Up early, wrote episodes 3 and 4 of the sitcom - they seem quite good. Booked up a rehearsal with Emma for tomorrow afternoon, and confirmed a soundguy. That's that one all in shape, then.
Dad is now completely bed bound, and mum is completely losing the plot.
Picked up nice and early for the FJ gig; great to see and work with Louise and Di again, it's been too long. Big arts centre gig, supporting Big Country. On early but rammed audience, all seated, quite a lot of pressure for this one considering we haven't rehearsed this year. Nailed it; good musicians, was never in doubt. Set: Rejoice, Stop the Ride, Freedoms Fairytale for Girls, The Devilling Kind, Little Love in a Cruel World, Wednesdays and Weekends, Dopamine Oxytocin, In Pursuit of Happiness.
And home in time for March of the Day. Perfect.
Saturday, 31 October 2015
Friday 30th October 2015
A nice thing happened today; a friend of mine, who was in the film, was playing a gig in New Orleans the other day. After the show he got chatting to an enthusiastic Englishman in the audience...turns out it was J.O. who is in the movie too. Small world, and all that.
How is it Friday already?
Did some actual proper work at work. Left at 2.30pm, home by 3.30 to get writing the sitcom. Completely nailed episode 2 and also the structure for 3 and 4.
Evening went to Phill's party. Good fun, as much as I feel a little stressed about the dad stuff, I just don't feel like I'm great company at the moment so I left early.
Thursday 29th October 2015
Did a few hours in the office, didn't achieve much but keeps the rent paid.
Off in the afternoon to see dad, who seems more and more distant. And mum seems more and more stressed. He isn't making much sense at the moment, it's all a bit distressing. I took mum to the shops, looked after the dog, did my best to do my bit.
Still need to write the solo Christmas show, and the sitcom for Sunday.
Catch-up meeting with Jon to discuss the adverts I'm acting in for him, that's all coming together nicely.
Evening gig with the band up in Redbourn, which is, it turns out, bloody miles away. Especially the route we took; we only made it to the gig with 15 minutes to spare. Tiny venue, sold out show - relaxed, charming, long gig. We're on good form, we have been for a while.
Long night, home late.
Thursday, 29 October 2015
Wednesday 28th October 2015
The intensity of last night got to me a bit, it was real heavy stuff. Full credit to Esther for talking till the early hours about it all.
Dad refused to talk on the phone today; he's given up. Sadly I don't blame him...why would you want to live when you're in this much pain?
Knackered, the other guy was back in the office and to be honest, it was nice not to be sat down here in this little disused art gallery by myself. Nice banter, got some stuff done.
Looks like Grace is up for saving the Christmas musical by directing it - just hope she likes the script. We spoke for quite a while tonight about the logistics of it all and she's seems happy with the arrangement.
Odd gig with Claudia tonight - people at that venue just don't understand personal space; the audience are so in your face they're practically touching your drums. We were good though - all very tired, but very tight still.
Got back and tried to write the second episode of the sitcom for Emma but fell asleep instead. My body needed it.
Dad refused to talk on the phone today; he's given up. Sadly I don't blame him...why would you want to live when you're in this much pain?
Knackered, the other guy was back in the office and to be honest, it was nice not to be sat down here in this little disused art gallery by myself. Nice banter, got some stuff done.
Looks like Grace is up for saving the Christmas musical by directing it - just hope she likes the script. We spoke for quite a while tonight about the logistics of it all and she's seems happy with the arrangement.
Odd gig with Claudia tonight - people at that venue just don't understand personal space; the audience are so in your face they're practically touching your drums. We were good though - all very tired, but very tight still.
Got back and tried to write the second episode of the sitcom for Emma but fell asleep instead. My body needed it.
Tuesday, 27 October 2015
Tuesday 27th October 2015
As my dad sat at the top of the stairs, we knew we couldn't move him - his legs had gone, and between my very small mother and I, we knew we couldn't lift him. As mum dashed next door to seek help, my dad burst into tears and told me that he wanted to die now, he's had enough of this pain. A strong man, degraded. It was a new low. There's been a series of lows. Just at that very moment I get a message from the cinema telling me that tickets for my début movie are now on sale, and how amazingly exciting it all is.
This is pretty much my life at the moment; some career-defining moments that should be celebrated, some life-changing moments of great sadness.
It hasn't been a great day, despite some nice touches. Took a day out to do family stuff today, dad wanted some fresh air so we took him in the car to the shops. It was a bad idea; he's supposed to bed-bound by now, he should be nowhere near leaving the house, but I like the fact that he wanted to. He clearly used up all his energy doing so, though. When we got back, he had a fall - I could see it happening so jumped behind him to cushion him, make the fall less painful. Hurt me as he's bloody heavy still, but I'll be fine soon once the bruising goes down. That lost him a lot of confidence, though.
Before then, in the car, I finally plucked up the courage to tell him that GP was in my film. GP and him were bandmates back in the day, before they parted ways badly. Now GP is working with me in this project, unaware who my dad is. Dad smiled and said, "Ah, bless him. I was gonna suggest him anyway. Say hi from me next time you speak to him...don't you dare tell him I'm ill, though." I don't know why I worried so much about that. Showed Dad the film later on - he's the first person besides me and Karen (editor) to see the final, final cut. I think he liked it, not sure, he's just so tired, though.
It was a tough day, today, the harsh reminder that, whilst dad will have good days, there is no miracle at the end, and the end is dawning closer.
In the meantime, Sarah - when confirming that she can't direct the musical due to time issues, said how great the script was, really great, and how she laughed outloud at lots of it. She's asked that we do it next Christmas, and she'll direct it then. She clearly doesn't know me well enough. It will happen this year and it will be awesome.
Everyone's getting excited about the film, I just hope it meets their expectations. I still need to write 3 more episodes of the sitcom for Emma, the panto, and the solo show, plus launch our own PR firm. Ever get the feeling you've taken on too much?
This is pretty much my life at the moment; some career-defining moments that should be celebrated, some life-changing moments of great sadness.
It hasn't been a great day, despite some nice touches. Took a day out to do family stuff today, dad wanted some fresh air so we took him in the car to the shops. It was a bad idea; he's supposed to bed-bound by now, he should be nowhere near leaving the house, but I like the fact that he wanted to. He clearly used up all his energy doing so, though. When we got back, he had a fall - I could see it happening so jumped behind him to cushion him, make the fall less painful. Hurt me as he's bloody heavy still, but I'll be fine soon once the bruising goes down. That lost him a lot of confidence, though.
Before then, in the car, I finally plucked up the courage to tell him that GP was in my film. GP and him were bandmates back in the day, before they parted ways badly. Now GP is working with me in this project, unaware who my dad is. Dad smiled and said, "Ah, bless him. I was gonna suggest him anyway. Say hi from me next time you speak to him...don't you dare tell him I'm ill, though." I don't know why I worried so much about that. Showed Dad the film later on - he's the first person besides me and Karen (editor) to see the final, final cut. I think he liked it, not sure, he's just so tired, though.
It was a tough day, today, the harsh reminder that, whilst dad will have good days, there is no miracle at the end, and the end is dawning closer.
In the meantime, Sarah - when confirming that she can't direct the musical due to time issues, said how great the script was, really great, and how she laughed outloud at lots of it. She's asked that we do it next Christmas, and she'll direct it then. She clearly doesn't know me well enough. It will happen this year and it will be awesome.
