(Evelyn) C'mon...you know he'd send someone in his place;-) Yeah, like Matthew Modine.;-) And then they can put Matt & Harvey's pic in the NY papers the next day.;-) *Much* better than going himself.:-(

What lengths to go for for some publicity, as things are a bit slow I thought I would post this snippet from The Times today:- "Sir Tom Stoppard is upholding British honour on Broadway, as the Donmar Warehouse's production of The Real Thing swings into town. After a cricket bat prop was lost in transit, an American replacement was summoned. Not good enough, said the leading man, Stephen Dillane. So the playwright is flying out with his own bat "I'm really loath to lend it, even in such an emergency ", he says "I'm terrified I won't get it back. It was signed by the entire Austalian Test team 20 years ago".

LOL!! Appears that SD has a touch of the prima donna in him (non-gender-specific type of course). Shame that Donna probably won't get to read this before meeting him. Would've been such an ice breaker, like, hey, Stevarino, what was wrong with the replacement bat? ;-)

..Appears that SD has a touch of the prima donna in him What?...that's his lucky bat....best scene in the show. Brings down the house every time! Shame that Donna probably won't get to read this before meeting him. I'll try to call her at the hotel.

To those RotP-ers and Springers meeting at Topham's Belgravia tomorrow (esp Winter & JenK)..see you there and if you're there before me at the bar, mine's a Bacardi & Coke *hic*

Say hi to Winter for us and tell her to get her resume over to the Donmar for their new film unit; they're looking for someone who can read (scripts). ;-)

Have fun, Tracy, Winter et alt. :-)

The Donmar Gala and benefit performance of The Real Thing was a smash last night. Thanks to E and A for the bat story and lovely send-off. I got the best phone call before I left for the theater. It put me in a great mood. Spotted in the theater and at the party were a few celebrities, including Erica Jong, a contingent from Sony including Sydney Pollack, Peter Gallagher who played the character of Billy in the original Broadyway run (with Jeremy Irons and Glenn Close in 1984), Bill Macy (currently in American Buffalo), an actor from Magnolia and now appearing in True West (can't remember the name), Harvey from Miramax, and of course Sam. Tom couldn't make it. Sam gave a very nice speech during the dinner. The Donmar staff are pleased that he will continue to work with the theater, even if less so due to his popularity. And yes, they confirmed that the news stories of their party while watching the Oscars was true. The staff was thrilled with the success of the party and were taking in many shows before they go back to the UK. They were very nice people. The play was wonderful again, better than one of the earlier preview performances. This crowd was much more lively, much more laughter. A standing-O on the second curtain call. FYI, some staging differences from last week too. And JE played Annie less harsh. Very good changes. The cast was friendly and pleased that Americans who saw the play in London were coming to see it again in NY. (I didn't mention the lucky UK lady who is coming to NY to see it again!) Sarah Woodward was especially warm and very attractive up close. They were all quite nice. JE looked wonderful (radiant as usual) in a lace dress, mid-calf. And SD was quite handsome in a dark suit and aqua shirt. They were all approachable and gracious. Very little picture taking with the public and I saw no autograph seekers (no Colin-like frenzy). Maybe they were there, but I didn't notice. Yes, the story of the bat was true. Although the story gives the impression that it was lost. It was not, it was returned to the owner (who didn't want it to go to the US). A replacement was brought in from the US, but apparently it was not right. The bat that is being used looks like a well-worn bat. So perhaps it was the right decision to go with something that had the right look and feel. The Supper Club was quite a nice place for a party. The staff were very attentive, constantly filling glasses, bringing around food, etc. I had asked the bartender for a White Russian. He apologized because he had no milk. But about 10 minutes later a waiter searched me out and brought around the drink. Very attentive. Everyone that I met was very friendly. I met a lovely older lady from the UK who came to NY just to attend the gala. She had seen 3DOR too, and remarked at how much more handsome Colin seemed in person, though she thought he was quite handsome on film. :-) The Donmar staff praised Colin for being very friendly and easy to work with. The party lasted for quite some time. It started about 9:30 and ended after 1am. The cast stayed long, as opposed to the 3DOR gala, where early departures were reported. It was a very fun evening, made especially memorable because of the warmth of the Donmar staff. You could tell they loved their work and were very appreciative of the response of the attendees. That is all. :-)

Great report Donna, thank you! What nice people the Donmar staff seem to be. Did you get a chance to speak to Sam? It sounds like a very old fashioned party, which are always the best. :-) Did you also attend the 3DOR Gala? Who left early?

Thanks, Donna. Sounds like you had a lovely evening.

