SAPOS

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We’re Ready to Give a Show Now!

Our last true rehearsal tonight and Gaffa wanted a real stage performance. And with a full cast, that’s what we gave him. I really enjoyed watching everyone tonight –even though I‘ve seen it several times now. The audience are going to be in for a real treat – great music, super singing, groovy dancing, a lot of comedy and a few tears –it’s got it all.

Everyone was on top form tonight. Lizzie and Swifty –well it goes without saying. The 3 leading ladies doing “There’s gotta be something better than this “were “brilliant “. The Taxi Dancing girls were the best they’ve been. And everyone seemed to have added a bit of comedy from Lindsey, Linda and 2 Sues collecting there charity money- to someone adding a hot dog to the present! Whilst funny it did put some off their stride so NO funny ideas in the sausage department please in show week –I don’t think I can repeat was what was suggested on the website! LOL. Most importantly everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves which is also what it’s all about as well as giving a fabulous show.

We were informed that the Frug Dancers have to do some extra Frug dancing between scenes as the apartment scene will take a lot of settling up –more than the allocated 10 seconds, so they have 2 minutes now easy. We are meeting up with Elaine on Thursday.

 Announcements:

We need to sell tickets so spread the word!

Those who are helping at the St Anne’s Carnival to meet at 915 am on Clifton Drive North between Beach Rd and Devonshire Rd.

Can the men helping on Sunday please meet at B&Q at 830 or at the Pavilion at 9 am.

Band Call at 2 pm and Tech Rehearsal at 6pm. The latter will be a late one and a lot of hanging around as a lot of difficult scene changes. Please bring some butties for your tea!

No-one except for cast, stage crew and orchestra members to go backstage at the Lowther Pavilion.

Please don’t bring any valuables to the Pavilion as their safekeeping cannot be guaranteed.

No-one move any PPS back stage or Sue W will shout at you –and she will, but she won’t mean it.

Well it’s what we’ve all been waiting for next week SHOW TIME so bring it on!

See you all Sunday, Lots of Love Dawn xxx

One Week To Go –Tock Tick!

I believe Lizzie and Phil had been rehearsing from 11.45 today. I don’t think we always appreciate all the hard work that goes on in addition to our rehearsals to make what promises to be a great show. When I arrived, Elaine was doing some more choreography with Lizzie.  Chris Andrews was here to keep us musically in check , and of course David was accompanying us  on the piano. Later Gaffa’s family joined us to be our first audience- I hope they liked it!

The cast for scene 1 were then taken downstairs to rehearse and yes it did make a difference. I didn’t see the rest of act 1, as I was in part babysitting lovely George but what I heard from the stairs was good .Later Elaine took the Frug dancers downstairs to do a stylish aloof ending to the dance for saying our lines. Although Initially I felt like a dancing cyber man (for those of you who watch Dr Who) I think you will be impressed by the results.

After tea break was scene 2.Sue McQ had brought a goldfish in a bag (what a great PP) for the Coney Island scene. I did not mention did I last week that Sue was planning to eat goldfish with her chips-you had to be there didn’t you Alison? We did miss Herman tonight. Herman where are you?  We dancing girls need you to crack that whip and cue us onto the bar!

Now for the Gaffa’s report. He asked most importantly that the Chorus STAY IN CHARACTER. It sticks out like a sore thumb when we don’t. He nearly named and shamed us but thankfully he didn’t! A few points were given to individual principles and then he got an overwhelming pong of pickled onion Monster Munch crisps –from Swifty Jnr-“Poor Eve “he commented. I don’t think he’s taken note of the last diary about the importance of fresh breathe, but at least he was eating them after and not prior to rehearsal! He also told us to take note of Chris Andrews bringing us in. He will be waving his arms frantically if need be!

Next Wednesday is our last true rehearsal and he wants a real stage performance. Next Sunday 11^th July is Band Call at 2 pm in the parish rehearsal rooms and at 6pm tech rehearsal at the Lowther. If any men can help at 9.30 am at the Lowther for 2 hours that would be appreciated. We then found out that it was Vicki’s birthday that Sunday so Gaffa’s is out of favour being busy nearly all day-some serious making up to do for that one, I think ! We ended by singing Happy Birthday to Keith. There are a lot this time of the year aren’t there?

 Well see you all Wednesday guys,

Keep Smilin’ Folks!

 Lots of Love Dawn xxx

Ps Just for the record and  before I get any retaliatory comments –you don’t have bad breath Swifty Jnr –not that I’ve got that close but ….Oh I’ll stop there !

Phil's Footnote

A massive thank you to you, Dawn & Heather for the very imformative diaries - it's been a delight reading them.

I hope now that with only ONE week to go before YOUR opening night that I might get a FULL CAST at your LAST REHEARSAL - I have been very dissapointed at the non-attentance of people, especially principals and minor principals alike.  We have a Fantastic show on our hands and the audience are in for a treat but this can only be achieved by the full dedication and team work from everyone involved. Let's give them the Groovy Musical they are going to expect.

Less Than Two Weeks To Go !

Sorry for the late diary dudes! I’ve been busy at work and everyone is doing so well that apart from lavishing you all with praise –I’m running out of things to say! So it’s gonna be shorter diaries from now on and with only 1 and ½ weeks to go, I need to concentrate on the finishing touches too!

Lizzie had a sore throat tonight so sensibly saved her voice but she still gave it all she’s got in her acting and dancing .She also was using her PPs !-wig and handbag and wore a I  NY T-shirt –she’ll be moving over there next ! Andrew has been using his PPs for weeks now, so pat on the back for him. Gaffa advised us all to do so from now on as it will help when acting and knowing where to leave them etc for scene changes. No-one please touch Lizzie’s handbag when behind stage and that applies to all PPs –a golden rule!

Mid-way through the first half appeared pink runner number 607-Yes Dani had done the Race for Life tonight and knocked 10 mins off her expected time. Well Done Dani!

I think everyone’s performance went well tonight. Swifty Jnr really is doing a great Oscar-better than the film!  Poor Lizzie though was informed she has to inhale as he exhales for even more comic effect-so hope you’ve got fresh breath –LOL! Nicola did well tonight and completed that difficult end bit –we knew she would, after getting over her chesty cough and Paula was as professional and talented as ever. She always gives a passionate performance –money or no money .We were treated to a swooning kiss by Romeo Kevin tonight –lucky Alison! Don is consistently great as both bad cop and Big Daddy but did try to sneak that word in again! Stewart is really good as Herman but was informed not to add comic bits even though it made Sue J and we all laugh. You will have to join us in the panto at Christmas, Stewart. Oh and I keep forgetting Gaffa’s tango dance with Lizzie which with  Casanova eyes made Val and I laugh tonight .Yes he deserves to be pushed across the stage !

 Gaffa gave us a few pointers at the end but reassured us that he really is pleased things so far-it’s going to be a “cracking show”! I’m sure it is too! From Sunday there will be no prompting, so if you forget your lines you will have to improvise. On Sunday we start at 130 pm and scene 1 will be rehearsed until right. Elaine has asked if dancers for the Frug could also be there at this time to rehearse that number. The rest of you –not many, can come a little later .Donna has asked if everyone can wear their show shoes for the next 2 rehearsals .We then sang Happy Birthday to Donna as it was her special day today ! The ladies of SAPOS asked for volunteers for Saturday 10th July at 915 for the St.Annes carnival to help sell tickets for the show.

A  Third Run Through-Another PPP!

 Well England may have been defeated in the World Cup this afternoon but the company were not in a defeated mood tonight, with improved performances from everyone tonight.

