Ann. I have just sent you an E-mail and forgot to put anything in the subject line, so look out for it. I would resend it but as I said before my poor old computer is going sooooooo slowly, I do not like to visit iname too often. I think each E-mail must be costing a fortune in line connection time!

On the subject of bad reviews, I see that the Times has not been kind to Rufus Sewell (who has had a sympathetic run-up in the press) for his performance in Macbeth..."hoarse-voiced..narrow interpretation"..."stomping like Mike Tyson" etc. But it praises him, sarcastically, for "not pandering to his fan club in the balcony"! 3DOR is still listed as "House Full" (excellent!), with "E McG heads the cast". Well, I'm learning to live with this, just!

Has anyone seen the Guardian review yet? Will purchase copy when I go out. Just don't feel like buying it if it is bad (cowardice).

Allison, have emailed my address, hope you get it, how daft can you get!!

Couldn't find Guardian review today. Did I miss it. Must be in tomorrow's. The time is almost nigh Allison, AAAHHH!!!

Ladies, are you more nrevous about meeting eachother or about seeing Firth in the Flesh? Be honest!! I think perhaps it is the former!!!

Lizza, I just got this message from trying to return you Email: barns@sparks44.freeserve.co.uk: Message appears to contain Win32/Ska.A virus - see http://www.datafellows.com/v-descs/ska.htm for details My server would not send it!!!

(Allison) I was dreading... having to put up with (my husband's) wisecracks about CF all evening. All evening??? Mine is doing it all the time! "Whatsisname... Mr Darth... Mr Firthy... The artist formerly known as Darcy..." No review in today's Guardian. And I've seen the Independent's pic - it's rather unremarkable, and it will be difficult to work miracles with it. Worse still - EVEN I can't change that wretched angle! ;-p

Thanks Marcia, isn't technology wonderful. But not as wonderful as someone in a threadbare green sweater, draped in agony over a balcony!!!

(Lizza)But not as wonderful as someone in a threadbare green sweater, draped in agony over a balcony!!! My heart breaks for him every time I think of that graphic description. Am waiting for Cyber-son to reply. My Email got to you on the second try?! When I got it before it was trying to expand and use up all available on my 4 gig hard drive!!! Fortunately, I caught it in time. Weird people with too much time and too little to do out there!!!

Its strange that there was no review in the Guardian today, considering they interviewed Colin last week but perhaps no review is better than the one Rufus Sewell got for Macbeth. Can't wait to hear if Chloe got to see CF last night, I'm sure I would go to jelly and my words would be all mishmashed (is there such a word?)

(AnnW)words would be all mishmashed (is there such a word?) Absolutely there is a word...if not before, it exists now, and it is such a good word to describe exactly what would happen to each of us in similar circumstances. I DO wish they'd taken laptops to post to us...! I am so anxious to have word of their success!

I have just popped into Chat Marcia and Ellie has posted that she is expecting a telephone call from London this evening and will share the news with us, so I intend to pop back later. Evelyn phoned this morning, had a good flight and we have all arranged to meet outside the Donmar before the Matinee and in answer to your question I am really nervous about meeting everyone and wondering what they think of me, only natural I suppose but at least we all have a common interest in our DB.I see from The Time that it is a sell-out again this evening, I look forward to hearing Allison's report in the morning.

I saw that. I am still in chat all by myself. Waiting to hear anything from across the pond. I am sure you will get on famously. After all what wwe look like is not what makes us special to eachother. It will just be another reason to like you!!!

BTW, Ann, we are 12 hours behind GMT.

Great news, Evelyn has just telephoned to say that she and Karen have met and spoken to Colin, as he was going into the theatre. I won't give away anymore as it its their news but I was just so excited and so were they. Hope we get the same chance tomorrow night.

Oh my how exciting!!! I am all of a quiver for them!!!

All evening??? Mine is doing it all the time! "Whatsisname... Mr Darth... Mr Firthy... The artist formerly known as Darcy..." (Arami) LOL! One of my reasons for being a closet-Colinist is that my dear hubbie irritated me intensely during my first viewing of P&P, by constantly making facetious comments about Mr Darcy. He must have sensed my interest! Perhaps I should form a self-help group for all those whose partners/spouses lack understading in these matters! Rather pathetically, I actually phoned the Donmar box office today to see if there was any likelihood of a transfer. Answer "no" "only 13 performances...all sold out". There was a terrific clamour in the background...sounded as though they were having a party! Its strange that there was no review in the Guardian today, considering they interviewed Colin last week but perhaps no review is better than the one Rufus Sewell got for Macbeth. All I can say about Rufus Sewell's reviews..and the production...is Ouch!! I must admit it rather irked me that Macbeth and RS seemed to get all the pre-opening publicity...the big opener of the week, whilst 3DOR and CF were rather marginalised, and I was really expcting (being a true pessimist!!) that Macbeth would get the rave reviews! Well, you lucky ladies will soon be seeing the Man Himself. I really hope you enjoy the production (you will!)and get a chance to meet Colin. I'm all agog for the blow-by-blow reports. BTW, although with all the excitement, this may not seem like great news...Video Plus Direct say that ATA will be available for sale on April 12. I'll buy it cause he sure looked pretty!

