BLOG 4-ORDER OF THE GARTER

BLOG 4 - THE MOST NOBLE ORDER of the GARTER

Monday 18^th June. 2012

I had the privilege of receiving a ticket to the Order of the Garter ceremony and procession through a dear friend’s mother. At first I was torn between losing a much-needed day’s school teaching wages and attending a once in a lifetime event up close and personal. After battling the London crowds for a view of Royal events recently and at last years Royal wedding, I had almost given up hope (not for want of trying) of ever seeing with my own eyes and not by watching events back in BBC iPlayer, a royal and regal procession or ceremony. Finally lady luck played its part in allowing me to reschedule a booked teaching day and without the prediction of impending monsoon June weather, I had one of the best days in quite some time. Everything fell into place; I didn’t get that Sound Of Music Bahrain gig whereby I would have been currently rehearsing, the National Rail enquiry, where I was connected to a call centre in India had no idea what or where Windsor castle was which led me to Waterloo station where I received the information I needed including a cheap rail ticket, all meant I was in for one of my ‘tick box’, ‘I was there’ moments one rarely gets in a lifetime. However, I have been blessed with a few of those in my time.

Clutching my prize ticket as if I had won the lottery, Margaret led me to the viewing area directly opposite the St George's Chapel doors where dignitaries and Royals would enter and the procession with all its regal pomp and ceremony was to pass right before my eyes. I have to say that I detest having to use a camera for that ‘money shot’ instead of savouring the moment, seeing with my own eyes the object of my desire instead of through a lens, but capture these moments I must to remind me in photo diary format the amazing things I have witnessed, done and savoured in my days. I soaked up the atmosphere, the sun, the pageantry, took photos on my new camera, (even though it doesn’t click very fast or zoom closer than I had anticipated) and relayed the up to the minute details, a commentary of sorts, for the PC standing in front of me who was not allowed to watch because she had her eagle eyes focussed on the masses. What a day, and then Margaret and I moved quickly to the chapel for a wander through or as one of the clergy said and ‘Ikea tour’ of one of Britain's most historical chapels where none other than King Henry VIII and Jane Seymour, amongst other Royals and military knights are buried. Margaret and I found a nearby pub to sup on a sumptuous ploughman’s lunch and we polished off a bottle of fine Pinot Grigio. I came away from the day feeling satisfied that all my Christmases had come at once, I knew more about the history behind this ceremony, saw in the flesh on this day happy Royals as they were indeed smiling, saw many an aged Knight of the realm, politicians and the Order of the Garter members. The next day at school I regaled in brief my tale, and I am still pinching myself on how fortunate I was to attend this truly and historical memorable event. Thanks to Margaret and my dear friend Robyn for this wonderful opportunity for which I am truly grateful.  

  History of the Most Noble Order of the Garter

In approximately 1348 Kind Edward III during his claim to the French throne founded the highest order of chivalry, the Order of the Garter. This honour is bestowed upon recipients of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. Members include the Sovereign, the Prince of Wales and Royalty i.e: the Duke of Edinburgh, the Princess Royal, the Duke of Gloucester and the Duke of Kent with officers of the Order and 24 Knights and companions. Knights have been found listed under the date of 1344 and the motto of the Order of The Garter is ‘Honi soit qui  mal y pense' meaning 'shame upon him who thinks evil upon it'. There are numerous tales of how this order of the garter came to be but it was discontinued and revived many times over the centuries. The Sovereign is the only person who is able to grant membership and the Prince of Wales is known as the Knight Companion of the Garter. The order can include supernumeraries who do not count towards the list of 24 companions and reigning European monarchs are admitted to the order of Strangers. Members usually join as a result of the military service or public office but historically knights were limited to the aristocracy. Members are required to display a banner of their arms in the Chapel, together with a helmet, crest and sword and an enameled stallplate.

  

  

  

MUSICAL THEATRE AUDITION WORKSHOP JUNE 2012

MUSIC THEATRE AUDITION WORKSHOP

ACTORS GUILD. JUNE 2012 

A plug for Neil Rutherford's new book which I highly recommend.

*Sondheim-underplay because the music is clever in itself.

*Think within the context of the song.

*Sing and Act. Where’s the vocal and hear it.