Hi Moon - no, I did not speak to Sam. :-( Actually one of the Donmar staff was trying to introduce me to him, but he got called away, so the opportunity was lost. I could have been agressive and approached him, but I was having such a nice time talking to everyone else, I actually didn't mind missing the opportunity. The staff seems to be very loyal to him, and vice versa. It was really nice to see. No, I was not at the 3DOR gala. But I heard through the grapevine that DM was the first to leave. I think he left fairly early. Colin was the second to leave, I think it was reported as around 11-ish. But by comparison, this cast all hung around (until at least 1am) and it was the guests who were leaving first. Hey, I would have stayed longer, but I ran out of people to talk to :-)

Thanks Donna for being such a gracious ambassador last night. A lot of us were with you in spirit.... ....A standing-O on the second curtain call A real Broadway Welcome...and guess what?...she didn't even have to drop her towel;-) Sounds like the cast had a great time...a compliment to the audience and guests. Ya' made it happen...proud of ya:-))

Donna, let me add my thanks for your report, it sounds like everyone had a good time and so did I reading it :-) How did 3DoR and Colin come to be talked about?

Wonderful story, Donna. Sounds like you had an incredible evening. Did you slip SD your phone number? ;-) Here's the only mention of the party I can find from the NY Post: Oscar-winning "American Beauty" director Sam Mendes told this story at the Supper Club Wednesday after a preview performance of Broadway's upcoming "The Real Thing": Speaking to a group that included such A-listers as Sydney Pollack, Harvey Weinstein, Stanley Donen, Philip Seymour Hoffman, John C. Reilly, William H. Macy, Donna DL and Betty Buckley, Mendes recounted how the notables attending the annual Oscar nominees luncheon "all clinched their buttocks" when they were told to keep their acceptance speeches down to 45 seconds. "I am happy to be standing before you tonight with my buttocks finally unclinched," he said. "The Real Thing" opens on April 17. ~~~~~ The Magnolia actor would be John C. Reilly (the cop); his story was possibly my fav in the movie.

"clinched buttocks" - hee hee, I forgot that line. Yes, Sam did say that. His speech was surprisingly long and engaging. He seemed to be a very nice person. 3DOR - I confess I would bring that up now and again, as in, "Did you see 3DOR?" Yes, many of the Donmar patrons had seen it and were favorably impressed. (of course!) With the staff, I joked with them about how some acquaintances of mine had "badgered" them about trying to get Colin's autograph. They actually had fond memories of that, talked about how sweet the ladies were, and mentioned how gracious he was with the public. Similar to Sam, I think the staff genuinely liked him. :-)

(Karen) John C. Reilly, William H. Macy, Donna DL and Betty Buckley You're too much, Karen! :-D Thanks for your report, Donna. Glad to hear the Donmar raised big bucks here in the states. *sigh* and I never get tired of reading stuff like this: The Donmar staff praised Colin for being very friendly and easy to work with.

(Donna DL) an actor from Magnolia and now appearing in True West (can't remember the name), The actor in question could be either Philip Seymour Hoffman or John C. Reilly, as both were in the film "Magnolia",(that movie was trash -- my editorial comment), and are currently appearing in stage in "True West". Reilly and Hoffman alternate in the roles of the bickering brothers.

Since both Hoffman and Reilly are listed as having been there, it works for either one of them.

TALK MAGAZINE, May issue (Russell Crowe on cover) has full page pic of JE&SD on p. 125. (Thanks Harvey)

(Donna)They actually had fond memories of that, talked about how sweet the ladies were Good, now we know we can go again ;-)

Just returned from seeing The Real Thing in NY. What a day--beautiful sunny spring day in New York, great play, good friends . . .and we met Jennifer Ehle after the show! I'll fast forward to meeting Jennifer. After the play, we were standing outside the theater, just chatting and debating where to go for coffee. We saw a couple of the actors (the guys playing Max and Billy) leaving by a door next to the theater, and decided to try our luck. After a few minutes, sure enough, out she comes, wearing a green leather coat. A couple was waiting for her to sing their poster. She chatted briefly with them, then I approached her and asked if she would sign my program. We told her how much we enjoyed the play and her performance, and I then told her I had seen it at the Albury in London and she said, "Really? That's fantastic!" I then told her that I actually preferred today's show--she gave me a big wry grin and said, "you know, I do too, it seems to be working." Janet told her that she had seen it on Broadway back in '84 with Glenn Close in her role. Jen said "I saw it then, too; wish I remembered more of it--I could have used it!" Bobbie then said, "but you were practica ly a baby in '84." I added, "yes, in '84, we all watched it from our cradles." She laughed--that great throaty laugh--and said, "that's right--that's our story!" We then all commented on P&P and how it was the gold standard, and how she was the quintessential Lizzy. She seemed so pleased--said something like, "its such a great story, isn't it." We told her what a pleasure it was to see her perform live and wished her luck. We said good bye, and then she turned and said "thank you all so much for coming." What a nice, pleasant girl. She has a very nice manner about her--very genuine, with a wry good humor. Just realized I wrote nothing about the play. I'll do that next.;-)