Perfect news re ATA Bethan, I was only talking about that yesterday, thanks for solving that one!! Do you have a keepsake arranged to be sent to you from our performances? You probably do and I missed the post, but if not let me or Ann know.

Evelyn has just telephoned to say that she and Karen have met and spoken to Colin You go, girls!! I can't wait to hear the details. Thanks for the early report, Ann. (Arami) "Whatsisname... Mr Darth... Mr Firthy... The artist formerly known as Darcy..." LOL, Arami. I haven't experienced teasing because I've not progressed past devious concealment, but it's getting more difficult. (LizzaJ)I will have a spare Times Review, does anyone not going want me to send it to them? Marcia? Eileen? (Marcia)I'd adore having it if Eileen does not. I think first come, first served is only fair. You're welcome to it, Marcia. Thanks for remembering us, Lizza.

(Allison) I was dreading... having to put up with (my husband's) wisecracks about CF all evening. (Arami), All evening??? Mine is doing it all the time! "Whatsisname... Mr Darth... Mr Firthy... The artist formerly known as Darcy..." (Bethan), Perhaps I should form a self-help group for all those whose partners/spouses lack understading in these matters! LOL!!! I am completely there. My husband keeps saying he doesn't understand why I would be attracted to a "rent collector" (his Darcy). I am so happy for Evelyn and Karen! Colin could not have met two people who know more about him. I wonder if they were able to say anything at all or just stood there frozen in time. I have a million questions to ask them.

WAIT!!!!! My Karen, who I visit every couple of months MET COLIN FIRTH!!!!!!!!!! OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now, I'm really depressed;(

(Eileen) I've not progressed past devious concealment, but it's getting more difficult. I've been through devious half-concealment and it was difficult. I couldn't resisit the urge to put huge Darcy portraits up around the house (they're still in place), and began with praising the fictitious character, before gradually progressing to extolling the greatness of the actor... My poor husband was showing signs of great emotional disturbance at first, but now he's coping very well indeed. I am sure your husbands/partners will too, after that initial readjustment. The important thing is for both ides to show a sense of humour, of course.

Btw, there's a compilation of media reactions to CF's latest stage performance in the Specials at firth.com.

It is hours later and I am just home from day one of two days of softball games. And dears that they are Karen and Evelyn (not Heide?!) met COLIN!!!!! I am absolutely delighted for them and hate them at the same time =P Really, I cannot wait to hear the wonderful details!!!

Good heavens. I am the only one awake in the entire world, and I am sitting here wondering what sort of meltdown Karen and Evelyn went through!!! I am just so excited for them and for everyone. How can they be sleeping?! WAKE UP!!! Tell me all about it. I cannot stand it. You will ve chatting about it while I sleep. I am at the wrong end of the world!!! Help! =^(

GOOD GOD!!!! The Karen I saw just last week? The Evelyn whom I spoke with on the phone a few weeks ago??? Or girls have done us proud. I'm pleased as punch and now going to run over to chat to see if anyone's awake and drooling...

I have been away from Drool for almost a month now due to life overload and have missed you all greatly. I just caught up on the 600+ posts - Phew! Actually , I am reading them all with a slight cringe because up until two weeks ago I was planning on being in London myself. But real life intervened - too much work and a non-understanding husband. He knows about my Colin crush but flying to London to see him in person was a bit much for the DH to bear. (That's what I get for being honest. I suppose n xt time I will have to resort to subterfuge :-).) I was booked to stay with Heide, Karen and Evelyn so I am sitting here mildly heartbroken to think I could have possibly met the man himself! Not to mention my disappointment in not getting to meet such a grand convocation of Droolies (including the lovely lady with whom I share a name - Jana C :-) Oh well, it helps a lot that there are others of you out there feeling the same way I do. And it definitely helped to meet a couple of droolie friends last week at tea. Winter, it is always delightful to see you and Moon - what a pleasure to meet you in person. And now Ben, saw at ROP that you might be planning a trip to the west coast? Perhaps we should arrange another group lunch. Meeting another charming British gent just might assuage some of my disappointment in missing out on CF. I know that's a lot of pressure to place on you dear, but I'm sure you're up to the challenge ;-). What say you? Winter, are you game?

Wow, Winter we posted almost at the same time. We must be the only two people awake and drooling.......

