I insist I wasn't tired! honest!) I found out that the train I was meant to be getting had been delayed in leaving the depot. I felt a bit peeved, but 15 minutes later, the train pulled in and I felt much better. From Sunderland to Hartlepool I was the only one in the carriage so I decided I would get my camera out and film a few bits on the train. After about 10 videos I got the attempt I wanted and by then the train was ready to receive more passengers.
  The next time I got my phone out to vlog, was at Kings Cross Station. My intention was to film myself walking out of the station, but my phone decided not to record these bits. again I was a little peeved, but the sight of the St Pancras clock tower lightened my mood because I knew I was in London again at last.

  When I reached my hotel, I immediately sat down to a sachet of Kenco coffee, which was to die for, and I definitely needed it because by that stage I was a little drained. I soon felt refreshed and was ready for my adventure. Feeling daring, I ventured to the tube station to begin my day in the city.
 And Who did I see walking down the road towards me? Well at that time I had no idea, but I knew I recognised him. Things got awkward when he also entered the barriers at the station after I did, and we also shared a lift down to the platform. I got on the train to Morden Via Bank, and it was clear then that I had got the wrong train. At Camden Town (Edgeware Branch) I alighted and made my way to Camden Town (Charing X Branch) and the train pulled in shortly after this. And who did I see when I got on the train? Yes you guessed it. That familiar face. It was clear from the reactions of the others around me, that they also knew his face. I looked over and his head was buried in a book (most likely a script) so I decided that I wouldn't approach, as that would have made him feel awkward.
  When the train pulled into Leicester Square station I discovered that this man had also got off at the same stop and was on the escalator behind me. Still I didn't remember who on earth he was! Outside the station he got lost in the crowd, so I got out my phone, and did a quick google search. It was none other than Damien Lewis, husband of Helen McCrory. He must have been on his way to rehearsals or something because he was due to appear in a show in a couple of weeks.
  When my state of star-struck faded, I decided I would make my way to the theatre to pick up my tickets for the Phantom of the Opera. Unfortunately I ended up at the stage door of the Queen's theatre (under the watchful eye of the 'fans' of Carrie Hope Fletcher) doing a google search to find out what way to go. Carrie eventually turned up in a taxi and walked straight past her fans. One girl commented "She must hate us today". No, she's probably very tired and has a two show day to focus on so leave her alone to do her job...
  After two wrong turns, and ending up at the Coliseum by accident (it was a useful accident though as I would then know how to get back there for Sweeney Todd the day after!) twice, I decided to go round to the stage door. I wasn't hoping to see any of the cast, but as I turned a corner, Philip Quast walked briskly towards me and the stage door. He was met by someone there who said "Come on Philip, you're late!" Philip Quast late to a show warm-up? Unbelievable! TSK TSK!
  I thought I would stay for a little while longer in the hope of seeing someone else, but then the sounds of a cast warming up, erupted from somewhere above me, and I knew then that all that standing around was now in vain. They were all in the building. So feeling a little defeated (though I have no idea why) I decided to head back towards the Phantom of the Opera to finally pick up my ticket.
  I had no idea the box office was actually inside the theatre, so it meant I got into the venue at the same time as matinee crowds. I was ecstatic because it meant I would get a sneak peek at the merchandise on offer. In advance of the evening show I purchased a white Phantom of the Opera mug, and a programme ahead of the evening show. Delighted with my purchases, I decided that once again I needed coffee. It was time to search and find the Theatre Cafe! I''d heard a lot about the theatre cafe from other people/friends who had been there before I had and I was so intrigued by the whole thing. After getting lost again, I made my way back towards a Starbucks next to the Queen's theatre, which I had seen recently, and decided I would go and buy that London mug I had had my eye on for a while. When I saw how busy it was I gave up the chase and went straight to the front of the Queen's theatre. That was when my eagle eyes noticed the Theatre Cafe. Smaller than I expected if I'm honest. But my first impressions were all but cast aside when I entered.
  Littering the walls were posters from all sorts of past west end shows. I saw Into the Woods, Billy Elliot, Wicked, Miss Saigon, The Commitments to name but a few. But that wasn't all. In lights at the back was Theatre Cafe, and this took up the majority of the back wall. I looked around again and saw as well props from shows. I thought this place is wonderful so I ordered a latte. My cup had plastered on it a Charlie and the Chocolate factory logo. I was a little disappointed when I discovered it was just a cardboard cover as opposed to actually printed on the cup. If it had been printed onto the cup I may have kept it. But more on keeping coffee cups later ;)

 

  From here I decided to head to the Globe Theatre and pay for a ticket for the tour. What you didn't see in the video was the majority of the exhibition. The reason for this is because I was so overwhelmed with it all, that spoiling that feeling for others wouldn't be very clever of me, so Im letting you all judge for yourselves if you go. Prepare to be educated on the history of Shakespeare and his theatre. After this is was time to go into the Globe. That was a wonderful moment. I cannot recommend the tour enough. If you are a Student, like me, it'll cost you the minimal amount of £11. a bargain if ever there was one.

  I noticed a starbucks right next door and decided to finally cave and buy the London mug. They also had an England one with Shakespeare and the Globe on it, which would have made more sense to buy there considering it was right next door, but I bought the London one because I remembered the England one was available all over England.
  Then of course it was time to go to Phantom. My intention had been to visit Tower Bridge before seeing the show, but I had no time and a large section of my vlog which I recorded walking up the street next to St Pauls, was omitted from the final cut as I mentioned Tower Bridge and the LEGO version and then never actually got there. It made sense to cut it.
 And so after that meaty account of my trip, let us take a moment to enjoy a review...



THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA - Her Majesty's Theatre
Cast included: Geronimo Rauch, Emmi Christensson, Oliver Savile, Lara Martins, Phillip Griffiths, Tim Morgan, Jacinta Mulcahy, John Ellis and Alicia Beck.

