Karen, check your email.

Thanks for letting me know Cathey has arranged for a copy. Give her our best wishes when you see her - and how envious we all are for her to be seeing the real thing (person) I mean. Anne H

Thanks for letting me know Cathey has arranged for a copy. Give her our best wishes when you see her - and how envious we all are for her to be seeing the real thing (person) I mean. Anne H

I'm glad you're back, Karen. And Evelyn too, when we see her tomorrow, I hope.

(KJ)A Phenomenon. One of the world's last true gentleman! You are so right. (Eileen)Have you washed your hand yet, Elena? I�m afraid I have but I�ll never wash my coat because he naturally touched it when we posed for a photo. I think I�ll just have to hang it up on my bedroom wall and worship it ;-D (JanaH)your natural grace and reserve kept you from tearing it off him I think the parka was pretty cute on him actually, you�ll see it in the photos. The light coloured fur in the hood matched his darkish hair and eyes like dream. And the fabric of the coat is *very* smooth. (Cheryl)Finns are the most shy people in Europe. I also read that Finns enjoy dancing the tango and love their cellular phones, (Nokia is a Finnish company). Is any of that true? It�s all quite true :-D (Tracy)I�m frantically trying to think of something original to say to ODB I�m so excited for you, please tell us everything when you get back!

give Colin a big *samooch* We didn�t but he gave a big one to a girl on Saturday night in the crowd. He suddenly saw this dark-haired young woman with a fur collar, greeted her very happily with a big smile and gave her a kiss on the cheek. I tried to photograph the event because I stood a meter away but probably didn�t succeed, it was so sudden and moving to see his sincere tenderness. Ah! Anybody know who the lucky person was? Karen, as soon as you have recovered from the jet lag, I think you had some clue about this?

Welcome back Karen! I hope you will be able to post soon. Ladies, this is the message I received from BBC/America in regards to DQ: Thank you for your interest in BBC America. There are no immediate plans to air but please be assured that I will forward your program request to our director of programming immediately. I plan to email them again.

Consensus opinion was that the dark-haired girl was Italian and somehow associated with Livia. The girl wrote Colin a note at the box office thanking him for "arranging everything" and she went on to say how wonderful the show was, etc. I believe Colin also said he would see her later after the kiss. Not positive about all of this due to the crush of people in the lobby, but dark-haired girl passed right by me on her way out and she had a "thrilled-to- pieces-look" on her face. I'd have to be carried o t on a stretcher. ;-)

LOL, Karen! But did they speak Italian. It would have been a treat to hear him speak.

But did they speak Italian. It would have been a treat to hear him speak. No Italian was *over*heard in the lobby, but I believe her accent gave her away at the boxoffice where she was attempting to leave Colin a message thanking him for arranging for the tickets, etc. We did hear him speak French though in SLOW. ;-)

Welcome home, ye weary London voyagers! We're glad you had a great trip and hope you don't drown in posts and e-mail. Karen dear, I am all anticipation as to which questions you and Mari asked ODB. ;-P Have fun at 3DOR, Tracy. I hope there's less of a crowd in the foyer on Thursday. (Moon) I plan to email them again. Moon, please post their address so we can all e-mail them.

On Saturday night, as Colin was making his way slowly through the mob, I was standing near the exit and I asked him to sign our group picture from last year. As he was doing so, I said something to the effect of "Colin, I have a dare question [he probably started panicking, thinking it would be something really embarrassing and personal like: "Could I have your undies?" ;-D]. We'd like to know how far Edward got with Heloise in the mossloft." Colin smiled and answered that it was a good question, one t at there's been lots of discussion about even while they were making it. Unfortunately, I didn't get to follow up with (1) "so what's the answer, Colin. You must have had something in your mind as to the preceding action when you walked into the room with Malcolm McDowell and wanted to get in his face." or the infamous (2) is Peter gay? Another v.close encounter was Friday night in the lobby when, YES, I got my picture taken with him after Evelyn made the overture. Colin is standing next to me (hand on shoulder) asking where to look as there are a couple of cameras aimed at him, but then made the comment, "should I lose a little height?" Hmmm, perhaps I should have answered in the affirmative and then I might have a pic with us cheek to cheek, instead of cheek to navel. ;-)

(Karen)"should I lose a little height?" I loved that little show! he was behaving so freely, bending down and up again, broadly smiling. Hope the pics turn out OK.

(Karen) or the infamous (2) is Peter gay? Or the even more infamous (3) Where DO you buy your clothes? :-D Hon, I'm glad you found the nerve to ask this question (did you carry a list of some sort?)! Too bad the place was jammed and he was in a rush. I'm also glad you got your picture with him, even if it is cheek to navel (LOL about that).

(3) Where DO you buy your clothes? :-D There was no need to ask that one as we discovered the Oxfam store on Upper Street in Islington. ;-)

Welcome back, Karen! I'm loving your reports -- more, more! Can't wait to see that photo:-) Did anyone tell Colin about your private screening of SLOW?

Eileen, here is the link directly to BBC/America comments: http://www.bbcamerica.com/contactus.html (3) Where DO you buy your clothes? :-D (Karen), There was no need to ask that one as we discovered the Oxfam store on Upper Street in Islington. ;-) Did you run into him there too? There is still so much you are not telling. ;-) And he did not answer the Edward question! I am very happy to hear you got your picture!!! Yeah!

Hi Everybody.....I'm baaaack...But I miss the Gang on Earlham Street!! Fantastic Reunion...they get better every time...Every day was a #10! Antonio and I are ready for the next one!Nice to walk into the Donmar lobby and know everybody there!! Like Karen, I will post more later... And don't let anyone tell you that the Finns are shy....Hey , that Elena was the Donmar Queen!! Yes, I was able to get ODB to pose with Karen....the pic is great too. He is grinning with dimples and Karen...what can I say...she was ecstatic. We missed you all and toasted many times "to absent friends"...