Everyone's getting excited about the film, I just hope it meets their expectations. I still need to write 3 more episodes of the sitcom for Emma, the panto, and the solo show, plus launch our own PR firm. Ever get the feeling you've taken on too much?
Monday, 26 October 2015
Monday 26th October 2015
With my lifestyle, in this industry, there shouldn't really be 'typical Mondays' as I don't work to a 'typical' weekly structure. But that was a typical Monday.
Lost Sarah (again) to direct the Christmas musical.
Lost Hind for the other Christmas show as she's just got promotion at work and now can't make it.
And people ask why I do so many solo things. It's because most people are fucking rubbish.
Got offered a radio sitcom, agreed to it - Emma and I will perform it this Sunday and get it recorded, but then the radio station moved the goalposts and wanted exclusivity over it, which I'm not going to allow because they hardly have a big listener-ship and I would better just sticking it on iTunes myself. But that annoyed me a lot. Still, wrote episode 1 tonight and it's bloody brilliant.
Lost Sarah (again) to direct the Christmas musical.
Lost Hind for the other Christmas show as she's just got promotion at work and now can't make it.
And people ask why I do so many solo things. It's because most people are fucking rubbish.
Got offered a radio sitcom, agreed to it - Emma and I will perform it this Sunday and get it recorded, but then the radio station moved the goalposts and wanted exclusivity over it, which I'm not going to allow because they hardly have a big listener-ship and I would better just sticking it on iTunes myself. But that annoyed me a lot. Still, wrote episode 1 tonight and it's bloody brilliant.
Sunday, 25 October 2015
Sunday 25th October 2015
So hungover. I don't think we drank that much, but we're just too old for this now - I'm all stressed out with my dad stuff and the projects, Andy himself is a dad now so doesn't sleep (his baby is so scared of me - sees me, points, bursts into tears, it's just weird) so we were both pretty hammered after 4 pints last night. Back in the old days we could do at least six.
Got back to mine, scrubbed up, sent invoices for a few bits of work, and then off to Cambridge for a long day of WriteOn. That's the reason why I don't do WriteOn so much these days; they're all day sessions, with a performance in the evening, meaning you're there for about 8 hours. But I loved it, all the same - productions aside, I have so many friends there, and during the long periods of waiting around it's so nice to hang out with these people. I think I must have spent about 3 hours chatting to Emma today in-between rehearsals, and somewhere along the line we agreed to make a film/sitcom/something before she goes to America at the end of November. Tried and failed to recruit a cast for the musical, but got a director for the panto out of it. Lovely to hang out with Izzy, Paul, Alasdair, Anna, Kate, Richard - everyone is so nice.
Performance was good, nice play that, we did it well I think. I enjoyed being loud and sarcastic.
Dad's had a much better day.
Film stuff gets even scarier - I'm now being set-up as a distributor/supplier for the movie, so it's all legal. Have to go along with it, but I'm well out of my depth.
Got back to mine, scrubbed up, sent invoices for a few bits of work, and then off to Cambridge for a long day of WriteOn. That's the reason why I don't do WriteOn so much these days; they're all day sessions, with a performance in the evening, meaning you're there for about 8 hours. But I loved it, all the same - productions aside, I have so many friends there, and during the long periods of waiting around it's so nice to hang out with these people. I think I must have spent about 3 hours chatting to Emma today in-between rehearsals, and somewhere along the line we agreed to make a film/sitcom/something before she goes to America at the end of November. Tried and failed to recruit a cast for the musical, but got a director for the panto out of it. Lovely to hang out with Izzy, Paul, Alasdair, Anna, Kate, Richard - everyone is so nice.
Performance was good, nice play that, we did it well I think. I enjoyed being loud and sarcastic.
Dad's had a much better day.
Film stuff gets even scarier - I'm now being set-up as a distributor/supplier for the movie, so it's all legal. Have to go along with it, but I'm well out of my depth.
Saturday 24th October 2015
Long day yesterday, wasn't it? And up 4 hours later to head over to Cambridge to rehearse a play for WriteOn. Nice to be acting in something that I've not actually written myself - takes the pressure off a bit. Really good director and nice cast, rehearsal drifted by quickly enough.
Got back, had a cat nap, woke up at 5pm incredibly confused - that's why I don't sleep, it really threw me.
Dad's having a really, really bad couple of days, it's horrible to hear him like this - we can't even talk properly on the phone because it seems like his voice is the next thing that's going.
Went out to Gamlingay to get drunk with my old mate Andy. I wasn't the best of company tonight.
Got back, had a cat nap, woke up at 5pm incredibly confused - that's why I don't sleep, it really threw me.
Dad's having a really, really bad couple of days, it's horrible to hear him like this - we can't even talk properly on the phone because it seems like his voice is the next thing that's going.
Went out to Gamlingay to get drunk with my old mate Andy. I wasn't the best of company tonight.
Saturday, 24 October 2015
Friday 23rd October 2015
Mum's birthday, all with a tinge of sadness as we know this is very likely to be the last one that dad can be here for. He still did well - despite being pretty much unable to move he managed to order her a load of nice presents online. Dad's been doing his research - the legs swelling, the cough...it's all part of 'Endgame' - he's reaching the end, it's getting quicker, we can all see that. Mum is just exhausted.
After taking her into town to pick up Dad's medication, I had to dash, missing her birthday lunch, which made me sad, but I'm a professional musician and that's the nature of the work, I guess.
The drive to Wigan for Lucy's gig was long; 7 hours. I was 2 hours late for soundcheck due to the M6 being crap. Unprofessional? Maybe, but the rest of the band were just as late, having also been sat in the same traffic. Because of the delays, we barely had a soundcheck, so not only was this the first time I'd met the band but I'd not even had time to run through the tracks.
The band themselves, especially Lucy, were lovely - so grateful that I'd stepped in, I was dubbed "our saviour" several times during the show. Sam the bassist was great at prompting me, the gig flew by without any issues at all. I'm quite good at this drumming thing, you know.
4 hour drive back; was going swimmingly well until they closed the M6. That fucking road. I found myself driving around Wolverhampton at 1am feeling more than a bit angry. Home by 4am. Long day.
Thursday, 22 October 2015
Thursday 22nd October 2015
A funny thing happened this evening; I listened to the folk songs I have to learn for tomorrow by choice. I'm quite into it now, I get it all of a sudden, I get why it's so popular. Some of it is really nice. Some of it is slightly more complex than I thought; you know - it's all half-tempo for about 4 verses and 2 choruses but then suddenly there's a stop or a time signature change that is likely to throw me completely. I get why I'm getting paid for this now. Should have learn't it better. It's getting late now and the gig is tomorrow. Will listen to it on repeat on the way there. Wigan is quite far, that's a few listens.
Before that, another strange thing happened. I was in Tescos, buying last minute birthday presents for my mum (I've actually spent loads on her but it's not arrived on time so had to buy something else...chocolates, flowers, card with a funny dog on it etc) and the till assistant was genuinely the loveliest person I'd ever met...so nice, I told her so and she took it well. So why was this strange? Because I've written two shows about fancying till assistants at my local supermarket but this is the first time it's happened in real life. I'll go back, shopping is very different to stalking.
'Work' was okay; they've transferred the company phone to my mobile but nobody called it anyway.
Invited all the celebs to film, the ones I didn't get a chance to speak to yesterday. And all the other people that are in it, who are all getting a bit too excited for my liking. Let's just pretend this isn't happening for a bit, yeah?