Seated in the Grand Circle of Her Majesty's Theatre, waiting for the lights to go down, I looked upon the stage and was intrigued by the drapes and setting that was before me. When the show finally started I felt like I was going to cry, as I was finally getting to see this show after so long. Then the Chandelier started to fly during the overture. That was one bit I was waiting for the most, and it did not disappoint one bit. For one thing, it was incredible to witness and looked very magical. I had in my head vague memories of the 25th Anniversary at the Royal Albert Hall during Hannibal as a lot of things I recognised, but what a voice Carlotta had! Lara Martins gives Carlotta the Diva edge she needs, and she hits the nail on the head. I'd go as far to say she's more of a Minnie Driver than an Angela Martins or a Wendy Ferguson. Yes she had the operatic voice, but her acting was astoundingly good. John Ellis as Ubaldo Piangi was also incredibly good. He didn't overdo his singing like a lot of Piangi's I had heard before him have and his acting was also top knotch. He was nearly as much of a diva as Carlotta! When it was time for Christine to be revealed, I was confused. Meg Giry and Christine Daaé had seemed to have swapped wigs. Getting over this fact, Emmi's voice was heavenly and I could listen to it all day if I could. Alicia's Meg Giry was a little average in my opinion, but Meg is such a small role I suppose I can forgive this. Oliver Savile's Raoul won me over. After disliking the character for a long time, I actually loved Oliver's portrayal. His voice was amazing and his acting was even better than I had expected. Some instances that stick out in my mind are Final Lair and Little Lotte. Whilst there's a huge contrast there, I think his best scenes were his calm ones and his more tense ones. Anything in between was good too though. Whilst Oliver is the understudy, I think he ticks all the boxes. And then we come to Geronimo's Phantom. Going in I will admit I had my doubts, but boy was I wrong to have them! Geronimo is undoubtedly the best Phantom I have heard/seen since John Owen Jones. I'm not a fan of Ramin's take at all, but boy was Geronimo good! His title song and Music of the Night left me speechless. and any time he was offstage, I just wanted him to come back. Another voice I could listen to all day. It is clear how much training this guy has had. I could go as far to say he's a better Phantom than John Owen Jones, but I won't because I'm JOJ biased. With actors out of the way it's time to talk about sets and costumes. I'd heard about a lot of instances where things went wrong with the set as it is nearly 30 years old, but luckily nothing broke down, or if it did, I didn't notice. The sets are definitely one of the factors which make this show. I was amazed at the way the candles rose from the mist and another favourite bit of staging of mine was the statue which looks a part of the proscenium arch, descending to create a statue on top of the Paris Opera House. Stunning to watch. The magic also gave this show a spectacle that would astound you. I mean I still don't think anyone can work out how that piano plays itself, or how Phantom's chair works. But that's the beauty of it. The mystery leaves you with questions that will never be answered, and I think it's better that way because if you found out it would spoil the show for good. Brava Brava Bravissima Phantom! You've left me with a want to go back! Also if you want to take home a bit of magic of the show, take home the heat activated mug. It's certainly a sight to behold.



SATURDAY ROUND-UP

All in all my day was long, fast paced, and absolutely incredible. I didn't think Sunday could top it. But oh was I wrong! The follow-up blogpost for Sunday will be up soon. All I have to say now is I hope you enjoyed reading! :)

MORNING BLOGPOST! MEN FROM MARS! MEN FROM MARS!

"No one would have believed, that in the last years of the twentieth century, that a mind superior to ours, would regard a famous novel with envious eyes, and slowly, and surely, he composed some music to entertain us!"

DA DA DAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!

*tape wipe sound*

It was a quiet night on the third of December in the year of our Lord 2014. Newcastle was preparing to host a Martian invasion in front of around 11,000 human bodies. It was almost a sell out show with some single seats left untouched around the arena. It was one of these seats that I managed to secure with one week to go.

When I booked my ticket I imagined that because I had waited until the very last minute, I wouldn't get a great seat. How wrong I was. Seriously guys, if you ever get the chance to sit in seat 262 in Row P of block 211, then you take it! The view was perfect, and whilst I was very far back, I could see and hear everything extremely clearly. When I walked into the auditorium I was greeted with a giant logo on a giant screen at the back of the stage above the action, and my heart started pounding in anticipation of what was about to happen, because it would be an experience unlike any I have ever had before.




After meeting a friend whom I had discussed the show with, I went back to my seat, and was this time greeted with a giant pair of alien eyes on the screen where the logo had been. These alien eyes seemed to be scanning the audience in the arena as a lot of people sitting in their seats were shown in them. I stared at the screen, eagerly trying to see if the eyes would spot my section, and sadly they didn't, or if they did I didn't get to see them staring at me. It was also kind of creepy, because there was no camera noticeable in the arena pointing at the audience, so unless you were looking at the screen, you would have no idea that you were being scrutinised.



Soon after 8pm Standard Earth Time, The first of the players took to the stage, in the form of Herbert George Wells (AKA H.G. Wells), the author of the book. In my opinion Callum O'Neil (Whom you might know as Wee Dingwall from Disney Pixar's Brave! Yep I was shocked too) managed to capture the essence and pompous nature of the author beautifully. We see him in three stages of his life in which he discusses his views on the world and his story, after the publication date of the book, after World War I and finally after World War II. Throughout the show, HG Wells ages, and the prosthetics used convey his middle aged and elderly nature beautifully. This was an addition to the show for the "final" tour, and it is definitely proved to be a success.

The Journalist soon appeared, after an out of this world interlude on the big screen which displayed the martians preparing to dispatch the first of the missiles to Earth. Liam Neeson was the perfect choice for the Journalist in my opinion, and the holographic interactions with other characters were so cleverly done and worked extremely well. Brian McFadden of Westlife fame became the Sung Thoughts of the Journalist, and my friend and I both agreed that he was probably one of the best vocalists for the role. I wasn't a fan of Marti Pellow's rendition of Forever Autumn on the DVD of the 2012 production, but Brian's vocals captured the emotion needed to pull off this difficult and powerful song. This was by far one of my favourite parts of the show and the addition of the leaves falling on the audience was very moving to say the least. I'm sure some would have been moved to tears by the number.

Special mention has to go to Shayne Ward, who gave an incredibly strong performance as the Artilleryman. I was sceptical to begin with, but he shone in the song Brave New World, which has now become one of my favourite songs in the piece. Jason Donovan's troubled Parson Nathaniel, and Carrie Hope Fletcher's Beth created a duo that not only became a memorable scene from the second act, but created a chemistry which wasn't there when Kerry Ellis did the role. Carrie's rendition managed to convey her love for the man she has lost due to his maniacal changes and her voice perfectly represents her innocence in the dramatic scene. In short I think I preferred Carrie's rendition to Kerry's. (but I might be a little biased having watched many of Carrie's videos on Youtube and seen her as Eponine in Les Mis.)