Good to relive the memories thro' your posts Karen and Evelyn. Glad you are both safely returned. In my recollection the Italian girl you spoke of made the move herself to kiss Colin. I was quite close at the time and initially had a major shock that ANYONE would attempt to do that but then I realised there was a connection between them. She whispered in his ear (oh bliss!) too. Have fun Tracy at your performance, get your list ready. Any news of that Gala Night?

Firth's Real Life Keepsakes Yellow and black striped necktie worn to London Premier of SIL, AllisonM Leather Jacket he is wearing at the DonMar autograph signing, Esbee The boyish green parkab he wore to the 3DoR autograph session, Elena

Karen and Evelyn, welcome home! So glad you're safely back and sharing all the details. What a great time you all had. Karen, good for you for asking about MLSF and the moss loft. Too bad our boy was too cagey to give a real answer! (Susan MC) Did anyone tell Colin about your private screening of SLOW? Excellent question and one I was wondering about myself. Did you have a chance to tell him or did you decide this would make you sound like fans of the SCARY VARIETY ? (Karen) No Italian was *over*heard in the lobby, but I believe her accent gave her away at the boxoffice where she was attempting to leave Colin a message thanking him for arranging for the tickets, etc. Did you overhear this yourself or rely on Evelyn's pals in the box office for this tidbit of info :-)? (Karen) Have got an absolutely incredible story to tell...that doesn't even involve Colin...and AnnW doesn't know about it. Must keep some secrets. Waiting with baited breath for this one, dear :-) Tracy, only one day until 3DOR! I hope you have a great time and can�t wait to hear all about it.

Welcome back, Evelyn! Looking forward to your report(s) once you've had a chance to rest up. Dying to see that photo of CF and Karen:-)

We all are, from my memory I don't know who looked most pleased. Colin because he had finally met his most resourceful fan, or Karen because she had always wanted her navel to be tickled by snow white parka fur ** Tee Hee** It will be a peach of a shot!

Hey, that Elena was the Donmar Queen!! *Blush* please have mercy, I�m only human ;-D

(Susan MC) Did anyone tell Colin about your private screening of SLOW? No way....he doesn't like the film and no one wanted to bring it up.We had a good time though ...hey,isn't anyone gonna mention the posters you got for a door prize? ~~~~~ (evelyn)Hey, that Elena was the Donmar Queen!! (Elena)*Blush* please have mercy, I�m only human ;-D Mean't as a compliment,m'dear.We were proud of you.:-)) And BTW re: pic of Colin and Karen....I was pleased too: Mission Accomplished

(Susan MC) Did anyone tell Colin about your private screening of SLOW? Not to my knowledge. I'm convinced that something happened during or subsequent to the making of that film and Colin doesn't want to have anything to do with it. Optimum said that Nia gave 7 interviews for the film, so the quotes in the articles were not strictly out of the production notes. And, as Jana so aptly put it, I wouldn't want to appear to be a fan of the SCARY VARIETY. ;-) Re: The Other Story (since Mari has posted a summary at Springfolks, I shall elaborate...) On Monday night, we had tickets to "Lady in the Van," with Maggie Smith. When we arrived at the theatre, there were tons of people milling around and a bunch of photographers. It turned out that Prince Charles was going to attend. So Mari and I waited in the lobby and got elbowed, stepped on and jostled by the polite crowd. Evelyn and Emma stood on the stairs for a while and then took their seats. After a while, the flashes started going off and lo and behold it was Camilla, who was quickly whisked u the stairs. More waiting. Then some flashes again went off and standing a couple of feet in front of me was Barry Manilow (I know how excited you all must be.) I had taken a picture of Camilla, but I was nearing the end of the roll, so didn't bother with Barry. ;-) We waited and waited and it was about 2 minutes until curtain time. The theatre management was repeating and repeating for everyone with tickets to take their seats and that the show was going to start on time regardless (who was he kiddi g). Finally, we gave up and went to our seats in the Dress Circle, Third Row, but on the side (considered to have a restricted view, but were fine). During the interval, Mari and I made our way up the side aisle so that she could buy a program and fine a place to smoke. As we hit the top of the aisle, Mari had her head down and bumped into a man (you know how smokers are...she was on a mission). I stepped to the side and watched Mari and Prince Charles do a little dance trying to pass each other. He had his hands on Mari and was saying "sorry." Mari hadn't looked up. I was looking at the big bald spot on the back of his head and at Camilla taking in this outrageous sight and wondering when she was going to realize who it was. Of course, it wasn't until the party passed her and I said, "Mari, that was Prince Charles!" Turns out that Charles was ushered in at the very last minute (and it did start a few minutes late), but Mari and I had no idea that they were sitting up in the Dress Circle with us. Their seats were margininally better: first row, center. ;-) His party went off behind closed doors on the side (near our seats), where I expect there was a private lounge area. So when the interval was over, we were within inches of them again as they reemerged for the second act. There were many people in the stalls standing and facing the Dress Circle and staring at him. He never looked at them, but kept his head down. After the play, they waited until most of the area cleared and then ushered them out the side door by our seats. What fun! Especially, since Monday was not an official Colin day. ;-)

Karen, I am LOL at the Prince Charles and Mari story! Mari, I must hang around with you, you have the funniest close encounters! :-D

You're so right, Gi. I think I should take up smoking. All of you had a jam-packed whirlwind tour. Did you ever sleep? (Evelyn) We missed you all and toasted many times "to absent friends"... We missed you too but had to each get sloshed alone. (Karen) YES, I got my picture taken with him after Evelyn made the overture. Yeah!! I hope there are several shots. (Karen)"should I lose a little height?" (Elena) I loved that little show! he was behaving so freely, bending down and up again, broadly smiling. That's so adorable! And he must have been in such a good mood. Was it seeing Evelyn again? ;-) (Lizza) Karen because she had always wanted her navel to be tickled by snow white parka fur ** Tee Hee** Now wait a minute..just how low did he go? ;-)

I was looking at the big bald spot on the back of his head LOL! You zero right in. Great story, Karen!