Scene 1 went better, but still needs to be more pacey and sharp with the people arriving on the set right on cue!  Swifty Jnr (aka Gaffa’s self promoted assistant LOL) suggested practice should be done with movement as well, next time. I had to get you for something Swifty but good idea.

Well Lizzie showed us another dimension to her talents tonight and really was quite the comedian, and had us on the front row in laughter. I was later informed that that in addition to working all day she’d been out on the tiles all night with 1 hours sleep !( Sorry Lizzie but I am a ruthless reporter now and after material - if you tell me I’ll put it in the diary ).How did she do it? At least it shows that the girls got stamina, which will be needed with a full week of show performances. More than 1 hours sleep is recommended, everybody, though! In fact the show really did seem quite funny tonight with the apartment scene and elevator scene in particular. I did not realise it is Kevin’s first role-isn’t he doing well?  And I like Don’s role as the doorman. Swifty Jnr managed to make the balance between Oscar’s neurosis and comedy just right.

 At interval Alison thanked all those who attended Lytham Club Day and particular thanks goes to Nicola who attracted the male audience with the promise of 9 more girls’ similar dressed girls!! Come on down audience and see the show! The McQ family looked very stylish in their hippy wear –see the pictures.  And yes SUBs and costumes!! As well as Alison being fed up of repeating it, so am I.

Daddy Don was very into the zone 2^nd half. A far cry from his cop role (albeit a corrupt one) he was enjoying good s*** man. Well that’s one superlative that’s not allowed to be used! LOL Paul gave a funny one-liner. Yeah Man! We’ve just gotta get those arms and legs in unison at the end to be effective.

The subway scene was commented on as needing more movement. There’s not much eye contact needed and no, walkman’s were not around then-who said that? Swifty? Some PPs would be a good idea-that’s personal props-it all helps –a newspaper, a bag perhaps.  Some of us need to know our words better for Brass Band and really sing it out loud! Kevin reminded us of his ex-army skills at marching and instructed our side which foot to start on –RIGHT MARCH! And the wedding scene needs a bit more acting from chorus that carries on and just doesn’t come to an abrupt stop. It’s a happy wedding scene.

After bows we had comments from our judges-some individual comments and some more general ones which apply to all, previously mentioned above. Elaine asked that we all start to give a real performance now and the big chorus numbers just need a bit of tightening up .Overall Gaffa stated that he was not disappointed at this stage –that’s a compliment I think ….but the production team still expect more!! Remember your 3 Ps-PREPARATION, PRACTICE, and PERFORMANCE.

 On that note see you all Wednesday, with your 2 Ps and 3 Ps!! Lots of love Dawn

A Second Run Through!

It was a straight run through tonight and we started just after 740. There were no interruptions so that Gaffa could see how it ran .Sophie again helped out with prompting. Phil Chapman was also on the top table watching and advising.

Well the first scene did not go too well tonight and Gaffa advised later for people to ad-lib if lines are forgotten or even say someone else’s line to keep it going.  I enjoyed watching the apartment scene with Charity, Vidal and Ursala. You were pulling some great faces there Lizzie when hiding in the closet-it made me laugh. Kevin as Vidal is quite the Italian Romeo and Ursala is played well by Alison. The Frug went a little off as we were not used to just the piano part for this dance piece but we tried to pull it together.

The announcements this evening were about meeting at 8.30 am on Saturday, on the corner of Park Rd and Westby Street in Lytham for the Club Day. If you can spare 1 hour to hand out leaflets that would be appreciated .Also could people return any costumes if not using them for the show as they may be suitable for other members. And a few people have still not paid their SUBS!!  Sunday’s rehearsal starts at 6.30 pm which falls quite nicely with the England Vs Germany football match.

 Our 3 leading ladies, Lizzie, Paula and Nicola started after the break with their scene which is one of my favourites. I think they work really well together and the dance number is fun. I do like the type-writer moves and A-Hi-To’s girls!  Lizzie and Swifty were great as usual. They do so well remembering all their lines. Brass Band went a lot better too. Generally Gaffa was very pleased with the second half which went better than the first half this time. One point he made re “I Only Cry at Weddings” was for us to wait for Charity to say “See you around “before singing again. We were reminded again to stay in character at all times, as our audience (usually am-dram buffs) love to spot those slipping out of character-I must say I’ve been guilty of that !!

 I don’t seem to have any funny anecdotes this evening to make which may be a reflection that all is going pretty well, apart from the fact that Rory and Don were short –changed this evening when choosing a girl from the bar as Gaffa ended the scene  prompto ! . Lizzie can expect more bruises on her bottom over the next 4 weeks and was informed there is no comfort in this show! That probably applies to all of us! And Swifty was on his best behaviour tonight so no retaliatory comments there then, LOL .(By the way I did have clean feet, you know –it’s just that Mexican tan –honest ).

 Well it was a late finish tonight and I suppose will be from now on.

 See you on Sunday evening, Lots of love Dawn xxx

First  Run of the Show

Well, it’s getting serious now dudes and it was our first proper run through. It was good to see Sophie Boan who kindly offered her free-time to help as a prompt. We all had to help move furniture to ensure quick scene changes as most of the stage crew are now in the cast!

The opening scene was repeated as slightly sluggish first time but it then went off to a pacey first half. It was so noisy when the cops arrived I thought I was there! I felt sorry for Lizzie being held upside down,  later to be knocked down to the floor and then subject to more man-handling later on . She is going to be bruised and battered by the end of the show. It’s a good job she’s made of tough stuff! Also, I do wonder if she continues to talk in that New York accent at home!

 Well behind the scenes SAPOS members were rehearsing their lines on the stairs and dancers going through the routines so I missed some parts.

 Elaine was fab as the receptionist, as was Sue Mc Q saying her line with the “s” word in! “Why does everyone laugh when I say my lines? “says Sue. Because you are a natural comedian luv, that’s why! Oscar and Charity were great doing the famous elevator scene. Swifty junior showed us what a versatile actor he is and that he does not need to be type cast for superman roles anymore LOL!

A well earned tea-break. Thank you tea ladies for always turning up and providing a good brew! Then Phil Chapman arrived with what one would think was the crown jewels!  No, it was Vittorio’s self popping-out top hat! I’ve no idea what it’s really called. Lizzie was so excited-she played with it all afternoon. Oh easily pleased! Then a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY was sung to Gaffa- followed by Reg who was missed last week. The ladies asked for volunteers for Lytham Club Day to promote the show. Further details to be announced on Wednesday.

 The second half seemed to go very fast for me, but its good to see it all put together now. Well the verdict of our first run. Gaffa was really quite pleased with the first Act. It lasted 1min 15 secs- I’m sorry 1 hour 15 mins and it seemed to have good momentum. Oh yes he would like it perfect next time please –right OK ! Second half not as good . I cannot remember the time but not” bum numbing “! He stated that there were some lapses of concentration (its no excuse if you’re tired) and to keep in character at all times. Also we need to know the words for” I only Cry at Weddings “better and a unilateral executive decision was made for it to be “ Any time , Any place, Any where “ at all times  ( even though  3 out of 4 times it’s the other way round !) And SING a BIT LOUDER in Brass Band.

Next for Elaine’s comments. . Brass Band went  wrong in the middle . We blamed the music-rather than ourselves, and bless David he apologised! But there is no central drum part for the pianist. He did play pretty fantastically all afternoon didn’t he? Further key points, from our choreographer;

“I’m a Brass band” 

1.       The reverse box step ends on a trumpet for the 4^th step

2.       Then a big stride ,cross ,again stride and back twice ,then  onto the fanfare

3.       Go back for 3 steps on “pouring out of me “ ,turn round and drag off

“Rhythm of Life “

1.       This ends Right leg, left leg stamped  , right arm, left arm punching the air ,Both arms together punching up  in the air , both arms punching downwards and then both arms punch central .