Okay, Marcia, I am here but you may be in bed by now. I am afraid I did not meet CF personally though as we left the theatre there was a large contingent amassing in the stalls, obviously waiting for an audience with the Man, so there should be lots of news soon. First we had a good night. We go to the theatre a fair amount and increasingly have found it rare to have a really satisfying night at the theatre. When you see a good play, IMHO, it is better than any film or television. Most of the most interesting things we have seen tend to be at samll intimate theatres like the Donmar, Almeida etc. This we both agrred was a good theatrical experience. For those who do not know, the Donmar has about 200 seats. We were in the stalls. The audience is arranged on three sides of the stage, only four deep, so you are very close to the action. The stage is almost square and only a foot or so high, so you are looking directly at the actors not up or down at them as you would be in a large theatre. The play is interesting in its own right but I will not trouble you with the intricacies of the plot as I know many of you have read it. All the cast are wonderful. E McG is terrific and DM is excellent though his part is not so big. I shall come on to what Colin looked like in a minute but in a way that became irrelevant because what was absorbing was his acting. He really is a fantastic actor. As Walker he had a slightly nasal, what sounded to me like a NY accent. It sounded a bit Woody Allenish ( on't hit me). He had a great sense of comic timing and coveyed the brittle, always on the edge Walker so well. If I had a criticism it was that he was slightly on one note. I sometimes wished for a bit a variety in the pitch of his voice. In the second half, as Ned, he was sublime!! I love it when he plays those timid, wounded characters. *******Spoilers about to come************** When E McG begins to flirt with/ seduce him he was just so wonderfully sweet and besotted, I almost felt like crying and when he put his arms around her it was sooo moving but then I may be a little biased. ************** The play ends very abruptly. So it takes a second or two for everyone to realise it is over. When the applause came it was loud and CF seemed very relaxed. No big grin. Just his usual half smile with full dimples. At one point he caught somebody's eye in the circle and gave them a knowing grin. I did not see anyone I recognised in the audience, apart from a business associate of my husband's so it was as well I was not wearing my "I love Colin T shirt". As for looks. To be honest, I would not describe him as handsome. He looks neither younger or older than his age. But he is SUCH a good actor and in the second half he was so transformed in appearance when he was playing the lovestruck Ned. He was just adorable. It has been said that he is very thin. Not so. He is slim but definitley not thin. He has broad shoulders and is reasonably deep chested. But bear in mind as I did that he is not dressed to impress in these parts and the character of Walk r requires him to make a lot of facial contortions as he expresses W's anger and resentment. My husband was very impressed and now I have 2 members of my family apart from me who have spontaniously said that he is a good actor. ***One sad point*** He is definitely losing his hair! Especially in the second half when his hair was wet it was quite clear that his hair is quite thin in parts. It made him seem even more vulnerable. I kept thinking that I hoped he was vain enough to have a hair transplant. I am not sure he would look so good....bald..sob..sob..

Bethan, have you received my E-mail?

Allison, yes and no....I received the email, but when I opened it, there was no content...just a "transfer interrupted" message. It must have been the time when I was having problems with e-mailing. I'm so pleased you enjoyed the play, and, more importantly, the performances!! I'll comment more later, when "normal life" (shopping etc) is less demanding! But I can't resist a comment about "his hair, my dear, his hair!" Wet hair under stage lighting is just about as revealing as you can get! Dry hair, normal lighting...well, illusions are preserved! And in a recent survey most women found balding men attractive! But seriously, it's the acting that matters.

Thanks for that Allison, cant'wait. Also I received your letter this morning thankyou. Did they get a long and loud applause at he end.

Wonderful review in The Guardian today, Saturday Review section "world-class performances", phew, will type it out more fully tomorrow unless someone else does it first. No time today going to see a play!!

Ann, youu beat me to it, Ann.In addition to "world class performances" the Guardian also describes the acting as "outstanding" and "brilliant". The Express (not today's) also has a rave review...calls CF's performance "terrific" . More later. Guardian also has new pic of CFF and EMcG. Enjoy, Ann!

CFF?!! I'm developing a stutter!

CFF?!! I'm developing a stutter! It is all this excitement. it's the acting that matters. That is so true. Just watching him at work "in the flesh" really brought that home to me. Bethan. Will try E-mailing again.

Allison, thanks for answering so many questions. None of the reviews have pleased me more than yours. Ann, I'm looking forward to yours. Jana2 it was great fun meeting with you and Winter as well. I still can't believe you cancelled London.

Allison, thanks so much for the report! So glad you had such a good time -- what a thrilling experience! Can't wait to hear about Evelyn and Karen's CF encounter. As for me, I keep having to wait for hubby and sons to find ways to occupy themselves so I can sneak online and check for updates -- another drooler resorting to subterfuge:-)

Oh NO! Where are the reports from the met Colin in the Flesh people. I hurried up and slept hoping all of the reports would be at hand. Must leave again in two hours for the day. Will be glued here tomorrow!!! I think they have swooned into a Sleeping Beauty Coma and are awaiting a ...well, ODB is busy right now ;^)