The staging is of epic proportions, for one thing the Orchestra is on two sides of it, there is a holographic screen, another screen to the left of the huge one, and to top it all off, we have one of the fearsome fighting machines that dominates the front cover of the CDs. The machine is one of the highlights of the show as it rises above everything and fires an extremely powerful heat ray which was so hot the audience further back probably felt it as well. There is some other staging for the Brave New World which is flown in from above. This little bit of set is really nice and has a very steam-punk feel to it which compliments everything else.

In short this show is absolutely spectacular. From the get go, you are immersed in an apocalypse of electronic/symphonic music, a catchy plot, and a performance which will blow you away in a series of heat ray blasts and an invasion of Red Weed. For me I wish I had discovered this show before now, but I also love the fact that I will never see it again, because I will always remember seeing this one. It's a spectacular night I will never forget. Special thanks goes to The Weather for making it atmospherically foggy when leaving the auditorium. It actually felt like Martians had invaded us.

Wait... I'm looking out my front window right now, and I see something in the distance, it's towering over everything and coming straight for my building... Oooh Er.....  I think it's time to end this post, and I'll write again soon... If there is a ne- ................................................................

UUUUUUUUUULLLLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!

"The earth belonged to the Martians...."

A Magical Moment

My partner once discovered online that you could "open" the Disney Store at certain branches around the country. Unfortunately, we searched for more instances, but to no avail. It's a real shame because if you time it right, it can be a very magical moment.

My local Disney store opens at 9am every day. I had been to try and open the store once before, but I got there too late the first time. This morning I would make sure I got to open it, whatever the cost!

At 8:30am I approached my local shopping centre and got distracted by the Calendar Club stall which was just opening. Whilst looking at the Nightmare Before Christmas calendar, something in my head reminded me that I wasn't there for calendars. Instantly I put down the calendar and hurried along to the Disney Store. The shutters were up and in front of the doorway was a series of barriers and a giant padlock, presumably for a giant key. Two staff members were standing observing the passing public, obviously looking for someone who would approach them.

9:05 came and went, and I sought my chance. I went up to the staff members and asked if the store was opening soon. This was when they asked me to open it. I was flattered and the child inside of me started to get very excited.

I was asked a variety of questions, including who my favourite character from Disney was. (Tramp obviously...) The key was brought forward from the back of the store and was given to me. All I had to do was place the end of the key (A crafted lookalike of Cinderella's castle) into the padlock and turn it clockwise. This unlocked the barriers and opened the store. I was then given a souvenir miniature key, much like the one that opened the store.

This process is magical. No other word for it. It's something I've wanted to do for quite a while, so this morning made my day.

If you're an adult and are reading this, take your kid along to open the Disney store. It's worth every minute and they go away with a memory to cherish for a lifetime!

Review: Black Coffee - Newcastle Theatre Royal

Jason Durr stars in Black Coffee

  When someone turns around to you and asks you if you have seen Agatha Christie's Poirot on the TV, if you know what they are talking about, chances are you will picture David Suchet in the title role with the signature moustache. If you are really familiar with the character, perhaps you have seen the likes of Albert Finney in the role as well. When reading the books you may see someone different again (or you may just picture Suchet again). In short, many people have played Poirot in adaptations for TV, Radio and even onstage.

 I got given the oppurtunity to see Black Coffee in Newcastle at the Theatre Royal, and I didn't pass it up. But I was a little bit nervous about going... It's true that I find it hard to take to someone else playing Poirot, having seen many of the ITV adaptations with Mr Suchet on countless occasions, so when I found out I was seeing someone different playing Poirot, you can understand how I must have been feeling. It's rather silly of me, but I was worried I would never adjust to Jason Durr's take on the Belgian detective. But I soon discovered there was nothing to worry about.

Black Coffee is the first play Agatha Christie wrote for the stage. She began to write the piece in 1929, and it was initially produced one year later. The play is set in the library of Sir Claude Amory's house, approximately 25 miles outside of London. Sir Claude takes a sip of his evening coffee and, during a blackout, suddenly dies in his chair. Long before he even took his coffee, he summoned Hercule Poirot and Captain Hastings to his house to try to discover who is responsible for the theft of a formula he has kept locked in a safe. Of course Poirot and Hastings arrive too late and Poirot's 'little grey cells' get to work to help unravel the mystery surrounding the disappearance of the formula and Amory's death.

I won't give anything else away because it needs to be experienced to be understood. What I will say though is the Jason Durr captures the essence needed to pull off the Belgian detective, with a mixture of both seriousness and humour, bringing the character to life on the stage and you soon learn to forget David Suchet entirely as you watch him. Coupled with Captain Hastings, the chemistry between the two characters is absolutely fantastic, and both actors pull off the roles to the highest of standards. Inspector Japp was also portrayed quite comically, but he was only seen in the third act of the piece. In the short space of time however, he fast became one of my favourite characters of the play as a whole.


The cast of Black Coffee

The stage is set by an array of talents playing an assortment of interesting characters, all of whom are suspects in the case. The highlights however for me were Hastings, Poirot and Japp, creating a brilliant comedic trio.

If you have the chance to see Black Coffee whilst it tours the UK, I highly recommend it. You will be mesmerised by an unforgettable whodunnit, and it may even leave you with a desire to avoid coffee at all costs. It'll be safe as long as it doesn't leave you with a bitter taste in the mouth...

I'm back... And guess where I've been!

It's been a little quiet around here lately hasn't it?

For this I apologise.  I've done so much since the last post that I felt I'd rather round it all up in a small update post rather than post something for every single thing I've done.

So without further ado let's proceed with the update:

Caroline Rhea/Glasgow - 28th-29th March 2014
My other half introduced me to the magical world of Sabrina the Teenage Witch during the weeks leading up to my second outing to see Caroline Rhea (Aunt Hilda), only this time in Glasgow. I was terribly excited because it felt amazing to have this feeling of freedom (it's the first time I've been away on a holiday without my parents) and since I've never had a proper trip to Glasgow on my own, it could only get better.

Caroline Rhea was on top form during her show at the Stand Comedy Club.  I don't think I've ever laughed so hard at anything before. (well... the only exception being Monty Python's Biggus Dickus sketch... if you can call it that) Tears fell down my face and I nearly found myself on the floor on countless occasions. I would thoroughly recommend going to see her if she's ever near you.