2.       To the left of Don go down after first Yeah, the centre section down after second Yeah and then the right side after the third Yeah then all up for the last man.

“I only cry at weddings”

!. Leave a larger central aisle for Herman, Nickie and Helen to pass through

Well we are doing it all again on Wednesday! YIPPEE!!

See you all then, Lots of love Dawn XXX

“BOWS” -“WOW!”

 We started with a sing of the finale piece, full company,”See Me Now-Bows”. Chris our musical director wanted us to really punch out those NOWs, WOWs and POWs! And we did!

Next Gaffa placed us in our finale positions and told us to use the whole stage and not all crowd at the back –Oh we do this every time don’t we company ? We just like standing close to one another!  We all move forward with line 1, wait for them to take a bow and walk off and then the next line move forward etc. EASY! NO curtseys please –that’s old hat. NO one arm behind backs and one arm in front –that’s naff! Just straight quick bow and off stage. NO prolonged applauding for anyone–that has to be earned for outstanding performance-which of course it will be! Well after a few false starts we did eventually make it to the end! And it was repeated several times just for good measure.

 We were reminded that the audience remember the beginning and the end the most –so make it go good (and bits that go wrong and outstanding bits too). After each row has done their bow the centre opens to welcome, with an outstretched arm, our leads Oscar then Charity down the centre aisle. Then back again to bow followed by crowding round the centre to sing the final line and raise our hands and punch to WOW.   We were reminded by Chris that the repeat is from bar 16 – “All I can say is wow”- and that on the final “If My friends could see me now “, the last 4 words are longer (4 counts each) and the last note 10 beats. Chris decided a rest was needed before ending with WOW which sounded better coming in on the beat.  Gaffa also informed that there is no fairy godmother at the end which Sue McQ is rather relieved about as it means no quick costume change at the end!! Good point! Plus it gives the show a bit more credibility.

 Well we left the principles to stay behind to sing their pieces with David the pianist, ready for Sunday’s 1^st big run through. PLEASE ALL ARRIVE BEFORE 1.30 PM READY TO START RUNNING THE SHOW AT 1.30 PROMPT! There are only 6 more rehearsals left.

See you all then, Lots of Love Dawn xxx

 PS Paula kindly brought a bag of bikini bottoms to share out to protect the dancing girls’ modesty when having one leg over the bar! Interestingly Clark Kent –you know who I mean- took a blue pair. Watch this space …………………………………………………………………………………………………...Hope I not given his game away !

Photo Call –Click Click!—Bling Bling! 

Hiiii!!! Well a big THANK YOU Heather for standing in! My you did write a lot and very informative too!

 Well the first hour and a half were taken with photos! David Bailey –sorry I mean Gaffa- was on full form tonight clicking away  ,checking his light ,getting the right camera angle –some from the floor!!   Everyone looked great tonight but I think it was battle of the eyelashes and big hair for the girls–Val wins on big hair and Jo on eyelashes but it was a close competition!  And I didn’t recognise most of the men in their wigs! I was later informed that the place to go was Mo-Jos for accessories-maybe we should ask them to sponsor us. Swifty Junior looked remarkably like Clark Kent in his glasses and many a comment was made to this effect. No you’re not Superman, Mr Swifty!!LOL

 For the Hippy pics we had to reach out to Daddy –photo-man! Did he realise that Don was doing the bunny fingers behind his head? More bunny fingers sorry peace man signs for the group pics and we just had to pretend to be a little doped-I mean chilled. Next Elaine got the Frug girls and guys in poses for their group –only to be told then to all move back 2 metres by Mr Bailey. Lastly a big group society picture Ahhh-Big smiles –with an empty chair for Gaffa who  can cleverly insert himself  using digital technology . He later thought better of this and did the self-timer mode like us lesser mortals would normally do. Well there should be some good shots in there which I’m sure will be displayed soon on the webby.

Tea-break and notices. Gaffa was really pleased if not surprised that we were all there tonight and hoped that we all will there on Wednesday when he is setting the bows and doing some music bits for chorus and principals. From Sunday 20^th onwards he will be running the show every rehearsal .There is Band Call at the rehearsal rooms on Sunday 11th July at 2pm, followed by a tech rehearsal at the Lowther that same evening. On Monday 12^th there is a full dress rehearsal .Then it’s the SHOW!!  It is Lytham Club day on Saturday 26^th June and Alison will give details later about meeting for then. Oh and last but not least it is Gaffa’s birthday next Sunday!

 Right there was 40 mins left to finish the first running of the show, starting tonight from Act 2 scene 6 and no books!! I tried to sneak mine in as did Val but were spotted! Darn it! Dani’s character, Rosie was introduced this evening -a naïve sweet new member to the dance hall girls .Next was Oscar’s proposal scene to Charity with Walter and Lynda ear-wigging in the neighbouring booth. We skipped Brass Band and moved straight onto the surprise party. Andrew added to the effects by turning the lights out (someone’s after your job Phil Chapman) – and I actually felt like I was at a surprise party! There was applause and laughter at Herman asking for a beer –it must have been funny that last week.  The final scene was then completed with Oscar and Charity in the park. As Oscar tries to dump Charity in a kind way she promptly runs off as instructed falling straight into the arms of Stewart taking him straight down to the floor. Well I say! She soon got over Oscar didn’t she?!! LOL. Not to worry –all will be made right in the end by our fairy god-mother aka Sue Mc Q . Oh I do like a happy ending!

 Well it was good to see you all guys after my holiday and I feel like I’ve missed loads!  See you Wednesday.

Lots of Love Dawn xxx

"I'm The Bravest Individual I Have Ever Met"      
 
The words were being bellowed out as we left rehearsals tonight. Chris our MD was drumming notes, rhythms, and harmonies into each and every individual! So as the majority  of us left to get tucked up into our warm cosy beds with a cup of hot chocolate, Swifty Jnr and Lizzie were still hard at it trying to nail every note in "Bravest Individual".
 
Tonights rehearsal was all about running the show, and this is what we will be doing from here on in! We started where we left off from Sunday and went straight from Scene 5 in Act One. Although the show is not yet running smoothly (obviously not expected for another few rehearsals!), it has to be said that it shows how much effort and extra time everybody is putting in! Before tonight i never even knew half the scenes had been blocked! So a deserved pat on the back for everyone, your working yourselves to the bone! Take a night off and relax, you all deserve it...just not a Wednesday or a Sunday...we really need you then!
 
Blasting off with the frug, or more of a attempted jump, we got through the number to carry on into the next scene. Don't worry girls, we'll sort out the routine on friday, as well as the many dance breaks that are in the following scene! Charity and Vittorio certainly did well; not even one slip of a line if my memory serves me correctly! But before we knew it we were moving on and into scene six - Vittorio Vidal's Apartment! I couldn't stop smiling! Lizzie really gets into her character and makes it her own, simply fantastic! Any observer could see how much work they had been putting in, it's a lot to remember and they both did it so well! The closet section really cracked me up! You have Vittorio making it up with Ursula, singing his little heart out (very well done by the way!), while he is hiding a young Charity in his closet! Sneakily slipping her a beer now and then, he keeps his other mrs occupied while Charity tries not to set the smoke alarm off with her crafty smoking of a cigarette! You'll have to come and watch before your in stitches yourself!
 
