Mirth in Manchester

Bye Bye Mirth - NEW BLOG!

2010-06-20T23:56:00.001+01:00

Thank you to everyone that read my ramblings on Mirth. It's been a good few years, but it's time for a change.

I'm leaving Mirth in Manchester behind and you'll now find me here:

http://cityhills.wordpress.com

I hope you come over there and keep reading about my little world. I PROMISE to blog more and I really hope you like City Hills.

Heaps of love and thanks,
Sally x

Hot Hot HOT!

2010-05-24T23:01:00.002+01:00

Oh My God. I'm ginger and this heat... flippin' heck.
After a week of being ill, it's been back to work and it's been so busy. Horrible.

I finished work at 11pm on Saturday after a 11 hr day and was back in at 8am on Sunday. But Anis was off and a promise of a bbq and beers in the back garden were enough to keep me clock watching all day.

I rushed home, showered, changed and me and Anis had a fabulous afternoon in the sunny garden with a bbq, book and beers.

The cat adoption lady came to check the house on Sunday and we passed! Bubbles is ours. I have to phone them tomorrow to plan picking her up. I just can't wait.

Anis and I are both off work tomorrow and Wednesday. We're off to Wales. Fingers crossed the sun keeps shining x

Bubbles

2010-05-19T18:20:00.004+01:00

I knew it would happen. I said on my Facebook and Twitter 'I'm going to the animal sanctuary for some advice on a stray, don't be shocked if I come back with a cat!'

Well we got to Bleakholts Animal Sanctuary, which I have to say is a beautiful animal sanctuary. We got some advice on Squeak, then went for a look around. There were so many cats and it's like they put on a little show when you walk past them. One black cat was rubbing himself all over my hands through the bars and I was almost in tears. Anis was like, 'Sally, no.' I was going, 'I think he loves me though.'

Obviously we've been caring for Squeak lately and we both love cats. My mum and dad have my two cats as I lived near a main road and couldn't let them out. The intention was for me to have them back once I'd moved, but they are so settled and content with my mum and dad I don't think they'd want to leave and I don't think my mum and dad would want to give them up. The mutual love they have for each other is beautiful.

So Anis and I walked round the sanctuary and he wouldn't let me have a goat or a rabbit! I'd have one of everything if I could - then he was like, 'Let's do the responsible thing and speak to them about it.'

So we spoke to the lady at the cat centre and explained we really, really want to adopt a cat but we'd need one that doesn't mind being inside in the day as there's at least one day a week where we're both in work for 12 hours.

She said it was fine and a few of them were house cats and quite content with their own company.

Anis: I'd quite like a male cat.

Me: I don't mind if it's male or female.

Anis: A tabby one would be nice.

Me: I don't care what it looks like.

So he was looking for a butch tabby and I was looking for one that needed a home the most. The black one that loved me had been booked for someone else.
So the lady took us in to one of the cat pens and said - 'We have a gorgeous cat, who isn't as pretty as some, she's female, but she's so friendly.' And she went over to this gorgeous cat and picked her up. She's 8 years old and came in with her sisters, but was bullied by them a bit.
Anis was still looking around for a butch tabby! How could I stand there and say, 'No - she's not for me.'

I fell in love with her straight away (and the cat next to her and the one on the floor)! So it was agreed, we'd adopt her.
Her name is Bubbles. (How theatrical! I love it!)

We have to have a house check and then once we pass that, she gets chipped and has a visit to the vets and then we can bring her home. It could take up to two weeks.

I wish it was quicker but I love how they are thorough and don't let them go to anyone. It gives us time to get her things ready anyway.

And so, in the space of two weeks we'll have two babies to the family.

Bubbles and Squeak (See what we did!)

PS: The animal sanctuary said that it's harder to re-home cats that are black or white as people fall for the cute coloured ones (like Anis wanting a tabby). And if you do want a tabby cat, there's nothing wrong with that as they need nice homes too - it's just a shame the plain coloured cats get over-looked. My cats at my mum and dads are plain black and the most gorgeous cats you could ever meet.
Oh and rabbits need good homes. They are the most neglected animals. People just shove them in a cage that's too small for them neglect them, it's horrible.
Right, I'll get off my soapbox now. Just wanted to tell you about our new babies xx

Squeak

2010-05-19T18:07:00.004+01:00

So, there's this cat that is obviously someones pet as he has a collar, but all the neighbours seem to be caring for and we can't work out where he lives, if indeed he lives anywhere.

I've been back two weeks and he's been here every day. My mum and dad have donated lots of cat food and we've been buying him the best cat food you can buy.

His coat is matted, he's smelly but he's so lovable - desperate for cuddles and affection.

Why people have animals and stop looking after them properly is beyond me.

This cat came to us at 2am one night and slept in my arms, we couldn't go to bed. So I made a bed on the couch and cuddled him until he woke me at 4am as he wanted to leave.

He's slowly getting used to the house, he sleeps but he always leaves, I think he's used to being independent.

I looked under his collar and there was a ring of red skin. I didn't know what to do because if someone took a collar off my cat I'd be annoyed, but then they're can't care that much about him...

So yesterday Anis and I went to the animal sanctuary to ask for some advice. They told me to take his collar off straight away (which I've done) and I've got to take him to the vets as soon as I can to be checked. I don't have a carrier etc, so I'm going to get one on Friday and take him on my day off next week. He's just getting our trust and we don't want to scare him, but I want to make sure he's ok.

His coat is getting a bit shiny now and I bought a cat comb yesterday. We leave food out when we're at work (I've never known a cat to eat as much) and the door open when we're in. He just walks in - he doesn't have much of a miaow, so we've named him Squeak.

I love him and will do my best to look after him.

** If you think this is your cat, please message me - I'd love to know who he belongs to and to chat about his welfare **

Happy

2010-05-19T17:52:00.003+01:00

You may (or may not) have noticed that I've stopped saying 'Mr Sally' and have started saying his name - Anis!
I guess when I started this blog it was easier to say Mr Sally in case it went wrong and I thought it was sweet to call him that.
And I was right, we did go wrong a couple of years ago and we split up and it was probably the worst part of my life. Thankfully we got back together and since then, life has been wonderfully, lovely.
I know we're not going to split up again and I know we're in it for the long run. So a few weeks ago I made a decision to move back in with him, we've been living in my flat in Salford for over a year and now we're saving for a house to buy together, so of course it makes financial sense to move back and save money and I thought it would be difficult going back, but actually it's been fab. Anis has gone out of his way to make me feel settled and it's nice to have a garden and see green fields instead looking at a matress on the pavement! (Seriously!)

When I lived here before it never felt like my home because Anis was always working and I was far away from my friends and although I did make a little life for myself here, I always felt a bit lonely. But now it's different - we're working around each others rotas more so we get days off together and yesterday we went to our little town, together and even had a coffee in our local coffee shop - little things we never did that mean so much.

The neighbours seem to have missed me and our friends across the road have been over with hugs and are busy planning a night the four of us can go out. And they've just brought me over a lovely bunch of roses for missing my 30th.

I'm feeling settled and dare I say it, happy. It's been a tough couple of years and so it's lovely to finally be moving forwards, going in the right direction, together.

Update Central!

2010-05-19T17:43:00.003+01:00

I've been so rubbish at blogging lately and I'm sorry. So much to tell and so little time. So today feels like a good time as I'm off work, full of a cold, feeling very sorry for myself.

London was AMAZING. We went to the Old Vic to see The Real Thing, which was funny and very slick, loved it. The we went to see Billy Elliot and it was as wonderful as I'd hoped it would be. I cried buckets. We then went to see The Mouse Trap which has been running for 58 years - a good old fashioned murder mystery, it was fab and Anis guessed the murderer!

Anis and I had a brilliant time. We were staying right by the London Eye and did lots of walking, we caught up with friends, ate loads of rubbish, drank lots and laughed lots.

We then went to Wales for my 30th birthday, which was gorgeous. My family made it so special for me and my best friend Leah and her hubby Mani came over - so we went to the beach for kite flying and coffee's.

My mum and dad got me loads of lovely things and then handed me a box at the end. Inside the little box was a car key! They gave me a red Fiat Punto. I'm still in shock. It's such a wonderful gift and I'm collecting it off them hopefully next week. Can't wait.

So a wonderful birthday with my wonderful family and friends. Couldn't have asked for more.

Mini Break

2010-05-03T15:43:00.004+01:00

I'm packing my bags.

I have a whole week booked off from work.

Mr Sally is whisking me off to one of my favourite places - London.

We're going Tuesday - Friday. We'll be catching up with friends and watching plays, musicals, shopping... everything.

Can't wait.

We feel like we've not seen much of each other lately as I've been juggling day job with the play and it's been hard to make time for him too.

So this will be a nice break for us. Another reason for the trip... I turn 30 on Saturday the 8th!
When we come back on Friday, we're travelling to my mum and dad's in Wales for my birthday weekend.
Can't wait.
This is where we're staying:

Exciting News

2010-05-03T15:40:00.002+01:00

Remember a few months ago I wrote about writing a play with my friend Luke Walker?
I told you it was for a festival and I couldn't tell you the title or anything?

Anyway....
I'm proud to announce that MAKE BELIEVE, my new play which I co-wrote with Luke Walker has just been accepted in to this years 24:7 Theatre Festival. Over 100 scripts were entered and we are only one of ten chosen.

We're so excited and so proud.
Keep you posted on more news soon!

The End!

2010-05-03T15:36:00.002+01:00

JUMBLE was a success. We sold out on our last night, front of house were squeezing seats in!
We've had a fantastic response from the audience and I'm looking to take it on a little tour later this year.

I'm shattered, but it was worth it.

The theatre were lovely to us and we had the best time. We all want to do it again. It's definitely not the end of JUMBLE.
Quite a few people have commented that they'd love to see it as a sitcom, I see what they mean, it has legs to do other things... we'll see.

I promise now my life is back to normal (ish) I'll blog more!

Opening Night

2010-04-29T17:32:00.002+01:00

My play JUMBLE opened last night.
I have to say, out of all the plays I've written and produced this one has been the nicest to be involved in. It's down to having an amazing director (Mike Heath) and a very talented, hard working cast.

As we were getting ready to do our first show last night, I looked around and thought how lovely it was to not see a script hanging around backstage. Whenever I've done a play before, there's always been a script out for someone and a sense of not being completely ready in the air. This time we were more than ready and just so excited.

