Oh, and if you want to take a look at the 3Deers 3DOR page, it's here: http://www.firth.com/donmar/donmar-entry.htm It is not yet linked to the main page, I'm struggling a bit with software and some other bugs.

No photo in the Times.

Good job, Renate! Three cheers for this Deer!

Very Nice Indeed Renate! :) all those yummy pictures.... which reminds me, *Attention Marcia* has anyone claimed the leather jacket he's wearing in the lobby to sign autographs as a "real life" keepsake? If not, I would dearly love to have it. :) I might even be persuaded to compose an essay, extoling its virtues, over on 113. :)

Many thanks for welcoming me to your conference and many more thanks for letting me enjoy vicariously the thrill of attending a performance of 3DOR. I've always hoped that CF would do a play in New York as I get there about once a year to see 2 or 3 shows. Alas -- his stage work appears to have been done in either London or Los Angeles. I have less chance of getting to Los Angeles than I do to London. Still I live in hope. Plus there's always the movies and TV. I've always enjoyed CF's quirkier projects. So I'm really looking forward to "Donovan Quick", that is if it ever gets an American release. My favorites with Firth are "The Advocate", aka "Hour of the Pig", and "Apartment Zero". Please forgive me this: but I like Russell Crowe. I find him a superb actor and he does have a sexiness. You might wonder if I think him a better actor than Colin Firth? No. Not better in the least, but other. The same can be said of the sensuality he projects, it's different -- like apples to kiwis. I'm saying this as someone who has worked in advertising; different people respond to disparate types of sex appeal. If you're interested as to what my produce preferences are -- it's apples.

(Cheryl) My favorites with Firth are "The Advocate", aka "Hour of the Pig", and "Apartment Zero". Very nice; I like those too--they would be unusual no matter who was in them. Mark - re your reference to Scarlet P on British TV, which I didn't know about. I've been thinking for weeks that there ought to be a remake of the old Leslie Howard film of S.P., which I think is superb, and I think ODB's just the man to do it. He makes a great rake, and I'd like to see him do more roles like that.

Cymbeline, there is a great SP out there with Anthony Andrews, he is absolutely perfect. I can not imagine an improvement. :-) Eileen, now we know who writes for R&K Lee. That was too funny. (Karen), Now, if only Colin (Ned) would wear something equally provocative to bed instead of his white undershirt. You do not really want Colin like that with EMG in bed do you? We will have to ask a Brazilian about the thongs. I believe it all started in Ipanema. ;-D

(Moon) there is a great SP out there with Anthony Andrews, he is absolutely perfect. I can not imagine an improvement. :-) Firthette Rule numero uno: ANY FILM IS IMPROVED BY THE ADDITION OF ODB -- ANY FILM, ANYWHERE, ANY TIME

I went to see MLSF twice on Saturday and once on Sunday and absolutely loved it. I was starting to think I had read so much about it and had been waiting for it for so long that I might be disappointed; but no. It was showing at a fairly new cinema so the screen, sound, seating etc. were excellent. There were between 15 and 20 people at the two morning sessions, and between 45 and 50 at the afternoon session. Everyone laughed at the appropriate times and seemed to enjoy the movie. Quite a few people tayed to the end of the credits whereas normally its only me and whoever I'm with. Does anyone know if there is a soundtrack available in the States? I asked at my local music shop but their computer doesn't have it listed. Cathey

Welcome, Cheryl. Your favourites are two of mine, as well. I just watched The Advocate again last night and I like it better with every viewing and ODB in it. I am hoping to pick up The Hour of the Pig in London for the "enhanced" scenes. Don't throw anything at me but I enjoyed The Scarlett Pimpernel with EMcG and REG especially in their scenes together. My mom and I started watching Vanity Fair the other night and could only take about an hour of it.This series really needed ODB; we never saw anything with such uniformly unappealing men in it and the music is just awful - so inappropriate and obtrusive. I won't be able to compare CF's new interpretations in 3DOR with the March performance (which is perhaps an advantage) but I am rather looking forward to a more energetic portrayal of Walker. Although I find his subtle acting deeply appealing, it will be a nice change to see him do something more over-the-top.Thanks, everybody, for the comments. Three weeks from now, I shall be sitting at the Donmar waiting for the play to begin. Can't wait. Re Colin's Darcy recognition factor. I suppose that when DB does another lead role in a production as successful as P&P (which success was due largely to him, as we know), the focus may shift. I don't think he has given another performance that has made as much of an impact as his Darcy. And he should be proud of that performance - he took what could have been a nothing role with little screen time and turned it into the heart and soul of a five hour mini-series. He should not be frustrated with the media but rather with his inability to find another such exciting part.

Cathey thanks for your report, is it playing all over Australia and have you seen any reviews. Will you go to the MLSF spoilers topic and tell us your thoughts on the film, favourite characters, favourite outfit favourite looks, absolutely anything you think might interest someone who won't be seeing it until May 2000! Many thanks.

Please forgive me this: but I like Russell Crowe. I find him a superb actor and he does have a sexiness. You might wonder if I think him a better actor than Colin Firth? No. Not better in the least, but other.... *********** Cheryl: Russell's a favorite of mine too. The Insider is just so great. However, as you say, apples and oranges...one has a rock band and wears necklaces, the other has dimples, thinning hair, and stands on the street in chains to make a point. I'll go for the Protest Guy! Here's the other one at the Australian awards this past weekend - still carrying that Insider weight! Murph I have a new picture (sadly without Colin) of the TOTS crew thanks to my friend Clive:

SO sorry to mess the whole thing up! I think I'll go back to lurking again. The picture is way too big, and I gave the wrong URL for the TOTS picture. Murph

Eileen, your Regis & Kathy Lee "interview" with Rafe was too fine. I had to read it again during my supper - practically blew my spaghetti sauce all over my monitor. Please forgive me this: but I like Russell Crowe. That's okay, Cheryl, many here like him too. Most of the time we're kidding though never when swearing allegiance to 'da man'. Cymbeline, your Rule #1 should be our motto. Lynda, can't wait to hear your 3DOR thoughts. Any others going soon to fan the flames?