The number "There's Gotta Be Something Better Than This" is really coming along girls! And we don't blame you Nicola for being out of breath! A very high energy and hopeful song, i'm not sure where they do get their energy from! A few little mis-haps here and there but they will easily polish out. Getting lost within the music, remembering to sing and remembering dance steps is quite a talent you know! Only the best can do it! But a massive thankyou for our pianist of the night, Malcolm. Having never read the score before, the man sure can sight-read well! Within moments he was the tune was being blared out across the hall as if he had been playing it for years! Thankyou very much! We all apprecaite it greatly, there wouldn't be a show without the musicians!
 
We were motoring through, but before we got any further Phil reminded us all that if we are not in the scene we must be quite! It's not fair to the people acting to have to shout over our rabble at the sides! Phil's starting as he means to go on, so if we need to talk, we shall have to go else where, otherwise, no more mr nice director! And so we came to where Charity meets Oscar, and just as they got into the lift, we stopped for tea! We do love our tea at SAPOS!
 
Just after tea break was over, Alison wanted to remind everyone that it is PHOTOCALL THIS SUNDAY!! So if you can please turn up with complete hair and make-up done, and in costume if possible it would be a great help! Dancers need big fake eyelashes and lots of eyeliner, pink lipstick (not red!), along with big hair-we shall tackle the wig problem later on! Men if you can have a base coat on that would be great! And i do apologise, but i was being distracted so did not quite catch the rest of what Alison was saying, but i believe that everybody knows which costumes to bring and which shoes it is they need! So please arrive at 6.30pm or earlier, Phil will be there earlier so don;t let him be on his own!
 
We soon rattled through another few scenes until we arrived to the title song "Sweet Charity". Good on you Swifty for having a crack at it even though you've not sung it that much! But from here onwards it was decided that Chris would run through the harmonies with Swifty, Lizzie and the rest of the chorus, leaving the rest of us free to leave! Thankyou Sophie for popping in, we hope you enjoyed it, and you should come and watch, but annoyingly your jetting off to Kenya! Another thankyou to Malcolm, it really was a massive help tonight. Couldn't have done it without you!
 
So please don't forget your costume's on Sunday! We should be having the pictures taken outside, so long as the weather is permitting! And Dancers please don't forget about the reharsal on Friday at 7.00pm!! We're going to run through everything until it's slick! 
 
Keep Smiling!
Heather xx

Running of Act 1 Scenes 1-5

Nicola and Paula kicked started (I’ll keep the football theme running a little bit longer) with their number –“There’s Gotta Be Something Better than this “. Well its great girls! You obviously worked really hard with Elaine on Sunday and done your homework as it has paid off! Great singing and dancing from both of you! I don’t think you need to worry Nicola that there’s only 7 weeks to go.

We then were to start blocking and setting from scene 1. I liked Charity’s helpless pleas from the Lake-boy she is a Drama Queen!  Then to the Fan-Dango Ballroom.  There was a real sense of camaraderie between the girls in the dressing room, which came across.   I think Charity really enjoyed giving Gaffa a big shove in the chest across the room too!  Next to Big Spender and the men walking on. Reg stood in a lot for the missing men, but I don’t think he minded.

Now for Ken’s introduction as Vidal Vittorio. Helped by Paula as Ursala tonight it looked very entertaining. His part with Charity in the Pompeii club was very funny. I’m sorry I was a bit slow picking up on Lizzie’s pronunciation of pomp-e-ii ! LOL We did the Frug and then the dancers lines, where we must remember to creep towards the couple with shock and distain of Vittorio bringing a non-celeb! Andrew made an authentic   French waiter .The chorus were added to the club tonight and we all enjoyed doing Frug type moves in our 60s nightclub. We all had a laugh doing a selection of them to the 8 mini- dance breaks played expertly by David. Some I have to say were getting a bit silly and I think giggles and hysteria –including Gaffa-were setting  in! We ended by all crowding round Charity fainting in the arms of Vidal and again do our lines in rapid succession. Val’s accidently came out in Scottish tonight!

Well, it was good the see all the hard work of the previous rehearsal s coming together tonight –so well done to all! I’m off on my holiday soon so I am handing over to my friend Heather. Thank you very much for stepping in, Heather, especially as you are doing your A Levels at the moment and have a forthcoming 18^th Birthday to celebrate!

So see you all on my return which is photo call, I think, on 13^th June.

Take Care All, Lots of Love Dawn xxx

Phil's Footnote: A massive thanks goes to Dawn for getting the diaries to me so quickly - Have a great holiday. DON'T FORGET EVERYONE WITH LINES NO MATTER HOW MANY YOU HAVE GOT - BOOKS DOWN BY THE 13TH JUNE

The Time That Gaffa Lost His Voice!

Yippee-Blackpool won at Wembley yesterday to gain their place in the Premiership and Gaffa had lost his voice today. I guess he must have been shouting a lot Saturday, then LOL!  Elaine looked like a true supporter too in her tangerine T-shirt and white shorts.

 Upstairs the cast were blocking the opening scene. Keith McQ was to be cast as a hippy in the park, and the first to notice Charity drowning in the Lake. The rest are well to be well dressed city folk  .Lindsey volunteered her husband ,Walter to play her stage hubby ,also called Walter –So he’ll be joining us later. Each member is to walk on just before their given line to make it look like a busy park scene.

 Downstairs, Elaine had taken Paula and Nicola to do “There’s Gotta Be Something Better Than This “. I think all 3 girls were a little disappointed that their dance number had been shortened in line with the orchestral score. However there were some fun moves with HSM jumps and Hong-Kong Phooey Jumps –you had to be there! I loved the type writer steps and Paula’s part dreaming of being in an office job but was called upstairs before Nicola’s cue. I’m sure it’ll be good gal!

Upstairs again for Hey Big Spender ……with Men! The girls had good fun joining in for the missing dancers this afternoon and all enjoyed playing a tart! We’d better watch it as they were pretty good stand –ins!  We had one sing through and then did the lib. The chosen men Adam ,Andrew, Keith ,Paul and Reg came on one by one and sussed us all out while we tried to grab their attention .Gaffa said that we had to be (and he covered Oscar’s ears as he said this ) all T*** Teeth and A*** !!  Well  I suppose if Sheila Hancock can say it on “Over The Rainbow “ on BBC 1 then it’s Ok for Gaffa  to say it too LOL. We soon ran out of men so Adam came on a second time to choose another girl –Think of the street cred Adam!  Andrew also comes back for a second girl, but Keith wastes no time and picks 2 first times round! Well that was a bit of a giggle!

Next we looked at the lib for after the Frug. We were all given lines and Jo and Eve asked for some easy lines. Aw bless, they really are both such modest girls! Fortunately there were a few of “Who is it? “, “Who is it?” .Gaffa‘s voice was really going at this point as he stood in for Siobhan and Dani’s lines. He really did sound like a girl! LOL. (I’d recommend complete voice rest for a few days if you want it to recover).Anyway it did provide us with a laugh!

 Well that’s about it for today guys,

See you all Wednesday!

Lots of Love Dawn xxx

Any Time, Any Where, Any Place

Tonight’s rehearsal for the chorus was lead by Elaine. Gaffa was downstairs with the principles. Maybe he was scared off by the females last Sunday after all LOL! Lizzie, our Charity was feeling poorly but still turned up with a big smile on her face- what a trooper!

We were to finish I Only Cry at Weddings. I have called tonight’s diary Any Time Any Where Any Place as 1. I already have a title for I only Cry at Weddings and 2. So many of you got these words the wrong way round dudes!  Also Gaffa reminded us in the break that he wants books down by Sunday 13^th June so even if you only have 5 mins a day have a look at your script! Any time, any where, any place!