The lovely theatre was half full and the tickets are selling and selling with Saturday almost sold out. Phew.

We had a fabulous opening night audience, they were laughing from the start.

I'll keep you posted on the rest of the run and if you are in Manchester, come on down to the wonderful Studio Salford and join us for 2 hours of fun!

My Studio

2010-04-19T12:46:00.001+01:00

My desk area!

My Studio

2010-04-19T12:41:00.000+01:00

My sofa area.
(The magazines will come down soon and it'll be painted!)

My Studio

2010-04-19T12:38:00.000+01:00

This is my studio. It needs painting - but I love it!

Rest and Rehearsals

2010-04-19T12:31:00.002+01:00

I'm in Wales at the moment, relaxing at my mum and dad's. We came yesterday and will be driving back in an hour or so.
I love coming here, their house is so relaxing, I get cuddles from my cats, fabulous food off my mum and giggles off my dad.
They live near the beach too and although my dad and Mr Sally went down there yesterday to fly kites! I decided to stay in the warmth with my mum!

Anyway, back to Manchester later. I'm in rehearsals until late tonight. It's the last full week of rehearsals this week. We open next Weds. So excied and nervous at the same time.
Tickets are booking up and I think we're going to have a good run.

Keep you posted on all things JUMBLE!

www.jumbletheplay.co.uk

We're also going to be filming a theatrical trailer tonight, which will go live this week!

Jumbled Chaos!

2010-04-17T13:24:00.003+01:00

I'm so sorry I've been so bad at posting anything.
JUMBLE rehearsals have taken over and I've not got a spare minute for anything at the moment. Juggling the day job and rehearsals has been tricky, but it's worth it.

I moved in to my very own studio two weeks ago. It has two huge windows and it has a little storage room. We've been rehearsing in there and it's great. I need to paint it, but it'll have to wait until JUMBLE is out of the way. Loads of people have asked to hire the space for their rehearsals and I'm chuffed to have it to help others. My friend is currently in there doing a read-through of his play as I type this. It's so expensive hiring a space to rehearse in Manchester. It's in an old mill and it's full of studios and lots of creative people pottering around!

JUMBLE opens in two weeks! Eeek. We're having a ball rehearsing. I really love the director, honeslty he's the best director I've worked with yet. The cast are fab too. We've had two cast changes since we had the read-through all those weeks ago, and the play is really coming together now.
Check out our rehearsal diary here.

Promise to write more soon! x

Keyboard Club!

2010-03-26T16:47:00.001Z

Mr Sally has arranged for a keyboard to be delivered next Monday.
Keyboard Club is open!

I'm teaching myself to play.
Mr Sally wants to learn to play too, so I suggested we start a keyboard club - just me and him. I can make badges.
He's not as excited as I'd hoped...

I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!!!!!

Remember Me?

2010-03-26T16:38:00.003Z

Hellooooo! OK, it's been far too long since I posted anything and I'm sorry.
It's just been a whirlwind of work, work, teaching, rehearsing for my play, business planning.... blah, blah, blah.

I feel like I don't have a spare second at the moment. Rehearsals for JUMBLE started, we had a cast change on the first day (!) and a week in to rehearsals and it's looking good. You can follow the rehearsals on our online diary here!

Errr, news - what do I have to tell you...
Ooh, yes - exciting news. The bank have said YES to me and Mr S getting a mortgage together. Well, he already has one, so they said yes to me being added to it and will let us borrow more for our dream home. I was so excited yesterday when I found out. I just can't wait for us to get our own place.
We have no idea where we want to live though, so are busy googling areas, asking everyone where's nice to live!
So all we have to do now is put Mr Sally's house up for sale, find somewhere we want to live and sell his house. Easy!

Right, got to dash -off to teach my lovely drama class. x

The List

2010-03-04T20:40:00.002Z

So, I turn 30 in two months.
Eeeek!
I don't know how I feel about it. I'm not dreading it or anything, it's just a bit like 'Ooh, OK.'
My beautiful best friend Leah turned 30 yesterday. It's ace, she gets to hit the big ages first, I laugh at her, then I prepare to hit them myself!

So, I guess when you're hitting a milestone age - you can't help but reflect. What haven't I achieved yet? Where did I hope to be when I was 30? Blah, blah, blah.

I did always imagine by the time I was 30 I'd have a mortgage and be married with babies - but me and Mr S are starting to think about stuff like that, so it's not a big deal that I won't actually have any of these things by the time I hit the big three-oh.

Everyone keeps asking what I'm going to be doing for my 30th. Err, I have no idea. I'm busy producing a play and that's all I can think about at the minute. I've never been one for huge parties. I'd much prefer a quiet meal with family and friends, we'll see.

Anyway, on reflection of what I've always wanted to do but haven't. I made a little list.
And I'm going to start it asap.

Two things on the list are:
Learn the piano
Take singing lessons.

Watch this space. I'm going to be doing both soon.
I'm going to teach myself the piano (what?) I've seen a book called 'Dummies guide to learning the piano', and with the help of interactive vids on Youtube, I should be banging out Lloyd Webber tunes in no time!

**Please see my post re:exhaustion. I have no idea when I'll find time to fit these in, but I'm going to do it! **

OMG - that's what I could do for my 30th birthday. A piano recital for my nearest and dearest. All the stuff I'll have learnt by then. 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and Away in a Manger!'
Oh yeah, I sure know how to party.

The List TBC...

Customers

2010-03-04T20:29:00.002Z

In my job, I chat with customers all day long. Some are regulars, so over the months you kind of develop a little familiarity with them.
So, how strange is this (well it might not be strange, but...) Anyway, one guy comes in every morning, he's about my age and we chat about random things, he works in a bank, I make his coffee without him having to tell me which one he wants.... then he mentions the other day that he's also an actor, then I mentioned I wrote and produced plays... turns out that he's just been in a play that my friend wrote and produced (which I missed).

Then the next day another customer comes in, who I've been chatting to for months, he asks what I did on the weekend, I told him I was ill. He tells me he went to watch a band and did I know the particular theatre he was talking about. I said yes as I'd written several plays for them. 'No way. Are you a writer?'
'Yes.'
'I'm writing a play at the moment, for that theatre.'

THEN
I cast my play JUMBLE a month or so ago. I've not really gone on about it in work, but I know some of my work friends are actors too. Anyway, the girl I cast text me today about the script and then she put PS: You work with my flat mate.
So all this time I've been chatting bits here and there about my play in work, I've not realised she lives with the girl in it!!!

EVERYONE IS CONNECTED!
It's scary how small this industry is. Scary. But I love it.

Exhausted - Really!

2010-03-04T20:17:00.002Z

Sorry for lack of posts this week. I've been really ill.
Basically for the last six months I've been working 40/50 hour weeks at my day job, as well as teaching, theatre job, meeting friends, spending time with Mr S and writing two plays.
My mum told me weeks ago that I needed to slow down as it would all catch up with me. My days off were never days off as I was always rushing to meet a friend, writing a play, shopping, cleaning or doing one of my other jobs.

Saturday morning I was in work and went really hot. I just thought the heating was on full. My boss told me it wasn't on, then I went dizzy and the room started spinning. She sent me home from work. I was pale and just wanted to sleep.
I got home and slept for hours, I then took the Sunday off and I probably shouldn't have gone back on Monday, by Tuesday my glands were swollen and I couldn't keep my eyes open in work, Mr S had to get a taxi home as I couldn't drive to pick him up.

I think this is what people call exhaustion. And I feel dramatic calling it that.

I'm still not 100%. I've been off today and I could happily still go to sleep.

So I had to make a decision, I have to slow down and something had to go from my life. Unfortunately it was the one job I really loved. I've had to hand my notice in at the theatre. I can't give up my teaching, I can't stop writing and producing plays and I can't give up my full time job as that's what keeps my bills paid.
I have my last shift there on Saturday and I'm very sad, although I'm also slightly happy that I have some time back to me.

A holiday would be nice right about now!

Sneak Peek - My Poster!

2010-02-24T21:53:00.002Z

I need to get the poster authorised by the lovely theatre, but hopefully this is the final poster for my new play JUMBLE.

We start rehearsals next week and I'm soooooo excited.

We're also filming a behind the scenes doc about the rehearsals and weekly episodes are going to be on our YouTube channel.

Ooh, also the play has it's own brand new website: www.jumbletheplay.co.uk

Finished!

2010-02-23T21:28:00.003Z

Finally finished writing my new play JUMBLE and the cast finally have a full script. I was tweaking the ending for ages and couldn't find an afternoon where I could just sit and make sure I was happy with it for a while.
Anyway, I am happy. I love this play. It's a comedy - but really sad in parts. The few people that have read it have all been really positive with their feedback and the director I wanted to direct it, read half of it last night and confirmed he'd direct it! So excited.

So now begins the usual roller coaster of rehearsals and I can't wait. We open at the end of April and I'm just so excited. The theatre I'm performing it at are deciding from this play whether I can be one of their in-house companies, which I'd give anything to be. So lots of things are riding on this going well.
I've got a completely new cast. I usually use the same actors but decided to freshen things up a bit and work with some new people. Very excited to start rehearsals.

Most writers, when finishing a writing project treat themselves to a pamper day, bubble bath etc- what did I do?
I decided I'd paint my office - all four huge walls and re-decorate. It took me five hours but it's looking nice - OK, a little patchy in areas and there's a bit of paint on the carpet! But still, I no longer have to look at the horrible wallpaper. I even have a chill out area. Mr Sally is going to put up some shelves tomorrow and I'm framing all the posters from my plays I've written and produced and they're going up on the walls!

Perfect!

I've always wanted to be a star!

2010-02-18T17:57:00.005Z

I got a facebook message off an old school friend today - she sent me a picture which she'd found of me.

I'm on the middle line, second from the left.

This was me as a star in my school play.
I remember this show and remember I had a star dance to do. I loved it.

My Perfect Valentine

2010-02-16T21:54:00.004Z

Mr Sally has spent weeks secretly organising for both my jobs to let me have three days off work and he's been busy planning, planning, planning.

Thankfully, both my jobs have been lovely and agreed to organise my days off around his plans.

And here's what he organised and what we did this Valentines weekend.

We caught a train to London on Saturday morning and checked in to our BEAUTIFUL hotel. We showered, changed and headed out in to the west end.

We had no plans for the Saturday night, except to meet my friend Christian - who is busy working on Sister Act the musical, so we had time to kill.

So, we managed to get two amazing tickets to Avenue Q - an amazing musical. We laughed and laughed from start to finish.