(Gi) Mari, I must hang around with you, you have the funniest close encounters! :-D Since I *know* how much you like Rowan Atkinson, Gi, I'll share this.;-) When I told my husband about the run-in with the Prince, he said it reminded him of the Mr. Bean episode in which the Queen is moving through a receiving line and when she gets to Bean, he gives a deep bow and Wham! bangs her head, knocking the poor woman out cold! Good thing Charles had the sense to grab my shoulders before I could do any damage.;-) (Karen) "should I lose a little height?" That was a riot--he was in a great mood, and the photo that resulted is superb--Evelyn, you could give Scavullo a run for his money.;-) And, I must say, I think he was absolutely charmed by your cheeky question, Karen, about Edward and Heloise. It definitely wasn't the same old/same old query for him! I just want to add how wonderful it was to spend time and share these experiences with the terrific folks here. Many thanks to Karen and Evelyn for doing so much--arranging the SLOW screening and posters, getting us organized for the group dinner, and so much more. You two are the best, no kidding. I was so happy also to see old friends like Ann again, and to meet new ones like Lizza, Gi, Aishling, Emma, Arami, Renate, Cathey, Elena, Mark, Sabine. . . hope I haven't left anyone out. Evelyn said every ay was a 10--so true, and all due to you great people! Oh, I suppose I should give Colin some of the credit too.;-)

All of you had a jam-packed whirlwind tour. Did you ever sleep? Not much....we had to rehash every day when we got back to the hotel at night. We got our money's worth! Saturday was an Intense Colin Day. AM. Colin on FILM: SLOW screening PM Colin on TELEVISION:TOTS,Survival International Infomercial and RV interview with JA, viewing in our room (Thanks to Aishling who taped it and brought it to London)in our room with lots of Chardonnay. Evening: Colin in the Flesh: 3 DOR.

Emma and I knew Camilla and Prince Charles were sitting only two rows in front of K & Mari...I tried to signal them...(not easy across a theatre.) Poor Mari didn't know this when she almost mowed him down. LOL. The Queen's Theatre is pretty elegant;we sat in the Royal Circle. BTW, that's where AC with Colin played. And no, we weren't wearing jogging suits and trainers! Interestingly,two actors in the play: Ben Aris and Michael Culkin list RV in their film credits.

Ay Dios Mio! What barrage of goodies to catch up on! Everyone on "Team Donmar"-- I give you a round of applause!!!!Good work, team! (Evelyn-- got your email from a few weeks back, sorry it's taken me so long to reply. I'm in the middle of doing my PhD exams...) So ODB is sporting the OxFam look, eh? Not to worry-- he's probably ahead of our time in terms of fashion. Was glancing at an "Abercombie and Fitch" catalogue and fuzzy parkas and ugly shoes were all the rage.

(Mari)You two are the best Hear hear. I loved to see SLOW, it was much better than I expected, and I and my friend were quite impressed by the way Evelyn and Karen had arranged everything. The small theater in D�Arblay Street was the perfect place to watch the movie and the posters were an extra surprise. And watching it with all of you was great. Thanks a lot.

(Mari) the Mr. Bean episode I remember that one, actually one of the very few I ever watched. (winter) he's probably ahead of our time in terms of fashion. Then we have cause to worry!:-o A question: what keys have each of you hung on Arami's keyrings? Home, car?

Karen, Evelyn and everybody who was there, I love all your reports and whish I had been there with you. Are we going to see any pictures here soon?

(Elena)Re: SLOW screening:Evelyn and Karen had arranged everything Thank you...but I cannot accept the compliment. Karen did all the arranging, I accompanied her to Optimum, passed the coffee, collected the money and rolled the posters. A real no-brainer!:-)

Evelyn, Karen, and everyone: Thanks for sharing your stories! I can't tell you how much I'm enjoying them! (Family thinks I'm nuts as I sit here laughing out loud, silly family)

Welcome back, Mari! *waving to you from the other end of the Turnpike* Glad all of you made it home before the snowflakes started falling. Mari, your close encounter of the royal kind is outrageous! We expected our group to see Colin, but Charlie and Camilla? Who would have thunk it?! (BTW, does she really look like a pit bull?)

(Evelyn) Thank you...but I cannot accept the compliment. Hey, if it hadn't been for your influence ("make it happen" philosophy), it wouldn't have happened and we would've spent our time in London sitting in our hotel rooms watching "So You Want to Be a Millionaire" and "The Big Breakfast." ;-) I've got a picture of Camilla...kind of blurred and not her entire head. She was close and walking fast as she passed me. Nita, you asked about pictures from London earlier. Sorry, but we don't post personal pictures.

Re; Camilla:(BTW, does she really look like a pit bull?) LOL. I actually thought she looks better in person...rather attractive. The hair , unfortunately, is her downfall.Looks somewhat like a wad of dried hay.

Tomato Boy has returned!! I have changed the link on Drool's main page so that Tomato Boy shows up and I've changed the link to my Bucket there too. It will take you to the Bucket main page, but you need to change the urls manually to get to the pages to the various movies, etc., and NO images or backgrounds will show up. I am still unable to access the files.

Sigh, Sigh, sob, sob. There you are having a ball in London while I am left behind scrubbing floors, chasing grandsons, making beds,chasing grandsons, washing clothes, chasing grandsons. Tracking down my husband stolen bike.

(Family thinks I'm nuts as I sit here laughing out loud, silly family) LOL,we seem to have the same kind of family!