Here is the proper URL for that cast pic: Again, sorry. Murph

For someone who thinks she knows something about http language!!!!!!???? Clear, please! Murph

Well, it took Eileen's hysterically funny interview with Reege 'n Rafe to finally shake me out of lurkdom. Brilliant, Eileen--wish I'd written it. Hmmm . . .maybe on FoF . . .hee hee.;-) I can't resist adding on: Rafe: Can't we please talk about Onegin? About Pushkin? Reege: Sure. Here's our next contestant: Irv Pushkin from Fort Lee, New Jersey! I'm enjoying reading everyone's comments on SLOW, 3DOR, MLSF, and all the assorted Firth-related acronyms, and am glad to have finally made it here!

Mari! Welcome!!! Aloha, too.

I loved the Regis & Kathy Lee interview, even though I never watch their show because Regis is Barfsville IMHO. It sounded so true to life though. Welcome Mari.

MARI!!!! They have barely removed the electrodes from my chest, but I knew I had to get my welcoming banner out. (damn that floor is hard) Evelyn says HI to all as I relieved her of all those things she dragged from England. Shame she couldn't fit Colin into the overhead compartment. I have a lot of scanning, printing and assorted and sundry things to do with that haul, not the least of which is to drool heavily. Here's the link to Mary's cast picture from TOTS: (why on earth wasn't it showing up correctly?) http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/tots/cast.html Great Donmar page, 3Deers. Pretty soon am going to start counting the days. Anbd thanks for the reprise of the "Get Shirty" article, Renate. Love the title. Love how this guy continues to get wet in all his pics. Will have to ask about Londinium...they do go to a seaside resort, so... hmmmm (CherylB) like apples to kiwis Ah yes, we all like the odd apple or two. Would you say he's a Rome Beauty, a Winesap or perhaps a Jonathan? Maybe a Golden Delicious? ;-D You'll find, CherylB, that many of us do admire other actors and their works. Some of us even post little tidbits on other topics here at Drool (like at Jeremy Northam). There is even a Russell Crowe topic here, I think. Russell does an excellent American accent. Was shocked when I found out that both he and Guy Pearce in LA Confidential were Australians. But Colin holds a supreme place here and Cymbeline's Firthette Rule No. 1 would seem basic (except I for one do NOT want to see Colin play the SP--nevah!). However, I'm not a big one on remakes of anything, if the original is one I've liked. The thought of Charade being remade for Will Smith is making me ill. Didn't the Wild Wild West teach these people anything? Cathey, thanks for your report on seeing MLSF. So glad that it finally made it to you and that it didn't let you down after having read soooo much about it. I think Evelyn checked to see if there was a soundtrack and no one had one listed.

Somebody - obviously from "Empire" - pointed the 3Deers to this article: http://www.empireonline.co.uk/news/news.asp?1772

WELCOME MARI and Lynda I second what Heide has said we look forward to your report of your trip to London and 3DOR. Also you may be able to see SLOW, I would think it would still be playing in London in 3 weeks time.

Welcome Mari Unusual sight in today's Times (London) of CF as Darcy astride his horse above a picture of Helen Fielding. The pop-culture photo-article, of course, is about dramatisations of Jane Austen's works, sparked by the BBC's new raunchy Mansfield Park. Also pictured: JA, Fay Weldon, Alicia Silverstone, GP.

Welcome Mari! I hope you become as talkative as we are. :-) Thanks for all the links, Renate, Karen and Murph. ODB is also mentioned in the "Empire" link Renate posted above, click on Blackadder. (Karen), Cymbeline's Firthette Rule No. 1 would seem basic (except I for one do NOT want to see Colin play the SP--nevah!). Most definitely, nevah! Karen, we are looking forward to all of Evelyn's goodies. Mark, you are agent #1. Thanks!

WELCOME, MARI! It's nice to see you here. Glad you enjoyed the 'transcript' from Regis and KL. wish I'd written it. I hope you treat us to a few of your hysterically funny 'conversations'! Lucie, I also rarely watch that show but it's Kathie Lee who gets to me. She's so...hard, so tough nowadays. I've a recurring mental picture of her coming home each day after the show and unshackling Frank from his chair. (Karen) Didn't the Wild Wild West teach these people anything? Clearly not. Further, whyohwhy do the powers that be in H'wood insist on bringing these vintage TV shows to the big screen? I think Brady Bunch was the only success. Now we've got *gag* Charlie's Angels to look forward to! *shakes head in disgust* Thanks for your MLSF report, Cathey. Lynda, sharpen your pencil and take copious notes for us regarding 3DOR and SLOW. Lastly, thanks to Evelyn for bringing back her "haul" and to Karen (in advance) for getting it on-line for the rest of us to enjoy.