We then met Christian and his lovely boyfriend and went to a bar in Soho, we finally crawled in to the hotel at 4am!

Valentines day was the best day EVER. Mr Sally had organised two amazing tickets for Legally Blonde the musical.

The theatre manager met us in the foyer and took us to our own private bar, gave us a bottle of champagne and a programme and looked after us through the afternoon.

The show was AMAZING and Sheridan Smith is FABULOUS as Elle.

After the show, we walked around London and then headed back to the hotel for a Valentines meal.

Yesterday, we shopped on Oxford Street, met Christian again for a coffee and a proper chat, then sadly headed home.

I've had the best three days and I truly love Mr Sally. Bless him, he's brilliant.

I also love London and plan to go a lot more this year.

**Pics**
Outside Avenue Q
In our private bar for Legally Blonde

Tiring Tuesday!

2010-02-09T21:42:00.002Z

I have just finished a 14 hr day and just sipping a lovely glass of wine.
Today has been a loooong day. I was in my taxi at 6:45am this morning and the taxi driver was telling me he finished work at 1pm. Then he said, 'So when I finish, you won't even be half-way through your day, will you?'
'Hmm, nooooo!'
'That is a long day.'
'Yes, I know.'

Mr Sally is going to reveal what he has planned for the valentines weekend on Thursday - which is good because a, I can't wait to find out and b, I may have outfits I need to plan. Oooh, the excitement.

My playwriting classes start this Friday, which I'm really excited about. When I taught playwriting last year, it was to three people. Well, I just found out that one of them has finished her play and entered it in to a play writing festival. I'm so unbelievably proud of her. She keeps telling me that I changed her life and that since she met me, new lines have appeared on her hand!
Anyway, it's moments like these that make me super happy and inspired. I don't earn a penny from my classes as I put all the money back in to making their plays and master classes possible, every penny goes back to the class, and the reason why is clear - I love teaching and encouraging others. I wouldn't be doing what I'm doing without the people who have taken time to support and encourage me, so it's nice to give some of it back.

That's all for today!
Looking forward to a 8am-5pm shift and then an evening with my best pal Paul Swaine. Can't wait to see him and get planning a new play!

Play a Week!

2010-02-08T20:49:00.002Z

I've decided this year that I either try and watch a piece of theatre a week or read a play a week.
It's going well so far - I've read a few plays and watched some theatre. (See my side bar for lists if you're interested.)
This week I'm reading a play called 'Shopping and F**king.' I'm reading it because I've heard so much about it and well, it's a bit full on, not really my cup of tea - but I'm almost halfway through and I'll stick with it.

I love theatre.

Went to a fringe theatre debate on Saturday, chaired by people I really admire. I did feel at one point feel that I was sat in a room full of writers moaning. I didn't learn anything from going - but it's always good hearing what everyone else thinks and I wished at the end I'd put my hand up and said that I love the theatre/fringe scene in Manchester. It's supportive and there are so many great things going on in this city. Long may it continue!

Catch Up!

2010-02-07T18:56:00.003Z

Sorry for being a bad blogger.

Trying to fit everything in around my spare time at the moment.

Had the best day off on Thurs -I wrote ALL day, it was perfect.
Went to the theatre with Mr Sally on Friday, we had so much fun and then saw my lovely friend Paul yesterday for coffee, chats, cake and a theatre debate at the Library Theatre.

JUMBLE is almost finished. Any day now!

Mr Sally is planning (and has been since Jan) something special for Valentine's day. Eeek. Have no idea what we're doing, I've been aware it's caused him stress sorting it, loads of people are aware of what we're doing and everyone seems to be talking in code around me and I've mysteriously got the weekend off from work?!
I shall keep you posted.

Oh flippin' heck - I can't just hand him a packet of love heart sweets now, can I?!!!

The Day That Went.... Off!

2010-01-28T18:14:00.003Z

So, since I started my job a few months ago I've been juggling other jobs (see post below) - producing plays, writing plays with people.

All my days off have been taken up with working elsewhere or meeting someone to write or for creative stuff.

So this Wednesday was the first ME day off.

'I'm going to clean and tidy the flat, then I'm going to write ALL day.' I said to anyone who would listen. I was soooo excited.

WEDNESDAY MORNING.

Mr Sally gets up and says the flat is freeeeezing. The heating is off. I had to get up and try and re-start the boiler as Mr Sally couldn't get it re-started. Neither could I.

So, I had to take Mr Sally to work, where thankfully there are showers in the theatre and he could shower there. I, however couldn't shower and felt manky ALL day.

My landlord wasn't responding to my SOS messages either.

So, I went shopping and bought rugs, cushions, candles, shelving, coffee table (just bits for the flat as I've been planning on changing things and re-decorating for a while.)

Anyway, I came home and started cleaning and building shelves etc - mainly to keep warm. I was just hoovering when POP! The hoover stopped and I looked around and noticed the electricity was off.

My landlord finally answered and told me he'd get someone round asap.

He phoned me back and said someone would be there in an hour.
To cut a long story short. I was freezing, I had to go to McDonald's for a coffee and had to walk around ASDA just to get warm.
My electricity was fixed at 5pm and my boiler was still broken. My landlord said he'd get someone around the next morning and I actually broke: 'I am in work tomorrow at 7AM for a fourteen hour day and I NEED a shower.'

At 8:30pm he said he had a room in a flat somewhere I could stay, but it wasn't clean.
'I think I'll be staying in a hotel.' I said.

He took one look at my un-amused face and agreed.

'Can you find somewhere for around £30 and knock it off next months rent.'

£30? In Manchester?

The best we could do was the Ibis for £62.

What a waste of money. We got to the room after 9:00pm. I had a HOT shower. Dried my hair, put clean pj's on, had a beer with Mr Sally and went to sleep. Ready to be up for 5:30am for another shower and in work for 7am.
My shoulder was killing me because I'd slept funny on it.

So, as days off go - this was TERRIBLE.

Oh, well - there's always next week!

PS: My little flat looks so cosy with all my new things.

Coming and Going

2010-01-28T18:04:00.002Z

I don't know whether I'm coming or going at the moment. I'm doing nearly 50 hour weeks at my day job, not to mention my theatre job and my teaching and trying to spend time with Mr Sally and squeeze writing time in to every spare second.

I'm tired. I could do with a break or a mini holiday.

I can't even say roll on the weekend as I work every weekend.
I'm going to Google holidays and mini breaks.

My Night with Simon Cowell

2010-01-23T12:39:00.007Z

So, Britain's Got Talent decided to use the theatre my lovely man is the stage manager at this week for their auditions.
He asked if I could come and watch one of the shows and the crew went above and beyond kindness.

They gave me a front row seat next to the crew, (I was sat with Mr Cowell's stunningly beautiful make-up artist!)

I shook the Cowell's hand and I had a fabulous time watching the show. I was right next to the judges and I could see Ant and Dec in the wings.

After the show finished, the floor manager asked if I wanted to sit in Simon's chair for a photo!

As if I was going to say no. I was soooooo excited.

Thanks to them, the nicest people I've ever met, I had a night to remember.

It's a Play Fest!

2010-01-17T19:42:00.010Z

One of my new years resolutions to myself was that I was going to watch and read more plays. Although I do already watch and read a fair bit, there's always room for improvement.

Mr Sally and I went shopping today and I got fed up, so arranged for him to come and meet me in Waterstones. I don't know what it is about that shop but it instantly makes me feel calm and happy.

Anyway, I accidentally spent nearly £40 on these. I had to make myself put some back.

Then I got home and was messing around on Amazon and have accidentally bought these.

I can't wait to read them all.

Casting and Characters!

2010-01-09T14:49:00.002Z

Been busy auditioning for my new play. Almost cast - will have a bit more of a think over the weekend, but I think I've made up my mind. I've had Chris there to help me and we both have the same people cast, so at least we agree. Just want to make sure I'm definitely sure before I make my final decision.

Last night Character Creation Theatre started back. What a fab hour of drama. Lovely to see the old group back again and so great to welcome new members. They fit in so well and we had a brilliant session. I laughed and laughed, which is a good sign.

The play I'm writing for them next is called LOVE RULES and is set on a Speed Dating night. So I designed the whole lesson around Speed Dating. It was so funny and I can't wait to write the play for them.

Snow and Houses!

2010-01-07T21:03:00.003Z

The snow and coldness has been unbelievable this week. I'm pleased to say I've managed to get in to work every day, not on time, but I got in. Today's been busier in town and loads of customers in work have said, 'Well, thought I should make the effort and go in today!!'
Good on them. I wish I'd had a day to go sledging and have snow fun.
Managed to get to Hulme tonight to audition for JUMBLE. All good and looking forward to more auditions tomorrow. The snow is keeping some away, so we'll see how we get on.

Other News
Mr Sally and I are busy looking at houses. We're going to be buying a house together this year and we can't wait. We kind of know the area we want to move to and hopefully on Sunday we're going to either drive up there or get the train and have a good look around. We've been busy looking at houses for sale on the net. I've fallen in love with a couple of them, so we'll see. We can't wait though. It's about time we got our act together and got ourselves one house instead of a house we never go to and a flat that doesn't quite feel like home - although I do love the flat.
I'm so excited.

Auditions

2010-01-06T18:27:00.002Z

Weather permitting - I'll be starting auditions for my play JUMBLE tomorrow night. I've got loads of potentially great people auditioning.

New term starts back for the Character Creation Drama Class on Friday after a huge afternoon of JUMBLE auditions. I really can't wait to see the class again, so excited. We've also got a few new places joining, so hopefully it'll be a fabulous start to the new year.

What a Snow-Wonderful Day!

2010-01-05T19:20:00.004Z

OMG! What an unbelievable day.
I was in work for 7am this morning and obviously at 5:30am, I can barely see so I didn't open the curtains. It wasn't until I was drying my hair and looking at Facebook at the same time, that I read about the snow. I peeled the curtains back and couldn't believe it, it looked like I'd woken up in Narnia!
It wasn't until my taxi was late that I realised how bad it was. I was told I was lucky to be getting a taxi as they'd cancelled loads.
Once the driver arrived, I stepped out of my front door and the snow went halfway up my legs!!

WOW!

I was eating my breakfast in work watching the snowman in the yellow t-shirt being made.
The other pic is where I work and the scene I've watched all day.