(KarenR)Tomato Boy has returned!! I noticed! How nice :-)

If you have a Firth Hand Fetish, I have a nice picture for you. Only up today. The java changes the picture each day. It will be there again next Thursday -- if I don't change it beforehand! CF's Hands Murph Karen: I love Colin on his rump in the corridor!

(Eileen) *waving to you from the other end of the Turnpike* Glad all of you made it home before the snowflakes started falling. . . .(BTW, does she really look like a pit bull?) *Waving back at you from snowy Exit 3, Eileen!* (Wasn't it a rottweiler?;-) Actually, I thought Camilla was attractive in person. Wish I could say the same for Barry Manilow.;-) Glad you enjoyed the story. Always happy to provide sport for my neighbors.;-)

What an amazing story Karen and Mari. Almost more adventures than Blackadder! You are SO kind to the "straw" Queen, Camilla. I have a dear 84 year old friend who refers to her as Camilla "Park and Ride." I had not heard it before but believe it is quite a common (commoner's?) expression! Glad everyone has arrived home safely. It has been sheer delight to have you , Karen and Evelyn fitting in the missing pieces of the jigsaw. Karen what an amazing page you have created on Blackadder.Thank you. Did you know that the guy playing Napolean , Simon Russell Beale, has also been nominated for an Olivier? Mais oui, 'ee is not just a "big girl's blouse".

Here's the listing from Donovan Quick on ABC and there's a color pic of him. Looks like a reverse from the b/w one that's on Murph's page. Enjoy!!! http://www.abc.net.au/tvpub/highlite/h0004dono.htm

Hi everyone - where do I start. It's 11pm and I've just got home after a most wonderful day. It started off with a meal at Belgo Centraal (for those lucky enough to be in the Donmar gang it's the restaurant directly opposite) and continued with a Skinny Latte Grande at Starbucks with eyes fxed on the staircase just in case...sadly nothing but the anticipation was all! Then at just before 3 we took our front row Dress Cirle seats for the performance. The lights dimmed, a presence was felt on stage, the lights came up and there directly below me was....well need I say more.... the day just started to pick up! I was lucky enough to catch 3DOR early in December but I found this performance to be far superior( maybe it was because I was actually taking in ALL of what was going on on stage this time and not just the contents of that lovely green pully and ratty cardigan!). EMcG (parictuarly as Lina in Act 2) was a trifle OTT - yes I know the character is supposed to be but at times she was ...just plain loud. Although Lina's bed scene with Ned just sent shivers down the spine. As I said before our seats were directly above the bed and the moments were so tender, so intimate, that in a strange way it was almost as if I was intruding. It was a beautiful scene. DM I thought, as Pip, really held the stage during his speech about his life and the audience really warmed to his winks. And during the "Walker's in pain" segment the crowd were rolling in the aisles and he was lapping it up but as Theo he was ....average. Ok now, let's talk serious palpitations here! I have read previous comments to the effect that on some occasions ODBs performance appeared rushed, shouty and tense but this afternoon it was perfection....oh that voice! I had doubts too whether my view would be restricted from where I sat but these were unfounded because I spent a great deal of time gazing into those beautiful brown eyes of his. He seemed relaxed and to be enjoying himself (probably the relief that it will all soon be over soon) and this w s certainly borne out by his fantastic portrayal of the screwed up Walker (who seems to have lost his December manic Woody Allen tendencies thank goodness) and of the stammering and twitching Ned. It was a wonderful thing to watch Ned transform from a geeky no-hoper to Lina's object of desire. I had not before fully taken in the scene when Ned tells Lina about the, I think, "flanneur" (may have misheard) - the guy that wanders through the streets and round the world seemingly lonely and yet content with life, self assured and self sufficient..a Walker....you see it all fits! At the finale the customary bows seemed endless almost mechanical and in fact the three of them must have realised this as beaming smiles and laughter rang out. Great stuff! Anyway the piece de resistance. Having been forwarned about the possibility of a sighting in the foyer - thanks everybody for the tips by the way -I decided to temporarily shelve my shy nature and go for it. I WAS going to try and speak to him I WOULD ask for an autograph ...and a photograph? well just maybe. We took our places in the foyer and to start with there were quite a few people there but as time went on these dwindled and when an appearance was made ( about 20 minutes later) there was only a handful left. DM and ODB came down together with Alan Cumming and two other guys that I didn't recognise..friends I'd guess, scruffily chic. DM stopped at the foot of the stairs and chatted to the blokes, who shook hands and left, he seemed in a hurry to go so I didn't bother him, he muttered something to Coli and all I heard in reply was "No, I've got to....." exit DM towards Starbucks. DB was then alone (I think) two girls were in front of me, the blonde asked if it would be ok if they were photographed and he said "yes" but they (the 2 girls) then faffed about for what seemed ages discussing something or other and generally annoying everybody (with me thinking can I nip in here and get a quick autograph - but not) then Colin said a bit tersly "Well how do you want to do this?". Oh dear I thought, perhaps he isn't up to this after all! I had warned my friend that if I got anywhere near him or looked as if I was about to talk to him then she was to take some photos - but at this little incident we exchanged a glance that said ..this just isn't going to happen. Finally the blonde's friend got her act together and took a snap. OBD seemed to be Ok with it so I motioned towards him asked for an autograph (which he kindly did ...and spelt my name correctly..nobody ever does!). All my plans to say something original just shrivelled and for ne awful moment I thought I'd frozen completely . I asked for a photograph "Yes of course" and then the blissful moment arrived when I felt his hand on my shoulder. I don't remember the flash, I don't remember if I smiled or not, I can't even remember what he was wearing (Parka I think) I do remember saying something sadly twee like "Thankyou so much, we really enjoyed it - it was great" to which he smiled sweetly and said "Thank you". And that was it, we set off (I think I was floating at this point) towards Covent Garden where I nearly got knocked over by a cyclist and began our long tube and train journey home. My friend just kept saying "I can't believe you did that...that just isn't you!" and I....well I just couldn't stop, smiling, giggling to myself and shaking for hours......I still am. Sorry I went on but it isn't everyday you get to meet, talk to and be touched by Colin Firth is it? Did I do you proud girls?