Lovely pep-talk from my housemate/landlord, Edd, who reminded me that in the year I've been living here I've achieved quite a lot - the film, the shows, nearly nailing the novel, it's all very positive and apparently I'm on the verge of great things. What a legend he is.
Before that, another strange thing happened. I was in Tescos, buying last minute birthday presents for my mum (I've actually spent loads on her but it's not arrived on time so had to buy something else...chocolates, flowers, card with a funny dog on it etc) and the till assistant was genuinely the loveliest person I'd ever met...so nice, I told her so and she took it well. So why was this strange? Because I've written two shows about fancying till assistants at my local supermarket but this is the first time it's happened in real life. I'll go back, shopping is very different to stalking.
'Work' was okay; they've transferred the company phone to my mobile but nobody called it anyway.
Invited all the celebs to film, the ones I didn't get a chance to speak to yesterday. And all the other people that are in it, who are all getting a bit too excited for my liking. Let's just pretend this isn't happening for a bit, yeah?
Lovely pep-talk from my housemate/landlord, Edd, who reminded me that in the year I've been living here I've achieved quite a lot - the film, the shows, nearly nailing the novel, it's all very positive and apparently I'm on the verge of great things. What a legend he is.
Wednesday, 21 October 2015
Wednesday 21st October 2015
'Work' was fine; was a bit late in (I'm the only one there, nobody knew/cares), kept some customers at bay. I see they've directed the company phone number to my mobile now; bit weird, will worry about that in the morning.
Dad's had a 'mediocre day' - I quite like that, he's been so up and down recently, having a nothing day is good for him I think.
The enormity of the cinema release of the film is bugging me a bit. LOT.
Trying to learn the set for Friday's gig, it's folk music, though, I just struggle to get excited by it. 11 songs, that's all it is Paul, 11 songs (and another 7 sat there doing nothing but looking interested). Really good money. 11 songs, she's a big artist - really big, really established, career-wise this could be good for me. But it's folk. There's no drums for like 4 minutes and then there's a lone hi-hat, tapping away.
Long chat with Izzy on the phone, agreed to be in a play that she's producing on Sunday night at the ADC, I'm playing the role of 'David 2'. Sounds cool. She's promised that there will be 'pretty young ladies' there - that's all it takes, really, isn't it? Sadly.
Spent a bit of the afternoon filming with a random American called Tom, who had seen me do stand-up recently and wanted to screen test me for his new comedy creation. The lead character was Clive - a gormless looking man; he thought I'd be ideal. Bit insulted. Fucking nailed the part though. I was awesome.
Got back and invited all of the 'celebs' from the film to the première. LS seem up for it - they're based in Brighton, this could be a waste of their time because they're in it for about 30 seconds (but they're still my favourite band at the moment). GP says he's in France, but is going to plug it on Facebook once I have a ticket link. GP is a world star - I'm so happy, yet a bit scared, by all this.
Sat down and finally watched the final cut of the film, after much re-formatting memory stick madness. I'll be honest; I was so nervous watching the 'final' cut I drank 3 cans of Stella during it...it's only 70 minutes long. So I don't really know if it's any good or not. I mean, I know it's okay - it bobs along nicely enough. Karen is a great editor and she's done amazing things with this footage; it's snappy, it's fun, it's a bit tragic at times, which I like. Is it any good? I DON'T KNOW. I've lost the ability to know if it's funny. Not sure if it's suitable for a massive cinema but I have no choice in the matter, do I? It feels underwhelming, but then again - I was never a good judge of these things.
Losing the plot, just slightly.
Dad's had a 'mediocre day' - I quite like that, he's been so up and down recently, having a nothing day is good for him I think.
The enormity of the cinema release of the film is bugging me a bit. LOT.
Trying to learn the set for Friday's gig, it's folk music, though, I just struggle to get excited by it. 11 songs, that's all it is Paul, 11 songs (and another 7 sat there doing nothing but looking interested). Really good money. 11 songs, she's a big artist - really big, really established, career-wise this could be good for me. But it's folk. There's no drums for like 4 minutes and then there's a lone hi-hat, tapping away.
Long chat with Izzy on the phone, agreed to be in a play that she's producing on Sunday night at the ADC, I'm playing the role of 'David 2'. Sounds cool. She's promised that there will be 'pretty young ladies' there - that's all it takes, really, isn't it? Sadly.
Spent a bit of the afternoon filming with a random American called Tom, who had seen me do stand-up recently and wanted to screen test me for his new comedy creation. The lead character was Clive - a gormless looking man; he thought I'd be ideal. Bit insulted. Fucking nailed the part though. I was awesome.
Got back and invited all of the 'celebs' from the film to the première. LS seem up for it - they're based in Brighton, this could be a waste of their time because they're in it for about 30 seconds (but they're still my favourite band at the moment). GP says he's in France, but is going to plug it on Facebook once I have a ticket link. GP is a world star - I'm so happy, yet a bit scared, by all this.
Sat down and finally watched the final cut of the film, after much re-formatting memory stick madness. I'll be honest; I was so nervous watching the 'final' cut I drank 3 cans of Stella during it...it's only 70 minutes long. So I don't really know if it's any good or not. I mean, I know it's okay - it bobs along nicely enough. Karen is a great editor and she's done amazing things with this footage; it's snappy, it's fun, it's a bit tragic at times, which I like. Is it any good? I DON'T KNOW. I've lost the ability to know if it's funny. Not sure if it's suitable for a massive cinema but I have no choice in the matter, do I? It feels underwhelming, but then again - I was never a good judge of these things.
Losing the plot, just slightly.
Tuesday, 20 October 2015
Tuesday 20th October 2015
As I write this, there's a fly in my room that's really annoying me, so I've opened the window to try and usher him out. He's not getting the hang of it - they don't work in the same way as a, say, dog, or cat, they just do what they bloody want. So now I'm now I'm sat here in my pyjamas as the room is freezing hoping the fly will go because I won't sleep comfortably with him hitting my face constantly. Maybe the fly doesn't like the cold? And the reason why I'm writing this? Just because one day I'll look back on it and laugh at my current misfortune.
I feel a bit stressed right now. Film stuff, mostly.
Went to 'work' for 3 hours, achieved nothing. Spent the day with Mum and Dad, a bit grumpy but Dad's had a better day. It's like that at the moment; so up and down, quite dramatically. Sounds like yesterday was really bad.
Agreed to audition for a sitcom thing tomorrow afternoon, not quite sure what it is.
The fly has just gone, by the way. I can be warm again.
Confirmed the cinema for the premiere. They insist it's on screen 1, which is the biggest screen. It was made on my phone. How can this possibly be a good idea? Everyone is getting really excited about it.
Met up with my old mate Vicky and ranted at her a lot.
I feel a bit stressed right now. Film stuff, mostly.
Went to 'work' for 3 hours, achieved nothing. Spent the day with Mum and Dad, a bit grumpy but Dad's had a better day. It's like that at the moment; so up and down, quite dramatically. Sounds like yesterday was really bad.
Agreed to audition for a sitcom thing tomorrow afternoon, not quite sure what it is.
The fly has just gone, by the way. I can be warm again.
Confirmed the cinema for the premiere. They insist it's on screen 1, which is the biggest screen. It was made on my phone. How can this possibly be a good idea? Everyone is getting really excited about it.
Met up with my old mate Vicky and ranted at her a lot.