I know the snow is dangerous, but it looks gorgeous and EVERYONE has been smiling today.
I've just seen a woman skiing on the pavement - in Salford. Something I'd didn't think I'd ever see in my lifetime!

I made it in to work, but the City was like a ghost town. What few people made it in were in high spirits and I've had a lovely day watching grown men outside my work build snowmen and have huge snowball fights.
I got let out of work two hours early!

Keep the snow coming - I LOVE it!

Happy 2010

2010-01-01T15:42:00.002Z

Happy New Year to you all. Hope 2010 sees all your dreams come true.
I'm having a lovely New Years Day at my mum and dad's. We've just been to the (freezing) beach for kite flying and rocket launching, much fun. I'm only just getting the feeling back in my hands now!

Here's to a fabulous 2010.
xx

The End

2009-12-30T21:07:00.002Z

Luke and I wrote those two special words today.
We finished our play. It's been the most fun, difficult, wonderful thing I've written. I've loved writing with Luke and we really believe we have something special. We're so proud of it.

I can't tell you the title or the synopsis yet - not being anal, we're entering it in to a playwriting festival and it's completely anonymous - so just want to be careful.
We'll be tweaking it slightly next week, filling out our application and then off it goes.
We won't find out until April, so I'll keep you all posted.

Whether we get in or not, we have a very special play and we're really proud.

Books

2009-12-30T21:02:00.003Z

Ooh, I was thinking today what the first book I'll read in 2010 will be?

Anyway, I popped in to my second home - Waterstones today and this caught my eye.

Here's a link to read more.

I've got a TBR pile that's higher than Blackpool Tower, but I've never got round to reading a Nick Hornby book, although all of his look brilliant. So I'm going to buy this tomorrow and get stuck right in. Can't wait.

Love!

2009-12-28T22:00:00.002Z

'Happy Anniversary.' Mr Sally said to me this morning.
'Err, that's nice - but it's not for another two days.' I said.
'No, it's today.'
'Is it? Oh my God - yes, it's today.... HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!' I said.
'You'd kill me if this was the other way around.'
'Yeah, you're right!'

Mr Sally and I have been together, (admittedly on and off), for seven years. It's been a bumpy journey, but this year we became a million times closer and our relationship has become stronger than it's ever been. Here's to another seven (less bumpy!) years.

I love Mr Sally.

PS: We're not exchanging gifts as we spent a fortune on each other this Crimbo. We're going to have a meal and a few drinks in town next week when our jobs get less busy!
Can't wait! x

Boxing Beach!

2009-12-26T19:31:00.004Z

Boxing Day has been everything it should be, just chilling out with my beautiful family. The only down side to it is that Mr Sally had to drive back to Manchester for two shows and being the wonderful human being he is, he's driving back to Wales after the last show to come and get me and drive me back. He didn't want me to have to spend Boxing Day on my own, when I could be with my lovely family. Ahh.

Today I've been out and about with my mum and dad. Most of the shops were closed, which is just stupid as most of Manchester is open.
Anyway, we had a good drive out and then went to the beach for a bit.

I've just been chilling out all day with my cats and family, it's been bliss and I'm not ready to go home. We're so used to staying here until New Year, but unfortunately I have to be in work tomorrow morning. Oh well.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T13:09:00.002Z

Merry Christmas to EVERYONE. Hope your day is filled full of lovely things.

We made it to my mum and dad's last night. My best friend, Leah and her hubby Mani arrived just before us and Mum and Dad put on a fab buffet.
Leah and Mani then drove to Leah's mum's and we had some beers and then bed. I was so tired after working a million hours and spending most of Christmas eve in town getting last minute presents.

What a morning, we were supposed to be having a cheap/quiet Christmas this year - but oh my goodness, I'm still in shock at the wonderful presents I just opened.

My mum and dad, who are by far the best parents a girl could wish for got me perfume, lots of lovely bits and bobs. They also got me a GORGEOUS camera, a professional one. I LOVE IT. And the best gift off them? A black filing cabinet for my new little office. I was sooo happy when I opened it.

Mr Sally got me a FLIP video camera, an ipod nano, ugg boots, perfume, GHDs. I have been spoilt rotten.

My brother got me perfume and a mini Henry the Hoover desk hoover. It's soooo cute!

Although we've all opened some amazing presents this year, I know it's not about what we open, it's about spending time with our loved ones. I love my family and man very much. I'm a very lucky girl.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!!!
LOTS OF LOVE xxxx

New Play

2009-12-20T15:55:00.002Z

I'm busy planning next year. I'm writing and writing every spare moment I have. I just don't want to waste a second of next year.

Once Jumble and Love Rules have been produced - this will be my next one.
I have been planning this play for three years!

For a synopsis on JUMBLE/LOVE RULES and CHAPERONES. Go to the website and read all about them.

I'm so excited.

Twinkle Twinkle

2009-12-20T15:54:00.002Z

Aww, last night Mr S picked me up from work. I was really tired and not feeling great - I walked in to the living room and he'd put twinkly lights all over the room.
My presents were also under the little tree he bought the other day.

I'm soooo excited for Christmas!

Snowed Off!

2009-12-20T11:59:00.003Z

The plan today was to drop Mr S off at work, go pick up a Crimbo present for Mr S and then drive to Littleborough to Luke's to have a full day of writing.
When I saw the snow this morning, my first thought was, 'Oh no!'

I've driven in snow once, and it was hardly driving as it was only to the top of my road and back and I almost skidded and came back home. So I wasn't very keen on driving all the way to Luke's.

He said he'd come to mine, but he's just called to say he's on the motorway and is turning round and going back home. The snow is getting heavier and heavier.

I didn't even drive Mr S to work or go and get his present. It's not worth it.
I'm just waiting for Luke to get home safely and for him to call and see what we can do over the phone or over MSN messenger or something.

What a nightmare.

The snow looks very pretty though.

Christmas Spirit

2009-12-19T17:26:00.002Z

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my beautiful Mum. She woke up to a snow scene outside and lots of gifts today. Although it's rubbish I'm not there, we sent her a beautiful cardigan which she's been wearing all day and she's been spoilt by everyone else.

I'm full of Christmas excitement now. Perhaps because I've been shopping finally, perhaps because of the snow... but I'm suddenly so excited.

Day off tomorrow. Hurrah! Meeting Luke to do more writing. Our play is coming along, we just need a full day to get stuck in to it. I'm off to his house to write and have my tea - he lives in the hills though, so I'm a bit worried about snow and driving, so we'll have to see if I get there. May have to get the train.

Right, here I am blogging and I need to get a move on and get to the theatre. I'm working tonight.

Christmas Jingles to you all xx

Festive

2009-12-18T20:18:00.002Z

It's been a long week of rushing from one job to another. Starting one at 7am and finishing the other at midnight. I'm shattered.
Mr Sally has been off all week, and to be fair has got up early to drop me off at work and has been picking me up, taking me home so I can shower and change and then dropping me back off at my other job.

Today in work I felt like I just hit a wall of tiredness. Mr Sally came and met me at 4pm when I finished and we... wait for it... we made a start on our Christmas shopping!!!

Wow, we got loads of stuff, fabulous gifts for my mum, dad and brother. Mr Sally has been busy shopping for mine and I'm going to get his next week, finally it's all under control.

Because of our living situation at the moment, our beautiful Christmas tree is at his house and as we both live at the flat, until we buy our home next year - we decided not to bother with a tree for the flat this year. We're never in anyway.
But halfway through the week, when I was really tired, I had a bit of a rant about how un-festive the flat feels. Not even a fairy light in the window.
I got home from work at midnight last night, and Mr Sally had got a little tree for the living room. It's so cute. It almost made me cry.
We're going to keep it for our new house as I'm sure it'll go nicely in another room.

Anyway, I'm finally in the festive spirit and I'm almost ready for Christmas. I'm getting so excited now.

JUMBLE

2009-12-15T13:33:00.003Z

Just been shortlisting people to audition for JUMBLE. Some fab people applied so far and I've had to be a bit ruthless in my cut (I like to give almost everyone a chance usually, but experience tells me that I have to be more ruthless!)

I'm only auditioning for three characters and although it's horrible saying no to people, I always keep people of file for future plays etc, so not all will be lost.

Right, off to meet Luke to write more of our joint play. I was just thinking how I'd quite like a full day at home to go through JUMBLE too, but I've got a 2 hour break in between a split shift tomorrow and so I'm going to take my mini laptop in with me and have two Jumble-filled hours.

I'm so excited about JUMBLE. I've got a good feeling about it.
Keep you posted! x

All Work and a Bit of Play!

2009-12-15T11:04:00.002Z

I will not bore you to tears with tales of my million hour week shift at the restaurant. It was so busy and I've been rushing from there to my theatre job, downing cans of Red Bull on the way!

I've still not started my Christmas shopping. Mr Sally seems to think we should not panic, even though he looked panic stricken himself when I said, 'It's Christmas day next week!'
He's off this week and Friday night after I finish work at 4pm, we're heading to town (which will be painfully busy and filled with chaos), and we're going to make a start on the shopping.

I asked work if there was any possible way I could have Xmas Eve off. We're going to Wales that afternoon, but I have a horrible feeling I will be panic shopping at 9am as I do every year.
No, I never learn.

Had a lovely night off last night and went to the press night at the theatre I work at with Paul Newbery. We watched Blithe Spirit and it was FAB. I really loved it. I even had some mulled wine to get me in to the festive spirit.

I'm off today from the day job. It felt so nice not to have to set the alarm, although Mr Sally had to get up at seven to drive back to his house as the TV man and plumber are coming round to fix things.
Today I'm having a morning to myself, heading to town later to meet Luke to do some more writing. Our play is coming along, but so much more to do as our deadline is early Jan and between us working, we're trying to squeeze every possible spare second of writing time we can.
So we're meeting for three hours to write then I've got to work at the theatre tonight.

New Year - New Plans

2009-12-11T21:11:00.003Z

So, I've been MEGA busy in the spare seconds I get between work and sleep and have been planning next years projects.
Do you remember the play JUMBLE I started writing in the Summer? I read through it the other day, haven't looked at it for nearly three months and the good news is, I LOVE IT. I think it's my best yet. Even if I do say so myself.
I'm going to be producing it late Feb. I have already put a casting call out to audition for the parts and getting loads of CVs back. I'll be auditioning in the first week of Jan.

Here's the poster.

The second thing. After my AMAZING adult drama class proved they were utterly fab in their first play EXPOSURE the other week, I've been planning their next one - LOVE RULES!
I hope to produce that in Feb too. It's going to be a busy start to the year, and that's the way I want it!