Karen and Evelyn- details, details! What was he wearing? What did he say? What did you say? I am all anticipation! :) (Jana) And now Ben, saw at ROP that you might be planning a trip to the west coast? Perhaps we should arrange another group lunch. If you're planning a West Coast get together I should dearly love to pop in and meet everyone! What fun! :) Regarding 'The Hair Issue'; while i am particularly attached to the DB's adorable curls... it's just hair. He'll look divine no matter what. And besides, you dont need hair to act, and as long as he keeps acting i'm going to be one happy girl. :)

Thank you Allison, for your detailed and timely report! It really means alot to us back at the homefront. ...what sounded to me like a NY accent. It sounded a bit Woody Allenish So he *did* use a NY accent. And I missed it. SOB :.-(... He is definitely losing his hair! We're all thinking the same thing--His hair, Louisa, his hair! Sigh. I suppose we shall have to take the bad with the good. Hope it's a gradual process. Would hate to think of him looking like Nick Hornby. (SusanMc)I keep having to wait for hubby and sons to find ways to occupy themselves so I can sneak online and check for updates. (Moon)My husband keeps saying he doesn't understand why I would be attracted to a "rent collector" (his Darcy). (Arami) I couldn't resisit the urge to put huge Darcy portraits up around the house (they're still in place). Hmm, the three stages of married Drool-ism?! I'm in Stage 1 with Susan (I think Moon and Bethan are there with us). Perhaps you can coach us, Arami? Darcy portraits around the house? LOL! What do you do when company comes?

Allison and Ann, thank you for your updates on the traveling Drool contingent and your feedback on 3DOR and the DB himself. My pulse quickened as I read your comments, and I felt a wistfulness which I have not experienced since I was a little girl who, due to circumstances beyond her control (mainly, being a little girl), was unable to attend the last Beatle concert in town some thirty plus years ago�. It is of great consolation, however, to know that Karen and Evelyn had the pleasure of meeting CF. Does this make all of us at home now one degree of separation from Colin? I hope so! I am delighted that Colin�s performance did not disappoint. I am grateful that Colin has the courage to explore such varied roles, for he takes us all on journeys (both figuratively and literally) we otherwise might not have taken. As I was catching up on the many posts of this week, the excitement building up to this day was palpable. There is a synergy to Drool which, IMO, is its magic: the sum is truly greater than its parts. I cannot wait to read everyone�s reports! Such torture having to wait�� BTW Allison, I am not worried about the thinning hair. Don�t men lose most of their hair by their early 30s if it is going to happen? That has been my observation, at any rate.

Oops, I meant to say that the whole of Drool is greater than the sum of its parts. I am too excited to even think or write clearly. Arami, I love your DH's refence to the DB as "the artist formally known as Darcy." I cannot stop laughing.....I bet CF himself would get a kick out of that! A far wittier comment than any of those from the so called journalists of late.

Guardian Review: (extracts) Genes of the fathers....Lyn Gardner sees outstanding performances lift a play above the ordinary It's the acting - brilliant, hard and absolutely true - rather than the writing which lifts Richard Greenburg's 3DOR above the ordinary....... It's left up to Robin Lefevre's beautiful nuanced production and the actors to paint in the detail and the emotional texture of parents who will always be skeletons in their own children's wardrobes. The three-some deliver world-class performances. What you remember are not the smart, sassy lines but Firth's Walker, shivering like a traumatised child in his hunky grown-up frame. The Daily Express (extracts) Mr Darcy reigns supreme in new role... He's terrific in this civilised new American play.....It's a pleasure to see three actors inhabit an enjoyable new play with competence, calm and grace. Browsing at the news-stands (but not buying!)a few days ago, I also saw a snippet in the Tatler (I think) about CF's return to the stage, and there was also a longish article in "Now" magazine about JE. (Ben....do read on, please!) It mentioned her new movie "This Years Love" but focused far more on her comment that since she split from CF four years ago, she hasn't been in a relationship, and she is quoted as asking "why is it so hard to find a decent man". She says that she has just bought a fl t in London and is living alone. She also says that CF is a really nice guy, and a very good actor, and that she had seen him in SIL and thought he was great. Well, hope this keeps you all happy, until the REAL news reports start filtering through! I'm beginning to feel like the girl who opted to stay at home and wash her hair whilst everyone else went out partying!

SB Robinson :If you're planning a West Coast get together I should dearly love to pop in and meet everyone! What fun! :) wonderful! We're all meeting for lunch on Saturday the 20th, but details are still TBA (and decided upon). Email me at jesperan@ucla.edu AGGGGHHHH!!! I can't stand it!!!!! Evelyn! Karen!! Where are you!?!? You owe us details, ASAP! I'll only forgive you if your schedules are preventing you from going online at the moment, or if you've been invited to dine at our DB's home.