(Karen) "They have barely removed the electrodes from my chest, but I knew I had to get my welcoming banner out. (damn that floor is hard)" Uh oh. Sounds like the dreaded My-oh-Colin-al Infarction!;-) Thanks very much to everyone for the warm welcome. Cathey, I'm so glad you enjoyed MLSF. It's one of my favorites, too. Three viewings in two days, you say? Sounds about right.;-) I just saw an Australian website with a very nice review, including an interview with, who else, David Puttnam. There are two Real Player clips from the film, which may be of interest to those who haven't yet seen it. They are *not* the same as the theatrical trailer. I don't have the exact URL, but you can go through the movie review query engine and scroll towards the b ttom of the list of MLSF reviews. http://www.mrqe.com

Some boxoffice info for MLSF in Australia: Released: Thu, Oct 21 1999 [think they meant the 12th] AU Box Office Total $ 48,236 Last Weekend Box Office $ 46,061 Screenings 118 Can't tell how many screens it is on, but looks like only one in Sydney (Village on George St.) and the program shut down (illegal operation) while I was trying other states. :-( FYI, A$48,000 = US$30,800

And on one of the Australian news/film sites, there is a totally new picture being used (of Malcolm McDowell with Fraser and the other kid). That wasn't handed out for publicity here.

Ok, also playing in Victoria (I assume in Melbourne) at the Village City Centre. The Greater Union chain has it listed in Western Australia (Megaplex Innaloo), Queensland (Megaplex Indooroopilly) and New South Wales (Campbelltown, Castle Hill Megaplex 16, and Miranda) Nothing in the ACT or NT. Not too shabby.

Welcome back Tineke, great to read your impressions and also Welcome Mari, you're going to have a great time in three weeks!! Eileen LOL!! if you had seen RF yesterday morning about 7.50am you would not have believed it! he was to follow this up with a session on "Live with Lorraine" on the plush sofa. The bit I saw had him in a voluminous shirt, with several buttons undone so when he was invited to take a croissant "They've been there for days Ralph" purrs the interviewer, he turned full to the camera lent over the plate and exposed yards of chest hair almost to his navel! I am so glad at times that ODB has the good sense not to get involved in charades like that! Or has such appalling taste in shirts!

BTW ODB has great knuckles! I noticed those especially but sadly he does not remove anything but his shirt and has a t-shirt under it! yes it is pretty tough being by the record player! But I pride myself on giving nothing away during the performance and leave it til I get to drool. Karen, looking forward to those goodies you are working on.

(Lizza) The bit I saw had him in a voluminous shirt, with several buttons undone Argh! Is this some new trendy thing? Hugh Grant always appears with his shirts unbuttoned too far. It does NOT look good. Do their fingers get tired?

Hi Gang....Missed you...Glad I had Aishling, AnnW. ,Tineke and Mark around...made the Spring withdrawls less painful. First Spring comments: Welcome Cheryl and Mari.We love newbies...and Mari "it's about time"!! ~~~~~~ Eileen, LMAO with the script of Rafe and Regis.RF is all over the place in London, ....TV, Borders signing books,a Pushkin reading at the Barbican,posters all over the Underground stations.And Onegin premiere tonight at the Odeon on Leiscester Sq. which he will attend.Can't Taking London by storm. ~~~~~~ Ben...let me add my congratulations on your new position....will contact you via email on January Spring Reunion plans. ~~~~~~ Told you all those Voting sites were rigged! ~~~~~~ There is no MLSF soundtrack...Glad you enjoyed the film Cathey. ~~~~~ 3 DOR is sold out for the next 4 weeks, I was told at the BO. When I picked up the January tickets, I was fortunate to get a return. There are returns every day and usually are sold after 7PM... I was lucky :-) ~~~~ 3 DOR Livia was not there on Wed. night. The jacket he is wearing in the protest pic is the same one he was wearing on Wed. night. The night I saw 3 DOR the audience was v. responsive.I love this play....it's loaded with ideas to keep your brain busy for days....but has enough humor to keep it light. After our discussions I saw things that I hadn't realized...the the stark scenery in Act 1 is IMO a refection of the house . He seems to be portraying Walker now with a "coiled-spring" tensemess,nervous erratic movements in contrast to Ned's determined spare movements (and words) It's more intense, but not distracting. I never tire of watching this guy on stage with his "bag of theatrical tricks" .He has an irrepresible manner of speech and movement on stage...but at the same time...it all seems so effortless, never contrived. BTW....I visited the Theatre Museum in Covent Garden which houses the National Archive of Theatre Presentations. I plan to contact them and see if they plan to tape 3 DOR for future viewing at their library. They currently have TRT which was taped in August.Stay tuned. ~~~~~~~~ I had a packed schedule....will give a report on Summerfolk later and answere any questions on 3 DOR.... Lizza and Tineke covered most of it.... I'm off to 121 to give report on SLOW.

(Mari) Sounds like the dreaded My-oh-Colin-al Infarction!;-) *sigh* What a way to go! Welcome home, Evelyn. We missed you too. I'm glad you saw ODB on Wednesday as he was not available after the Saturday evening performance. And he recognized you? *swoon* You did us proud, m'dear! Regarding 3DOR: Which interpretation of Walker do you prefer? Do you think EMcG was better this time around (I'm seeing a range of opinions on the subject, although the critics seem to love her)? Lizza, perhaps Rafe was inspired by Seinfeld's 'puffy shirt' episode.

Dame Evelyn, Welcome back in all your glory!! You described Walker so perfectly. Eileen- quick enlighten me about "puffy shirts" Was this one as vile a colour as RF was wearing?

Do you know how easy it was to find this? Searched on yahoo for "puffy shirt"!!