*Show a wide range-height and depth and a range of emotions. Be versatile in the first round and show off your voice.

*Some casting directors one can sing to (not DG) but don’t sing love songs or angry songs directly to a casting director-too intimidating. One can do a little bit of playing to the panel but not all of it and where’s the focus.

*Think like American’s and do it 150%-go far enough with energy and don’t apologise for auditioning.

*9-5 had 4,500 applicants and they saw 300.

*Some casting directors like Sondheim but some pianists find it difficult to play. Make sure the song is no longer than 2.5mins.

*If there are similar verses cut the repetition.

*Don’t choreograph in a song just stand and sing.

*Know the sense of the production. Do your research.

*DON’T CHAT!

*Choices like Jason Robert Brown can be long and self- indulgent.

*One needs to look like the production e.g.: Legally Blonde has a type.

*Enjoy auditions. Don’t sing to one spot-place a person you are singing to and move around the room if needs be.

*Narrative is easier to play.

*Love songs are gushy, sometimes embarrassing and harder to play. Is the song endearing or funny?

*Don’t wave hands or move them to the beat.

*Have music printed with cute already there and ready to play so one doesn’t have to explain it to the pianist. Have it neat and printed properly.

*Dress as if you have made an effort and do the background work needed for the show setting: period, what’s my character within the show; suggest a look, Youtube etc.

*Apple Tree is a lovely song so don’t do too much.

*Don’t give away where the story is going. How much funnier is the song is it isn’t about what it believes to be?

*Don’t give the story away right at the beginning. Have somewhere to go. Let it build bit by bit. Remember how many bars are left otherwise we have heard it all before.

*Where’s the energy? Have your motor going.

TEXT: William Gaskill-Words into Action.

Nick Hern Books. London. 2011

*If the ending finishes on a low note take it up because it might be a better finish.

*Don’t go too far with the piece but think about it. E.g.: Putting a top note somewhere because this character does this type of song in the show? Adapting the audition song for the show. If it’s too whacky tell the panel why you are doing it e.g.: wide range. Adapt in initial call but not recalls.

*Casting panel can see through he mistakes. If there are 3 people up for the same role and 2 don’t get it, it could be because the first one can cover more?

*Casting directors expect the material to be learnt and even 24hrs before. Be professional.

*What is the key to this song? Key lines or title?

*Own the audition. I’m in control to take the dramatic moments. Be brave.

*Song example: Gimme, Gimme-with cuts and there are money notes. Act.

*Don’t be too manic e.g.: leg kicks.

*Agent should have CV’s and Photos.

*Some casting directors like post cards with your details because it shows you are being pro-active. Say hello at functions as well because they are working.

*Go and look at a casting directors website for details or breakdowns.

Article: Don’t Panic: Musical Theatre Audition Advice

20th August, 2012 | Written by: Erin James 

Neil Rutherford:

We asked Neil Rutherford what he believes are the most important things to remember when auditioning for musical theatre.

1. Preparation

Preparation of Material, Background Knowledge, knowing about the creatives you are auditioning for, researching the writers of the piece, and the piece itself.

Knowing all of that information is invaluable. At various levels of the audition process, you might need to know slightly more than you did at the beginning, but there is absolutely no point going in if you don’t know about the key things and the people you’re dealing with.

2. Ownership of the Audition

Yes, an audition might go horribly wrong, but you’ve got to find a way to take charge, take control, and let it be your audition.

3. Let it Go

Once you have left the room, when you know you have done the best you can do, throw it on the floor  and let it go, cause you can’t change it at that point.

That’s about sustaining your life within the business, really!

4. Be Brave

Be brave, not foolish! Don’t do something completely new and untested, but be brave enough to play with the creatives and try something. Don’t get stuck in your ways that you can’t open out to a suggestion — that’s part of the process.

It’s important to remember that auditioning is not about final performance, it’s about showing what the possibilities are. It’s about showing as many possibilities and assets to you skill base as you possibly can. It’s not about delivering the final performance yet — that’s why we have rehearsal!

It’s about showing “I’m capable of adapting, and listening” both of which are valuable traits!

BLOG 3-THE DIAMOND JUBILEE QUEEN

BLOG 3 - THE DIAMOND JUBILEE QUEEN AND WHAT SHE MEANS TO ME?