Have just seen 3DoR for second time this week (is that dedication or what?!) and must say it certainly was a lot better this time around, (even though I had to pay for the ticket for the matinee this time)It was probably something to do with the actors having settled more into their characters. It also helped that we had far better seats - row B at RHS of stage, near the bed! Colin's performance in particular was much improved (but as i think I said earlier, he was nervous I think on press night) If its a all possible he looked even more amazingly gorgeous than Tuesday eve, all the better for seeing him closer I suppose. Like others have said, I do think the Woody Allenesque NY drawl was a bit all on one level but this is a minor quibble...

With all this excitement, I forgot to tell you that Gwynneth was on Jay Leno last night. They showed a long clip with Wessex(the one that begets the slap), and at the end of it, Jay says �Oh, I liked that guy.� To which she replies it�s Colin Firth, he�s terrific. Much exposure for DB from all sides, are we not distracted? Soon the media will be reconsidering the Darcy for the Firth, and what wonderful leading roles will he be offered! Can�t wait to hear from Ann tomorrow, she will have so much to tell us. Ben, do British men imitating an American accent automatically do Woody Allen? It most be a sociological phenomena. I am most curious for your opinion. Thanks for the Guardian review Bethan, I look forward to more.

Hi I'm back and just putting down a few thoughts before I go to bed, will talk about the "world class performance" tomorrow. Well we all had a fantastic time, it was so lovely meeting everyone and putting faces to names, Gi. Elena, Heide, Karen, Jan, EmmaE,Evelyn and Lizza, hope I haven't missed anyone out. We also met many other fans from other CF websites, a truely amazing day. At the end of the performance we all collected in the foyer, not just drool but FOF & Pemberley and many more fans and Col n appeared, was absolutely charming, signed everyone's programme, had photo's taken when asked and seemed genuinely pleased to see all his fans, it must have taken him 20 mins to run the gauntlet of fans whilst Livia wazited patiently for him. We have masses of programmes, not all signed I am afraid, Evelyn living in America has them for all the people who wrote to me so I will pass on your address to her. He looked so well so slim and even though he is starting to lose a little bit of hair who cares wh n he has such lovely brown twinkly eyes and a gorgeous voice and acts with so much energy and so beautifully. I actually spoke to him "would you please sign both programmes" and he looked me straight in the eyes and said "of corse". He looked everyone in the eye and seemed very confident. Must finish now, will post some more tomorlrow. BTW Chloe did you get to meet D. M and CF on Thursday? Please excuse any spelling and grammar mistakes.

Perhaps you can coach us, Arami? Darcy portraits around the house? LOL! What do you do when company comes? I can't really offer you any useful advice, except that the older you are, the less embarrassed you tend to be... My Darcy portraits do not get in the way of most of our visitors, but should anyone comment, I explain simply and truthfully that it's my favourite actor in one of his most famous incarnations. My hubby just introduces him resignedly as my heartthrob...

Can anyone tell me if the Guardian has their photo from 3 DOR up on their website? Or do I need to scan it? (Allison, Bethan - I've got it :-))

Anne W: Not yet met the Adonis - planned backstage recce for this Thursday, if can wing it, although must keep realistic about it all going belly up. Will give it a damn good shot though. Good to hear that you managed an autograph - it's all worth it for a penetrating look straight in the eyes if nothing else isn't it?!! Will let you know if successful.............

Quick word re: hair loss - Colin's dad who was in the audience on Tues' press show - he hasn't lost his hair (ie. not Nick Hornby "bald" on top of head) but it had receded from front hairline- ie. he still has a lot of hair on top despite his mature years and, genetically speaking, that's what may happen to Colin's 'bonce, so there's hope yet. Even if he does go bald on top, there is a chance that even this could look q distinguished as long as he doesn't revert to resorting to a Bobby Charltonesque methods (US cousins = this means SAD thin strands of hair attempting to cover large patches of baldness) or wearing a dodgy & easily dedectible, but very expensive toupee. But we know he's better than that don't we?!

OH MY GOD!!!!!! I cannot believe you guys. My heart is beating so fast as I was reading all the posts. I can kick myself in the *** for not going. What a simply wonderful time. I probably would have fainted to see that gorgeous smile and hear that beautiful voice. Ann......I hope Evelyn doesn't forget my programme. Lucky,Lucky,girls. Details.........Details.....

What an incredible day these ladies have had. My heart is overjoyed for them, while at the same time, a part of me wishes I had been there too. In the worst way!!! I want to go outside and scream at the night sky, When do I get to meet Colin Firth??? =P I am so eager to hear details I shall not move from this PC on the morrow after I awaken. No more softball and only CF for me this week.

If anyone is lurking and would like to chat, I am in the room and will join you. I have the awful feeling I am alone in the world and everyone else is sleeping.

Watching Arsenal play Derby at the moment. Evelyn? Karen? Any of you make it out to Highbury today (unless this match was ages ago)? BTW, Any sign of NH in the Donmar audience? So excited for all of you who got to meet him. Congratulations on a mission accomplished, everyone! Who cares about a receding hairline... he's still our DB! And as usual, Livia's pulling the Tammy Wynette thang...standing right by the man(and who wouldn't)...