Ready or Not?

2009-12-11T21:04:00.002Z

So, who's ready for Christmas?
NOT ME!
It seems everyone I speak to have done their shopping and wrapped their shopping and are now just waiting for the big day!

To be fair, Mr Sally and I have been working a million hours - him doing Panto and me doing every job going! We had this pact that we'd pay all our bills first, him paying for his house, me paying my my flat, him helping me to pay for my flat! (Hopefully next year we'll just have the one house and one lot of bills!)
Today I got a rather lovely wage and it's almost ALL gone on the gas, electric, phone bill. Crikey.
Anyway, that's it, all our December bills are paid, so whatever we earn next is Christmas money.
Hurrah!

I want to treat Mr Sally this year and have joined forces with my mum and dad to get him a super-duper gift.
He's off all next week, so whilst I'm working I'm going to send him out with a list. We'll get on top of it and I WILL NOT leave it until Christmas Eve this year!
I WILL NOT!
How dare you even suggest I would!

Bye Bye Blog?

2009-12-11T20:41:00.003Z

I nearly deleted Mirth in Manchester yesterday. Nearly, then I stopped myself.
I created Mirth four years ago, a place for me to write about my little world. Things that happen to me on a day to day basis and before I knew it I was making blog friends and my real life friends were logging on and enjoying my words. That was it. Nothing more. It was fun.
Over the last four years I've had over twenty thousand hits and just looking at my stats I can see that people are always googling to find my blog, which has always been flattering.

I'm always careful what I write and who I write about. But then what happens when you put something out there not expecting people to google you and stumble upon your daily thoughts? It's horrible.

I've been chatting to my friends about this and they say, 'Well if you put it out there, expect for it to be found.'
Which is what I always think when I post something. But when it is found by people you don't want it to be found by, it's rather confusing and just makes me feel a bit cold.

So I was fluttering between deleting the whole blog and not. What's the point? Why put your whole life online? Is it fun or just incredibly stupid?
I had a job interview recently and at the end the woman interviewing me said, 'I feel like I know you anyway, I'm following you on Twitter!' That left me shocked. I don't know why though, it's not like I'm naive to it.

Anyway, I'm keeping Mirth. I love my little blog and my little world. I'll still continue to think before I post and if people stumble upon it that I hoped wouldn't - then so be it.

And to all those readers I've had over the last four years, those I know and don't know. Thank you for reading Mirth and being interested in my little world xxx

Exhausted!

2009-12-07T15:09:00.003Z

I've been away from the world wide web for a bit! Last week was CHAOS. I was doing full time hours at the restaurant, then days off I was either rushing to meet Luke to write our new play or rushing to extra rehearsals of Exposure!
On Friday when Exposure opened, I had to work from 7am in the restaurant until 3pm. I felt sick with nerves all day. It was as if I was performing that night. I was nervous for the cast, nervous that they had an audience, nervous because Mr Sally couldn't take time off from work to help with the tech side of things, which left me to do the lights and the sound.

Anyway, everything went amazingly well. We had a lot of support from family/friends - we were almost full on opening night and still really busy on the last night. The cast were amazing, they put their hearts and souls in to it. The audience loved the play, they were laughing along, cheering at the end and they loved the characters/actors and I feel amazingly proud of them.

Bless them too, they bought me a bottle of wine and all wrote beautiful messages in to a thank you card for me. They also bought Mr S a two bottles of beer for all the help he'd given them too. I was almost sobbing.

They have one last class this Friday and I've planned for them to have a comedy workshop. I wanted to end the classes on a huge high before Christmas, and they're all excited about the workshop, so it should be fab. I've got loads of planning to do now over Christmas and CCT is coming back in the new year with a big bang!

The only down side to the performances, one cast member got her bag stolen whilst she was on stage. The theatre is a co-op space and people live around the space. I told them all to put their bags in the storage room that I had a key for and I'd be sat next to the door through the show anyway, so just assumed they'd all done it. She took her bag backstage and left it there, so whilst the show was on, someone came down and stole it. I'm so gutted for her. I replaced the money she had in her purse, but I'm so angry it happened.

Thank you everyone for your support. Thanks for the lovely messages on here, Facebook, Twitter. It really means a lot.

Here's to the next one. Eek!

NEWS FLASH - NEWS FLASH - NEWS FLASH - NEWS FLASH - NEWS FLASH
PS: I've started working with a guy in the restaurant who is also a writer, and also teaches music.
'Can you compose music?' I asked him whilst serving a cappuccino that looked like a latte.
'Yes, why?'
'Because I want to write a musical and don't know anyone who can compose music.'
'Oh My God - I've always wanted to write a musical.'

It's going to happen. I'm going to write and produce my first ever musical in 2010.
I knew there was a reason I've started serving coffee for a living!

Day Before We Open!

2009-12-03T10:57:00.002Z

EXPOSURE! Opens tomorrow night.
I had a rehearsal with the cast last night. Think they're ready. They are filled full of nerves and excitement and I'm so proud of them.
Our first Character Creation Theatre production. It's going to be FAB.

I shall keep you all posted on the events and post pics etc. But for now, I have to spend my afternoon sorting last minute props, printing programmes... that kind of thing.

Eeeeeek!

Little Treat

2009-12-02T09:19:00.003Z

I've had two LONG shifts at work, yesterday was another 13 hour work day.
Day off today, but no rest for me. Got to meet my friend and writing partner Luke in town at 12pm to crack on with our play and then I'm heading off to Hulme to meet the cast for a rehearsal before they open on Friday!

Before I lost my job in the summer, my treat to myself was that once a week I'd buy a copy of the Stage newspaper and sit in a coffee shop and read it back to front. Anyway, since the summer money has been tight, so I've had to stop little treats.
But now, finally everything is getting better I went to Waterstones before work on Monday and sat with a coffee and a copy of the Stage and happily read it.
You've got to have a little treat!

Oreo Milkshakes!

2009-11-29T22:00:00.003Z

Mr Sally and I have had a lovely day today. We started with a meal in GBK and OMG - I discovered Oreo milkshakes. Flippin' heck, they're amazing.
We then went shopping in town, getting ideas for Christmas and I picked up a few props for the play.

Speaking of the play, we open on Friday - FRIDAY!!! Tickets are selling fast, the cast are filled with excitement and it's all systems go.

It's going to be a long week for me and Mr Sally. He has Panto opening at his theatre and I've got my play opening this week.

Best get a good nights sleep whilst I can!

Work In Progress

2009-11-26T14:53:00.003Z

WIP

Book: A GUY CALLED PIG
Thankfully agent said to send it when I'm ready, so no immediate deadline. Although I'm keen to get it down and sent asap.
PS: I failed NaNo this year!

Play: JUMBLE
A quarter way through. Needs to be done by December as I'm producing it in Feb!

Play: (Secret Title)
I'm co-writing this with my friend Luke and we're entering it to a huge new writing festival. I can't say the title as the play submissions are anonymous and I'm not sure who reads this blog!

Err, that's about it for now. Enough to keep me busy though! I have more things in the pipeline though for next year, and can't wait.

Bad Friend

2009-11-26T13:12:00.003Z

I've been such a bad friend lately. I just haven't got a second to myself. I've got two jobs, teaching comedy in schools, running my theatre school and writing - I haven't had a second to breathe.

It's no excuse though.

I've sent my best friend, Leah so many messages saying I'll call her on the weekend - then the weekend comes and goes in a whirlwind and before I know it, it's Monday and I've not called her.

My friends are very understanding, but I'm feeling frustrated with myself at the moment.
It's got to the point now that friends are booking me for my next day off. Tomorrow I'm off from work, although teaching in the evening, so my friend Luke has booked my day up so we can work on our play for the new year as we've got so much work to do. Mr Sally has just said, 'Ooh, we've got the day together tomorrow.'

'Err, no we haven't. I'm meeting Luke.'

THANKFULLY he's very understanding. I've suggested we go out for a drink after teaching.

Everything is a whirlwind at the moment and I'm so tired. My adult drama have their play next week, which is going to be fab, but it's going to be a long week.

I'm that tired, I've got the morning off today and Mr Sally said he'd take me in to town to treat me to something nice and I said no! Is it wrong to just want to sit on the couch with a hot cup of tea instead?!

I need to get a grip!

And I'll make it up to everyone once the play is over next week.

Blood, Sweat and Almost Tears!

2009-11-25T16:48:00.003Z

Had the best time away in Wales. Nice to have a break with Mr Sally and soooo nice to see my family and my cats.

Back to work yesterday and flippin' heck was I back to work with a bang.
7am shift until 2pm.
Mr Sally picked me up and drove me to a primary school in Bury to teach a comedy workshop - I had to get changed in the car? Have any of you ever tried that? So difficult.
Taught the comedy class and the kids were fab as usual. The school was lovely.
Then back in the car, changed back in to my uniform and back to the restaurant for an evening shift.

Today I was in at 8am and they decided I should be doing coffee's. OMG - I was doing fine until one guy came in and ordered 6 different types of coffee and everything went to pot.
I can't get the hang of a cappuccino, but my lattes are ace! (Kind of!)
Today, I also decided to trap my boss' finger in the cupboard door as he was answering the phone. There was blood everywhere. I felt so bad.

I am enjoying the restaurant job though. I'm getting to know the regulars and it's great talking to loads of different people all the time.

Finished at 2pm today - but no night off for me. Got to meet the drama class as they want an extra rehearsal, their play is next week. I'm taking chocolate!
Phew!

WorkWorkWork!

2009-11-21T17:05:00.003Z

workworkworkworkworkworkworkworkworkworkworkworkworkworkworkworkworkworkwork....
That's all I've done, all week.
Which is good because I need all the pennies I can get at the minute.
7am shifts, I'm almost getting used to. Once I'm at work I'm fine, it's just pushing myself out of a warm bed when it's pitch black I can't seem to cope with.

Today I was in the restaurant from 8am - 12:00pm. Then tonight I'm at the theatre from 6:00pm.

But then I've got 2 whole days off. Hurrah.
So, Mr Sally and I are popping away from Manchesterford. (Well, he's got to work tomorrow - but Sun night and Monday he'll be with me.)
Can't wait.

Oh, I'll enjoy the break, because Tuesday is going to be mental:
Restaurant 7am - 2pm
Teaching comedy to school children 3:30 - 4:30
Restaurant 5:00pm - 8:00pm
It's going to be a killer of a day.
NaNoWriMo has gone right out the window. Sob, sob, sob, sob!