‘Continuity’ (in this sense a ‘constitutional monarchy claiming to represent the interests of the people before the elected Government’) is the word of the day in describing the Queen on her Diamond Jubilee. How exciting to be in London not only for the Royal wedding in 2011 but the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee festivities in May/June 2012.

It’s difficult battling the public transport and crowds, not being able to see anything but one scrambles to watch these events on a big screen in a park or square and then come home to watch it all back on the BBC iPlayer. I can say I took part in it all, including school community celebrations and lunches. 

No one can put on a regal pageant like the Brits, which is one of the bargaining chips for the impending London Olympics.

It’s a big year for Londoners and for all those around the country; the Royal wedding between our ‘Kate and Wills’, ‘Queen Lizzie’s’ Diamond Jubilee and to top it off, the Olympics, where I will be living in the middle of it, the renamed: Royal Borough of Greenwich.

All this pomp and ceremony has brought back many memories of broadcasts: Charles and Dianna’s wedding, the Edinburgh Tattoos, and the Queen’s annual Christmas messages. Who will forget the Queen’s year of ‘annus horribilis’; March 1992 with the separation of her son Prince Andrew and Sarah, the divorce between her daughter Princess Anne and Captain Mark Philips, the book Diana, Her True Story was published, Windsor Castle caught fire and as a result some of the Queen’s residences were opened to the public in order to fund the cost of the repairs and in December, Prince Charles and Diana announced their divorce. Apart from this, in 1997 she was visibly upset with the decommissioning of the Royal Yacht Britannia and with the death of Diana, the years that followed were difficult.

But most of all, I fondly remember singing the National Anthem-God Save The Queen in primary school assemblies in Australia whilst looking at a framed print of the Queen. In fact, nearly every classroom had a picture of the Queen. God Save The Queen was sung alongside our school song but was eventually phased out whilst in high school in the 1970’s. Advance Australia Fair was proclaimed our National anthem in 1984, which helped all Australians 'feel both pride and joy in our country'. When I became a citizen of Great Britain last year, I was very proud to sing God Save the Queen high and loud but I am ashamed to say that I don’t know the second verse?

The only time I have ever crossed paths with the Queen was at Royal Randwick Race Course in Sydney. I had locked my keys in the car and after a while managed to get them out with some assistance. As a result I was an hour late in meeting up with friends in the stands but as I crossed the grassy car park, a Daimler passed by me with the Queen sitting in the back. I did a double take because I had no idea she was to be at the races that day?

Now that I am a British subject (and an Australian) I am not embarrassed to say I am a Royalist, that is, loyal to the Queen alone. She is one of the most photographed and painted women in the world (including her image on postage stamps and money). She looks quite well for her 86 years but for a woman in the public eye, she is modest, which is a most admirable quality, whilst retaining an air of mystery. I have no doubt she will be our Queen right to the end but with a 1,000-year-old family history behind her, long may this modern day monarch reign supreme. On May 12, 2011 she became the longest reigning monarch in British history having reigned for 21,645 days and in September 2015 she will surpass Queen Victoria’s record.

I have a fascination with the monarchies long and bloody history, more so the late 1400’s-1600’s. The Royal family were powerful, wealthy and in constant danger with the threat of treason and assassinations from members of their immediate families and relations. Religion, producing a male heir (and a spare), marrying into other Royal European families for the sake of peace or politics, adjoining powerful regimes in the acquisition of wealth, were paramount in the day but thanks to King Henry VIII who made himself the head of the Anglican Church (for reasons other than religion), Queen Elizabeth II is still the head of the Anglican Church. As a Methodist, the Anglican Church in Britain is the one I most frequent for worship. The ever-regal religious ceremonies and processions are a sight to behold in my two favourite places of worship; Southwark and St Paul’s Cathedrals, where one can get lost in the heavenly voices, singing anthems and hymns accompanied by a big thumping pipe organ at choral evensong.