Welcome back, Evelyn! *waving and grinning like it was Christmas yesterday*

(Eileen)....Regarding 3DOR: Which interpretation of Walker do you prefer? Actually, I prefer the current one...emphasizes the contrast with Ned. David Morrissey plays Pip and Theo on the same level...he presents no contrast between father and son. EMcG southern accent is less pronounced this time and therefore more appealing. I didn't see the thong....my seat was on the stage right side...I missed the action when it was projected to the front...but hey, I had a ringside seat by the drafting table during the confrontation with Theo. ~~~~~ (Karen)*waving and grinning like it was Christmas yesterday* Glad to hear the posters got home....I missed them on the last leg of the flight:-( You have never seen a happier camper than Karen with two sets of publicity pictures!! ~~~~~ BTW Posters for 3 DOR are now available at the BO for 3.50 UKP. No mail orders (I asked).

One more thing...what's this "rail thin" look? Thinner than in March? Thinner than Jess? Or his usual degree of rail thinness? Inquiring minds want to know (the hair assessment has already been addressed) ;-p

(Karen) Ah yes, we all like the odd apple or two. Would you say he's a Rome Beauty, a Winesap or perhaps a Jonathan? Maybe a Golden Delicious?;-D I would say that the Rome Beauty appears to be to whom he's married and Jonathan is his brother. Since CF is reputed to be a bit internet phobic, he may not look fondly upon computers, so definitely not a Macintosh. As for being a Stayman Winesap, yeah I could see that. Mmm -- Golden Delicious, well he is delicious but yellow apples are associated with France and CF is resolutely a Brit. I have it: Red Delicious. The right color for a proper English apple, and no other apple so perfectly gets across the concept of an apple as bright red, glossy, very crisp Red Delicious. The thought of Charade being remade for Will Smith is making me ill. Karen it is said that misery loves company. May I join you in being sick at the thought of that. Whoever came up with that concept is sick or sadistic, or both. It makes my skin crawl.

Welcome back Dame Evelyn....recipient of the most well deserved handshake! And welcome to de-lurkers Mari and Cheryl! Cathey, I was so pleased that MLSF lived up to your expectations! Obviously well worth the wait. I'm almost 100% convinced that it should have opened in the UK in October (as indicated by David Puttnam's PR). If you check out British Airway's website http://www.british-airways.com you'll see that MLSF is listed as in-flight entertainment (Screen 4) for November, along with East is East (just released in the UK natiowide multiplex, much hyped, and The Trench, released a few weeks ago, again nationwide multiplex. A couple of other Brit films are listed, also released last month. All the movies listed h ve opened in the UK...except MLSF. So, in true Sherlock Holmes fashion, I deduce that it was scheduled for an October release, and then mysteriously backburnered for 7 months. Can anyone guess why (I can't!). Answers on a post card please! if you had seen RF yesterday morning about 7.50am you would not have believed it! he was to follow this up with a session on "Live with Lorraine" on the plush sofa. I guess it's the Ralph Fiennes week (bringing out my cat's claws)! Onegin weekends advertised every other minute on Classic fM, two appearances on TV movie programmes, and a clutch of "exclusive interviews" in the glossy mags with Francesca Annis (Rafe's partner) on her relationship with "the intensely private" Rafe. Yee--ee-ch, and there's me vainly searching for a glimpse of Colin. Oh well, give me a man who wears a roundnecked Tee shirt in bed (and trousers, and socks and boots!) How come he's kitted out for a five mile hike, whilst EMcG has stripped down to a black slip? Doesn't he even take his socks off? (Very elegant feet)! Back to RF, and claws out again, fully agree about the "oops, my shirt's unbuttoned to reveal my hairy chest" look. Reminds me of Julio in BJD. Again, I prefer men who have assets but don't flaunt them!

It is amazing that MLSF has not yet opened in Britain. You'd think at least Scotland would get it. It's a mystery. Bethan do you know something I don't? Was it mentioned before that Lina's wearing a black slip or was that just an assumption. Ah, but you wouldn't be able to see that thong too well through a black one...she must still be wearing the white. Hiya Mari! So glad you're back, Evelyn. McG southern accent is less pronounced this time and therefore more appealing. The problem I had with her last March (one of the many, actually) was that she slipped in and out of her Southern accent...in fact sometimes she sounded British. I hope she's consistent this time with whatever accent she chooses to use. Ladies leaving later....you better take a big carry on to fit in those 3DOR posters we're going to ask you to bring back.

Hit Submit too quickly. Eileen has asked this before and not received an answer. How thin is he? Can you ladies make a comparison? Cheryl, your apple comparisons are delish. I agree he can't be a Jonathan or a Macintosh but he's more tart than a Golden or Red Delicious. They're too mushy for my taste and our boy's got a lot more bite to him.

Welcome back Evelyn. Sounds like you had a great time.

Evelyn - welcome back. We were with you every panting breath of the way. Ok. I'm a hand gal, so -- what did they look like and what did they/it feel like? Was it warm or cold? What's his handshake like? Did he look at you while you were talking or was he distracted? How do his hands look on stage? Are they expressive? Are the fingers long, are they graceful? And in ODB's case, I'm a voice gal too. So is it as velvetly beautiful on stage and in real life as in the films? Did he say Wot? Did he say You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love all my Firthettes? Did it reduce you to jelly? What did he say absolutely verbatim? And please include any details you happen to think of.

I don't know if the polls are rigged or not but Murph's site is falling behind. Neither of the other two are nearly as good or as informative as hers so I still vote on all three of the polls daily.

I concur with everything Cymbeline says, Evelyn.