Les Misérables - Broughton High School, 9th-12th April 2014


Yep you guessed it!

Captivate Drama brought Les Misérables back to give it a very fitting send-off. I'm very sad that this was the last time I'll probably ever do the School Edition, but every single moment was worth it.

After picking up the baton, and donning the bicorne for a second time, I can safely say that I feel that this run of Les Misérables was a lot better than the fringe run. Let me explain why.

Well, firstly you had the ENORMOUS set.

That's right. The set this time was even bigger than it was at the Edinburgh Fringe. The raised platform was 2 inches higher off the ground, and this time the orchestra were hidden behind a gauze at the back of the platform.  There was a downside to this. Javert's Suicide had to be completely re-done to fit the new surroundings, but when I look back at photos, and remember how it felt to be up higher, I cannot find a single fault in the way they made my death look realistic.  I won't go into details because I'll be here all day, but that's a significant highlight for me.



Secondly, the show itself was bigger. The chorus had multiplied a couple of times since the last time, and some of the principals were filled by some new faces.

Thirdly, the energy was insanely strong.  In the final performance alone, I've never experienced such an amazing cast of people creating the performance we did. I may be being biased (sorry!!) but I'll say it anyway. I could go as far to say that the final performance of Captivate Drama's Les Misérables was of West End standard, and a lot of people have said the same thing. And do you want to know the best part?

THERE WAS AN ENCORE! AND IT GOT FILMED JUST LIKE LAST TIME!

You can watch this amazing encore here !


Long Weekend to Aberdeen - Easter Weekend 2014

My other half is from Aberdeen.  If you don't know where Aberdeen is, perhaps you should look at a map of Scotland...

Anyway I've only ever been to Aberdeen twice before, and both times I've managed to miss out on the Granite City's centre.  Well not this time.

After a four hour train journey, Amy and I arrived in Aberdeen. The sun shone, the granite glistened and I felt very adventurous. New surroundings meant a new adventure, and that wasn't the only one that I had in Aberdeen.

I was introduced to Amy's lovely family, and Amy's dog Rolo. The staffie is absolutely bonkers, but he really is adorable.

And I was also introduced into the world of spiritualism. I was aware that Amy was a spiritualist, but never did I think that I would join her. I'm proud of the fact that I can now say, I believe in the Spiritworld and its exercises. I'd rather not say much more about this at this early stage, but maybe in the future I will post more about it once it becomes clearer.

Amy also took me to the beautiful Brig O' Balgownie. I never knew that such a beautiful location could be hidden away in the depths of a city like Aberdeen.  At first glance you could say that this sight is probably from the Cotswolds or the Black Country, but NEVER Aberdeen...  It just goes to show that every city in the world has it's hidden secrets and treasures. I will look forward to going back when I'm next in Aberdeen.

Here is a photo I posted to Instagram of the bridge.  It's stunningly beautiful and has to be seen to be believed!


And aside from all that, that is my latest update.  I hope I didn't bore you too much. I will post more frequently in future.  For now, I leave you with a Staffie Selfie!



Kind regards

Gordon H

Suriving College/University: - Ways To Pass Time Between Lessons

A lot of students, like myself, face the same problems every year, but I have found one problem to be particularly frustrating:

Time between lessons.

I recieved my college timetable at the end of January and I groaned when I saw I had two hours between lessons on a Monday. At the start of March, I've already had 4 Mondays to kill the space between lessons and the first one was agony because I had nothing to do!

Don't make the same mistake! Here are some things you can do between lesson time, and why I find them to be effective at passing time (or not!) and if they worked for me. In no particular order:

Internet Browsing

East Durham College, where I am based on a Monday, has many computers and iPads on offer, but when you have a mobile device that can connect to the Wifi, browsing the internet in EDC has never been easier. I own a Nokia Lumia that connects to the internet, so I have used this to pass the gap before.  Unfortunately the internet is addictive. Sadly I find that spending too much time online can become quite a headache (literally and metaphorically speaking) so I do try to avoid this method, if I can. Having the wifi connection always there makes it extremely difficult to resist logging online to check Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, Hotmail and other sites. I would advise you to avoid this method if you can, lest you face the wrath of the sight headache...

Go for a Walk

This method is a great way of getting to know your surroundings and the area where your education centre is placed. I took a walk recently and discovered a new part of Peterlee which I'd never seen before, and 2 hours was a great amount of time to do this in. Not only is it nice and refreshing, it is also very beneficial if you want to locate a nice spot you could escape to during this time. If you are in the city centre, you can probably find a very good walk in a nearby park, or if you're near the coast, why not head down to the beach every now and again. This method is a great way of passing time between lessons, whether you have 2 or 3 hours to spare, however, if you don't have a watch with you, you may end up losing track of time, resulting in you missing some lesson time, so I would advise against going very far away from where you're based if you can.

Read a Book



This is the method I find to be the best way of passing time bewteen lessons. I've finished many a novel quicker by reading during this time, and I have loved this method because it's very relaxing.  There's nothing like finding a quiet spot to sit down and open up at where you left off.  Sadly you may encounter a noisy bunch of people which doesn't enable you to read very well, however if you find a nice spot to escape to, as mentioned in the last paragraph, you can escape to this place and read as much as you like without interruption. You should also make sure you have a watch on so you can keep track of the time to ensure you aren't late at getting back.

Revision/Work



Probably the best use of time, but not my favourite, is to do your work.  You're likely to get a lot of work to do whilst at college/university, and to avoid leaving the work until the evening, where you could be going to that party, or going to get drunk with your friends, do it during the day.  That way you can keep your evenings free, and won't be stressing at midnight, that your assignment is unfinished.  This is definitely very effective, providing you find a quiet spot to do this in.  Of course if you need a computer, you can't avoid being in a noisy environment, but where possible, do try to find a quiet place. It'll help you to concentrate.

I have found that these methods of passing time are all really effective if you use them to your best advantage. I have also found that all these can have major consequences if you aren't careful.  Another tip I recommend is to drink water at regular intervals whilst doing these activities (if you can call them that) because keeping hydrated is VERY important.

I hope you found this post useful and informative.