PS: How completely varied is my life at the minute?! It's one extreme to another.

Cables

2009-11-19T11:18:00.002Z

I woke up to an email off my boss saying I didn't have to work at the theatre tonight. I'm off from my other job today, so it's nice to suddenly have an unexpected day off.

I've got so much to do.

I'm busy trying to make a trailer for the play for my adult drama group, but I can't get the footage off my camera on to my computer. I used to be able to, but now it won't work. Grr.
I also bought some new cable things off ebay (yeah, I know). They were sent from Japan, and Vista compatible. But, oh they don't work either! PANTS.

So I'm going to be screaming at the computer all day, I can feel it.

Jumble

2009-11-18T13:38:00.002Z

I've been writing my next play JUMBLE since the summer. I've put it to one side for a bit and I'm concentrating on my book etc.

But a few actors I've never met have heard I'm working on my next play and have asked if they could audition for it? This is a very new development for me. Usually, I'm advertising auditions all over the place!
It's really nice and I'm collecting a little folder of CVs etc.

I can't be in this play (which I'm hoping to have finished and ready to produce in Feb). There is one male character, he's a handsome headteacher. Then there are four female roles and these roles are for mature women. This is my way of supporting the huge response in the Stage newspaper about female actors not getting good work once they've hit a certain age.
I'm happy that the four characters I have created are so different from each other and in their own way are strong women.

I am looking forward to producing this one. It'll be nice to just produce it. There's someone I met recently who wants to get in to directing and has never done it before, I'll probably ask this person if they'd like to have a go on this play and I'll be there to support them.
I believe everyone should have a chance and with a bit of support and encouragement, they can go a long way.

I'm looking forward to starting the new year.

Day Off - Kind Of!

2009-11-18T12:04:00.004Z

Day off today (kind of), I'm working in my friends comedy after school club later. She's paying me to co teach a comedy class to children for an hour tonight. Looking forward to it.

I slept well last night, but had to drive Mr S to work as I need the car to get to the school I'm teaching at later. So had to get up around 8am anyway. Much better than 5am!

What else is new?

Err, I'm one chapter in to New Moon. I really want to read it before I see the film, but can't wait to see the film. So I'm going to be on a reading frenzy this week.

Oh, let me also update you about the ghost in the theatre where I work. Just before my shift last week, my two friends Paul and Nathan were teasing me on Facebook as they've both watched the Most Haunted programme on it.
Paul said, 'Best not mention flowers to Sally.'

Then Nathan said, 'Lilly loves her lilie's! Are there any lilie's in the bar?'

'Noooo.' I said and threatened to delete the pair of them if they didn't stop.

So that night, feeling scared anyway I went to open the bar up and walked in, switched the lights on and guess what? Lillie's in vases everywhere. I could have died.

I'm pleased to announce nothing happened to me, but I was so scared for the rest of the shift.

My mum and dad decided to watch the clip this week and my mum said last night, 'Well, we only watched five mins of it.'

'Why only five mins?'

'Err, well - I didn't like what they were saying and I know you've got to work there, so I switched it off.'

GREAT.

I told her about the Lilly story and she said, 'Oh yes, love. She hates white lilies.'

'They had white ones in the bar.'

'Yes, they said she's been known to throw them across the room.'

Honestly, I'm scared to death. Eeeek. This proves though how much I LOVE this theatre because any other bar and I'd have handed in my notice!

Oh, my mum also said, 'Maybe the ghost of Lilly will like you.'

Am I too old to phone childline?

The Real World

2009-11-17T19:25:00.002Z

This is where I now work, (although that isn't me in the picture!)
OMG! I'm exhausted. For months I've been getting up around nine, writing in the morning, pottering to a part time job in the afternoon/evening and pottering home.

Well, Monday and today I have been in work for 7am. Yes, you read that right.

I have had to set my alarm clock for 5am and I've been that tired I actually couldn't bring myself to have a shower with the bathroom light on, so showered in the dark with the hall light shining in.

My body hates me and is still in complete shock.

I've had to learn names of their different meats and cheeses. I've had tasting sessions too.

Today I learnt how to be a Barista. It went fine until I dropped a piping hot black coffee on my hand (my writing hand!) Oh, and then I put the same hand under the boiling hot water pipe, then I shoved the same hand in a sink of boiling hot water. Wonderful.

This post might sound like I'm moaning, I'm not actually.

The job is great. Everyone has been lovely to me and the guy who is training me has been amazing.

Mr Sally's theatre is accross the way from me too. I've had a daily visit from him (and a few other theatre people) buying coffee, although when I showed him all the paninis I made, he announced very loudly, 'You can't have done all them. You never cook at home. Are they pre packed ones?'

The cheeky s**t! I think I need to get him barred!

And, when we have a break, we're allowed to go to the kitchen and ask for anything cooked for us.

I'm enjoying it, I just need to get my body used to these early morning starts.

First Day Pass

2009-11-15T21:55:00.002Z

I passed my trial at new job and they have given me full time hours. I'm soooo happy. Finally, I may actually be able to pay my bills with ease and perhaps I can now embrace all thoughts of Christmas!

First day at new job was fab. Everyone was lovely. Tried loads of the food and really enjoyed myself.

I am in at 7:00am all week (Weds off).
This is going to be one huge shock to the system. I'll report back, if I have the energy!

Exposure!

2009-11-14T16:37:00.000Z

Theatre trailer coming soon!

Reading

2009-11-14T15:06:00.002Z

Just finished reading Good Girls by Laura Ruby. I read it so quickly this week, it was fabulous. I even shed a little tear at the end.

Mr Sally treated me to the second and third books from the Twilight series. I'm desperate to read New Moon before I watch the film.

Light!

2009-11-13T13:23:00.002Z

What a stressful, stressful time. I've been doing a million jobs and not getting much money in return. My theatre job is fab, but it's monthly pay and don't get my first pay until the end of this month.
My play worker job was great, the kids were amazing but it was three hours a night and the pay was terrible, plus in the half term I didn't get given any shifts. And because the hours were early evening, it meant I was turning down work in the theatre, teaching etc.
I was also spending half my pay getting to work, which was getting me down.
Bills pouring in, Crimbo round the corner, it made me ill.

I got offered a full time position / trial in one of my fave restaurants yesterday. I know the staff quite well and they're trying me out on Sunday. Full time hours, weekly pay, can still work at the theatre, still do my teaching/writing.
Today, I suddenly feel a million times better about things.

My friends and family have been so supportive to my depressed, ill state :-)
Mr Sally has paid as many of my bills as he can. My family have phoned with words of love every day.
My friends have been looking out for jobs for me. Paul Newbery, especially has been so supportive with encouraging words.
Paul Swaine sent me a text that just said, 'Hurry up and get a new job. You're starting to remind me of the mum in dinnerladies!'
Yeah, thanks Swaine!

So providing I pass my trial on Sunday, (they just want to see how I work), then hopefully that's the end of what has been a very, very tough few months.
Phew x

Ghosts

2009-11-12T13:26:00.004Z

Do you believe in ghosts?
I do.

I grew up in a haunted house for 11 years.
I'm terrified of them.

Anyway, so you know how I work in my favourite theatre in the whole of the world? I run their members bar with another girl. We work alone though and swap nights.
The bar is HUGE, very grand and there are creepy pictures on the walls. There is a big sweeping staircase and there is another old looking room at the top that members can use too.

So, I've been aware since day one that it's creepy. I'm in there for five hours on my own, most shifts. It's OK until it starts getting to the end of the night and it suddenly gets really creepy. I have to cash up, go to the top bar and turn the lights off, run down the dark stairs in to the bottom bar and turn the lights off downstairs. That's the bit I hate.

The other day I was in the bar and a four people came back for post show drinks. So I was clearing up, whilst they were chatting. I was just behind the bar and not looking up because I was cleaning and thought one of them had come to the side of the bar to ask for another drink, I looked over and went to say, 'Hello.' But nobody was there, they were still all sat together chatting.

It freaked me out.
But I can't let it get to me, because I have to work there. So it's not an option to be scared.

Last week I was doing a function and I said to one of my bosses, 'Right, I'd better get back to the bar.'
And he said, ' The haunted bar.'
'Pardon?'
'Haven't you seen the Most Haunted show they did here?'
'Err, nope.'
'Apparently that bar is the most haunted part of the theatre.'

Oh, wonderful.

'Watch it,' he said. 'It's on YouTube.'
'I think I'll pass thanks.'
There is no way I'm going to watch it, no way at all. I'm only ever going to watch it when I don't work there anymore, which I'm hoping will be a long way away!

Anyway, I was telling my lovely friend Paul all about this and he said he was going to watch it for me and report back.

Here are his Tweets to me:

Interesting to hear if you feel anything?! WTF?!
Thanks Paul!

I shall report back.
OMG - I'm scared, really scared now!

**PS: Paul thinks I should talk to it. I don't want to encourage the thing and if I did decide to talk to the thing, what would I say? Oh, this is stupid, I'm scaring myself! **

Awww!

2009-11-12T13:17:00.004Z

I've not been well this week and I've been down in the dumps about a lot of things... I'm not going to blog about it though.

Anyway, I've not been sleeping very well either and keep having horrible dreams.

Last night I dreamt Mr Sally really upset me and I had no option but to dump him and I was soooo upset. Then I had a baby with David Tennant, so it was OK! But, I woke up and told Mr Sally how he was really horrible to me in my dream - blah, blah, blah.

He went to the shops this morning to get some bits and came back with a bunch of flowers.

'Sorry for upsetting you in your dream,' he said.

Awww!
He's doing OK with at this relationship malarkey at the moment!
x

Discovering Fab Authors

2009-11-12T13:13:00.002Z

I stumbled upon the site of author Laura Ruby the other day. I have no idea why I haven't heard of her until now. Anyway, her books all look fab. And I loved the sound of her teen books.

This has just arrived through my letterbox this morning. I'm on chapter two already and I'm loving it so far.

I love discovering new and fabulous authors.

Honk-Honk-Beep-Beep!

2009-11-11T13:48:00.003Z

Mr Sally has just made my week by insuring me on his car!
I haven't driven since mine was burnt and stolen back in May. Wow, six months without driving. I hope I remember how to do it!

Public transport has been fine and I've done loads of walking too and sometimes the train/tram is a cheaper and quicker option. But I've missed popping to the shops on the weekend and if I'm on my own only being able to buy what I can carry.