Monday, 19 October 2015
Monday 19th October 2015
Back into the office to spend a few hours apologising to clients whilst eating chicken satay. Continued promotion for the solo show, which I've not written yet, and spent a while convincing Sarah that she should still direct the musical. She's agreed to read the script, at least, fingers crossed she likes it...could go either way. It's now late and she hasn't replied, which is never a good sign. Saying that, it is incredibly long, so she's possibly still trying to get her around it.
Tried to get things moving with the cinema - you know, get a ticket link and all that, but still getting the out of office reply from the cinema manager (even though his out of office says he's back today). It's all rather frustrating and the premiere is supposed to be a month away.
Dad's had a really bad day today, the kind of day that signifies progress, and not in a good way. I really hope he makes it to Christmas, I'd really, really like it if that happens.
Spent hours working on the Rudolph show tonight. It's a tricky beast to write - I kind of need to forget that I'm doing it all from an exercise bike and just stick to the plot for now. The notes I've made are extensive - there's so much I want to say with this one, but as a result it's really random and messy at the moment. Needs to be simplified, I think, and then I can add in the extra bits later on. Yep, that's what I'll do. Either way, it's going to be hard work, this show.
Tried to get things moving with the cinema - you know, get a ticket link and all that, but still getting the out of office reply from the cinema manager (even though his out of office says he's back today). It's all rather frustrating and the premiere is supposed to be a month away.
Dad's had a really bad day today, the kind of day that signifies progress, and not in a good way. I really hope he makes it to Christmas, I'd really, really like it if that happens.
Spent hours working on the Rudolph show tonight. It's a tricky beast to write - I kind of need to forget that I'm doing it all from an exercise bike and just stick to the plot for now. The notes I've made are extensive - there's so much I want to say with this one, but as a result it's really random and messy at the moment. Needs to be simplified, I think, and then I can add in the extra bits later on. Yep, that's what I'll do. Either way, it's going to be hard work, this show.
Sunday 18th October 2015
See, I started the day quite optimistically. Bit of a lie-in, and then down to Histon to film the final bits for yesterday's video; everyone seems quite tired but in good spirits. That took just over an hour, so grabbed some food, got back, wrote intensively for three hours, nailing the Christmas musical dialogue.
Dad's had a better day today, had a lovely roast dinner with Edd and his girlfriend. All nice.
Then Sarah pulls out of directing the musical (without even seeing the script) due to other commitments, and a well-paid gig for Saturday gets cancelled...that was an annoying few minutes.
And then I go to watch the final cut of '50 Ways...' but the memory stick doesn't work.
Not sure what to do about the musical now, I haven't got a cast or director. But it has to happen; there's a load of great songs and a very willing venue. It'll be the best thing ever, that'll show Sarah.
I'm very snotty and irritable now.
Dad's had a better day today, had a lovely roast dinner with Edd and his girlfriend. All nice.
Then Sarah pulls out of directing the musical (without even seeing the script) due to other commitments, and a well-paid gig for Saturday gets cancelled...that was an annoying few minutes.
And then I go to watch the final cut of '50 Ways...' but the memory stick doesn't work.
Not sure what to do about the musical now, I haven't got a cast or director. But it has to happen; there's a load of great songs and a very willing venue. It'll be the best thing ever, that'll show Sarah.
I'm very snotty and irritable now.
Sunday, 18 October 2015
Saturday 17th October 2015
Up early, off to pick up a memory stick with the final, final cut of the movie from Karen - won't have a chance to watch it for a day or so, but I'm glad it's done.
Over to Hinchingbrooke House for the filming of the promo video for our new single. A long, long day, and a testament to how great we are as friends are that we all kept smiling throughout. We had a huge cast for this one - it's a zombie-themed movie so much fun was had with all the costumes in such a stunning building. The video itself is so ambitious, costing over a grand to make, but in the capable hands of Sam and Marta (who we work with a lot) you can just feel it coming together so well.
I wasn't allowed to see the storyboard beforehand, and I now know why they were keeping it from me - part of the video involves me being tied up by a bunch of sexy young ladies, and stroked (etc) by them, before I'm rescued. It was one of those moments that made me both incredibly happy yet also so awkward! They all enjoyed themselves, probably because how uncomfortable I was, in particular Emily (a close friend of the band) - she got a bit carried away and her hands lurked in places that are known as 'private parts' for a reason. The other awkward scene is when they 'kidnap' me so have to carry me across the room - being carried by 5 nice girls, quite high up, was scary enough as it was a solid wooden floor and they didn't seem like they could really lift me, and then they had to run with me. Very tricky when we couldn't fit through the door...we worked it out eventually.
We filmed for 9 and a half hours. Naturally, as with these things, that involved a lot of waiting around. Feeling restless; I started making another film whilst there, on my phone - a plot came to me straight away for 'My First Day at Work' and it seemed like a perfect idea considering we had a fully dressed cast of ghosts and zombies at our disposal. Marcel, Claudia, Edd, Sue, Emily and Jess all acted brilliantly in that, I'll edit it together tomorrow and get it out there.
At 10pm we finally left the venue, not quite finished (but all the venue shots were), all a bit snotty as it was pissing it down for exterior shots. Went to a pub and toasted our good work.
Over to Hinchingbrooke House for the filming of the promo video for our new single. A long, long day, and a testament to how great we are as friends are that we all kept smiling throughout. We had a huge cast for this one - it's a zombie-themed movie so much fun was had with all the costumes in such a stunning building. The video itself is so ambitious, costing over a grand to make, but in the capable hands of Sam and Marta (who we work with a lot) you can just feel it coming together so well.
I wasn't allowed to see the storyboard beforehand, and I now know why they were keeping it from me - part of the video involves me being tied up by a bunch of sexy young ladies, and stroked (etc) by them, before I'm rescued. It was one of those moments that made me both incredibly happy yet also so awkward! They all enjoyed themselves, probably because how uncomfortable I was, in particular Emily (a close friend of the band) - she got a bit carried away and her hands lurked in places that are known as 'private parts' for a reason. The other awkward scene is when they 'kidnap' me so have to carry me across the room - being carried by 5 nice girls, quite high up, was scary enough as it was a solid wooden floor and they didn't seem like they could really lift me, and then they had to run with me. Very tricky when we couldn't fit through the door...we worked it out eventually.
We filmed for 9 and a half hours. Naturally, as with these things, that involved a lot of waiting around. Feeling restless; I started making another film whilst there, on my phone - a plot came to me straight away for 'My First Day at Work' and it seemed like a perfect idea considering we had a fully dressed cast of ghosts and zombies at our disposal. Marcel, Claudia, Edd, Sue, Emily and Jess all acted brilliantly in that, I'll edit it together tomorrow and get it out there.
At 10pm we finally left the venue, not quite finished (but all the venue shots were), all a bit snotty as it was pissing it down for exterior shots. Went to a pub and toasted our good work.
Friday 16th October 2015
Up early to reply to a couple of 'work' emails from home, mostly apologies to customers, the usual.
Then off to London for an early soundcheck ahead of our big gig in St Pancras. Gaf and I travelled down by car with all the gear as Griff, Vix and Ali all got the train in. Such an incredible venue; big and boomy but also with a reasonable capacity (about 80-ish) so not daunting. In theory, the snare should have bounced all over that room but the soundguy was excellent and knew the space so well - the sound was excellent. The whole set-up was just so easy; Gary is a promoter we know well and like, the soundcheck was long and relaxed. Our rider was extensive, and we somehow managed to eat £79 worth of Nandos before the gig. Both support acts were great.