All things LEGO: Madness, Mayhem, Movies... and Minifigures

It was the morning of the 14th of February, and all around the world romance blossomed, couples shared romantic dinners, many proposals were made and children flocked to the cinemas to watch a plastic toy come to life in it's first block-buster adventure. Extremely goofy puns aside, it's just another ordinary Valentine's Day isn't it?

Of course it isn't...

I've never really liked the concept of Valentine's Day, but this Valentine's Day was special, because it was when I fell in love with the children's toy, LEGO.

Well... not really.

My LEGO obsessions started way back in 2000 when I spent pocket money on a little helicopter made of blocks that could be put together.  Speed forward 14 years and 190 LEGO sets later, and you get to my latest acquisitions, which were bought at the LEGO store which recently opened not far from where I am currently living out the rest of my abnormally long childhood.

The latest LEGO sets I bought all had one thing in common: The LEGO Movie.

The LEGO Movie was released nationwide (and possibly worldwide) properly on Friday 14th February 2014, the day after I turned 19.  Everything that happened on that day now came under the category of "Awesome!" as exclaimed by Emmet, an ordinary minifigure who's life changes forever when he finds the legendary Piece of Resistance. Accompanied by an all star cast of minifigures including Batman and Liam Neeson (well, Good Cop, Bad Cop) and an Anime style kitten with a Unicorn's horn, Emmet must find a way to stop the megalomaniac Lord Business from ending the world on Taco Tuesday. Needless to say I loved this movie and I suggest you go and see it. It really is the Pièce de résistance...

Groans aside, On Friday 21st February 2014, a week since the LEGO Movie was released, I embarked on a journey to the LEGO Store in the Metrocentre to use my LEGO giftcard (which I was given on my birthday, the day before the movie came out) to buy some minifigures and sets that featured in the LEGO Movie.

I purchased Cloud Cuckoo Palace for £18, which got me a Unikitty (the hybrid I mentioned previously) and 3 minifigures for £2.49 each. Because I surpassed £25, I got given an exclusive LEGO Store T-Shirt, which the other employees in store were wearing branded with "LEGO Store Metrocentre", complete with a minifigure of the Angel of the North, which I thought was a nice touch. That beats an exclusive polybag I was meant to get with my purchase anyway!

My better half also bought me a further 4th minifigure to compliment the others.  With her help, I managed to squidge out Emmet, Abraham Lincoln, Velma Staplebot (Lord Business's Secretary) and Marsha, Queen of the Mermaids.

Below are some pictures of my purchases.  I enjoyed building the set as it's very colourful! LEGO have done a fantastic job capturing the scene. I may have to pick up some more of the sets in the future to go with my almost complete minifigure series. Will I do it?

Only time will tell...

   

The Student Birthday

Okay, I admit it.

I'm a big kid when it comes to birthdays.

 Today I entered into my nineteenth year. My final year as a teenager. Am I scared?

Of course I am.

Should I be scared?

Definitely.

However, I'm not here to ramble on about the nail-biting concept of surviving in the adult world. I am here, though, to share the antics of my first birthday in a different country, away from home and away from my family.

All night I tossed (which healthy teen doesn't?) and turned, unable to sleep. Perhaps this was the excitement for presents - I know, I know! - or maybe it was partly due to the nerves of not really knowing how I'd react to being away from home comforts on a day I'd always spent with my close family. I had no idea how things were going to turn out.

The day was pretty much just like any other birthday: I opened presents; I ate cake; I even ran knee first into a fellow student during an exercise at university. But still it felt like something was missing.

But then something magical happened, something so very spectacular that it's almost too good to be true:

SKYPE.

Thanks to modern-day technology, we don't really ever need to be too far from our loved ones. Sure, a phone call is nice, but nothing beats seeing your family face to face on your special day. And that is my top tip for students: before you leave home to go to university, or if you've already left and are visiting home soon, try and set your parents up with Skype if they've not already got an account. It's free and easy, and really helps to ease the pains of being away from home (and no matter how macho you think you are, you will fall victim to homesickness eventually!).

To conclude my birthday as night draws in, I've included below a small selection of photos from today. Let's all show our love for Lego Lone Ranger...

A Disturbance in the Force? Or Just a Simple Jedi Mind Trick?

The battlefield... sadly no lightsabers...

Am I the man they're looking for?

It all started 3 weeks ago when my Dad alerted me to the fact that Disney were holding open auditions for the much anticipated sequel, Star Wars Episode VII.  When it was first announced Disney was taking over Lucasfilm and were making another Star Wars film, I have to admit.  I groaned and clutched my 6 Star Wars DVDs to my chest, praying for the news to be false.  Sadly though it looks like they're going ahead with it.

Now even though I was against the idea at first, I decided that this was too good an oppurtunity to miss.  My Dad linked me to the BBC News article stating that Disney were holding open auditions for two main roles, a male and a female.  At first I looked at it quizically and came to the conclusion that because I was only 18 I wasn't elligible to take part.  I was stupid though, because they were looking for someone over 18, and I had been 18 for many months already.  So between my Dad and I we agreed that I was to go forward for this.  Audition points were in Manchester, Bristol, London, Dublin and, to my delight, in Glasgow!

The auditions were scheduled to be on 2 weeks ago today, but were called off because of the size of the venue they intended to use.  They were lucky!  There would have been carnage, had they not changed the venue!  Rest in peace to those who died in the Police Helicopter crash last night.  The final choice of venue was Glasgow Science Centre.  I was quite taken-aback when this was announced because all the other audition events took place at sportsgrounds and concert venues... Not in a museum.

So after a very early start of 4am (breakfast at 4:30), my Dad and I set off for Glasgow at 5am on the dot.  We got to Glasgow and parked in the Hydro Car Park at around 6:15 and by the time we got to the Science Centre, the Queue was open and only I was allowed to go and stand in the queue.  100 people in front I thought, "This could be a long wait".  6:45 I suddenly realised that it was baltic temperature and my feet froze so much I couldn't feel my toes.  This didn't stop me however.  7:15 came and I felt inclined to sit down.  I suddenly remembered I had my DS in my rucksack after forgetting to take it out whilst unpacking my stuff last night.  So I spent a good hour working my way through various Mah Jong puzzles, and I was quite content.

8am was the moment it all changed.  The queue started moving.  You could feel the buzz of excitement from all who were there as we moved....about an inch.  Still it was something.  A step in the right direction, closer to possible stardom.  The dream in everyone's minds at that point was exactly that.  To win the role.