Winter, it was pointed out to me quite sardonically that Tammy Wynette had been married 5 times. It makes one wonder by which one she was standing ;^) Why are they taking so long to drop the other shoes and tell us all about it. Perhaps they are still suspended metaphorically above ground!

I am back in chat! Come back!!

Nika, come back to chat. I have been writing to you!!!

Nika hit the reload button to see what I am saying to you in chat.

All of you waiting for someone from London to post something and are in Chat, please keep hitting the reload button to see what the others have said.

And keep hitting the RELOAD button often through your time in the chat room to keep up with the conversation. It is a huge help.

Ann, thanks so much for your timely report! I know you must have been exhausted after such an exciting day. Congratulations to all of you who have met the dear man. How very happy I am for you all. Marcia and I shall soon be alone in the "never seen Firth" club. We few. We unhappy few :-(.

Ann, Can't wait to hear your news. Your husband was with you wasn't he? How did he cope with it all. Or did he stand and commiserate with Livia? On Friday when I saw the play, I could see the Frthites collecting in the stalls. I hung back as long as I could in the hope of seeing himself but my husband then bundled us out of the emergency exit to avoid the crush. Oh if only I were not so self conscious and easily embarrassed!

Have just skimmed the Sundays for 3DOr reviews..and bought the Observer and Independent (already got Telegraph). Consistently excellent reviews for Colin and 3DOR. The only annoying thing is that first place in all the reviews is given to the extremely bad reviews of Macbeth and Rufus Sewell, which means that there are huge pics of RS and references to his glamorous box-office appeal (wot of CF, I ask?), and no photos of Colin (except in the Observer). Always the bridesmaid, never the bride!!! BUT, Colin has got GREAT reviews..."Firth amongst equals" "Colin Firth is amazing" " a miracle of corrugation" "first-rate". And these are the heavy reviewers who can be scathing. RS's reviews would make you cringe. Didn't buy the Sunday Times, but the review was very good..."played with corruscating intelligence" More later

Ann, thanks for your initial report! How thrilling to have met Colin -- so proud of you for managing to actually speak to him -- I would not have been able to get out a word, probably just would have stood their gaping idiotically. Did anyone tell him you ladies represent his Internet fans and had come from all over the world to see him act? Hope he thinks better of us now;-) What was he wearing? Did Livia say anything? The more details, the better!

Ann, thanks for an early report, as Jana2 said, we will now be the board of met him/not met him. Susan you have asked good questions and I would also like to know if Karen and Evelyn told you Ann about what happened when they met him outside the theatre. Bethan, you are our media reporter about town thank you.

Part 1. Hi again Firstly re my last post, of course, l meant Jana not Jan. Secondly, Allison yes my husband came with me yesterday and together with Gi's fiancee as the only male in a group of 17 and he had a lovely time. He likes going to the theatre anyway and thought that the play was very good, well directed a nd very well acted by all three actors and thought the script was funny and witty. We saw it twice and were glad we did because some unanswered questions were answered the second time round, I won't go into them now in case it spoils it for anyone who hasn't already seen it but I would love to talk about it later. The scenery is very minimal but as my hubby says they really couldn't afford a lot of scenery for such a short run but to my mind the scenery or lack of it didn't matter, what mattered were the spellbinding performances by all three but especially CF. In the matinee he was particularly good and he lit up the stage whenever he appeared. Karen & I must have been sitting 6 inches from his feet when he was lying on the bed at the start of the play, much restraint was needed I can tell you. Once you have got used to the accent it is fine and doesn't in any way detract from the performance. There is nothing like live theatre, for instance in the matinee there is a part where Colin has to turn on the taps and splash his face and unfortunately the top of the tap came off and he couldn't turn the tap off but professional that he is he calmly walked round behind the basin picked up the tap screwed it back on whilst delivering a very dramatic speech and luckily the tap turned off but it could have been very difficult if the tap had not turned off and then in the second performance he got his bag which had a shoulder strap caught up in the stool and couldn't untangle it but I must say that the way he coped with both these events merely added to my admiration for him. He has such stage presence that I really wish he would do more theatre and every word of the wonderful reviews is true , it is a wonderful witty well written play beautifully acted and directed and everyone in the audience seemed to be really caught up in it laughing at the right times and silent in the more dramatic oments.