*applause**applause**applause**applause**applause**applause**applause**applause* Tracy, you did brilliantly! We all know how difficult it is to get our mouths to cooperate and spit out a coherent and nonidiotic sentence in the Great One's presence. Love that expression "twee" (I think I get the general gist) I really agree with you how DM has become so much better in the role over time, especially in comparison to last March and told everyone so. (See, I do give credit to the other actors!!) He's improved one hundredfold IMO...now, if they could only do something with that other one... I too thought his handling of the Walker is in so much pain speech was executed so well, as I had seen it done elsewhere by another actor. Lina however doesn't have to be an OTT part. Actually, I view her as a tired old southern belle vs a cutsey kittenish type. EMcG's Nan was a nonentity and her Lina was all wrong, wrong, wrong. Sounds like the cast is seeing the light at the end of the tunnel...only a few more performances to go. Thanks, Tracy for giving us your impressions.

Thank you Tracy....you helped us relive the moments at the Donmar Lobby. You were lucky he doesn't always come down after the matinee. DM and ODB came down together with Alan Cumming They must be good friends. Alan Cumming (CoF) and he attended TEP premiere in Hollywood together.(Pic is on some website).

Aren't you proud of yourself, Tracy, for hanging in there. We are. Echoing Evelyn, I'm surprised he did come down after the matinee but so glad that he did. Glad "the blonde" didn't keep you from your goal - an autograph and photo! Well done! then Colin said a bit tersly "Well how do you want to do this?". Glad he doesn't suffer fools too easily. Glad too he was sweet to you. Btw, what was Alan Cumming doing during all this. Or did he just sort of disappear? Colin Tunnel Vision seems to do that to all his friends and loved ones.

Review of Donovan Quick in the Canberra Times: "The story is uplifting enough without being too mawkish, and the performances are enough to make it worth watching (especially Firth's, who manages to establish Quick as flawed and interesting rather than a mysterious Superman)." Firth is described as the "tall-dark-and-handsome stranger Donovan Quick"...but unfortunately the newspaper copy called him Peter Firth!! I've added that and some new graphics to the Bucket page. http://206.97.234.70/~KarenR/mdbro/DQ.html

And be sure to go the very end ;-)

Thank you Tracy for your wonderfull report! I know how much courage it takes to ask ODB for an autograph. You did just super! (Tracy)I had not before fully taken in the scene when Ned tells Lina about the, I think, "flanneur" (may have misheard) - the guy that wanders through the streets and round the world seemingly lonely and yet content with life, self assured and self sufficient..a Walker....you see it all fits! It took me two times to notice this too. (Karen)Lina however doesn't have to be an OTT part. What is an OTT part? (Heide)Btw, what was Alan Cumming doing during all this. Or did he just sort of disappear? Colin Tunnel Vision seems to do that to all his friends and loved ones. LOL! I wonder whether these italics work, as I have never tried it before.

Congratulations Tracy, you did it! OTT means over the top, Nita. Karen, thanks once again. You are very *quick*. Loved the end. ;-D

Had my photos developed. Good god he�s handsome, again I can�t believe my eyes! Does he really have as beautiful face as that, and to think that we met him and touched him!!!!! I�m totally stunned again. Barbara & Mari, please email me your addresses.

Here is the photo of Cumming and Colin Evelyn mentioned. It was at the Hollywood premiere of TEP. Murph

Mistake again! Murph

Anyway, if you click on "Murph," above, you can see it. I do web pages all the time...you would think I could figure out how to put up a picture here...So sorry. Murph

Thanks Murph...that's the one. Colin is wearing The Premiere Suit. Wonder who picked out Alan Cumming's suit? He looks like as ice cream man! ~~~~~ (Elena)Mari & Barbara please email me you addresses Me too, Me too :-))) ~~~~~~~~ (Tracy)...a Walker....you see it all fits! (Nita)It took me two times to notice this too. Didn't you read our discussion of 3 DOR we did last spring? BTW we DID hand carry the film discussion to the box office. (Happy, Moon?)

I have this sinking feeling that Drool might disappear again one of these days. Nita, Tracy ..all new folks...this is the URL for Drool in Exile http://www.insidetheweb.com/messageboard/mbs.cgi/mb49898

BTW we DID hand carry the film discussion to the box office. (Happy, Moon?) Happy, happy, Moon. Who had a great time eclipsing last night. ;-D Now we should get one to Greenberg. (just kidding)

Well done Tracy, great report and I am so glad you got to have your photo taken with Colin, as Evelyn says he doesn't ususally come down after a Matinee. I was thinking isn't it strange how things can change, Joseph Feinnes was the blue-eyed boy in SIL and garnered rave reviews and some people thought he shoudl have been nominated for an Oscar, however, his latest film "Rancid Alluminium" has had universally bad reviews, Christopher Tookey in The Daily Mail gave it no stars, at least SLOW had one star and he says it even makes Michael Winner's "Parting Shots "look good. (thought by many critics to be the worst film ever). So it doesn't just happen to Coli , everyone is there to be shot down.

Great work, Tracy! Loved your report! So glad you got your autograph and photo.

good scoop, Tracy! Get that stuff framed! (BTW, I just heard from Ben. Seems that he was waiting for y'all at the designated time/place, but didn't find a soul)

(evelyn)Didn't you read our discussion of 3 DOR we did last spring? I have missed that one. Was it on an other topic?