It'll just be nice to have the option of driving. Plus, Mr Sally has been taking me to places like teaching early on Saturday mornings and now, I can just leave him in bed and drive off.

Oh, I'm so excited!
Mr Sally is wonderful.

NaNo Day 8

2009-11-08T19:27:00.002Z

A Guy Called Pig is really coming along now.
I was working last night at the theatre and there's a really
long second half to the play, so once all my job were done, I got to sit down with my notepad and plan the book properly.
Usually when I'm writing anything, the story changes as I'm writing and I don't like to plot too much because of this, I just have an initial idea and go with it - but I'm 5 chapters in and have a feel for it now. I know where it's going, I know what's going to happen and I'm still really enjoying writing it.

It's a bit dark, a bit edgy, a bit naughty and full of twists. It's aimed at the older end of teens.
I'm going to see what my agent thinks this week - eek!
But I think, even if he doesn't like my idea initially, I won't be able to just put this one away half finished. I feel compelled to tell this story and write this book - which I'm taking as a good sign.

Drama!

2009-11-07T14:24:00.003Z

My adult drama class is ace. Last night a few of them turned up to rehearse in costume. They're so fab, I have a lot of love in my heart for this class. Rehearsals for EXPOSURE! went well. We open in a month and tickets went on sale yesterday, eep!

The theatre I use is nice, but it's a co-op with flats behind and the people who live in the flats run the offices etc. So last night (and the week before), our rehearsal was disturbed by kids kicking the doors. Last night they were in the theatre on the balcony switching our lights off and shouting things like, 'Lick my yellow bum!'

It's so frustrating for the class because we've got so much to do before we open and it's their first play and so they need to concentrate.
ALSO

I can't have that happening when there is a performance on. It's not fair on any performer to have that and especially not a group of performers who are going to be stressed enough by performance nerves. Plus, I'm not having a group of kids ruin all the hard work this group have done.

I don't see how the theatre can control it as there are no locks on the doors.
So we may be moving venues. I'd rather them perform the play in a cold community centre than have the stress of these kids.

Oh, isn't there always a drama whenever I'm producing a play? Lovely this time around that the drama is off stage rather than with a cast member!

Here is a pic of a rehearsal shot. I took this last week and forgot to use my camera last night to capture the fab costumes.

Nano Day 5

2009-11-05T19:48:00.002Z

Right, so yesterday was a complete and utter write off! Damn. And it was bugging me because I'd left Pig and Audrey in the woods, he'd just kissed her. Eeek!

Today, Mr Sally had to do lots of errands on his day off. Mainly sorting out car insurance and putting me on it so I can drive a car again!
So I got him to drop me off at the train station.
I was two hours early for my train and I took my notepad. I got a coffee and wrote the start of Chapter 5.

I have no idea how many words I wrote at the train station because I need to type them up, which I'm going to do after bangers and mash for my tea!

I know I've mentioned that my book felt like it was going a bit dark, well it really is. Something happened today that I didn't plan happening and I like it. It's got a bit of edge to it, and it's exciting.
After writing and (not selling) two books - this one feels right. I just hope my agent agrees and shares my excitement for it. I've yet to send it and I'm going to send him some sample chapters this weekend, so fingers crossed.
But for now, it feels exciting and I'm just going to go with it.

Dark Cloud

2009-11-05T19:34:00.005Z

I didn't blog, tweet, or do any social networking yesterday. I got out of bed on the wrong side, I don't know why or what was wrong. I did have some horrible news about two people I know, separate things, but both got me down and I just argued with Mr Sally all day. Poor thing, he was a bit like 'What have I done?'
My answer was 'Nothing,' and err, that was the point!

Flippin' heck. My day job went wrong yesterday and I just felt like bursting in to tears. Horrible, horrible.
I did try and Tweet a message of misery from my train, but even Twitter didn't want part of it and refused to upload it!
I had to rush to my theatre job after the day job and ended up having a fab night. It was the opening of a new play. We had a HUGE function and it was busy. I got to work with the girl I trained with. We get on so well, we even had matching tops on last night! We share the job, so we never get to work with each other, although we're always texting and trying to meet up for drinks etc. So it was great to actually get to work together. We also got some of the GORGEOUS food, free ice cream, chocolate cake and coffee.
We worked until midnight and got a huge glass of wine at the end of the night too.
It must be something to do with good old Doctor Theatre, because my mood was lifted and I felt much better when I got in, much to Mr Sally's happiness!

Phew, I don't get like that - EVER. And hope to never again, it wasn't nice.

Nano Update

2009-11-03T12:17:00.002Z

Writing at my desk at 10:00am.
Got 1,683 words down this morning.

Pig has just kissed Audrey in the woods and I've got to go to work and leave them there!
I'm taking my notepad with me, because I can't wait until tonight to find out what happens!

To be Continued...

Progress

2009-11-02T22:57:00.003Z

I have been productive today. Sat at my desk at 9:00am. Did some admin things I needed to do and then time to write some words for A GUY CALLED PIG.
I'm enjoying NaNoWriMo this year - my word count is going up, up, up. Meant to write more tonight, but various things got in the way, like discovering a box full of old notepads and an hour and a half phone call with my mum!

Anyway, I'm up again early tomorrow before work and I'm cracking on with the book. I may even take my notepad to bed and do some scribblings before I hit the land of nod.

Proud

2009-11-01T21:24:00.001Z

Today I wrote the words 'THE END' at the bottom of my play.
A proud feeling.
Cast have messaged to say they love it. Phew. I love it too!

Right, NaNoWriMo - I'm ready for you! x

Live from my NEW OFFICE!

2009-10-31T13:44:00.003Z

I HAVE A DESK and I HAVE MY OWN OFFICE!

Woop - Woop!
I have been desperate for my own little office space for nearly two years. Writing with a laptop on my sofa is ok, but my back starts to hurt after a while and I have folders and notepads everywhere!
I still want to decorate the room and get a sofa for it... we'll see how funds are before Crimbo. It's something I'll do slowly, the main thing is I have a desk. (Finally!)

My cold is going! Feeling much better today, which is good as I'm working at the theatre tonight and don't want to be all snotty whilst talking to the theatre club members.

I need to tell you about last night.
I was so ill and snotty and felt horrible. I got ready for teaching and had to go and pay my monthly rent for the theatre space, so I had to go to town first. I had a huge bag of things for teaching as well as my mini laptop as I had a bit of time to myself when the dance class was on.

Anyway, town was busy, I felt ill and hot and couldn't cope with my bags. By the time I got on the bus to go to the theatre, I felt like killing someone. Honestly, everyone was getting in my way and I had a temprature and being ill and public transport do not mix!

BUT

My drama group arrived with enthusiasm about the class and the play and for the hour of teaching I actually forgot I was ill. It was so strange.

I love this group, they're just inspiring and fun.

We'd arranged to go to the bar next door for drinks after the class, so everyone could get to know each other a bit better. I said I'd just stay for one lemonade as I wasn't well.
BUT

We had such a lovely evening chatting, two lemonades later and I completely lost track of time.

There's something special about this group and I LOVE teaching them. I'm excited to be writing a play for them, which is on in a month and they're sooo excited.

So that's the secret to being ill, hang out with my drama class!

Urgh!

2009-10-30T13:51:00.002Z

The play last night was RUBBISH. I didn't like it, I didn't get any of it. It was just pretentious and really not my cup of tea at all. I won't be horrible and tell you what it was!

I'm delighted to report that even though it had the same title as the play I'm writing with my friend Luke, it was nothing like ours. So we're keeping our title and plodding on with our play - phew.

It was lovely to catch up with Luke though. He's been on tour doing a kids play for ages and so we went for food, had some beers and he bought me a beer after the play to say sorry for dragging me out to a rubbish play! haha!

After that I went to meet Mr Sally at work, he was just finishing a get out, so beers with some of the crew were decided and although I felt really ill at that point, I was happy to have a few drinks with them.

I couldn't wait to get home to bed and a hot water bottle though. This morning I have woken up feeling sooo ill. Coughing and sneezing, urgh.

Mr Sally has looked after me this morning and made me egg and soldiers and I have no time to sit around feeling sorry for myself as I'm teaching tonight and really looking forward to it.

Hope everyone else is feeling well and not run down and ill like most people seem to be.

Inspiring Friends

2009-10-29T14:56:00.004Z

Woke up feeling full of a cold today, which I'm just going to ignore as I'm too busy to be ill.

Two days until NaNoWriMo and I'm going to attend the Manchester launch party on Saturday, can't wait for that.
Also noticed there is a NaPlWriMo - for playwrights. So I've joined. Why not. I have a million and one writing projects on the go at the same time always, so it should be fun.
I'm hoping my desk will be in my new office by this weekend so I can sit and write properly.
My back really hurts from writing from my sofa, despite shoving a million cushions behind me.

Just had a lovely phone call off a friend of mine who is an ex-soap actress. She's not only really talented but she's so inspiring to be around.
Anyway, she's always loved writing and now that acting is slow she's joined forces with a drama school friend of hers and they're meeting every Monday night and writing, writing, writing.
I'm so pleased for her and I could hear the bubble of enthusiasm in her voice as she told me all about it.
I like people like this, ones that don't sit around moaning about the industry and how tough it is - they just get on with it and put the work in.
There's something comforting about having a circle of like-minded friends. Like a safety blanket of inspiration when things get tough.

Theatrical Spy

2009-10-28T19:31:00.002Z

I have been working solidly all day today - I think a bubble bath is in order and I'm going to pick a book off my huge TBR pile.

I have a few deadlines to meet by Friday and yet, I'm out tomorrow night to the theatre to watch a play with my friend Luke.
We are writing a play together and it seems there is a play on with the exact same title and possibly a similar theme to us. So we're checking it out, like theatrical spy's!
I hope, hope, hope it's nothing like ours because I love our play so much.

It'll be nice to catch up with Luke too. He's been busy on a theatre tour for a while, so we're in need of a proper catch up.

I haven't had a treat or a theatre night out for a bit, and although money is tight at the moment - I've been working so hard, I figure one little trip to the theatre is allowed! Especially as it's research!

Woof

2009-10-27T16:47:00.004Z

I have been flyering this today:I have met some nice people along the way and one very vicious dog.
Eventful.

NaNoWriMo

2009-10-27T12:54:00.002Z

Oh heck, I've just realised it's that time of year again.
Anyone else joining NaNoWriMo?