Part2. I have done this in two parts as when I tried to do the whole report I got cut-off and lost the whole message. I'm afraid I can't remember what Colin was wearing when he came out I was just so amazed that he was doing all this autograph signing and photos,apparently he has been doing it all week coming down to the foyer and signing etc.I thought Livia looked very thin and much younger than her years but very very pretty and although I didn't speak to her some others did and said she seemed very very nice. Some people asked if they could have photos of both Livia and Colin and she was quite happy to pose for them. He definitely knew that we were from the Internet because Evelyn asked i he would have a group photo with the people from Spring,which he did and which I missed as I was still in shock at having spoken to him and had gone to the other end of the foyer to give others a chance to have their programmes signed. Never mind my kind hubby has taken a photo of me and Colin as he is signing my programme., so that will be fine. BTW Moon, apparently Evelyn, Karen & Heide etc were having supper in the restaurent opposite the Donmar when Colin arrived for the evening performance and Evelynm grabbed the moment and Karen and went over to the Donmar and calmly asked If he would sign the programmes and the rest you know or will know when they get home. Can't think of anything else at the moment but if you have any questions it may remind me of things. Oh one other thing someone did ask him if he was goin to to Mark Darcy in BJD and all he said was "well the press seem to think so" but the person who asked this question didn't feel he would do it so we will just have to wait and see.

Oh, Ann, thanks for the report! I'm sure I'll think up some more questions for you, but don't have time now -- husband and 2 little boys are demanding lunch.

Oh, lovely, Ann! My thanks to both you and Allison for your detailed reports. I really wish...well, you know what I wish! But I'm sure he'll do more theatre now. BTW buy the Observer...the review of CF is absolutely marvellous! There's also a good photo of him..but then, you've SEEN HIM IN THE FLESH!!!! So who cares about photos (Me!). Absolutely love the bit about the tap...I'd panic if that happens to me in the privacy of my own kitchen...but on STAGE, wow!!! He must be very composed! Please give us as much detail as you can remember..!!!

Thank you, thank you, Ann for coming back to earth to share your wonderful news and detailed report. I'm happy and excited for all! His great performance alone would have merited the trip but to MEET HIM, TOO! Good for you, ladies, and good for you, Colin, for recognizing your loyal fans. Have no fear, there's still plenty of us in the HNMCC (have not met Colin Club). Perhaps our day will come. Sigh. I'll just have to wait for my program. Thanks for the reviews, Bethan. One cannot read too many good things about ODB!

I have just lost ahuge post to you all. I am going to post in bits. Please excuse this but I have just poured out all my emotion of meeting him and it's all gone. Anyway he is wonderful and talented and sooooo gorgeous. And he had a group photo with Drool.

When we got in position for the photo he was so concerned for Evelyn and didn't want her to be in a bad position, so we all moved around and next thing I knew he had put his arm around me. I NEARLY DIED!!!!!

After that he moved away and turned to us all and said "Thank you all so much for coming" I said (CUE deranged woman with shaky voice) "It was our pleasure, it was a tremendous performance" He just "twinkled" at me. He is just so nice and so considerate.

I have some lovely photos of drool with him, yes ladies his chin IS so smooth, it could be waxed!!!

Ann! What a wonderful time you had, and to be able to note those little unexpected mishaps and how well he handled them. I wish I had been there. Your husband is a very good sport, congratulate for me, he took your pix together. That would never have happened with mine. Evelyn mentioned Spring but did anyone mention colinfirth.com? Livia was very gracious, I'm sure they are so happy to be getting such great reviews vs. poor Rufus Sewell, who is supposed to be the bigger heartthrob. L&C were probably going out to dinner after the show. Can't wait to hear from Karen, Evelyn and Heide. So happy that Heide got to see him as well that extra time. Did you and your husband join everyone at the restaurant?

Lizza, what news! His arm around you! How did you manage? And caring for Evelyn too, what a success you girls had! More soon please!

I have some lovely photos of drool with him, yes ladies his chin IS so smooth, it could be waxed!!!

Ann it was so lovely to meet you, and in my haste to report here I have only skimmed your post. I am sure you will forgive me and you will know what a state I am in!!! Everyone from drool was just so nice, and such good company that it was magical to have that experience together. I am hoping to scan my photos in a few days so you all will have something to look at.

Yes Colin Firth Com. was mentioned to Livia, if I remember what I was told she said "Thank you, I didn't know" As Dame Winter has already related Livia is very attractive. She had a pinky/red Italian type of knitted top and her hair is very chic and glossy. But back to our DB I hear you Cry.

Lizza, your report had me trembling vicariously! He put his arm around you? Guess what, that makes you a charter member of the elite HATCC (Have Actually TOUCHED Colin Club):-) Did anyone ask him if there are plans to bring the play (with him in it, of course) to the U.S. (i.e., Broadway)? I mean, if "The Blue Room" did, it seems possible, what with the great reviews. Eileen, if Colin does come to Broadway, let's resolve to go "by any means necessary" -- we must join the "have met's";-) I am so happy that CF knew you ladies were representative of his Internet fans. I really hated for him to think we're all like that ditzy woman who accosted him at a party reciting his personal info gleaned from the Net. I really want him to know that while we all loved him as Darcy, we know there's so much more to his career and have followed his other work as well. A year ago this time, did any of you ladies, in your wildest imagination, think that so many of us would have actually had the chance to meet/talk with Colin -- let alone have pictures taken, make physical contact, etc.? Excuse my rambling... it just all seems so unbelievable! Or is it just me?