Great reports, everyone! And very well done Tracy and Elena! Looking forward to hearing about DQ...the last collaboration between writer and director won a BAFTA, and deservedly so! Our local Waterstones has some copies of "Maid of Buttermere" actually on the shelves, so I'm refreshing my memory (years since I read it). The role of John Hatfield would be a very challenging one, and the choice of director seems very appropriate,,,this is not a "costume drama", but has strong political/religious undertones. Ann, SLOW got 2 stars from Chris Tookey in the Mail, and , I agree, Rancid Aluminium (and JFiennes) seems to have got the worst reviews, ever, ever. It's an up and down world.

A few days late, but finally found my way here thanks to Karen. What an amazing few days. I was so sorry to have missed the Friday CF sighting at Starbucks. Had to wait until the evening performance to see him. The play -- Evelyn was kind enough to trade tickets with me for the first act , sitting at the foot of the bed afford me a great view of his feet, nostrils and bottom of his chin during the opening scene. Karen was very busy looking at the bottom of his boot, to find the shoe size. The general consensus is that they touched more, DM improved, but not Emc, and Colin is just a wonder to watch. I noticed he is sometimes rather expressionless while the other characters are speaking. He looked much better off stage in the Donmar lobby, must be the lighting, or he looks better as himself? Saturday was an all Firth day, SLOW screening, 3DoR matinee, dinner with Firth friends and evening performance of 3DoR, drinks with same Firth friends, Jan 15 will always be my Firth Anniversary. Not a bad time to visit London either, with the low fare, and sales. The Mat. Performance seem a bit off, when Colin took his bow, was looking into the audience but not smiling, someone said he looked rather bored, I would agree. The evening performance was much better, everyone seems to be more energetic, and the audience was much more responsive too. However, it was hard to laugh at the punch line for the 5th time, except I can hear Mari from 2 seats away, good girl. Sunday at the Millennium Dome, two viewing of CF's Shakespeare (all of a minute, with dialogue of no more than a dozen words, but nice legs in dark green tights) 3 days of Colin, wonderful Firth friends, and countless memories, what a great way to start the new year.

Bethan ...I thought you said you were going to see 3 DOR again...tomorrow? ~~~~~~ (Winter)I just heard from Ben. Seems that he was waiting for y'all at the designated time/place, but didn't find a soul) I sent Ben two email messages asking him to confirm...he never answered. So we thought he wasn't coming....Sorry,Ben:-( ~~~~~~ Nita: The film/play discussions that we do on #98 are archived on http:www.colinfirth.com courtesy of Karen who edits them and Kirsten who loads them.Go to front page and you'll find the button.Cliff Notes brilliant.

Well done Tracy. What a thrilling episode for you. As one who has also felt the Firth Fingers I know how you must feel. Savour every delicious minute of it.

Welcome back Emma , good to hear of your impressions and once again, lovely to meet you once more.

Just checked out DQ Karen, great page thank you. Your versatility is endless (hey something in common with ODB)

Bethan and all: Re MOB -- I too got the book from the library and will read it for the first time. It looks like a good one. "His face was bright, the complexion high, whipped by the weather, strong nose, fine teeth, brown glowing eyes and broad black eyebrows; he wore no wig -- his hair was long, thick, grey now overtaking the brown -- and there was a scar on his left cheek which dimpled as he smiled..." Chapter One - The Maid of Buttermere by Melvin Bragg Murph

The Maid of Buttermere by Melvin Bragg I'll read it when I know he's signed on the dotted line.... I got burned with Flashman.

Hi, just got my computer back from the technician so here I am. I saw the evening performance of 3DOR on Saturday with my mom. We flew to London for 2 and a half days and tried to squeeze shopping, sight seeing, the millennium dome and as many plays as possible in that period of time. needless to say that I was completely exhausted when he got back... But, it was all worth it. The only thing I�m sorry about is that I didn�t have time to say hello to everyone before or after the performance. I just manage to say a few words to Karen, Evelyn & Mark and his wife. I think I�ve recognized Gi & Antonio (as was the only folks around speaking in a Spanish accent). We were in the millennium dome all Saturday (extraordinary long lines to all the zones, millions of people. Don�t go on the weekend!) and didn�t have time to eat diner before 3DOR, so when it was over we were just sooooo hungry. After CF had gone we just ran to grab something to eat. Anyway, I was amazed to see how tiny the theater actually was! our seats were in the stalls, second row, so we were practically sitting on the stage. It was a completely weird experience to look at my fantasy man within a touching distance. Like Emma, I also think he looked better off stage. Don�t know why, but at first I thought he looked really awful as Walker (maybe because of the sweater. It made his head and neck look bigger), and then, bit by bit his looks started improving in front of my eyes. When he started playing Ned I was already drooling... After the play when we got out to the foyer, I asked my mom to take pictures of him while I tried to get near him to ask for an autograph/photo. I think that I pushed someone from FoF or Spring at this point... (I�m so sorry about that whoever it was. It was just the excitement and the possibility of not getting an autograph as the women from the theater shouted that he didn�t have much time). When I did got near him I asked him for an autograph and told him that I came from Israel just to see him. At this he looked at me surprised and said "euuuuu...". then he signed on my program and gave it to me looking at my eyes. He has such a talent in human relations. He just know what to say and do to make you feel great when you are with him (as many of you pointed out). Unfortunately, my mother ran out of film at that time (she thought there were 36 pictures in the film but there were only 24...), so I didn�t ask for a photo with him. And that�s another thing I�m sorry about. Never mind, It was great anyway. Another huge benefit from this short trip was of course: "Bridget Jones: the edge of reason". Great book! Finished it in 3 days, laughing all the way through. I can�t decide whether I like it because I keep imagining CF as MD (did anyone ask him about that?) or because it is indeed a great book. Can�t wait to start discussing this book with other readers (god only knows when it will arrive to Israel). (Sorry for the long post...)