(Heide)Ladies leaving later....you better take a big carry on to fit in those 3DOR posters we're going to ask you to bring back. You won't have to order one....I brought one back for you 'n Karen.:-)) And I don't want any orders (along with autographs!)....those tubes are fiendish to carry. (Eileen)what's this "rail thin" look? Thinner than in March? Thinner than Jess? Or his usual degree of rail thinness? Inquiring minds want to know (the hair assessment has already been addressed) ;-p Usual thinness...like in March. In the 2nd act when he puts on his shirt and tucks it in his trousers....he didn't have to suck it in!!! ~~~~~ (Cymbeline)I'm a hand gal, so -- what did they look like and what did they/it feel like? Was it warm or cold? What's his handshake like? Did he look at you while you were talking or was he distracted? How do his hands look on stage? Are they expressive? Are the fingers long, are they graceful? I'm a hand girl too, Cymbeline.I had kid gloves on so I don't know of the warmth, but his handshake was firm.He did look at me and I conscentrated on his gorgeous eyes.. He uses his hands constantly on stage ( the Italian influence,says Moon).Long slender fingers....beautiful hands. I love to see him sign autographs. ( BTW I don't have one).He seems to enjoy it...even the professional autograph hounds who are constantly there...he is courteous to them too. ~~~~~ Don't you want to know what he was wearing? Docker khaki slacks , Timberland boots, a suede jacket with a sheepskin lining The same one he's wearing in The Protest Picture.He was wearing a tee shirt under the jacket.He was carrying a black duffle bag...(Livia doing the laundry?) After he signed two other autographs he turned around waved, smiled and took off down street with the "darcy-walk".You could spot him any place.

(Cymbeline)I'm a voice gal too. So is it as velvetly beautiful on stage and in real life as inthe films? Did he say Wot? Did he say You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire andlove all my Firthettes? Did it reduce you to jelly? What did he say absolutely verbatim? Everyone who went in March can tell you that his voice is the same off stage as on stage.LOL...I didn't mention Firthettes..or the Internet...or websites. I refuse to have an agenda when I go... I enjoy the moment, and I enjoy just gazing at him. No he doesn't reduce me to jelly...just a glowy feeling. He said it was good to see me...I told him I had come to see Summerfolk and attend the LFF...and had been fortunate to get a return ticket to this performance. I thanked him for doing this stage production and said how much I was looking forward to his future projects. He thanked me for coming. In January I think I'll hide...he'll recognize all of us ...I'm sure

But, Evelyn, what did he say when you asked, "what base did Edward get to with Heloise?" and "Is Peter gay?" ;-D Wasn't Lina's slip nude colored? Checking BA's website for onboard movies...now that's what I call sleuthing! ;-D OK, who's flying BA to London? What a treat!!

(Evelyn)his handshake was firm.He did look at me and I conscentrated on his gorgeous eyes Oh, WOW, Evelyn! Welcome back, I�ve been reading your account of that incredible evening in awe, thanks a lot for every detail. I�m so glad that you enjoyed the play again and the fact that he actually came to you to shake hands and He said it was good to see me.. is stunning. He�s got great manners. All this makes me admire you both even more than before if that�s possible. In January I think I'll hide... Haha, you won�t do anything such, we won�t let you! He�ll notice you again and I want to take some pics of you two.

Evelyn - even the professional autograph hounds who are constantly there...he is courteous to them too. He's a sweetie! (Livia doing the laudry?) Maybe he does his own?? I didn't mention Firthettes..or the Internet...or websites. Wise decision. I conscentrated on his gorgeous eyes And *are* they the color or ripe chestnuts? He said it was good to see me Sob! Well, I'm jelly sitting here gazing at my little screen. he turned around waved, smiled and took off down street with the "darcy-walk". Who was that gorgeous man? You could spot him any place. I wish I could spot him outside my window right this minute. Oh, thanks for the details! And the clothes descriptions--the boots are definitely good. Getting all your eloquently shared impressions is even better than a little sea-bathing!

Welcome back, Evelyn! Thanks so much for the detailed report. You always handle your encounters with him so well.

(Susan) You always handle your encounters with him so well. I think that's because Evelyn treats him no differently from her own sons. ;-D

Evelyn, I loved all the details of your encounter with him. SO----- that's why you were lurking outside the Donmar incognito on Saturday!!! As Elena says we will let you get away with nothing in January!!!

(Susan) You always handle your encounters with him so well. (Karen)I think that's because Evelyn treats him no differently from her own sons. ;-D You mean....I treat him like I would one of my son's friends....and he treats me like one of his mum's friends. ( Sorry Bethan,I don't have gray hair and I don't wear it in a bun!!) ~~~~ I want to take some pics of you two. Nope. Did that last year....this year it's the boss's turn :-D ~~~~~ Forgot to tell you that I attended the London Premiere of Mansfield Park on Sunday evening.Part of the LFF. The writer/director, Patricia Rozema, the producer, the entire cast and Harvey were there.Some of the folks were in black tie so there were no doubt big doins afterwards. The film is beautiful to look at...but NOT Jane Austen's MP. The writer took shocking liberties. Inserted lewd sex scenes and (the worst) changed the character of Fanny Price."So she wouldn't be so boring"...how's that for arroganc . The Q&A period was pretty spirited...with some people contesting her temerity in taking such liberties.Someone near me commented that she must be an American because of her accent. I courteously corrected them...."she's Canadian...she's one of yours".Aishling tells me that the newspapers yesterday said that the sex scenes would be cut for Americans audiences.(They're afraid of the colonies!!) Why don't the Brits rise up and object to defacing JA!! I was an interesting evening.What's with these women directors.... I did not talk to Harvey...I would have wanted to kick him.!!