We had a few spaces tonight. Oh yes, Its Beauty and the Beast Next week and Phil Swifty and Dani are in it! So is Elaine’s daughter Sophie and Phil’s Dad, Dave –a well-known SAPOS member   . I’ve got my tickets. Have you?

 Well Sue J was playing an extremely good inebriated party guest.  Had she actually had 1 or 2 already? LOL.  You were very funny Sue J! Don enjoyed playing the corrupt cop being a regular at the club and Andrew dressed the stage and ensured that we girls all had some champagne at the bar.  Stewart sang his heart out as Herman and gave it his all. And Val soon found Stewart’s ticklish spot –round his middle! Leesa still has a giggle saying her lines as we all do! And, Paula showed us what a mover she was as well as how to do a finger walk, properly.

Elaine ended the number with a soft shoe shuffle – a bit of a tongue-twister! A relatively easy step to do but even Eve one of our dancers had not heard it called that before. (That reassured me.) Nicola, Stewart and Paula took centre stage which was good as we could follow them .Someone, not mentioning any names, was particularly admiring of Stewart wiggly hips! We were then partnered off with a move and then some side jumps . Stewart then goes back to his chair singing his falsetto “a-de-li-i-i-i-ine” (Leesa helped a lot here) surrounded by us all, looking fondly at him and then a fond fare-well to Oscar and Charity .Next a kick and a pivot walk and arms out and all round in a semi-circle and Jazz hands –great stuff .We were all given number 1 or 2 as to when to crowd round Stewart, Paula and Nicola. Sue J you are number 1! (Just in case you forget)

 Well the number was rehearsed several times and all but the dancers were allowed home. Gaffa asked if we could all start at 1 pm on Sunday to set the first scene again. The dancers could start later at 2 pm but it would be good if you could come earlier as you can always rehearse bits and pieces in the downstairs room. He didn’t want any complaints at coming ½ an hour early as himself and the principles have been busy rehearsing Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday! Gotcha!

 Well the dancers finished off with the Frug paying particular attention to the ending as the dancers have to end on the right hand stage to face Charity and Vittorio at the end-which we did –all in unison to the last beat –very effective. There were a few changes but it was easier to follow. Elaine was happy with the end and promised not to change it again. Mind you it’s only changed x 1. Gaffa asked us all to dance this number with feeling! Was he joking (no he wasn't - He means it! It's called ACTING DARLING!) –there is no feeling in Rich mans Frug aka Aloof! Meanwhile downstairs Charity had asked Ken (Vittorio) to practice their scenes –what dedication dudes!

Well its dedication all the way now as less than 2 months to go!

See you all Sunday,

 Lots of Love Dawn xx

 A Bit of Everything Dudes!

Just a brief one for today’s diary dudes as I arrived after the opening scene was set. I trust it went well!

Chris Webb had returned after a period of sick leave, being on full form and in the groove wearing hippie gear and a long hair wig –groovy man. Good to see you back! Donna and Alison were extremely busy sorting out costumes for all. They do a sterling job of a difficult task!

Well straight onto Rhythm of Life , followed by Daddy’s Life sermon and  the police raid .Quickly succeeded by the tube scene-or should it be the subway scene Gaffa as we are in New York not London-thought I just pick you up on that point ! LOL!

Next onto the surprise party, scene 10. I was surprised to be given the opening line. How do you say Ssh in an American accent? Thanks Charity for your quick acting tips!!.  Gaffa stood in for both Herman and later Oscar –very versatile acting .And the large cake was played by yes –a chair .David, our pianist had a special piece to play for the entrance of the cake which he stated he’d been practising. It was a short piece and well within his capabilities so I think he was jesting. 

Well we all have to do quite a bit of ad-lib in this scene calling Herman a cheapskate for getting a cake not intended for Charity  and also winking and nudging at –“your nuptial eve “. Paula and Nicola played their parts well with great brassy American accents.  After the giving of the present, a baby outfit, Charity has to have her last dance with her 3 favourite old customers since 1954(!) Don, Ken and Andrew. They were to adlib to make it more amusing .Don tried to excuse him from this explaining he was a policeman but Gaffa didn’t let him off the hook. He was to be a bent bobby! Should that not have been bent cop –ooh I’m being picky tonight. As he danced away with Charity, Sue J tried to instruct him how to dance properly! Not many men can nowadays can they ?!! Though I thought Ken did quite well. Then Oscar –substituted by Gaffa tonight -arrived on the scene to be surrounded by girls. Did he enjoy this bit – I’m not so sure. He had his beard pulled at, head patted and generally mauled! We finished with I Only Cry at Weddings.

Well most of the cast could leave now but I had to stay just to watch Paula and Nicola play” Baby Dream Your Dream “. Girls it really was fabulous –Well Done! You’ve both obviously worked hard on this and it was a polished performance. Ready to go I’d say!

And I’m ready to go now too, so see you all Wednesday,

 Lots of Love, Dawn xx

I Love To Cry At Weddings

Well it appeared to be a full turnout tonight. As Elaine explained this set was a surprise party held for Charity and Oscar early evening before the club opened, in celebration of Charity leaving and getting married. So there’s a bar and a table of food at the back, and the champagne is flowing! We have to act as well as sing. So party on, wish Charity good luck and dancing girls are allowed to touch Oscar –just to check him out! You never know –he might change his mind!

Herman was played by Stewart. I didn’t know he’d got this part until this evening and he was great at singing, acting and moving! We started with several practices of the vocals, with Chris our MD keeping us to time. It took Val, Leesa and I several attempts to get the right order for any time, any where any place and that’s all we had to do! I think I was confusing it with the famous martini adds –any time any place any where! Then Leesa was put on the spot and asked to sight sing a couple of lines she didn’t know. She loved her dodgy lines of sharing your bed and dress and blow. She dared me to put this in the diary!

Elaine placed us in position and gave everyone bits of choreography. Dorothy and Lindsey seemed to particularly enjoy their part of pulling the men back. I saw you smiling Dorothy! We then went through a few times with Stewart singing and us all moving. We had to react to Stewart and his words .Poor Dani (who plays innocent Rosie) kept being cut off for her solo part. She was just about to sing when the music stopped. I’m sure it wasn’t on purpose but it happened so many times it seemed like it. Nicola was given permission to push Dani forward. It’s a good job they’re friends! The McQ family joined us tonight. Sue brought her hubby Keith who played barman and son Adam who seemed to take to it like a duck to water – it must run in the family!

Tea break and announcement time. On Sunday the cast is needed from 1.30pm but dancers don’t have to start ‘til 2. 30pm. Gaffa is setting the opening scene-which led to his next request. Does anyone have a manikin   and he just wanted the bottom half? This met with much laughter. He did explain later it was for the scene where Charity is drowning .Also could everyone bring their costumes and shoes as they need to be sorted as Alison is on holiday soon. Sue Walker also reminded everyone to bring there subs if not paid. This is important to help pay for costumes and for insurance on the stage!!

 We then had a couple of run throughs of the above number so it was clear in our heads.  Elaine and Gaffa seemed happy with the work done .The cast were then allowed to go home apart from those in the Frug.

The Frug –the dancing in this is posy and aloof as it is set it the rich mans posing club. We were all given some very strange poses to set the opening scene, and then onto what we had rehearsed on Sunday. Elaine managed to nearly finish off the number within a short space of time. She included as much as she could from the moves from the film including boxing. This was done in pairs and reminded Jo of being on the cross trainer a gym. There were further gym moves of skipping with a pas de deux (?) and then a bum wiggling at the audience. And yes there were more Brucie moments for the boys! It’s a great number this one and very 60s.