Around 8:30, staff members with megaphones announced that the auditions were beginning and brought out the casting staff who would be interviewing us today.  Then we were also introduced to the guests of honour...  Stormtroopers, shipped direct from the Death Star had come to oversee the throng.  It was a nice touch, but a tad ironic considering the forms that we were given, to fill in with our details around 30 minutes later stated that the film was untitled...  Of course, it was the press who gave the game away that it was for Star Wars that these auditions were being conducted.

I finally got to the front of the queue around 9:45am.  a whole hour and 15 minutes before they were due to open.  First we were presented with mirrors so we could make ourselves look 'handsome' and 'beautiful' just like the casting call stated.  Then it was onto the proper interviews.  I was interviewed by a really nice Scottish woman named Sarah.  Poor Sarah...  I must have been twice her height...  I could have sworn she had to crane her neck to talk to me...  Sarah asked me questions like:
 "What do you do?" (I'm an actor was my response),

"Why do you like acting?" (It's always been where I have felt most comfortable),

"What sort of movies do you like?" (Anything really, but mostly musical theatre and action, movies with big epic moments in them),

 "Who is your favourite actor?" (Now this response I didn't have to think about:  Sir Christopher Lee!) and finally,

 "Who is your favourite actress?" (I had to think about this one, and I shamefully made the crap decision of "Jenna Coleman from Doctor Who"...  Sorry Helena, I completely forgot about you...).  Then I was thanked for attending and told to put my application form with headshot into a box as I left, and that was it.  approximately 10 minutes the whole thing took, not even.

Overall I am so glad I went, because now if any more open auditions come up, I'll be able to remember this experience as my first.  I obviously wasn't told anything, so we'll see what happens in the future...

Safe to say I probably won't be involved in the making of Star Wars Episode VII... but who knows at this stage?  Only time will tell...

Kind Regards


Gordon H

Review:- Walk On by Amy McLean

disclaimer:  this review may contain spoilers, and may also be a bit biased (or not).

From the moment I finished the first chapter of Walk On.  I knew I wouldn't be able to put it down.  The book is structured in a very imaginative way and it keeps you reading.

Walk On contains some scenes of harsh brutality, most of it coming from her husband, and miserable disgrace of a character, Peter.  Maggie's way of escape is into the four walls inside her head, where she can lock herself away from the terrors of reality.  There is also a very spiritual element to the novel, in the form of an Angel, named Ariana, who is of course Maggie's guardian angel.  Ariana shows Maggie some visions of the past, a tragic tale of two lovers and misunderstandings.  Throughout the novel there is a running theme of a bridge. For instance Maggie's favourite painting is Claude Monet's Bridge over a Pond of Water Lilies, and the cover of the novel shows a bridge as well.  Once you finish the novel, it is clear why the author chose to use such a beautiful image for the cover of the novel, and also the beautiful metaphor of the bridge throughout.

This is Amy McLean's first outing as a novelist.  Currently sitting her third year in her English Degree, Amy has coped well balancing a novel on top of all of her workload.  It amazes me how well thought out and how well written the novel is, considering she hasn't finished her degree yet.  I will definitely read more of Amy's work, as she has a true talent that not many people still in university can say they have.

Before reading the book, I found out that Amy had been heavily influenced by her favourite book, The Boy Who Could See Demons, written by her favourite author, Carolyn Jess-Cooke, and whilst reading, I felt this definitely shone through because you can clearly see the effort that she has put into this, after her writer's block was cured by Jess-Cooke's wonderful novel.

Overall Walk On is definitely worth the read, and if you haven't already, you should definitely buy the book and read it for yourself.  It is hard to say a bad word about it and I think it will captivate you and leave you with a very open mind.

From the bridge in Maggie's favourite painting, to the bridge of the novel, Walk On leaves the reader wondering how it will end, if it will end well, or if it will all end in tears... How exactly does it end? You'll just need to read it to find out! ;)

This review can also be found on my goodreads page here :)

Book Review - The Guardian Angel's Journal by Carolyn Jess-Cooke

Back in April/May I was recommended to read The Boy Who Could See Demons by Carolyn Jess-Cooke. So I did, and I thoroughly enjoyed it, so much so that I ended up writing about it in my English exam since it fit one of the questions...

I knew back then that Jess-Cooke's first book was The Guardian Angel's Journal and after enjoying The Boy Who Could See Demons so much, I decided that I would read it.

Before I go into my thoughts let me give you a taster of the story.  Margot Delacroix suddenly dies and when she gets into heaven, God gives Margot the task of being her own guardian angel, under the new name of Ruth.  Under the direction of Nan, another angel in heaven, Ruth realises that she will watch over Margot from the very beginning of her life.  Ruth knows exactly what happens all through Margot's life (having lived it all before) and she wishes she could change Margot's life for the better after everything that happened, however it's not all that simple, as she soon learns what consequences are in store for her.

I really enjoyed this book.  It was interesting to read Jess-Cooke's first outing second, because after reading Demons and enjoying it so much, I did wonder if this book would be less appealing to me being a first novel, but it did not take away from the enjoyment of the story at all.  Both The Guardian Angel's Journal and The Boy Who Could See Demons have their similarities and differences. This one was told from the point of view of an Angel, and the other was kind of told from the point of view of the Demon (albeit the demon isn't really there.).  It was interesting to see how demons fit into this story, after reading about them in the other book.

In short, The Guardian Angel's Journal is unlike anything I have ever read before.  I love the style of writing Jess-Cooke has and how the story developed and also how the characters developed.  Early on we see a completely different side of Ruth and then as it progresses we gradually see her develop and change and it really did keep the story going; her determination to be able to change things when she couldn't really shone through the whole novel.  When reading about Margot's life, how dark and horrible it was, right from birth, it is, in parts, incredibly moving.  In the early chapters, I nearly found myself in tears, and that hasn't happened since I read the end of Victor Hugo's Les Misérables.  The power of the narrative and what is going on in Margot's life, feeling sorry for both Margot and Ruth at the same time, it all really makes you want to bawl into your pillow.

I also found this book was one that couldn't be put down.  That sounds very cliché, but the past few nights I have lost track of the time during the reading of it.  It really grabs your attention and makes you want to read more and more, which is what I feel makes this book one that I won't forget for a long time.  I bought my own copy yesterday and I've also ordered The Boy Who Could See Demons because I know that at some point in my life I would love to go back and relive these books again.  I hope Jess-Cooke continues to write novels because right now I have been left with the desire to read more.  It's probable I will pick up her poetry collection, Inroads at some point too.  But probably not for a little while yet.