His acting was superb and none of the excellent reviews exagerate at all. My seat was in the front so when he lay on the bed I could just simply have reached out and run my fingers through his hair!!! I must confess that for one mad, bad, dangerous split second I DID consider doing it. But of course it would have been an "insupportable thing to do." But who could say they would not have been tempted??!!!!

Susan, it does seem so unreal, but part of the pleasure prolonged is to be able to share these moments with you all and know you all would have felt the same range of emotions as us. I am very tempted to send flowers to say thank you for the courteous and considerate way he treated his fans and to wish him luck for the second week of the run. I mean his drool fans of course!!!

So Colin is keeping www.colinfirth.com a secret from Livia? Smart man! He doesn't want to shock her. Lizza, did the other actors appear after the show or was it basically everyone for Colin.

Also I initially felt that I could not go up to him and ask for an autograph, i felt too shy. Karen and I both felt the same. I asked my friend to go up , then I would take a photo but I realised that he would be the only man doing that so i did ask him!! My impression was that maybe he could sense that so when I said "Thank you" to him he said "No thank YOU." I just thought that was so nice, he has this real knack for making each and everyone of us feel special for that split second we have his attention.

Did you actually use the word drool as in "We are your drool fans?" Susan, I believe the play has already had a run in New York, so it is not very likely.

Was he nice and Warm? Did he smell wonderful? Did you even notice?! How marvellous. Better than alien abduction, I'll wager ;-) Beautiful eyes, skin, voice...I am flooding over here again!

So Lizza, he puts his arm around you and then thanks you, WOW! More please!

Lizza, that's a great idea, to send flowers or a backstage telegram from his Internet fans thanking him for being so considerate and wishing good luck for the rest of the run. Or contacting his agent to convey our thanks. Maybe it will encourage him to keep it up, it is most appreciated;-) I have a big favor to ask -- is there anyone who's attending 3DOR this week who would be willing to try to get me an autographed program? (I seem to have missed Ann's earlier message for such requests.) I would gladly reimburse and be eternally grateful:-)

E.MG came down first, she was only asked by Evelyn, I think for an autograph and she said to us "Miss M is from Chicago." at which EM smiled. Moon, I have to tell you that it was such a huge contrast between those wanting to see HIM and anyone else!!! We were on the stairs and crowding the foyer and we knew he was coming down acouple of minutes before because the camera flashes were going off. Did I say we have Evelyn to thank for the group photo? She asked him directly and he responded so quickly and courteously too.

Looking forward to seeing the pix Lizza.

Somehow, unless the DB know about Spring, saying they are from Drool does not engender warm feelings. I would have thought he would have fled in the opposite direction as soon as he heard that!

No he thanked me for asking for his autograph at this point I could have had a photo, just the two of us with his arm round me, as a lot were doing but I felt too shy. THIS is why I was just so thrilled that when we had our drool photo he then put his arm right across me in a spontaneous way, totally unposed, when he COULD have stood with his arms at his side. Nice huh? I am rambling on and on please excuse me but I will be back with more, my head is spinning.

BTW Evelyn said we were from "SPRING"

(Marcia), Somehow, unless the DB know about Spring, saying they are from Drool does not engender warm feelings. I would have thought he would have fled in the opposite direction as soon as he heard that! My thoughts exactly. You can always play it safe with wwwcf.com

Bless you, Evelyn for keeping our honor intact and remembering to say you were from Spring. Much more conducive to fuzzy warm friendliness than cold stale drool might be imagined to be. Of course, we never let our Drool get stale and cold. He has kept it *hot* for a few years now with no sign of letting up.

What about italics again for a change? Allison, Ann, Chloe thank you for your reports, and thank you Bethan for keeping us updated on reviews. I should be busy working, but I am logging in again and again, anxiously awaiting more of your breathless reports! This is the greatest time ever in Firthland :-). (Ann) He definitely knew that we were from the Internet because Evelyn asked if he would have a group photo with the people from Spring,which he did Ann, could you please give some more details on this? Did they tell him what "Spring" is, or did he actually know about already? where Colin has to turn on the taps and splash his face Splash his face?!! Good you tell me now - perhaps I would have LOL int he theatre if that scene had caught me unprepared. It's such a trademark gesture, like Hitchcock appearing in his movies. Love your story about the tap - he just can't escape the water!

Oh Lizza, how could I have missed that photo, I am really glad now that James took a photo of me and Colin when he was signing my programme and I completely agree with you that for that split second that he looks up at you you feel as if you are the only one "in the room" so to speak. I did actually touch him on the arm when he graciously agreed to sign a second programme for me. Yes Moon, James and I joined everyone for a really lovely supper, efficiently arranged for uby Lizza and Lizza it was very ni e to meet you and all the other ladies, it was a day or won't forget. I hope everyone has a safe jouney home and I look forward to hearing everyones comments.