Well in the words of Brucie –it was Nice to see ya, Nice! And see you all on Sunday!

Lots of Love Dawn xxx

The Frug

Jus t a quick diary this time! Elaine led the dancing girls plus Stewart and Andrew for the Frug .We were upstairs whilst the Gaffa took his principles downstairs to block a few scenes.

Upstairs the chairs were laid out in pairs in a horseshoe shape to be the Pompeii Club. Eve was placed centre stage to dance 60s style down the middle with Stewart and Andrew either side doing a sort of Bruce Forsyth pose !Sorry guys, it’s the only way I can explain it- but it looked cool and groovy man! And Eve looked great. Meanwhile we had 4 girls either side traversing the stage leaning backwards and legs straight forward .We all felt of pull of our upper abdominal muscles –ouch! Oh,  it was fun walking straight across, poker faced then all suddenly turn towards the audience. We had 60s handshakes, camel moves –as Val calls them –and head shakes. Jo was particularly good at one move –so much so Elaine asked her to demonstrate to the rest of us. We ended mid through with a very peculiar move of our right ankles crossing our shin/knee and then rotating your hands and ankles –one to practice at home and not one for after a heavy night out, the night before!!Not mentioning any names!

While we had the chance we had a practice of Big Spender, whilst we waited for Alison who gave out more wigs and costumes. Gaffa looked particularly fetching in a long blond wig!

Hopefully we will be able to show you on Wednesday the finished product.

Hope the rest of you had a nice day off and see you all at the next rehearsal.

Lots of Love, Dawnxxx

Let’s Ease the Pain of “Brass Band” and Polish off the “Rhythm of Life“

The plan tonight was to finish “I’m a Brass Band”, rehearse ROL and later Big Spender.

We started from the beginning with the marching which was OK but Elaine reminded us that it really had to be on the beat to look effective. Sue Walker joined the line instead of Alan .In fact she took on many personas tonight as you shall see later! Whilst Lizzie was doing her intro part, Dorothy and Chris Webb were singing their heart out with actions behind the wings across the stage to me and Sue .It was reciprocated! I suppose that’s how romances start backstage –hey Sue J and Don!

Well next were some adjustments to the dancers’ part, in particular the Irish jig bit. The left hand stage had to gallop across the stage .Initially I did not travel far enough,  so on my second attempt I was determined to do it right –only I went too far , way past Dani and into the wings ! LOL. Then onto the Cross formation. Elaine had obviously been studying the logistics of this formation at home and doing her maths but she didn’t remember her 8 times table too well as thought 8 +8= 18. She soon realised! She explained that she was going to make it simpler and “ease the pain “. Phew! After a few different variations, a decision was made. Sue J again helped standing in for Elaine this time so that Elaine could see the formation .We marched for 8 into the centre, march anti-clockwise 2 x 4 on the spot (Gaffa’s light bulb moment) and then back to position. Box move, then trumpet walk and then in lines to form a salute of trumpets for Charity. Don and Andrew were chosen to lift Lizzie and she was very excited at this as had never been lifted on stage before. Sue J noted that Don seemed to perk up at this point! I wonder why? There was some discrepancy in shoulder height of these 2 men and Lizzie had to decide which cheek to lean on. I think Andrews’s side won!

Well tea-break time. Donna and Alison were starting to give out some costumes. Paul (or is it Ken) aka Vittorio looked dapper in his smoker’s jacket. Oh I think it all starts to get very exciting when costumes are being sorted. Thanks Donna and Alison for all your hard work with them. Meanwhile the music for Frug was being played loud –very 60s!

We then did ROL and Elaine felt it was well remembered. Was she pleasantly surprised? Just needed a bit of polish! Again Sue J joined us for this number. She took exception to crawling to Daddy – “Not in them shorts!” I noted Paula’s crawl up Swifty Jnr. Is that in the script? If not good improvisation, girl! I do enjoy this number. Chris our MD suggested a slightly different end to fit in with the music- I think so that we all go down together after the yeahs!

 Next some announcements: Una advised us that tickets were now on sale for the show and that the first 2 rows have been reserved for cast members to buy this month. However these seats are to be bought through the society and are £11 each. £10 for concession tickets-Tuesday only. On Sunday there is a 1 30 pm start for singing principles and 130 start for dancers who are in Big Spender plus Stewart for the Frug –ooh I can’t wait! The rest of you can have a day off. Enjoy as there won’t be many from now on!

We finished with Big Spender and in particular with the dialogue part. Gaffa informed us that the bar will be made next week in the work shop and will be 20 feet long! A ballet bar height was decided upon but Leesa piped up “Make sure that you can see me over it “.I didn’t think you were that short! LOL. It’ll be a big help when that is ready.

Well it was a busy night and a lot done.

See you on Sunday,

Lots of Love Dawn XXX

I’m a Brass Band

Well at 130 it appeared that not very many of us were here! Oh dear, it was a bit sparse! Some more arrived later thankfully. Swifty Jnr was poorly in bed so we all hope you’re feeling better soon mate!  Eve brought along his son Oscar who was very well behaved throughout the afternoon. We welcomed another guy, Andrew who was known to some members from previous shows, namely Carousel.

 Today was all about “I’m a Brass Band”. Elaine reminded us all about our lines. Line 1 drumming, line 2 marching and line 3 playing the trombone .And I learned a great tip today- you start off with the foot that faces the front of the stage. For those of you like me who get their right mixed up with their left, it made life a lot easier.

Lizzie started singing “Somebody loves me “and she really sounded surprised, as if she meant it. Well I think the audience will all love you as it sounded great. Gaffa commented that David, our pianist played quite well. Quite well? He played brilliantly! He is cheeky at times isn’t he! LOL

Elaine then divided the dancers into left and right .Well it started off easily enough with some marches and walk with a few kicks everything in groups of 8.Nicola and Alison were enjoying doing Max Wall impressions! Then came the difficult bit!  Knock knees in, arms out followed by knees out and arms in then jump to a salute. Did anyone master it?  We had a laugh trying! One to practice at home! Then the Irish jig part – a few practises of that one .Next face to the left marching to Lizzie, turn scissoring and star jump forward, on 8. Then another tricky shoulder shrugging move for 6 , ending with a head swing. Now Elaine herself cheated a bit with this one and started to develop a nervous tic! We could then run off stage. Phew!

While the remaining cast were allowed to have a break, they decided to give Gaffa a little bit of his cheek back .He retorted with his “yellow card”. Lindsey you’re to be put on the front row! I think that there was some interest in the local football matches and thankfully Blackpool drew meaning they got into the play offs.

Tea break –it was needed!

Now, all the cast were involved for an ambitious “concentric flag” formation. Maybe we could re-name it the X factor move? Alison helped Elaine with this, as she has been involved with it before. We were given numbers and these are to keep dudes, to avoid future confusion!!  Gaffa and Lizzie were roped in to replace Ken and Roy .Gaffa didn’t mind as long as he was not number 2! - Oh toilet humour!

 Elaine said we were to move like elastic bands .Well we tried and tried but didn’t cross our respective opposing partners at the correct time. Gee it’s even hard explaining it. So we did it slowly one by one literally so that we all knew our ROPs-respective opposing partners! Basically you have to keep moving and marching, and don’t shut your eyes when you get to the centre and hope for the best!  Be confident and know your ROP!  As Elaine said we are up to it and we can do it! I am still laughing at Alison shouting “Mother Move it!” Dorothy you are a good sport!