In this week's TV Times there is a feature about "The Best Programmes on TV this Christmas", TTOTS is mentioned, and every programme shows whose in it, when its on etc and there is a final section for every programme "Reason to watch it" - for TTOTS "Colin Firth is in breeches again" I ask you, obviously they are going to use this to promote the programme even thought he only has a 10min cameo.

( cont.) even though he only has a 10 min cameo. (Don't know quite what happened there, hope you all understand it)

Oh, I saw that as well, Ann! The plot "synopsis" (quoting from memory, correct me if I'm wrong) says "A charming bachelor appoints a young governess to look after two children." I like the "charming". I agree, it looks as though they'll use Colin to promote this....am all in favour of this! TOTS is described as a "gripping horror story" and the producer says it's the best ghost story. Well, instant video replay coming up! Great stuff, Evelyn! You certainly packed a lot into your few days over here!

I have been too busy to post, but have read your news with relish. I just want to add my welcome to Mari and CherylB, and my thanks and congrats to Evelyn, Lizza and Tineke for their exploits and telling us about them :-) and for everyone else for keeping my spirits up.

Couldn't think of a nicer spirit to keep up Gi.

That was very sweet, Lizza *big, embarrassed grin*

I see that the London Evening Standard Theatre Awards are next Monday the 22nd November, and that a recording of the Awards is to be shown on TV the next day 23rd November. The winners will be announced on Monday but do we know who the nominees are and is it too soon for Colin to be included. Fingers crossed for TRT though. This Announcement is at The Albermarle Theatre Website.

Great apple analysis, Cheryl! Since CF is reputed to be a bit internet phobic, he may not look fondly upon computers, so definitely not a Macintosh Hee hee! :-D (Bethan) [Re: MLSF] So, in true Sherlock Holmes fashion, I deduce that it was scheduled for an October release, and then mysteriously backburnered for 7 months. Can anyone guess why (I can't!). It takes a long time for those courier pigeons to transport the reels from one US location (some of which are too small to be called 'cities') to another. Harvey would have tried pony express instead of the pigeons but it cost too much to insure the horses. Thanks for all the 'close encounter of the Firth kind' details, Evelyn. IMO you handled it perfectly. As for Colin, Cymbeline said it best: He's a sweetie! Re: Mansfield Park--there was an article in the NY Times a few weeks ago about Rozema and the liberties she took with Austen. It's creating lots of buzz, no doubt intended. I was surprised to read that some sex scenes are to be cut for American audiences--must be too graphic for our ratings board. Good God, JA must be spinning in her grave! While channel surfing last weekend, I encountered a 'making of' MF bit on an obscure NYC tourist channel (???). They were interviewing one of the actors (not the ne who plays Edmund). I noticed his dimples. He was discussing the costumes. Apparently during initial fittings he was advised that [paraphrasing] in productions of Austen's work, one's breeches must be so tight as to reveal one's mood. My immediate reaction was "they're trying for a Darcy knock-off." Or a cross between Bingley and Darcy, perhaps ;-D

one's breeches must be so tight as to reveal one's mood LOL!! So what mood was he in? New review of 3DOR at the Telegraph found by AnneR (can't believe I missed it last night...I remember feeling drowsy after reading the latest and greatest about RF though...) http://www.telegraph.co.uk:80/et?ac=000576481449931&rtmo=VwVmjwlx&atmo=lllllP1x&pg=/et/99/11/18/btrain18.html A subtle exploration of the legacy of love Kate Bassett reviews Three Days of Rain at the Donmar Warehouse QUEUES for returns are already forming for this clever New York chamber play by Richard Greenberg, starring Colin Firth, David Morrissey and Elizabeth McGovern. Robin Lefevre's quietly excellent production was given a fleeting premiere in March with the same top-calibre cast and its return to the West End is welcome. Greenberg's play blends social satire and serious family tensions, sometimes looking like a knowing cross between Woody Allen and Tennessee Williams, as the action shunts backwards from the Nineties to 1960. In the present day, Firth plays a smart-witted but chronically neurotic thirty-something called Walker. A bit of a Manhattan Hamlet, he did a runner a year back after the death of his father, Ned, a celebrated architect. But now, returning to his native soil, Walker intends to deal with his problematic legacy, and he meets up with his long-suffering sister Nan (McGovern) and childhood friend and rival Pip (David Morrissey). Walker and Nan wryly recall their parents' rotten marriage and argue with Pip about hitherto undisclosed attractions and about who should reside in their father's most renowned, largely glass home. Then the action cuts back and, in the same room, we see rivalries and a love triangle from the past unfold. Firth changes into the desperately shy Ned. Morrissey resurfaces as Pip's father, Theo, who was Ned's architectural partner, and McGovern appears as Nan's mother, the ambitious Southern belle, Lina. Thus Three Days of Rain is a manifestly tempting showcase for a trio of flexible actors while, thematically, contemplating processes of inheritance, the inescapability and elusiveness of the past, and the complexity and mutability of relationships. We perceive how personal characteristics resurface, refracted as through a prism, when Firth transforms from the motor-mouthed, egocentric Walker to the stuttering yet secretly determined Ned. Greenberg's script has its weaknesses. There's a long-lost diary, which is a creaky device, and the play's ending feels rather brusque, like an unfinished building. But he welds domestic tiffs and poetic monologues seamlessly and this cast are extremely deft. Morrissey's Pip, a wannabe smoothie, hovers unsettlingly between patience, fondness and predatoriness. McGovern is alternately dreamily sweet, steely and canny while Firth treads a fine line between absurd twitchiness and arresting intensity. And in he second half, their tentative romance is acutely charming, shot through with a growing sense of future sadness. ******** Don't like that "absurd twitchiness" bit. Wonder if Bassett read our comments re: that part about prisms.