Lovely gig, too - our fans packed the place out, we were in good form, standing ovation at the end. Our first headline gig in London (we actively avoid playing the capital as we just don't enjoy it there) but it was near perfection. Set: Fine Life, Face in the Water, California for a Girl, Take a Ride, She Says, Hold On, Goodbye Sweet City, Fire, Bluebird, Standing Next to Me, Ghost Town, Earthquake, Gotta Get a Message to You (cover), Shut Up & Dance, Beautiful You; Somebody to Love (encore, cover)
Home by 1.30am. Managed to squeeze Vix into the car for the journey home so we can chat more about the music PR firm we're setting up. We never seem to switch off as a band...that suits me perfectly.
Then off to London for an early soundcheck ahead of our big gig in St Pancras. Gaf and I travelled down by car with all the gear as Griff, Vix and Ali all got the train in. Such an incredible venue; big and boomy but also with a reasonable capacity (about 80-ish) so not daunting. In theory, the snare should have bounced all over that room but the soundguy was excellent and knew the space so well - the sound was excellent. The whole set-up was just so easy; Gary is a promoter we know well and like, the soundcheck was long and relaxed. Our rider was extensive, and we somehow managed to eat £79 worth of Nandos before the gig. Both support acts were great.
Lovely gig, too - our fans packed the place out, we were in good form, standing ovation at the end. Our first headline gig in London (we actively avoid playing the capital as we just don't enjoy it there) but it was near perfection. Set: Fine Life, Face in the Water, California for a Girl, Take a Ride, She Says, Hold On, Goodbye Sweet City, Fire, Bluebird, Standing Next to Me, Ghost Town, Earthquake, Gotta Get a Message to You (cover), Shut Up & Dance, Beautiful You; Somebody to Love (encore, cover)
Home by 1.30am. Managed to squeeze Vix into the car for the journey home so we can chat more about the music PR firm we're setting up. We never seem to switch off as a band...that suits me perfectly.
Friday, 16 October 2015
Thursday 15th October 2015
Work stuff settled down again, I was praised for my positive nature in these times of stress. I'll be honest, I'm not stressed about it all.
Started the PR campaign for the Rudolph show - all of the venues are so very positive about it all, and the blurb looks great. Need to write it at some point; the notes I've made suggest it's going to be very exciting, and it's so much easier now that Hind is involved as it means I can write in the nice fight scene between Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman that I've wanted to put in a show for a while.
Really relieved that the venue situation for the musical is sorted; took a few emails and we were cutting it fine but it's such a good deal now, in such a great venue. 200 seats need filling, but we can do that, yeah? And then Trevor sent over a song for it, which was superb, and the other songwriters are still writing to me with such enthusiasm.
Evening met up with Sarah who is directing it and she's so switched on - she knows completely what the deal is with a Richards show and seems excited by it. She loves the plot, the way I intend it to work and is good to take it off my hands as soon as the casting is complete, leaving me to focus on the solo show, film, novel and panto stuff. Great meeting that, enjoyed it a lot - all creative meetings should be as simple as that one.
Got back, watched my Christmas show from 2013 as my housemate wanted to see it (the whole thing is on YouTube) and sat there thinking...that was a great show, that one, and how well I work together with Hind (despite the arguments), looking forward to working with her again soon. Also, that script was bloody brilliant - might have to drag that one out again at some point. Maybe this year? Have it running with the Rudolph show? NO, CALM DOWN, PAUL. Although there is a gap in my diary...
And then did some more work on the musical; it's turned a bit dark but really getting into these characters, their flaws, their intricacies, and so much is being revealed about them. Doesn't quit with the jolly nature of a musical, but I'll work it out, somehow.
Started the PR campaign for the Rudolph show - all of the venues are so very positive about it all, and the blurb looks great. Need to write it at some point; the notes I've made suggest it's going to be very exciting, and it's so much easier now that Hind is involved as it means I can write in the nice fight scene between Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman that I've wanted to put in a show for a while.
Really relieved that the venue situation for the musical is sorted; took a few emails and we were cutting it fine but it's such a good deal now, in such a great venue. 200 seats need filling, but we can do that, yeah? And then Trevor sent over a song for it, which was superb, and the other songwriters are still writing to me with such enthusiasm.
Evening met up with Sarah who is directing it and she's so switched on - she knows completely what the deal is with a Richards show and seems excited by it. She loves the plot, the way I intend it to work and is good to take it off my hands as soon as the casting is complete, leaving me to focus on the solo show, film, novel and panto stuff. Great meeting that, enjoyed it a lot - all creative meetings should be as simple as that one.
Got back, watched my Christmas show from 2013 as my housemate wanted to see it (the whole thing is on YouTube) and sat there thinking...that was a great show, that one, and how well I work together with Hind (despite the arguments), looking forward to working with her again soon. Also, that script was bloody brilliant - might have to drag that one out again at some point. Maybe this year? Have it running with the Rudolph show? NO, CALM DOWN, PAUL. Although there is a gap in my diary...
And then did some more work on the musical; it's turned a bit dark but really getting into these characters, their flaws, their intricacies, and so much is being revealed about them. Doesn't quit with the jolly nature of a musical, but I'll work it out, somehow.
Thursday, 15 October 2015
Wednesday 14th October 2015
Midway through my day at the freelance post, twiddling my thumbs and eating chicken, I decided to do the honest thing. Realising that I haven't done much at all over the last month apart from wait for the other guy to come in (there's been no contact for 5 weeks now) and apologise to customers for their websites not being built (because of the 'no contact for 5 weeks' thing), I decided to leave it there so sent the boss an email explaining tomorrow would be my last day freelancing for him, unless of course he had any objections. The email back was more than a little stroppy, and almost emotional. So yep, I'm staying for a bit longer then...it's like I'm just here for moral support or something. I'll sit here and do bugger all, all day, for a bit longer, but it does feel like the working relationship has suddenly soured, somewhat.
Anyway, gave me a chance to write some cracking dialogue for the Christmas musical. Some of it, structurally, is really clever, you know, if I may say so myself.
Drove to the wrong studio, which is bound to happen when two studios in Cambridge both begin with 'H', but eventually made my way to the Hub, where we had to film some scenes for a Dowsing documentary. Local telly stuff, but good fun just jamming with the returning Gav, Andrea and Myke for the sake of it. Myke then had a gig in town so we all went down there to watch him play sax for Kim and Lee (both good friends of mine) and a lovely evening was had. I like Cambridge when it's like this.
Got back, Edd seems really excited about this new project he has thought of (electro swing with a big band) and, as I'm his lodger and as the rent is so cheap, I could hardly turn down the offer of being the drummer for it, could I? Sounds fun, anyway, if a little bizarre at this stage.
Then did some more work on the musical. I'm really, really enjoying writing this one.
Anyway, gave me a chance to write some cracking dialogue for the Christmas musical. Some of it, structurally, is really clever, you know, if I may say so myself.
Drove to the wrong studio, which is bound to happen when two studios in Cambridge both begin with 'H', but eventually made my way to the Hub, where we had to film some scenes for a Dowsing documentary. Local telly stuff, but good fun just jamming with the returning Gav, Andrea and Myke for the sake of it. Myke then had a gig in town so we all went down there to watch him play sax for Kim and Lee (both good friends of mine) and a lovely evening was had. I like Cambridge when it's like this.
Got back, Edd seems really excited about this new project he has thought of (electro swing with a big band) and, as I'm his lodger and as the rent is so cheap, I could hardly turn down the offer of being the drummer for it, could I? Sounds fun, anyway, if a little bizarre at this stage.