I wouldn't recommend this book to young teenagers, but older teenagers and adults will definitely appreciate this book, and if you are into books about Angels and Demons, this is definitely one you should read.

kind regards

Gordon H

PS: The cover is gorgeous!

A rather late update

Hi all

This is an update for you all.  I know I failed to keep my promise of a blogpost per evening every night during Les Misérables and Oliver! at the Edinburgh Fringe.  There were many reasons for the failure.  One I was too fecking tired after nearly every show that I either forgot or simply couldn't be bothered (I know, it's very bad of me...), another being that I didn't have anything new to say about the subject at all.  One other major blip was the fact my camera packed in and the footage I took backstage of the final show which would have been showvlog 2 was lost.

But fear not.  I do plan to keep doing videos since I enjoyed doing the Playing Javert vlogs.  It gave me something different to do every evening for a while which was nice.  I'll probably be doing a mixture of vlogs, reviews, tag videos yadayadayada. (look out for my first attempt at "Actor Hopping" coming soon!

So Les Misérables finished with an incredible last performance, which was sold out and received the best standing ovation I've ever witnessed at a show.  That night backstage was very emotional (not just for me, but for everyone else and all the audience as well.  It became apparent that the audience felt the pain of the last night along with the people involved in the show.

My lovely Amy saw the show and reviewed it. During the next few days we saw the wonderful Caroline Rhea (Aunt Hilda from Sabrina the Teenage Witch).  Amy had tweeted her before the show saying we were looking forward to it, and Caroline actually came and said hello before the show started (Amy knows her quite well I'd say) and best of all, before I'd even said a word she took my hand and said "Oh you're Gordon"...  Safe to say I was a little starstruck but that did not take away from the enjoyment of her comedy show at the Gilded Balloon.  Sadly, we didn't get to meet her afterwards, which was really gutting, but can't be helped since she was apparently called away urgently afterwards.  Whilst waiting outside of the Gilded Balloon, some guy who had a show on, came up to us and asked us to choose a song for him to play on a small bespoke instrument.  He claimed to know every single song and asked us to name any song for him to play as a small demonstration.  So I picked I Dreamed A Dream, but I do regret not asking for Stars, as I'm not sure he would have known that one, but ah well.  Once we'd been serenaded with I Dreamed a Dream, whilst walking back to get the bus, we heard Les Mis again, this time it was being blasted from Edinburgh Castle...  Weirder still it then became Darth Vader's march....  We won't question it.

Over the last few days I've found out that I've been accepted onto a Performing Arts course at the University of Sunderland.  During the University Open Day, I managed to bump into the person I had talked to over the phone about gaining a place, who then very kindly arranged a trip to East Durham College in Peterlee to have a look around the facilities and get a feel of my future surroundings.  It seriously sounds like the best course ever, and I can't wait to share some of my experiences with you very soon.

Whilst staying in Sunderland I'm also coming to terms with student life, how to look after my money etc.  God Bless TESCO and cheap food!

And apart from that nothing much else is happening really. University for me starts on the 11th September (well, that's when induction is, it starts fully on the 23rd) and by then I'll hopefully be posting a lot more videos and blogposts for you to read, watch, appreciate (or laugh at if you prefer...  I don't care, I'm still getting the views aren't I?)

All that's left for me to say is roll on University!

Kind regards

Gordon H

Playing Javert - Days 8 and 9

I cannot believe I forgot to blog for a couple of days!  Shame on me!

Day 8 was the day of runthroughs of both Oliver and Les Misérables and both shows are coming together extremely well.  Les Misérables is basically ready to perform in my opinion.  There are a few things to fix, but very minor and little things.  Oliver needs a lot more work, but today is an all Oliver! day so we'll see how things go!

Day 9 saw the Les Misérables band call.  It was incredible.  It felt so amazing to sing along to the orchestra. Nearly got quite emotional since a lot of the orchestrated bits of the Schools Editon matches the professional West End production and the soundtracks.

Time is passing swiftly and this coming Friday sees the first Oliver! show (afternoon) and the first Les Misérables show (Evening).  I believe there are still tickets for both these events, so go to www.edfringe.com or www.captivatedrama.com to buy yours and come and see the shows!

Day 8 I got footage of Oliver! which can be viewed in the form of an unofficial trailer here:
















I have since done 2 vlogs but forgotten to update the blog, so apologies for this being a very rushed, not very well thought out post, but there's nothing I can do now I've missed the days they should have been up.  Here are the vlogs for days 8 and 9:

Once again thank you for following my journey to becoming Javert!  I promise this blog will be updated every night from now on and I won't forget!

kind regards

Gordon H

Playing Javert - Day 7

It's been a week already...

How time flies!  I mean seriously, it does not feel like last Thursday was the first rehearsal.  It's amazing how far we've all come in a week!

I mean seriously?!  As far as today is concerned, it's like we've had months and months of rehearsals!  In reality of course.  We've had 3 days without chorus and 4 days with...  I've never ever rehearsed a show which has come together so quickly!  Les Misérables is simply stunning!  No other word for it (except incredible of course, but as you know I over-use that word a lot...)

10:20am saw the start of our first complete runthrough of the show from start to finish.  It felt a lot different today, because it felt like we were performing to an audience (the chorus of girls.)  And even on the stage... it just all feels real now.  Who knew the schoolboy who became obsessed with the one who sings about being ready for schoolboys, would become the one singing about being ready for the schoolboys?  (is your mind fecked yet?  Mine certainly is... and I'm the one typing...)

Today also marked my first ever interaction with Sandy, our Master Thenardier, having interacted with Ali, the understudy, for days, it was time to see what Sandy was like.  And he was shockingly good. He played it just like Ali did, except with his own twist.  I dunno how he does it... Sandy is Thenardier!

Today also marked another first.  It was the first time someone recorded some footage of ME.  Javert's Suicide, one of the hardest songs I've ever sung and one of the most emotional/horrible to feel/act out.  That's all I'll say for now.

In short, Les Misérables is going to be incredible, and if you miss out, you'll be kicking yourself that you didn't turn up!