Ben, the St Brides Tavern in Bridewell Place seems to serve Ruddles. 6.30ish on the first night you're over?

(Karen) Wonder if Bassett read our comments re: that part about prisms I wouldn't be a bit surprised! It sounds as though Colin's revised interpretation of Walker (more twitching) is accomplishing its desired effect. The difference between Walker and Ned has been mentioned in most recent reviews (unless I'm confusing published reviews with publish-caliber remarks from Lizza, Tineke, Evelyn, etc.).

QUEUES for returns are already forming for this clever New York chamber play That's what I like to read! I'm happy that the Telegraph re-reviewed it. A fresh boost is always welcome. Karen, don;r read Rafe's reviews! Actually, the only one I've read (The Times) wasn't very good, but the movie is getting sensational marketing, and a lot of hype and very clever use of superlatives..."swooningly handsome romantic hero", "Byronically beautiful" (yee-e-ech!), "stupendous". The Times says that" director and srar are confident that the story will communicate with a modern audience...but there's no sense of forward movement, and there's something frozen about the film, despite its immense dec rative appeal. Also says Rafe is ".cold"" Onegin wears curling papers (for the curly hair) and a corset. But I would like to see Colin borrow Rafe's PR staff...they really know how to sell their product!

Also says Rafe is "cold" Shocking pronouncement!! ;-o

Here's another Bridget Jones review, a bit too long to post here: http://www.thisislondon.com/dynamic/lifestyle/top_review.html?in_review_id=229534&in_review_text_id=178164

But I would like to see Colin borrow Rafe's PR staff. Corbett & Keene 122 Wardour St. London.Who also did PR work for SIL and Bedrooms and Hallways.V. prominent PR firm in UK.I bet pricey.Shall we pass the hat around and hire them for ODB? BTW... I like Rafe. ~~~~~ Thanks Karen for the3 DOR reviews I think the reviewers are definitely picking up the difference in Walker/Ned's personalities this time around....Colin's new Walker seems to be making an impact.I liked it. Didn't anyone review SLOW? We saw a guy with a tape recorder during the Q&A.

Corbett & Keene 122 Wardour St. London.Who also did PR work for SIL and Bedrooms and Hallways.V. prominent PR firm in UK.I bet pricey.Shall we pass the hat around and hire them for ODB? LOL! How do you know these things, Evelyn? Although many a true word spoken in jest....they're very good at their job!

London Evening Standard Theatre Awards are next Monday the 22nd November... to be shown on TV the next day 23rd November. The winners will be announced on Monday but do we know who the nominees are... Fingers crossed This was in today's Evening Standard, could it be a hint? "THREE DAYS OF RAIN (rated excellent) Colin Firth, first dressed in valiantly worn dejection and then as his stammering father, gives ONE OF THE TRHREE BEST MALE PERFORMANCES THIS YEAR."

Oh, bother - seems my hand was shaking... :-)

Arami, what great news! Colin is a nominee! Who are the other three? Is this award indicative for the BAFTAS? Will we be throwing another party at cf.com? :-D

Of course, I did not mean the Baftas but the Oliviers. Have you seen this 3DOR Review? http://www.albemarle-london.com/3days.html They also link it to the 3DOR Web site which I believe is Murphs.

Meluchie has posted a Fever Pitch page of new DVD captures. http://www.grin.net/~meluchie/fpdvd.html Murph has two new pics of MLSF In the Rain pics: http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/mlsf/mlsfrain.html http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/4144/mlsf/mlsf.html

I was at some friends last night who announced that TTOTS had been filming in their street! They live in a very elegant square in Hammersmith (west London). All they saw was the attempts to disguise the many cars in there as carriages!

Allison, will you be able to check the Evening Standard between now and Monday to see if they mention the nominees for The Evening Standard London Theatre Aawards. Unfortunately we don't get the ES in my neck of the woods.

Allison, don't you think that the Hammersmith location would have been the Master's (Colin's) London residence, where the governess comes to interview for the job? All they saw was the attempts to disguise the many cars in there as carriages! Really?! Here, they post "no parking" signs and the cars must find new homes. (where I'll never know)

I thought I read on Murph's site the name of the house where they had been filming Colin's scene but these could very well be the scenes of her arriving at the Master's residence.

That's right. Syon Park was used for the interior of the Master's house in town and Thames something in Oxfordshire was the main location. So if they shot exteriors in Hammersmith, Colin wouldn't have been there. You don't have to castigate your friends now. ;-D

This from Aishling: From today's Daily Mail (Baz). Felicity Kendal is playing the Empress of China in an establishment-bashing adaptation of Aladdin for Radio 4 which will go out Christmas morning. Jennifer Ehle will play a princess. " Jennifer on Christmas morning and Colin on Boxing Day....what a gift!!

BTW Timeout has chosen 3DOR as one of its 5(?) must see plays in London this week.

With Rafe as the wicked uncle? Sorry Evelyn!

Does the Evening Standard have a URL?

Yes it does.I am sure Bethan, Allison, Karen et al will enlighten you. We used it when 3 DOR review first came out in March.