During the Jubilee celebrations I read much and watched many a documentary in order to learn more about our Queen who is still as elusive and an enigma today as she was 60 years ago. Andrew Marr and Sir Roy Strong’s writings, of which I have based many of my facts, mention that as head of state and the Commonwealth ‘she is a living symbol of Nations…she is wry and knowing but she feels a calling…vocation…which cannot be evaded’. Intensely shy like her father and not a natural public speaker she has an incredibly exhausting diary of engagements and commitments and has been ‘on call’ since the age of 26.

A mother who bore 4 children, she is now a great grandmother. She not only adores all children, taking the time to accept posies from young children, but so too, animals play a huge part in her life especially her horses and corgis. Constant attention is required for the demanding reading of ‘official secret business’ and as the symbol of authority; she is the commander in chief to the British forces. Other duties include; the opening of parliament (reading the prime minister’s words without feeling or emotion), assented more than 3,000 bills passed by Parliament, politely greeting and welcoming foreign dignitaries, ministers and heads of state into her home, weekly audiences with Prime Ministers of which there have been 12 Prime Ministers to date, she is the supreme defender of the Church of England faith, she bestows medals and knighthoods, patronage to numerous charities, leads grand ceremonial occasions and is the keeper of many a National secret. The Queen is a thrifty but colourfully well-dressed person who shows very little emotion. She doesn’t have a gregarious or boisterous personality but comes across as bland and neutral whilst hiding a wicked wit.

I would love nothing more than to take tea with the Queen and swap a few stories but I am happy to have been alive during her reign and I am satisfied that ‘with the Duke of Edinburgh by her side and her grandchildren…the future of the succession seems assured, which is a source of tremendous pride and satisfaction to her.’

Three cheers for our Queen; hurrah, hurrah, hurrah! May God bless and save The Queen.

THEATRE AND CONCERT REVIEWS JUNE 2012

Theatre and Concert Reviews from June  2012

THEATRE AND CONCERT REVIEWS

Donka. Queen Elizabeth Hall. 4 stars.

Friday 8^th June. 2012-06-09

Donka is described in its blurb as ‘dazzling aerial acrobatics, multi-media illusion and magic’ being written and directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca. It is, as it is entitled; circus, magic and mischief but what they leave out is that it is truly bizarre. A dynamic work, which is loosely based on Anton Chekhov’s plays and tales of his life, the show has a few themes, one being, the search of one’s soul via bodily dissection with references to stains and fishing?  A witty line is delivered in Act 2 stating that ‘no-one will understand what this is all about’ and the audience guffaws in response because it is all too true. On listening to the audiences' reaction, I am not alone in thinking this work is surreal and odd. It has elements of a very early and raw Cirque Du Soliel and has a flavour of, but being far less commercial; Slava Snow Show. The 8 multi-skilled performers all sing (with the addition of recorded music) and have specific skills such as juggling, silks, aerial acrobatics or musical etc. Obviously translated into English from either Italian and/ or Spanish, the dialogue is delivered in thick European accents, which can make it very difficult to understand and follow the plot. Most of the songs though, are sung in their native tongue. The first act is far more light hearted and humorous with my favourite performances: the 3 ladies on a swing, all falling over each other and pushing each other off and the lady tap dancing on ice and nearly falling over which was accompanied by ensemble rhythmic body percussion. The close of Act 1 sees ice being thrown around the stage whilst the performers dressed in white and flowing dresses, hurl plates and balls of ice=strange? Act 2 is more sombre but has my favourite act, the male spinning around the stage in a life-sized hoop, which is the image for publicity. There are some incredibly innovative use of projections; shadow effects and a very popular performance of acrobatics (whilst lying on the ground) and projecting it on a sheet so it faces the audience in an upright position,which was hilarious. There is no rhyme or reason for this piece but for pure spectacle and visual appreciation for the various skills and techniques used. I struggled with the first act because I am so used to the commercial and polished nature of Cirque Du Soleil but I very much warmed to the second act. 

Liza Minnelli at Hampton Court Palace.