Then did some more work on the musical. I'm really, really enjoying writing this one.
Wednesday, 14 October 2015
Tuesday 13th October 2015
The emails I picked up last night (to my home account) suggested that the freelance post was pretty much over; the company are quite keen for me to invoice clients personally now, rather than through the brand, which I find a bit strange. Possibly, because the brand doesn't really exist any more. Either way, probably time to mutually let that one go.
Up early today for the screen testing at the cinema. Was a little late because the A14 was playing up, but they were very friendly there when I did eventually make it in. They were testing a proper big film before mine, with monsters and crazy sounds. Ours looked quite, shall we say, lo-fi, in comparison. I'm well out of my depth. Needs converting to a special file type but will "probably be okay" according to the nice projectionist lady. I'm still very nervous about it all. And still haven't seen the final, final cut of the movie - although Karen messaged earlier to say it's done so I just need to pick the whopping great file off her to view it.
Confirmed a brilliant director for the Christmas musical, hurrah! Sarah is great to work with, and I knew that asking her lots and lots of times would eventually see her give in and take on what looks like a tricky task.
Nice phone meeting with Jon about another advert role.
Spent some valuable time with Mum and Dad today; he's had a shaky few days but seemed stabilised, if exhausted today. The dog bit me, it really hurt - actually could feel her teeth crunch the bone of my hand. I'm a drummer; this could have cost me a lot of work. Seems okay a few hours later, fortunately.
Got back and spent a good 4 hours working on the dialogue for the musical.
Agreed to a 'Make or Break...' tour show in a lovely venue in Cardiff for next year.
Monday, 12 October 2015
Monday 12th October 2015
Has, like, everyone got a cold at the moment? Band members, my housemate...I was bound to catch it. So drowsy today. Went into the office to do a little freelancing but what's the point? Spent the whole day sending emails to the other guy, who hasn't been in for a month, saying 'did you get this email I sent you last week...' It was just me getting frustrated for five hours then I went home. Pretty sure this company doesn't exist anymore.
Made a little makeshift poster for the Christmas tour, got flustered about the venue situation for the Christmas musical, did a bit of work on the dialogue. Did more research into setting up my own music PR company and realised just how easy it could be. I'm doing it.
I've got a lot to achieve this week, so much could go wrong.
Sat and watched the news for the first time in over a year. Realised how lucky we all are, really, in the scale of things.
Made a little makeshift poster for the Christmas tour, got flustered about the venue situation for the Christmas musical, did a bit of work on the dialogue. Did more research into setting up my own music PR company and realised just how easy it could be. I'm doing it.
I've got a lot to achieve this week, so much could go wrong.
Sat and watched the news for the first time in over a year. Realised how lucky we all are, really, in the scale of things.
Sunday 11th October 2015
Slept in till midday; that helped. Quick lunch with Matt before he returned to Bristol, and then off with the full band to play a show in Nottingham.
A corporate gig for a company that sells contact lenses. They fed us very well indeed, lovely roast beef, and then we played a 90 minute party set for them. Great audience, all up, enjoying it, we put on a lively, sweaty, proper good show tonight.
Home by 2am. Still feel like shit.
A corporate gig for a company that sells contact lenses. They fed us very well indeed, lovely roast beef, and then we played a 90 minute party set for them. Great audience, all up, enjoying it, we put on a lively, sweaty, proper good show tonight.
Home by 2am. Still feel like shit.
Saturday 10th October 2015
Feel so rough.
Decided to sweat it out, and 'train' for the Christmas show. Did 2 and a half hours on the exercise bike, and then did some writing. Wrote rubbish, went back to bed.
Evening covers gig with G+V, a tired, sleepy show, but still tight enough to be considered professional. Barely any audience. Enthusiasm revived when Matt joined us for a few songs on the harmonica.
Decided to sweat it out, and 'train' for the Christmas show. Did 2 and a half hours on the exercise bike, and then did some writing. Wrote rubbish, went back to bed.
Evening covers gig with G+V, a tired, sleepy show, but still tight enough to be considered professional. Barely any audience. Enthusiasm revived when Matt joined us for a few songs on the harmonica.
Friday 9th October 2015
Went and had a chat to another company about some freelance work, was late as my sat nav took me to a completely different place but it went well. Nice people, interesting concept, but I've decided against it and to stick with what I've got for now, sometimes things just don't feel right.
So nearly ran out of fuel getting back to the Cambridge office, my petrol clock was on 0 for the best part of 8 miles; somehow managed to get away with it, though. Got the Cambridge office, nobody in, internet not working. I think this company still exists, yeah?
Drove home, did a little work for them just in case.
Just like everybody else I've met over the last week I think I've caught some kind of flu bug thingy so stayed in. Decided to send every admin email that I'd need to send this year...wrote to every cinema in the UK I could an email address for about the film asking if they'd like to screen it, and then did the same for every cinema in the WORLD. One positive response so far - a cinema in North Carolina want it, which is nice. Then wrote to 50-odd venues about G+F to try and get us some more paid covers gigs for early next year.
So nearly ran out of fuel getting back to the Cambridge office, my petrol clock was on 0 for the best part of 8 miles; somehow managed to get away with it, though. Got the Cambridge office, nobody in, internet not working. I think this company still exists, yeah?
Drove home, did a little work for them just in case.
Just like everybody else I've met over the last week I think I've caught some kind of flu bug thingy so stayed in. Decided to send every admin email that I'd need to send this year...wrote to every cinema in the UK I could an email address for about the film asking if they'd like to screen it, and then did the same for every cinema in the WORLD. One positive response so far - a cinema in North Carolina want it, which is nice. Then wrote to 50-odd venues about G+F to try and get us some more paid covers gigs for early next year.
Thursday, 8 October 2015
Thursday 8th October 2015
A better day. Let's be honest, in my own little 'windows up, hands drumming on the steering wheel with perhaps too many ghost beats' kind of way, I was going pretty mad yesterday. I've realised it mostly is about the situation with my dad. It just makes the other stuff feel really bad.
See; today he's had a better day. I mean, he's still ill, he's still dying, it's still degrading to watch him struggle to crawl up the stairs and the pain on his face is something no son wants to see on the man they completely idolise. But it was still better than it has been for the last week, he was due a slightly less-shit day and this was it.
So whilst today threw up a few challenges, it didn't seem so bad, having got a sense of perspective about it all. In the freelance work I had to deal with the notoriously difficult Bob on the phone who was great - being dissatisfied as a customer doesn't make you a bad person, I'd be dissatisfied with this too. We spoke like adults, and it was a nice chat, I enjoyed it.
Finished sending my emails to every arts centre in the UK about the Make or Break show...that's 109 emails. Fuck all response so far, but it's early days. Tomorrow I'll probably send some more emails about the film, and then that's probably my admin done for the year.
Got really confused about the 50 Ways première - do I have it on late at the big venue, or early in the local venue which suggests my aspirations aren't all that great? Loads of arguments for both venues, which I've been offered (but both of which need an answer by tomorrow morning...it's spiralling out of control). I really appreciated the views from my friends for this, particularly Jack who carried on telling me his thoughts via text when the emails dried up. In the end I did a typical Paul Richards thing and agreed to both. 2 premières in one night, everyone does that, don't they? It's either cool, or just another slightly worrying characteristic of mine which is known as 'people pleasing' or another term which probably sounds more intelligent. Still, nice to be in demand, isn't it?