Thanks for your stories, Tracy and Emma! No detail is too small to be overlooked. (Tracy) two girls were in front of me, the blonde asked if it would be ok if they were photographed and he said "yes" but they (the 2 girls) then faffed about for what seemed ages discussing something or other and generally annoying everybody (with me thinking can I nip in here and get a quick autograph - but not) then Colin said a bit tersly "Well how do you want to do this?". Colin's been such a great sport about indulging his fans. We weren't sure if he would do the 'lobby bit' this time, since the run was much longer than March. But here he is, nearly at the end, still trying to satisfy everyone (even those who apparently forgot their manners). Great DQ page, Karen.

the bed afford me a great view of his feet, nostrils and bottom of his chin Hi Emma, great to read your report! You have seen something I haven�t, the soles of his feet, ah!! :-D And thanks very much for your detailed report, Tracy. Like Evelyn said, reading it was like reliving it all. About his terseness....oh my, I wouldn�t like to get in his way when he gets angry. I suspect he�s got a very strong temperament actually, it�s in all his movements and glances and expressive eyes. (Tracy)He seemed relaxed and to be enjoying himself I�m glad for that. isn't everyday you get to meet, talk to and be touched by Colin Firth Too bad it isn�t. I really wouldn�t mind it as an every day phenomenon. well I just couldn't stop, smiling, giggling to myself and shaking for hours......I still am. Hehee, I still am and meeting him was a whole week ago! I hope I�ll never recover from that CF treatment.

And thank you for your story, Adi (wasn't up yet when I posted). Re: Mark Darcy, Colin's been consistently non-committal about doing this part. (Evelyn) The Maid of Buttermere by Melvin Bragg I'll read it when I know he's signed on the dotted line.... I got burned with Flashman. My sentiments exactly. But things may be looking up--I'm going away next week. (So what, you're probably thinking.) I only bring it up because whenever I'm gone there's major news. Stay tuned!

Nita, here's the url to all our edited film discussions. You will find 3DOR listed. Be sure to read our "Cliff Notes" (an American brand name for study aids that students buy when they don't want to read the book). http://www.firth.com/filmdis/disindex.htm (BTW, I just heard from Ben. Seems that he was waiting for y'all at the designated time/place, but didn't find a soul) Really? On Ramble, he was asking for the url for Spring because he had no idea where we were to meet... (Emma) Karen was very busy looking at the bottom of his boot, to find the shoe size. Well...only for the opening monologue. Kept me distracted while he was having a bit of difficulty with his lines. Thanks, Lizza. You must have liked the horses at the end, my gilt-edged hooved one! ;-)

Hi Adi, too bad we never met but we probably were very close to each other in the Donmar! Loved the "euuuu" bit!

Welcome back Adi. Great to hear your impressions of that Saturday. We probably rubbed shoulders if we had but known it. I was talking with Mark and his wife too. Have you come down to earth from looking deep into those eyes yet?

Shoot!!! While I was posting, four others did as well. Wow! (Evelyn) I got burned with Flashman. Huh? How? Did you put your life savings into that production company? Great to hear your story, Adi, and very nice to meet you even though it was so brief. Buttermere: I asked my library today to send the downtown copy to my branch. I'll add it to the pile of books I plan to read. ;-)

Hello, just to say I'm back, and how much I enjoyed meeting you folks. I only wish there had been more time to talk to everybody. It was great fun! I will never forget the face of the waiter when all 26 of us flooded the hotel bar after the show on Saturday night. Now I'll rather try to keep up with Spring and everything. Report to follow.

"(Winter) good scoop, Tracy! Get that stuff framed! (Elena) Had my photos developed. Good god he�s handsome" I only hope that the solitary photo comes out OK. The film was especially bought for the occasion so apart from THE pic and some silly shots of me, holding THE pen, clutching THE signed program and my fondled *sigh* shoulder, taken in a pub not long after, there are numerous exposures yet to fill so I�ve been snapping everything that moves � cats &birds (not together that would be just plain cruel ;-) ), niece, niece covered in chocolate, niece getting far too close to holy raincoat (see shoulder-fondled reference above) aarrgghhh! Must get it developed next week and if any good (silly comment really � if He�s in it, it will be absolutely fantastic!) will post it �not sure exactly how but someone will help me out I�m sure. "(Heide) Btw, what was Alan Cumming doing during all this. Or did he just sort of disappear? " The mind is a complete blur�. I think he must have just been absorbed into the walls or something as he just vanished, cannot recall, but in the words of Jo in FP �Do we really care ?� ;-) "(Elena) About his terseness�" Very masterful, it certainly made them sort their lives out, like you I think he may have a bit of a hot temper and I certainly wouldn�t want to be on the receiving end. You should have seen the look he gave them - talk about expressive glances! But he was very sweet with me *great big cheesy grin here*. "(Emma) sitting at the foot of the bed afford me a great view of his feet, nostrils and bottom of his chin." Aha - but looking down as he lay there composing himself for the start of the piece gave us a great sight of everything else on view! Had to take great care not to drool too much as it may have landed on him from above and well, it might have ruined my chances of a greet later! "(Lizza) As one who has also felt the Firth Fingers I know how you must feel" It�s about 24 hours since my last post and I�ve still got that tingly feeling. I have a long train journey into London to work every day that I try to sleep through and I suspect that this morning I may have had a huge grin on my face throughout. Sorry to all passengers on the 7.05 Cannon Street train , I know you are not supposed to be that happy on the way to work! BTW a)what is LOL? (Stupid question probably but I am a newbie � please enlighten me) b) Is �Playmaker� worth trying to get hold of? If so I suspect that I may have to buy it unless there are any kind Brits amongst us who can organise a copy (illegal taping, perish the thought) or is it too dire (have read some previous postings and there doesn't seem to be a party line here..C**p or worth a peek? Thanks for all the plaudits , glad you enjoyed the post, it wasn't exactly a hardship doing the research!!! Have a good weekend all!