Thursday 14^th June. 2012

I have been thinking about what to write for a few days and this is a hard one. In fact, I haven’t even put a review on my Audience Club page after reading what is already there because it’s all glowing. Does one write with honesty or see this performance through rose coloured glasses? There is no doubt that Liza is a true and steadfast legend (I am a huge fan), who has a pedigree from Showbiz royalty, one that I could only dream of. With countless shows, movies and awards under her belt, her career and life is an inspiration. The fact that she has survived her tumultuous life and marriages is true testimony to her ever-enduring spirit and courage. But if one is going to keep performing (and Liza is now 66 years of age-not old) one has to think about how one can be seen/ heard in the best light. If the top notes aren’t there anymore, take the keys down and re-arrange the music so that it’s singable. One doesn’t want to acknowledge a faltering voice but if it is, something can be done. I know that’s what I will be doing when the time comes. The presentation, venue, stage setting and performance were all admirable and I am a huge fan of Billy Stritch her talented singer/ pianist MD but the rambling dialogue needs to be scripted and forgetting words (always a nightmare for a performer as it happens to everyone) is a sign that more work needs to go into the production in order to keep the show in tip top condition. I have now seen Liza and wish I had taken the opportunity (couldn’t afford it at the time) to see her with Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Junior and Old Blue Eyes back in the 80’s. What a show that would have been, I missed it and have regretted it ever since. 

MOVIE REVIEWS JUNE 2012

MOVIE COMMENTS

Sunday 24^th June. 2012

A Royal Affair

Another brilliant historical Royal drama set in Denmark in 1766 amidst its tumultuous period of change in the period of Enlightenment. I noted parallels with the film The Duchess in an unhappy arranged marriage which leads to an adulterous affair and an illegitimate child, a would be heir (spare) to the throne. What we do see, which was common in British history is the possible taking over of the throne by the second family of the deceased King. These unfortunate Royals seem to be oblivious to the possible coup and removal of the rightful King and Queen to the throne because they are engrossed in their own personal dramas. The casting of Queen Caroline Mathilde played by Alicia Vikander, childish, imbecilic and eccentric King Christian VII played by Mikkel Boe Folsgaard and German physician Johann Friedrich Struensee played by Mads Mikkelsen, who in the end is beheaded for treason, is outstanding.  After the removal of King Christian from the throne, the country is plunged back into Medieval politics (compared to the rest of Europe) and it takes the King’s son young Frederick, after reading his dead mother’s letters and King Christian to plan another siege to regain rightful control of the country. This film uses picturesque European countryside/ city settings, which is exquisitely filmed with stunning views and cinematography including sumptuous palace scenes and costumes. 

Sunday 24th June. 2012
Rock Of Ages

 Photo: David James/Warner Bros. Pictures

Brilliantly directed by Hairspray’s Adam Shankman, Rock of Ages is pop culture story of ‘a small town girl and a city boy who meet on the Sunset Strip, while pursuing their Hollywood dreams’. It’s a tale of ‘Rock and Roll’ with iconic 80’s rock tunes which are performed by an all singing and all dancing cast who not only look great but sound like the real thing. Tom Cruise dons leather trousers and an encrusted rhinestone codpiece for the accurate and authentic part of Staycee Jaxx. He only spent 4-5 months learning to sing and play guitar (convincingly), which is absolutely incredible. He also perfected the look, swagger and demeanor of the real Axel Rose but in a complete turnaround from his usual action hero parts, portrays a real rock hero phenomenon with credibility. What can’t this man do? Talk about self-determination and a drive to perfect the part?

Sherrie Christian [Julianne Hough] is an aspiring young teen-age Mid Western singer who comes to Hollywood to seek her fortune and fame and eventually hooks up with also young teen-ager Drew Boley [Diego Boneta] who is equally as handsome and a perfect match for Sherrie. They are wonderful singers and performers and obviously ones to watch out for in the future because the truth in their performances was entrancing. Whilst people were wary of this movie I for one enjoyed it despite the slim plot because it is a movie musical and it’s all about the music.

Sunday 17th June. 2012

Your Sister's Sister-Preview

Attended a preview screening of 'Your Sister's Sister' which is a lovely movie with an unexpected ending. Made me feel uncomfortable on so many levels. I like the 
line: 'I love you but I don't like you'.


Cosmopolis

COSMOPOLIS flick with Rpattz as leading man. This is his most challenging role to date and puts him in the big league but the man who steals the movie is Paul Giamatti. It's a psychoanalytical, futuristic oddity with characters hell bent on a path of self destruction. Not my cup of tea and peeps left throughout. A flick for peeps who like quirky, intelligent theoretical dialogue.