Got back from Mum and Dad's after 4 hours of being bullied by the dog (bastard - she bit my ankle tonight) and then worked on the blurb for the film whilst drinking more beer. Discussed an idea I've had about forming my own marketing/band PR firm, to Edd (landlord/housemate) who seemed very excited about the idea of it and offered much business wisdom.
Geoff sent over the first track for our Christmas musical and it's bloody brilliant!
I think I'm drinking too much at the moment; not scary amounts, but actually, maybe I always have done, so it's probably okay.
See; today he's had a better day. I mean, he's still ill, he's still dying, it's still degrading to watch him struggle to crawl up the stairs and the pain on his face is something no son wants to see on the man they completely idolise. But it was still better than it has been for the last week, he was due a slightly less-shit day and this was it.
So whilst today threw up a few challenges, it didn't seem so bad, having got a sense of perspective about it all. In the freelance work I had to deal with the notoriously difficult Bob on the phone who was great - being dissatisfied as a customer doesn't make you a bad person, I'd be dissatisfied with this too. We spoke like adults, and it was a nice chat, I enjoyed it.
Finished sending my emails to every arts centre in the UK about the Make or Break show...that's 109 emails. Fuck all response so far, but it's early days. Tomorrow I'll probably send some more emails about the film, and then that's probably my admin done for the year.
Got really confused about the 50 Ways première - do I have it on late at the big venue, or early in the local venue which suggests my aspirations aren't all that great? Loads of arguments for both venues, which I've been offered (but both of which need an answer by tomorrow morning...it's spiralling out of control). I really appreciated the views from my friends for this, particularly Jack who carried on telling me his thoughts via text when the emails dried up. In the end I did a typical Paul Richards thing and agreed to both. 2 premières in one night, everyone does that, don't they? It's either cool, or just another slightly worrying characteristic of mine which is known as 'people pleasing' or another term which probably sounds more intelligent. Still, nice to be in demand, isn't it?
Got back from Mum and Dad's after 4 hours of being bullied by the dog (bastard - she bit my ankle tonight) and then worked on the blurb for the film whilst drinking more beer. Discussed an idea I've had about forming my own marketing/band PR firm, to Edd (landlord/housemate) who seemed very excited about the idea of it and offered much business wisdom.
Geoff sent over the first track for our Christmas musical and it's bloody brilliant!
I think I'm drinking too much at the moment; not scary amounts, but actually, maybe I always have done, so it's probably okay.
Wednesday, 7 October 2015
Wednesday 7th October 2015
See, when people do reply to stuff, everything just clashes. Like the offer I had for a new freelance bit of work (realising that this current one isn't going to last much longer by the looks of things), they wanted to meet up for a chat, we agreed a time, and then the cinema replied saying the only time we could screen-test the movie is exactly at the same time as my meeting so I rearranged the meeting and then the cinema manager realised he'd got the wrong day and wanted to test the screening on the day I now have my meeting on. Confused? Yep, I am. And then it looks like I have more work coming in from the existing post all of a sudden, and somehow I accidentally agreed to meet up with a third company to discuss doing some writing for them. I quit my job to be a drummer/writer but suddenly it looks like I have three jobs on the go, alongside the 4 active bands, the session work, the film promotion, the musical, the panto, the solo Christmas show and getting the novel out there. And the film still hasn't been fucking screen tested yet, yet we need to get the blurb over to them for their brochure by Friday.
I was told this morning by a person in the petrol station that I look tired. Yeah, thanks for that.
Made a trailer from Sunday's show and it looks great (and much better than the show was) and then started booking tour dates for it for February and May next year BECAUSE THAT'S WHAT I DO WHEN I'M STRESSED, I BOOK MORE THINGS TO GET ME STRESSED.
Still haven't written the Christmas shows.
Evening rehearsal with Dowsing was nice; the new guitarist is superb and a joy to work with. Andrea's great - she can tell when I'm about anxious, she's just a really good judge of when to up the friendship but also when to back off.
Just another handful of emails to reply to and then I might actually get some sleep.
I was told this morning by a person in the petrol station that I look tired. Yeah, thanks for that.
Made a trailer from Sunday's show and it looks great (and much better than the show was) and then started booking tour dates for it for February and May next year BECAUSE THAT'S WHAT I DO WHEN I'M STRESSED, I BOOK MORE THINGS TO GET ME STRESSED.
Still haven't written the Christmas shows.
Evening rehearsal with Dowsing was nice; the new guitarist is superb and a joy to work with. Andrea's great - she can tell when I'm about anxious, she's just a really good judge of when to up the friendship but also when to back off.
Just another handful of emails to reply to and then I might actually get some sleep.
Tuesday 6th October 2015
Did a bit of freelancing today, office flooded half way through the afternoon, went home. Got stuff done for them today, though, had a good phone meeting in which I clearly didn't know what I was talking about but managed to convince them that I do.
I've sent a lot of emails over the last few days; press for the Christmas shows, tours for next year, trying to get more interested in the film. Nobody replies to fucking anything these days, do they?
Tempted to go offline for a bit soon, I need a break. Saying that, I may be called in to play 2 shows this with LW this week, which is great money, but I need to listen to the tracks properly - they're big gigs. I have two shows with her at the end of the month anyway.
Still haven't 100% confirmed things with the cinema because communication with them is shocking, and still haven't 100% confirmed the new venue for the Christmas musical. Still haven't written the Christmas musical.
Home stuff is so shit, so, shit. The nurses came around today and all they said was bad news. It could be weeks for dad, but they said that last time. Mum has lost the plot. We're all losing the plot.
Picked up the footage of Sunday night's show from Phil (the footage looks great, which is amazing as it wasn't a great performance at all) so will edit that into a promo video for the February tour. Met up with the Dowsing lot for a quick late night drink to celebrate 5 years of this magnificent project.
I've sent a lot of emails over the last few days; press for the Christmas shows, tours for next year, trying to get more interested in the film. Nobody replies to fucking anything these days, do they?
Tempted to go offline for a bit soon, I need a break. Saying that, I may be called in to play 2 shows this with LW this week, which is great money, but I need to listen to the tracks properly - they're big gigs. I have two shows with her at the end of the month anyway.
Still haven't 100% confirmed things with the cinema because communication with them is shocking, and still haven't 100% confirmed the new venue for the Christmas musical. Still haven't written the Christmas musical.
Home stuff is so shit, so, shit. The nurses came around today and all they said was bad news. It could be weeks for dad, but they said that last time. Mum has lost the plot. We're all losing the plot.
Picked up the footage of Sunday night's show from Phil (the footage looks great, which is amazing as it wasn't a great performance at all) so will edit that into a promo video for the February tour. Met up with the Dowsing lot for a quick late night drink to celebrate 5 years of this magnificent project.
Tuesday, 6 October 2015
Monday 5th October 2015
Last night annoyed me a bit, but perhaps I've been too vocal about it.
Loving the poster for the film designed by Matt - he's a genius.
Songwriters for the Christmas musical still showing a great deal of enthusiasm towards everything, which is exactly what I need.
Lost the venue for that Christmas musical, mostly because they were being total arses. I will find another venue, very quickly - I have to, this will happen.
The cinema can't let me in to test the screen tomorrow after all due to an issue with the projectionist. Another delay. Can we still get this ready in time for the premiere? Everything is falling apart!