I join every year and fail. But as I'm just starting to work on A GUY CALLED PIG, thought this year it would give me extra reason to keep my bum to the seat and my fingers to the keyboard.

I need some writing buddies. Come and find me, my username is: sallylawton

Theatre School

2009-10-27T10:49:00.004Z

I'm working from home this week and this makes me happy.
I've got so many writing deadlines this week, so I've got to crack on and get stuck in to them.

My theatre school is just starting to bloom and I'm so happy. The dance class finally launched last week, it looked so much fun I actually had the urge to join in. Gemma is a wonderful dance teacher and everyone looked like they were having a fun time.
The adult drama is in full swing and they seem to love the play I'm writing for their Christmas productions, so it's great.
My Saturday classes are launching this weekend, and I'm excited. I'm offering this weekends launch class free as a special half term introduction offer - so hopefully we'll see loads of kids and teenagers walking through the door.
The theatre I'm using is so nice. They've made me feel very welcome and I've been trusted with keys and basically left to it when I'm there.

It's been running a month. I haven't broken even this month, but didn't expect to as I know it's something that takes time to grow. I'm hoping the company makes a profit at the end of next month.
It all goes back in to the business so we have money in the pot for productions, costumes... anything to do with the classes.
The aim is to have enough coming in to have our own building and I have huge plans for that... but that's way off.
I'm happy we're building slowly. Everyone who has come through the door for classes, taught the classes or just helped out have been wonderful and inspiring and I feel like we're becoming a little Characrer Creation family!
Here's our new and funky website.

Here

2009-10-26T20:23:00.001Z

I'm still here... sorry for being totally rubbish.

It's been another chaotic week of work, teaching, writing and rushing.
I'll do a proper post tomorrow. But for now I'm going to watch a film with Mr Sally on his only night off for a bit!

Adult Drama Class

2009-10-22T12:07:00.001+01:00

My first play for the adult drama class in my theatre school.
I'm so excited about this. We start rehearsals in class tomorrow night.

Positive

2009-10-20T22:05:00.003+01:00

I have not really enjoyed my Tuesday. But anyway, I'm a positive person so I'll talk about lovely things!

Came home from work and Mr Sally had made from scratch a pie from his Jamie Oliver cookbook. Bless him, he slaved over it for three hours and it was GORGEOUS.

I started plotting my adult drama class' Christmas play today. The play is called EXPOSURE! It's set in a photography camera club (I think I've told you this already!) Anyway, whilst sat on my train today I planned the twists and turns. I'm very excited about this play. I want to write something the group will be proud of. Although they are beginners, I am treating this whole production as a professional production and I know they'll cope. It's very exciting.

Tomorrow I have to get up MEGA early. I have to get a train MEGA EARLY as I'm on a First Aid course. It's a good thing to learn, but I don't think I'll enjoy it. I don't like blood or the thought of saving someones life, it scares me! Hmm.
I shall let you know how I get on. I hope it's good and I'm not sat there thinking about all the work I could be doing back home. I've got so many projects on the go and not much money coming in at the moment because everyone seems to forget to pay me.
Oh yes, sorry - positive, positive, positive!

Niiiight! x

Running in Heels

2009-10-19T12:52:00.002+01:00

Today I have to go to my after school club job then when that finishes I have half an hour to leave that job and rush to my theatre job. It's going to be chaotic, but I'm very excited about starting the theatre job.

I'll fill you in properly later.

My CRB check came through today, which is great. We only sent it off two weeks ago.

Logging off to do some writing. Have a good Monday x

Catching my Breath

2009-10-18T18:15:00.002+01:00

Hi Guys,
Wow - I've been terrible at blogging this week, huge apologies.

I feel like last week all I did was rush and run around everywhere.
I started my new theatre job, which I LOVE and will talk about that more soon. Although this job is just going to be Saturday's, I had to go in for training etc and so I was there Monday and Thursday.
I'm starting properly there tomorrow night though and just can't wait. All is good.
The girl I'm sharing the job with is so nice. You know when you just click with someone straight away? Honestly, strangely feel she's going to be a good friend. We have writing in common and the theatre and after our training on Thurs we went out for a beer and a gossip.
I'm pleased I'll be sharing the job with someone I like. I've got a great feeling about this job. I'm just so happy about it.

I've been writing loads this week. Just getting my notepad and pen out every spare second I had, like the train station etc.
A GUY CALLED PIG is really coming on. Something switched inside me at the station on Tuesday and I re-wrote the opening for like the millionth time and it's gone a bit darker, but it feels so much better and feels right. I'm getting really excited about this book now.

My classes are going great. Some are slower than others to build, but that was expected.
The adult drama class are getting excited about their Christmas play. I'm writing a play especially for them called EXPOSURE! It's set in a photography camera club. I'll let you know what they think of the opening scenes on Friday!

I feel like I have loads more to tell you, but can't think at the moment. Last week was really busy and tiring, I didn't get a second to stop.
Roll on tomorrow, where it gets slightly more busy, I'm ready for it - just!

Master Class

2009-10-18T18:11:00.001+01:00

At CCT we're excited to be launching our first ever fab Master Class.
The FABULOUS actor Paul Newbery has confirmed he'll be teaching the first one next Saturday October 24th.
If you want to know tips and advice on getting in to the industry and making it as a working actor, this is definitely the class for you.
Places are limited, so drop us an email at: charactercreationtheatre@gmail.com if you want to join the class.

Busy

2009-10-15T00:25:00.001+01:00

Sooo much to tell you all and I will fill you in on my amazing and busy week - probably tomorrow night when I get chance.
My week has been filled with a new job, theatre meetings, writing, day jobs and the list goes on.

Promise more soon x

R.I.P

2009-10-12T11:34:00.003+01:00

R.I.P

Stephen Gately

I couldn't believe I was waking up to such sad and tragic news yesterday morning.
I was a huge fan of Boyzone in my teen years and always loved Stephen. I was lucky enough to meet him when I was sixteen and he was lovely and giggly.
I still can't believe this terrible news. My thoughts are with his family, friends, Boyzone and fans.

Character Creation Theatre

2009-10-09T11:58:00.002+01:00

We launch our dance classes tonight at YARD Theatre, Hulme (finally!)

Dance (Adults) - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Drama (Adults) - 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Check out our website: http://www.charactercreationtheatre/

All classes are £6

Just turn up if you want to join us tonight, or contact us for more details.

x

Trial

2009-10-08T20:03:00.003+01:00

I've just completed my first months trial at my play worker job :-)
Excellent. It's gone sooo fast, can't believe it's been a month.
Anyway, they seem to really like me and want to keep me on, which is great news. I've also been given a new role, involving working with the under 5s - which is great.
So all is good, oh and I start my new theatre job next week - can't wait for that either.

Gav moved yesterday :-( and the flat is really quiet without him. He's OK though and seems happy, so all is good.
I'm just waiting for landlord to move the bed out of the back room, so I can start painting my office! Eek. I will post before and after pics once it's done.

Right, got to crack on. Got my teaching to plan for tomorrow.

Wet Week

2009-10-07T11:55:00.003+01:00

It's been a chaotic week this week.
Gav is moving out today (sob, sob). I am going to miss him being around, but wish him all things happy.

Other news:
I'm SICK of commuting to and from work. I get a tram and then a train and fine they are only small journeys, but it's tiring me out so much.
Yesterday I though instead of getting the tram home, why don't I get the train as I'm at the station anyway.
BAD MOVE.
I got off the train, it was PITCH black and I couldn't get my bearings. It was also THROWING IT DOWN.
I was lost, wet and miserable.
It added an extra hour on to my journey and I was soaking wet. I stomped home, mumbling how much I hated the kids who stole and burnt my car.

Anyway, Mr S is going to add me to his car insurance when his is up for a renewal next month, which should make things easier.

Yesterday I donated a load of teenage books to the kids club I work at. They went down so well and one little girl read all afternoon.
That was nice.

Right, loads to do before I head to the tram stop. Catch you all later x

Pondering

2009-10-05T11:58:00.002+01:00

Ooh, I'm enjoying getting to know my new characters for my teen book A GUY CALLED PIG.
I've spent all morning making sense out of all the notes I've been scribbling about them and the plot over the last couple of months.

I'm just playing about with two different openings. I like them both, but I'm just deciding on which one is the strongest.

Hmm, I think it's idea one.

Right, time to down pens and head to the day job.

I'll be pondering on the train...

Catching up with friends at the theatre tonight, really looking forward to it.

Writing - Writing - Writing

2009-10-04T13:50:00.002+01:00

Working on my teen book A GUY CALLED PIG today.
I've taken on my agents advice and suggestions and I've also given myself a little break away from it - spent some time working with teenagers, reading lots of teen books, plotting, thinking, writing notes and now I feel ready to get stuck back in.

I feel better about the book already.

Can't wait to see where this journey takes me.

Theatrical Stuff

2009-10-03T18:35:00.002+01:00

**Theatrical Post Alert**

OK, so my Play Worker job got even better this week when I had to do an activity with them, and I was encouraged by my boss to do drama type things with the group.
Anyway, I decided to create a play with them and they all got involved - some wanting to have backstage creative roles, some wanting performing roles.
We started creating characters and a play, which they've given the title BAD GIRLS.
It was nice to see them enthusiastic and working together.

I also got offered the job at my favourite theatre. The Royal Exchange Theatre have employed me as a weekend host and I'm soooo excited. I love this theatre so much.

Lastly, my theatre school launched last night. I had to drag myself out of my sick bed and there was a hicup with the dance class as the teacher had lost her voice. The adult drama class launched and flippin' heck, what a lovely group. Really enthusiastic, friendly and willing to try. Everything you wish for when teaching. I'm going to really enjoy working with this group, it's going to be good.

Lights Camera Action

2009-09-30T12:16:00.003+01:00

Sorry for lack of posts this week - I've been totally exhausted and don't know why. I think it's probably down to a few late nights, which I'm not used to and work has also been really busy.
Running around after the kids has helped me lose some weight though - so that's good!

It's been a few days since I launched the Lydia Mould channel on YouTube and I've been getting loads of encouraging feedback from various people, so that's good.
I've filmed her first X-Factor video clip, she'll be doing a weekly review. I'm just editing it now and should have it up in the next day or two.

I think I need at some point to get some better editing software. The one I have is fine, but it's not great and Windows Vista seems to HATE everything I plug in.
I'm saving for a Mac.

x