Adi...great to have you back. Sorry we couldn't connect for dinner.Glad we got to meet, and you got close to The Great One.We have missed you.Thanks for the report. ~~~~~~ Tracy...yes "Playmaker" is worth getting hold of...and no, there is no party line at Drool. LOL=Laugh Out Loud ROTFLOL=Roll on the Floor LOL ROTFLMAO=ROTFL My A** Off

(Tracy)sight of everything else on view! Aha? Like what else? Detailed description please! ;-D

I'll read it when I know he's signed on the dotted line.... I got burned with Flashman. (Evelyn) Hey, you've just got to hang in there! There was something in the Times about how long it takes major TV projects to reach the screen, often three or four years...for example we've just seen Melvyn Peake's "Gormenghast" which was commissioned way back in 1995. P&P took several years to actually get off the ground. Casting/signing on the dotted line is usuaaly the last stage. I'm always very, very optimistic...if his name is linked with a project, I reckon ('til proved otherwise!) that he'll do it! I'm sure there will definitely be a Flashman on screen in the not too distant future!

Tracy, you did great, thanks for your report, loved it. You deserved that pic and autograph!:-) (Tracy)I have a long train journey into London to work every day that I try to sleep through and I suspect that this morning I may have had a huge grin on my face throughout. LOL! I know what you mean... Welcome back to Spring, Emma and Renate. Thanks for the report, Emma, and I can't wait for yours, Renate :-) Evelyn, I ordered Flashman from amazon.com. I hope it is interesting enough by itself, but am sure I will cast Colin as Flashman in my mind's eye... (Adi) I think I�ve recognized Gi & Antonio (as was the only folks around speaking in a Spanish accent). Indeed? Were you and your mother the two Palestinian looking women in the lobby then? We thought so. (Bethan)I'm always very, very optimistic... Sure! ;-)

It actually took 10 years from Sue Birtwistle's initial idea to complete "her" version of P&P. Now a small interim offering to cheer us while we're waiting for more pics from London... (fingers crossed...) http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Trailer/1833/candis0897.htm

(Emma) However, it was hard to laugh at the punch line for the 5th time, except I can hear Mari from 2 seats away, good girl. Good to see you posting, Emma. I think he likes an audience that "gets" the lines, so I was more than happy to oblige!;-) Welcome home, dear. And welcome overboard, Tracy--loved your report. As for whether Playmaker is *C---p or worth a peek*, I'd say it's crap *and* worth a peek . . or two, or three, or . . . Elena, I'm so glad your pictures turned out good. Mine are crap and *not* worth a peek.;-) Adi, good to hear from you--I believe we met in the lobby, but very briefly. I'm working my way through Edge Of Reason and loving it. Helen Fielding and the book get a quarter page of coverage in the 1/21 Entertainment Weekly, as part of their books to watch for in 2000 section. In the same issue, Evelyn, Jennifer's name is highlighed in bold in the plays to watch for section. Nothing on RV.

(Bethan)I'm always very, very optimistic... (Gi)Sure! ;-) Hee hee! Say, Bethan, you still haven't told us when you're seeing 3DOR... (Gi) I ordered Flashman from amazon.com. I hope it is interesting enough by itself, but am sure I will cast Colin as Flashman in my mind's eye... You can't take Flashy too seriously, especially in this first book. He's repulsive by today's standards. He will grow on you, though (right, Karen? ;-)). I was able to find several books in libraries, thereby investing enthusiasm only--which quickly dwindled when Murph's news broke. Anyway, we shall see what the future brings.

Listen folks....a week today we were viewing SLOW at Mr. Young's Private Theatre and I haven't seen a report of the movie on #82 (Current Productions) from anybody there."Go to it!" ~~~~~ (Bethan)I'm always very, very optimistic... (Gi)Sure! ;-) (Eileen)Hee hee! New Year's resolution, Bethan? Atta girl,be positive!

Here is the Janeway House flower arrangement that Spring sent to Colin last Saturday. Inside was placed a small glass ornament in the shape of a windmill (Donovan Quick ref). And here are some scans of the card that KJ produced to accompany the flowers. Our thanks to her for all her hard work.

Thanks for your reports, Emma and Adi. I hope to read Renate's soon. And Arami's? There's always something new in each one. So ladies, no reports of post-Colin blues like last time. Glad to hear it. Arami, bee-yootiful picture of the dear one. Thanks. KJ, wonderful likeness. You captured the Walker sweater too! Thanks, Karen, for showing us what we homebound ones missed.

Wonderful, K.J.

(Tracy)Had to take great care not to drool too much as it may have landed on him from above and well, it might have ruined my chances of a greet later! LOL Karen, thanks for the link to the film discusssions.Wonder when I'll find time to read them.

"(Elena)Aha? Like what else? Detailed description please! ;-D" Well without getting too base...perhaps it's better to just limit it to the word contours! ;- ~~~~~. But seriously and without my drooling hat on, as the lights were going up I would say that from above you got a great sight of the actor in preparation, and when his dialogue began you could really see the... I dunno..torment(?) in his expressions which may have not been evident to a lot of the audience.

Whoops hit the submit button by mistake! Great work KJ ..and the flowers what a nice touch! Mari have finished Edge of Reason..won't spoil the ending but it was fab! Thanks for your Playmaker advise, there's a copy up for auction at eBay quite reasonably priced at moment so I'll hopefully be able to judge for myself. Even if story is pants ... it will give my other vids a chance to cool down from overuse ;-)