On the Oliver! front, I'm not entirely sure how to play my other character, Dr Grimwig.  I'm half considering asking Sally if I can do it in full Eleventh Doctor get up and goofiness (but I don't think it would go down well...).  Ah well, I'll work it out eventually!

and so I promised you a longer blogpost tonight, and you've got one.

Don't forget to watch the Youtube Video (linked below) and also like my facebook page, follow my twitter, all that jazz.  Only if you want to though (however I'd advise it in case you miss an update!)  Remember all will be updated every night from now until August 11th!

kind regards

Gordon H

Playing Javert - Day 6

Once again I'm knackered and need to be up early in the morning, so here are some more photos like yesterday.  I'll try my best to get a longer blogpost done for tomorrow though.

Kind Regards

Gordon H

Playing Javert - Day 5

Another very exciting, very brilliant, very exhausting rehearsal we had today.  There's not much to say here that I haven't already said in the video, so do forgive me for such a short post.  I took footage today and that's in the video. :)

I did however also take some stills from the video footage so you can see these above.

I promise tomorrow's post will be more exciting, I'm just exhausted right now, and need time to think!




kind regards

Gordon H

Playing Javert - Day 4

 Greetings to you from Ja-Ja.  Yes that's my new nickname and no it's not that cream coloured eejit from Star Wars either...

Another amazing day of Captivate Drama rehearsals.  I managed to get some pictures today.  On the right is my Barricade costume and below is the bicorn! (YAY BICORN!)

Today was the day the chorus was in for the first time and they completely rocked it! It felt so weird, yet so brilliant at the same time, considering we'd just had three days of principal only rehearsals.

Today all rehearsals were carried out in the theatre, apart from the Les Mis chorus singing through their bits of act I.

The show is going to be absolutely incredible (yes, that word again.) and I really hope that it sells out like it did last year, because then, it would be unforgettable!

As always the youtube video is now up, so do check it out and I'll see you tomorrow for blog 5!



kind regards

Gordon H

Playing Javert - Day 3

Before I get into this post, I know it's a day late, and I do apologise, but please forgive me for being exhausted last night.  I felt like crap and didn't feel up to a video/blog post.

Anyway day 3 was incredible.  Over-using that word a little, but no other words can describe how wonderful rehearsals are right now!  We have now done a full show-runthrough with all the principals and it really was fantastic.  The whole show has been performed over 3 days with just the principals and tomorrow the chorus turn up!

During the runthrough however myself and our Thenardier were called to the stage to help with lighting (standing in spaces to have light shone on us to show the lighting crew how it looks) and in doing so we missed One Day More.  But I'm not complaining because it's not as if it was a real show... was it?

I was rather excited yesterday because one of the major things I did was try on some elements of costume.  I now know that I will be getting the famous Javert Prison Officer uniform (or a slight variation to it, but it's the same one nonetheless!) and I now know what my costume for the Barricade scenes look like.  It'll be interesting to see how it all adds up in our final rehearsals!  I'm also getting a Bicorn! YAY! I love a good Bicorn! In fact I'm a lover of hats, so to find out that I'll be having a Bicorn and also possibly a top hat, I kinda fanboyed a bit...

The Bicorn I saw was extremely similar to how Russell Crowe's one looked when I looked at myself wearing it.  I don't have a picture of the hat itself, but I'll get that for you in time. For now, have a random Russell Crowe picture



Tomorrow consists of both Oliver and Les Misérables rehearsals running in tandem with each other.  It'll be interesting to see how it all fits together because I'm sure rehearsing two shows at once with one director is a bit stressful!

As always my latest vlog is now on youtube.  I'm really enjoying doing these and I hope you like them as much as I do making them :)

kind regards

Gordon H

Playing Javert - Day 2

Has it really already been 2 days?!

Yes it has, and these two days have been absolutely wonderful!  We have nearly completed principal rehearsals and start with the chorus on Monday.

Today was an Act II day, barricade scenes/sewers/suicide/cafe/confession was all covered in the space of 4 hours, which means we've runthrough almost the entire musical with just principals, in 2 days! That's incredible!  I don't think I've ever seen quicker learning/rehearsing!

For fun, Max, our Jean Valjean himself, and I sang a complete rendition of the Confrontation (which is sadly shortened in the School Edition) which was absolutely epic!  Someone filmed us, so fingers crossed for that video going online!

Tomorrow is set to be epic, it's an entire runthrough of what we've done over these 2 days plus the end.  I can't wait to have a full day of playing Javert when it's both acts we perform.

I honestly cannot wait until next week when the chorus come in!  It's going to be super epic, and I'll also get to do my bit for Oliver! next week too!  I'm having the time of my life right now, and I'm sure it will be a time I will remember for the rest of my life!

I really hope you enjoyed reading this and will continue to join me in my journey to the Fringe!

kind regards

Gordon H

Playing Javert - Day 1

The time is now... the day is here!

This morning marked the very first time I got to step into the shoes of Inspector Javert.  It was incredible!

In February I read the book and I've taken elements of book Javert and the different musical Javerts and kind of put them together plus added my own ring to the character and it feels amazing to play on epic proportions.

In all honesty, it's not what I was expecting at all.  I've known Les Misérables for 5, nearly 6 years so I expected it would be very similar if not the same to how it's been done before... oh how wrong I was.

The Cast is absolutely incredible.  I don't think I could ask for a better cast to work with.  Everyone is very friendly, have laughs now and again and everyone gets on really well with each other.

The School Edition sadly has a few cuts to it (one major one being the first verse of Stars) which is sad, but it also opens up to a brand new imagining of Les Misérables which I've never heard/witnessed before, and it's extra special to be a part of it all!

The venue looks brilliant.  It's a very large theatre space in Broughton High School which looks like it will be fun to work in!

Rehearsals today lasted from 10am - 6pm and it was an extremely hot day, so hopefully tomorrow will be a bit cooler, though I doubt it.

Tomorrow I'm not needed until 2pm so I'm quite happy because tomorrow morning I'll have time to do stuff properly (this morning I slept in by an hour so was rushing around to be out the door in case I was late... ah well it paid off since I arrived 10 minutes early).

So that's about it for this blog post. Do check out my video to go along with this post (I will link it below) and don't forget to like my new facebook page/follow me on twitter/Subscribe to me on youtube, if you haven't already done so.  You don't have to but every little helps and every little follow/like/subscribe is fully appreciated!

Kind Regards

Gordon H