Horrible seeing dad so ill tonight; seeing him crawl around everywhere, just a real lack of dignity. Harsh, horrible times.
Band photo shoot cancelled (just like everything else, so it seems) but as I was in town I met up with Al for a beer anyway and ranted a bit.
Discussed script/format concepts with Leigh at the local radio station and she basically said they would put on anything I do. That's dangerous...
Got back and watched my Inadequate Man TV filming, which has finally emerged online. Quite good, you know.
Loving the poster for the film designed by Matt - he's a genius.
Songwriters for the Christmas musical still showing a great deal of enthusiasm towards everything, which is exactly what I need.
Lost the venue for that Christmas musical, mostly because they were being total arses. I will find another venue, very quickly - I have to, this will happen.
The cinema can't let me in to test the screen tomorrow after all due to an issue with the projectionist. Another delay. Can we still get this ready in time for the premiere? Everything is falling apart!
Horrible seeing dad so ill tonight; seeing him crawl around everywhere, just a real lack of dignity. Harsh, horrible times.
Band photo shoot cancelled (just like everything else, so it seems) but as I was in town I met up with Al for a beer anyway and ranted a bit.
Discussed script/format concepts with Leigh at the local radio station and she basically said they would put on anything I do. That's dangerous...
Got back and watched my Inadequate Man TV filming, which has finally emerged online. Quite good, you know.
Sunday, 4 October 2015
Sunday 4th October 2015
Up far too early, too early, for a Sunday. Like 7.15am or something horrific like that, but was a guest on a local radio station - had to read through the local papers, find witty things to say about some articles, the usual. Got away with it, I think. They've offered me a radio sitcom, I said yes, will worry about it later.
Got back, quite dozy, had a cat nap. Spoke to Mum; Dad really is struggling - this feels like we're heading towards the inevitable. Had a lovely meal with Edd and Emily, and then off to perform 'The Make or Break...' in Shepreth.
Sold out show, which for what is technically a tour preview, is a bit scary. Lovely audience, loved it more than they should have done. I was perhaps too vocal on stage about how much of it wasn't working, but they probably thought it was part of the act. It wasn't - I wasn't in control of the band at all, there was so many problems tonight, problems which didn't exist in the rehearsals.
It's a fun concept, and won't take much to get it into shape, but I wanted to give that audience more - they deserved it. It was really poor at some points - it's a long show (two halves of 40 minutes, which for a comedy show with the same act is a long time) and there was times when it was slipping away from me. I want to be brilliant, I'm clearly not.
Got back, quite dozy, had a cat nap. Spoke to Mum; Dad really is struggling - this feels like we're heading towards the inevitable. Had a lovely meal with Edd and Emily, and then off to perform 'The Make or Break...' in Shepreth.
Sold out show, which for what is technically a tour preview, is a bit scary. Lovely audience, loved it more than they should have done. I was perhaps too vocal on stage about how much of it wasn't working, but they probably thought it was part of the act. It wasn't - I wasn't in control of the band at all, there was so many problems tonight, problems which didn't exist in the rehearsals.
It's a fun concept, and won't take much to get it into shape, but I wanted to give that audience more - they deserved it. It was really poor at some points - it's a long show (two halves of 40 minutes, which for a comedy show with the same act is a long time) and there was times when it was slipping away from me. I want to be brilliant, I'm clearly not.
Saturday 3rd October 2015
My dad had a fall last night, left him in a bad way. It feels weird that he's now in that age bracket where he's having 'falls'. Really shook him and my mum up, but they got him settled eventually. Bit annoyed I wasn't told about it until much later.
Meanwhile, I'm hungover in Lincoln having crashed on a hotel floor there. To be honest, it was fairly comfortable, but to then dash to 4 hours of rehearsals for the 'Make or Break...' show was painful for my weary body.
Rehearsals were good, this show will be great.
Gig with Aidy and Dave in Cambridge, not quite as tight as last night but enthusiastic, if small, audience. I think I was on good form, socially, tonight - making lots of people laugh etc, doesn't always happen, most of the time I can't be arsed but I just felt like I was nailing the whole 'people' thing this evening. The headliners, Travis Waltons, were bloody awesome.
Meanwhile, I'm hungover in Lincoln having crashed on a hotel floor there. To be honest, it was fairly comfortable, but to then dash to 4 hours of rehearsals for the 'Make or Break...' show was painful for my weary body.
Rehearsals were good, this show will be great.
Gig with Aidy and Dave in Cambridge, not quite as tight as last night but enthusiastic, if small, audience. I think I was on good form, socially, tonight - making lots of people laugh etc, doesn't always happen, most of the time I can't be arsed but I just felt like I was nailing the whole 'people' thing this evening. The headliners, Travis Waltons, were bloody awesome.
Friday 2nd October 2015
Actually invoiced for less hours than I've been in for the freelance stuff - because even though I was in, there was bugger all to do. That's how honest I am, that's why I'm sometimes a bit rubbish at being self-employed.
Need to write the dialogue bits for the musical, but the musical songwriters themselves are all showing great enthusiasm and professionalism, I think we can more than get away with this.
Evening gig with Aidy and Dave in Lincoln. Confusion over accommodation so I slept on the floor - it's not rock n roll, it's just an inconvenience. Gig itself was okay, not a huge turnout but I thought we were quite tight. Got a bit drunk afterwards.
Need to write the dialogue bits for the musical, but the musical songwriters themselves are all showing great enthusiasm and professionalism, I think we can more than get away with this.
Evening gig with Aidy and Dave in Lincoln. Confusion over accommodation so I slept on the floor - it's not rock n roll, it's just an inconvenience. Gig itself was okay, not a huge turnout but I thought we were quite tight. Got a bit drunk afterwards.
Friday, 2 October 2015
Thursday 1st October 2015
One of those days where I just have so many ideas I actually give myself a headache. It's very rare that happens, but it's like my head is exploding.
Anyway, confirmed the panto...mostly because I was walking by the venue anyway so just popped in and booked a two night run. Will worry about that later. Have a meeting with Tim next week who is going to be doing my PR/marketing stuff; he's going to have his work cut out with all these projects.
Did a few hours in the office and achieved nothing. Send the lyrics of the Christmas musical over to the songwriters; Geoff seems thrilled with it already, Anna and Karina both asked lots of technical questions that I didn't know the answer to, will chat to Al the arranger about this. Started work on the dialogue for it; it's coming together nicely.
Tried and failed to book a final lounge show run of Inadequate Man because I want to perform this show again but won't have time for it next year. Nobody wants it, fair enough, that's that show consigned to the archives, then.
Evening rehearsals with Aidy and Dave ahead of the weekend gigs. Sounding remarkably tight, and very, very loud.
Anyway, confirmed the panto...mostly because I was walking by the venue anyway so just popped in and booked a two night run. Will worry about that later. Have a meeting with Tim next week who is going to be doing my PR/marketing stuff; he's going to have his work cut out with all these projects.
Did a few hours in the office and achieved nothing. Send the lyrics of the Christmas musical over to the songwriters; Geoff seems thrilled with it already, Anna and Karina both asked lots of technical questions that I didn't know the answer to, will chat to Al the arranger about this. Started work on the dialogue for it; it's coming together nicely.
Tried and failed to book a final lounge show run of Inadequate Man because I want to perform this show again but won't have time for it next year. Nobody wants it, fair enough, that's that show consigned to the archives, then.
Evening rehearsals with Aidy and Dave ahead of the weekend gigs. Sounding remarkably tight, and very, very loud.
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