The Evening Standard's site is "This is London" http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/dynamic/index.html

Speaking of which, here's the article about the ES's awards, which was at lunchtime (so Colin could attend). Also no mention of Jennifer or any Best Actress noms. Star line-up at Standard Awards Four hundred directors, playwrights, producers, actors and actresses will gather at the Savoy today to honour the theatre world. Alan Bates, Alison Steadman, Stephen Berkoff, Felicity Kendal, Jonathan Pryce, Lindsay Duncan and Ned Sherrin are just a few of the familiar faces who will be in the audience. Vanessa Redgrave, winner of the Evening Standard Awards' Best Actress title a staggering four times and in four different decades, is to present the Sydney Edwards' Best Director Award. Jonny Lee Miller, who rose to fame as Sick Boy in Trainspotting and was last month voted one of the ten sexiest men in the world in a magazine poll, is to present another award. Also, John Hurt who's extraordinary transformations have ranged from Quentin Crisp to the Elephant Man is to present the award for Best Actress. Anna Chancellor, Duck Face in Four Weddings and a Funeral and currently appearing as Reagan in the RSC's King Lear, will present the Best Designer Award and Joan Collins will be flying in to present a special prize. The event will kick off with a champagne reception, followed by lunch and the presentation of the nine all-important awards. As well as those for best actor, actress and director, they will include one for the outstanding newcomer, and the biennial Patricia Rothermere Award, which comes in two parts: the first for a major contribution to the theatre and the second in the form of a three-year bursary to a drama student. This will be presented by Lady Rothermere. Among the hardest fought of all the categories were best actor and Evening Standard/Carlton Television best musical. A host of strong performances in the running for the former include Henry Goodman in The Merchant of Venice, Stephen Dillane in The Real Thing, Colin Firth in Three Days of Rain and Michael Sheen in Look Back in Anger. Hotly tipped musicals include Mamma Mia, Candide, Spend Spend Spend and The Lion King. Critic and broadcaster Simon Fanshawe will host the ceremony, which is being filmed by Carlton Television; highlights will be broadcast on Tuesday at 7.30pm. Check back here later today for the list of winners.

According to the Daily Mail and Albermarle Theatre website the Awards should be on Monday, how strange. Fingers crossed for either Colin or failing that Stephen Dillane.

Found this at the This Is London Page: **************** by Michael Owen Sir Richard Eyre took two personal awards today and the company he led for 10 years claimed another four top trophies when the Royal National Theatre scored a virtual clean sweep of the year's premier theatrical honours - the Evening Standard Drama Awards. "There must be something in the Eyre," an above-the-title actor intoned teasingly to a familiar tune, as the occasion turned into a brilliant valediction for the director who ran the South Bank complex for a decade until his retirement last month. Sir Richard received the best director prize for two productions - King Lear and The Invention Of Love - then was movingly acclaimed by senior actor of the British stage, Paul Scofield, who presented him with a Special Award in recognition of his leadership of the National. Cue for ovation of the day. Ian Holm, who conquered a 15-year attack of stage fright that kept him out of theatre work, took the best actor award for his performance as King Lear, which was staged in the NT's Cottesloe studio. He was presented with his statuette by legendary French actress Jeanne Moreau, who made today's presentation lunch at the Savoy the first of her appearances as patron of the current French Theatre Season in London after arriving from Paris last night. Saying British theatre was "the best in the world", she said: "It's marvellous - even if the French don't like it if we say that." The best actress title went to Eileen Atkins and she received it from her co-star in the West End production of Edward Albee's A Delicate Balance - Dame Maggie Smith, who had earlier been considered a rival for the award. The two actresses embraced on stage - but only learned later that the judges had cheekily recommended that they might consider alternating their roles in the drama about an American household possessed by unknown fears. Sir Tom Stoppard created a new record when he took the best play title for the fifth time, for The Invention Of Love. It was presented by Dame Diana Rigg, who starred in two of his previous award-winning works: Jumpers and Night And Day. Playwright and TV comic actor Patrick Marber, who won the best comedy section for his debut play Dealer's Choice two years ago, took the same award for his new play, Closer. The triumph was announced by Nigel Planer, taking time off from his role as Mr Cellophane in Chicago, to present the celebrity audience with a masterclass in the etiquette of presenting and receiving awards.

Is my previous post up to date? I'd hate to be posting old news. Murph

Was that item from last year? or the year before? ;-D

Old news, I think. "Lear" was a couple of years ago. Great to see Colin's name in the running.

From an interview with Bridget Jones in today's This Is London (Evening Standard) If money were no object, where would you like to live in London? Colin Firth's house. Where are you least likely ever to live in London? Colin Firth's house. Gosh, that woman so bravely speaks for us all...

Murph - this year's celebrity King Lear - Nigel Hawthorne - has been mercilessly panned, I'm afraid...

Sorry! I had a feeling it was old stuff. I'll do anything for a scoop! This from the This Is London Site, said by Sam Mendes at the London Film Festival. The article says it was the most successful one ever. Could this mean he will be watching CF every night, and perhaps decide to do a project (stage or theater) with him? One can only hope. ***************************** "I have been to several openings of American Beauty but this is by far the most emotional," said Mendes on introducing the film to an Odeon audience of many of his friends and relations, including his mother and father. Though he has had other film offers, he has already decided to spend the next two years in the theatre at his beloved Donmar Warehouse. Bold face mine. "Then we'll see but it is difficult to imagine another film project as involving as this," he added. ***********************

Folks have done the "film role I want to see Colin do" thing, but what about a stage performance you would like to see him do? I'd like to see him play George from "Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf" opposite a really strong actress like Miranda Richardson. Murph