The latter part was a little easier with marching, a box manoeuvre and hands in the air to blow that trumpet at the end!  Only a tiny bit left to finish the number off on Wednesday.

Well, that was Sunday’s day of rest! Some great choreography! I think the number beginning “Somebody loves me “, everybody will love!

See you all Wednesday, 

Lots of Love, Dawn XXX

Flying Man –Orvil style!

 Hi Dudes! Well this evening we started with Rhythm of Life from the beginning. Oh, we had 2 new male members joining us tonight, Alan and Roy (I think) and they didn’t appear to be put of watching us!! And yes they decided that they would join us. Hurray! As the Gaffa keeps saying we need more men.

Some of us had missed Sunday rehearsal so were not au fait with the ending, but Elaine carefully went through it all step by step. So after the oops upside your head part ,  Elaine –a self confessed party girl !- showed us how to do an ORVIL impression flying to daddy .Gaffa was also joined in behind his table  and was taking the mick I think ! Oh it’s all good fun.

Then we crawl to Daddy.  We must remember to all really stamp the floor loud and in unison for this part.  Paula seemed to particularly enjoy the part and made many references to groping! As far as I could see it was imaginary as only air was being groped. Daddy was lapping it up!

 We then turn round clenching hands for the “do we do we “s and next some nods of our head to the side, as we walk to the right and then left. Then hand in hand to skip off to the sides in circles. Well I think they were a bit of healthy competition between our group and the right hand stage group for this move. Having Paula, Nicola and Val in our circle ensured that we practised till we got it sussed … and vertigo! Then some big air punching moves followed by facing Daddy again freestyle –I personally liked doing Orvil again! Yeah yeah man. As Alison reminded us those on the left hand side must go down first –so I have put Dorothy in charge of reminding us all to do that. Keep it in the family.

 Well than a well earned tea break. Thanks as always to all the ladies who help make the teas and biscuits every week. 

Elaine didn’t have much of a break as she went through Big Spender with some of us and we all gave a performance at the beginning of the second half. Thanks for everyone’s applause!

 We then did ROL again as Elaine said she wanted to then put it to bed for a while. I think it went really well and Gaffa asked if we could finish the scene with Don carrying on with his lib. He gave a great performance as did the chorus members with there lines. Very Hippy American and far out man! A big cheer as that was one scene completed.

 Moving on to something new – I’m a Brass Band. We were divided into left and right and put into lines .Line 1 playing drums, line 3 trombones? We start from bar 35, after jazz quartet, marching right arm, left leg depending which side you’re on. Then on the spot and then a drag walk. Well it wasn’t to hard to remember as long as you start on the right (or left) foot! We then watched Elaine choreograph Lizzie who plays Charity and I must say she looked and sounded quite mesmerizing! We all gave her a well deserved cheer!

Time to go. It was 10 pm .Elaine asked if we could all meet for 130 on Sunday to finish at 4 pm when we shall finish off Brass Band.

 See you all then,

 Lots of Love,

Dawn xxx

Sorry no diary but here is the video to Rhythm of Life for all you budding pot smokers to LEARN 

Rhythm of Life

Tonight’s rehearsal was hosted by Elaine our creative choreographer with Gaffa, pianist David, MD Chris in attendance.

Don our Daddy was back and well in the groove man!  He was smoking his pipe, and acting his part well.  Great Dude! The rest of the cast sat facing Daddy in rows as we went through last week’s routine. Elaine said Don was to be God and we were all waving and looking up to him. He loves this part isn’t he? We started in the middle,”going to Milwaukee”. Well Elaine did warn us last week it would be higgledy-piggledy! Her words not mine! As Val-a fitness instructor commented -this was a great work out for those abdominals! Yes it sure was .Sue thought she’d escaped but it was a good job she was listening as she later joined Daddy as his side kick –I think she can keep the name Diddy Daddy. After our abdo stretches and yoga positions and happy clapping we were all given numbers 1-4 to turn round on certain lines. I’m not sure if we all got them but Elaine was pleased with the end result which looked effective. And on the last one we all wave around down into the zone. I think that’s where the cats were go go going .

Well now to the beginning of   the song and Don was to be surrounded by a selection of girls –a harem .He is enjoying this role! Joining him is our newest member Stewart-he’s a good mover isn’t he? Well the smoke from the pie-eyed piper was really flowing now as the rest of us were placed around the rest of the stage –really spaced out man. Nicola and Paula were cycling together. Lynda and Danni were paired to the right and Val, I and Leesa to the left –leaning back to back and gradually awakening to the tingle in our hands and feet.  Charity and Oscar (Swifty Jnr and Lizzie) started from the sides and gradually joined in. We all then surround our Demi-god  Daddy Don to do some Bollywood style moves to the left. Then to the lines. Ah it’s all fitting into place now. Next Sunday we’ll be flipping our wings to Daddy!

The last 10 mins were dedicated to Big Spender where we went through the part and in particular the middle spoken lines. It‘s more difficult than it sounds this bit keeping it to the beat but we got there.  For some reason we end up laughing at Joanna’s line –He’s so tall! I know you don’t like your line but you do sound really good!

Well sorry the diary a little late this week and I forgot to take notes so may have missed a lot, including baby George Harvey’s guest appearance –wasn’t he cute? Thanks Elaine for a great rehearsal! For those who can make it for this Sunday 2-4 see you then!

Lots of Love,

Dawn xxx

Oops Upside Your Head!

Tonight we were joined by our talented pianist, David and equally talented musical director Chris Andrews.

The taxi dancer girls started with a sing of our vamp number Hey Big Spender and Chris whipped us into shape –in the vocal sense! - So that we were crisper in tempo and clearer when we came in.

Swiftly moving on to the end of Daddy scene, so the dancers could be fitted in around the edges. Gaffa stood in for Don in his absence and apologized for not being as good as Don. I can’t wait to hear Don playing his part then. He sat high –in both meanings of the word!-on a chair. Hey Dude! Chill Man. Yes we were to be chilled, floating but not too much!  -Kaftans, smoking pot, peace man–what did they get up to in the 60s? It was a good fun scene and we all got into our roles well.

No time to waste –Gaffa was on a roll and wanted to pack a lot in tonight! The subway scene –Act 11 scene 3 .It was my first time seeing our new member Lizzie acting and boy isn’t she great? Both Swifty junior and Lizzie did SAPOS proud with great American accents –both naturals! The rest of the cast looked very effective standing in the tube, after Gaffa told them not to look like nodding ducks when the tube stops–the audience wont be able to see subtle moves so may it big! And in unison. Was Gaffa trying to give us as physics lesson on momentum? Yes you all move backwards when the tube moves forward .I think that’s right !I loved everyone’s roles play in that scene and it looked really funny when everyone turned round in unison to say “In front of the Y” to Charity. Well done to all!

Back to a couple of run throughs of  Hey Big Spender with some music this week .Hey gals,  I think were all getting more confident with our Hey Mister lines, now ! Paula and Nicola –alias Nickie and Helene sounded great in their roles .Second half needs a little more rehearsal, as we still need some help with the central dialogue parts, which will be done next week.

 Next Chris our MD took us in hand again, singing the Rhythm of Life.  Gee, it’s a big song this one isn’t it? His only comment was for the altos to singing a more staccato (that’s clipped) fashion from bar 121 so that the vocals sound clearer but otherwise he said it sounded good.

Then Elaine took over for the choreography of Rhythm of Life .Oooh I felt another big creative number coming on! We were placed in 4 lines .Siobhan was proudly showing us all her ripple moving belly and Swifty warned me not to follow him for the dance moves while we waited for Elaine’s instruction.  We then turned to face Daddy –this time played by Sue McQ who we nicknamed Diddy Daddy or maybe our Mummy! Aah!  We next kneeled on right knee, sat down to the side and then in scissor position .Hey we were doing Oops Upside Your Head! This was a very good team building exercise and a good way to get to know one another!

 Next leaning back. Now I wasn’t sure of the right etiquette here! Gaffa shouted” Dawn watch where you put your head “as I had Swifty junior to lean on behind me! I as said I was quite comfy thank you!  Only joking- Eve -you’ve no need to worry.  We were then given a few more moves which involved a clap, hands shaking upwards and then legs crossed and into a Buddha position. Very hippyish and it provided a few laughs ! After a few runs through It was decided to initially stay in lines and  then lean backwards in sequence and  up again in reverse order ,followed by the more complicated bit . Now it was put to the music .David our pianist joined in the humour by playing a piece of Mozart “Rondo a la Turk” for  ROL –just to keep us on our toes . Well … pat on the back for Swifty Junior! He was the only person to sing the tune part and he knew his words!  Ooh shame on the rest of us! Well it is a complicated number and I’m sure we will be doing it many times to come!

Well Dudes! Didn’t we do a lot and wasn’t it fun? And that was just half a rehearsal!

The second half was a concert rehearsal. Please come along and support SAPOS if you can on Saturday!

Next Wednesday will be a full rehearsal, finishing at 9.30 except for the dancers who will do 1/2hr on Big Spender!

See You All Next Week.

 Lots of Love Dawn xxx

Scene One Set, Hey Big Spender Set!

I was greeted with a “Good Morning “from Swifty Junior on the stairs .Bless him! He’s still in the wrong time zone. Has he still not sorted out his clock? LOL.

We were divided into upstairs and downstairs -the dancers being down-under .So today I can only really reflect on the carry-on downstairs.

Upstairs I believe were doing scene 1. A Rhythm of Life Scene with a chemical –induced chilled out state if you know what I mean! Sue McQ was particularly good at this and was certainly in the zone! All acting of course. They also blocked some of the ‘Subway Scene’. We could here you all downstairs and it actually sounded like you were a train at times!

Unfortunately we had no music for downstairs apart from a CD with the original sound-track which didn’t include all the relevant parts ,so we improvised and sang our vamp lines ( da da de da da da ) .Elaine joined us –has she ever considered doing “Never Mind The Buzz Cocks “? Oh and guess what? She came armed with more pages of stickmen! We re-capped on last weeks work and then proceeded from bar 70 – on the music score .We were all individually given different moves which all involved thigh stretching ,back arching ,hip wiggling poses .You get the gist –yes sexy moves ! We then had to move in unison along the bar to the right with our given moves, Sorry Nicola for standing on your toes! I had my leg pulled for calling the Fosse move the Flossie move in the last diary –thanks Gaffa for not checking that ! . I think we looked like Flossie Floozies! Anyway we all had a giggle –it was the only way to get through it!

Tea –Break: Alison reminded us about the next SAPOS concert to be held at St Anne’s Parish Church, just across the road on sat 17^th April (See EVENTS page). If you know of any other venues who would like a concert, please let Alison or Phil know. We were always reminded about payment of fees, please. The Gaffa then informed us we were still short of men for the chorus and we need at least 4 men to join us as unfortunately the show will not go on. Even Reg has been volunteered to star! That would be a shame wouldn’t it, if there was no show, so let’s get some men involved, eh?

Back to business, downstairs. More seductive moves with our finger pointing and calling to the audience –our customers. A girls gotta earn a dollar somehow! More free-style freak-out dancing and more hanging out over or under that bar! Elaine asked Heather to get her leg over like she normally does! Hey !?!. Yes –she apologised after when she realised what she had said . But then Danni ,was asked to follow by Nicola, Paula , Eve and Joanne. Girls were gonna have firm thigh and tight bums after this show ! 9.45 pm and we had set the number , ready to show the Gaffa and crew upstairs .  Well he appreciated that we didn’t have the music but we should have for next week .  Everyone thought it looked good . Some of us have to make our lines sound even more sexy . Leesa did very well at that  and Val was definitely in the taxi dancing cigarette (alias pencil for this prop) smoking zone . I’m using that word a lot today aren’t I ? Some of us were a bit giggly weren’t we ?? I was asked to say my lines in French . Not just parlez-vous francais- mais non!- in a cheesy twangy American chewing gum style accent . Coached by Alison I tried .  I’ll keep practising . Nicola is to ask her hubby for a translation for me .Merci ! The Gaffa then dished out some more lines for the dialogue bit … How’s about a .. I could give you some .. Girls we’re gonna have to learn to stop giggling !! Stay in the zone .

Well That’s it for now .

Next Wednesday  is half show rehearsal followed by half concert rehearsal .

PS Swifty jnr I realize you were being witty with your good morning !

See you all Next week

Lots of Love,

Dawn XXX

Fun, Laughs, Good Time!

We waited patiently downstairs whilst the committee did the men‘s auditions.  Hopefully some men have been cast as after tonight‘s rehearsal, I really wanna do the show!! Lizzie, our leading lady, was downstairs and had a chat with us all. However this was the one number she was not in so she went home early –plus she had had no tea yet! Nicola was our Easter Bunny and was kindly handing out chocolate eggs. Chocolate is always gratefully received –thank you!

 Tonight, we started with a sing through of HEY BIG SPENDER stood around the piano with our great pianist David Chadwick. The girls were divided into groups by Elaine. The fun ones, the laugh ones and the good time ones -according to our lyrics. The first 2 groups were swopped and the reason for this became apparent later. Elaine had a master plan-comprising of pages of stickmen drawings!!

The bar was then laid out –consisting of 10 chairs at the front and we were all given numbers and put in order in a line at the back. We were then given our stickmen poses one by one –our backs to the audience. Hips out, chests out and stomachs in!!  Arms in the air, hands on hips! Apparently the Gaffa has red lighting in mind! We were then all given a line beginning with Hey Mister! to be said in a twangy New York American accent. We all had a different role to play .Siobhan being the youngest was to play the bouncy flopsie gal . Val was our more experienced cigarette smoking taxi dancer. Nickie and Helene our principles played by Paula and Nicola were in the centre.

 Then we started ……… DA DA de DA DA DA -GO   !! DA DA de DA DA DA -Go!  One by one, we went! We strutted our stuff, said our line and walked to the bar and fixed our eyes on that guy in the audience! Men you don’t stand a chance ! We’ll have your money. The Gaffa was offering us a dollar –cheapskate! LOL. We then sang Hey Big Spender, whilst trying to hold some quite difficult poses. The Gaffa took notes on these poses and described us in terms of letters. Danni being a T!  We couldn’t work that one out. We had a bit of free-style freaking out dancing for 2 bars, and some heel stamping moves. Nicola was given the famous Flossie pose! I had never heard of it but in dancing circles it is well known! The number was nearly set. 

I think it sounded very effective and worked well thanks to Elaine’s hard work and preparation, and stickmen! Our audience the 2 Phils appeared to enjoy it too .I don’t know what it looked like but the Gaffa decided to video it to help us remember. This included the added sound effects of Swifty Juniors cock-a –doodle- doo phone alarm! What was that all about?? It was 10 o’clock. Time to go home!

Well, see you all next Wednesday!

 Keep Smiling Folks,

Lots of Love, Dawn -number 4!

XXX