Sorry for the typos in the above--I'm trying to get this down. The play--terrific. They were all really *on.* Same staging as what we saw in London. The theater was full from what I could tell. We had great seats--6th row. BTW, the Barrymore is smaller than the Albury. Audience reaction was good, building as the show went on. (In the beginning, I felt they weren't projecting as loudly as they could, and I wonder if the folks in back or upstairs could catch it all. But this improved by about the middle of the first act.) Stephen Dillane--I can't say enough about his performance. At no time do you ever feel that this guy is acting. Honestly, if I saw him on the street, I'd probably call him Henry.;-) The audience was howling during the cricket bat scene--and he seemed to respond to that and really brought it home, even falling to the floor when using Brody's script to bat. (Donna mentioned that she hadn't seen him do that before, but maybe she can elaborate.) Jennifer was laughing and seemed to really enjoy seeing him have some fun with it. Same with the scene where he's reading Brody's pathetic script, easing bit by bit into that Scottish accent--he really *sold it.* It's a great role and he does a superb job with it. Believe it or not, after watching DQ so many times, I actually was able to understand most of what Brody says.;-) Jennifer was wonderful also; she seems very confident and gives a completely naturalistic performance--nothing stagey or *actressy* about her. Warm applause at the end, two curtain calls. . .but no standing O, except for a very few of us. Matinee audiences tend to be weird that way--like they can't wait to leave and head for dinner and a nap.;-) Donna felt the reception was much better today than the first preview she saw, but not as enthusiastic as at the Donmar benefit the other night--but that's understandable. I guess that's about it. Jennifer is taller than I thought--we were both wearing flats, and I'd say she has about two inches on me, so about 5'7" or 5'8". Hair is redder than I recalled from London. She was wearing very little make-up--and looked gorgeous. Not fair at all, but she's so nice it's hard to hold it against her.;-)

Everything sounds fabulous. You were probably not fighting off the heavy eyelids of last time. ;-) The Observer on High Fidelity, quite good and interesting. http://www.newsunlimited.co.uk/observer/screen/story/0,3879,157275,00.html

Thanks for that wonderful report Mari, sounds as if everyone had a great time. I just love this play and am glad that things seem to be coming together just in time for the critics.

Thanks Mari...I was with you guys in spirit yesterday. Waiting to hear from Donna and others who went. (Mari)Stephen Dillane--I can't say enough about his performance. At no time do you ever feel that this guy is acting. Honestly, if I saw him on the street, I'd probably call him Henry.;-) (Mari)Jennifer was wonderful also; she seems very confident and gives a completely naturalistic performance--nothing stagey or *actressy* about her. Your comment reminds me of the quote from Spencer Tracy when someone asked him what was the secret of a good actor , and he said: "Don't let them catch you at it" ;-) These guys apparently have the secret.

Mari-Something I've been curious about JE: what is her speaking voice like? She was born in North Carolina, and has lived in England A LOT. So, what kind of accent does she have? I told my DH about your JE encounter, but warned him it won't happen for us! We are going at night, and I for one, won't be hanging out by the stage door! Our first trip to NYC--we're so excited.

Great report, Mari. What is it about the theater that allows such a feeling of camaraderie between the actors and audience? Hmmm, I think I just answered my own question.

Thanks, Mari! It brings back memories. SD is really hipnotic in that part. How does JE voice carry. She has a soft low voice and I remember she strained it a few times at the Donmar.

It's our first trip to NYC as well Meredith, although it will be my fifth time of seeing TRT, I guarantee you and your husband won't be disappointed.

... She has a soft low voice and I remember she strained it a few times at the Donmar. She did fine at the Albery.She did strain at the National ( a cavernous place)in Summerfolk. It was SD at the Albery that was inaudible at times in the mezzanine.I would think Mari could hear fine in the sixth row. (That's where I'm sitting next month)

Hi - to elaborate on Mari's comments... SD seems to be so experienced on the stage, he can "turn on the juice" in reaction to an audience. Not mechanical, but very instinctive. The matinee audience was laughing at the infamous cricket bat scene (I believe Mari and I may have been the cheerleaders at that moment), and when SD hit the imaginery ball (words) with Brodie's bat (script), he not only howled "ouch", but he fell to the floor and rolled onto his back. That was my fourth viewing of this play, and the first time that I ever saw him roll to the floor and been flat on his back. (The first 3 times he just kind of hopped around yelling ouch.) I'm not sure if he had ever done that before, but JE seemed to be relishing that act too. The audience loved it. Then during the evening performance, he was slightly less animated, falling only to his knees this time, but he didn't roll onto his back. Gosh, I never tire of seeing this... Sigh... Mari mentioned how SD eased into a Scottish brogue, bit by bit, while reading Brodie's script, especially when the dialogue becomes totally inane. That left the audience howling too. And interestingly, the "sinking" into the accent is not referenced in Stoppard's script. So again this may be SD's intelligence and genius in interpreting the author's words. I also noticed on the multiple viewings that he may occasionally pause and do his infamous "raising of his eyebrows" during this scene, depending on the audience reaction. When he does that, the audience laughs again. But he doesn't always do that. I think he will be the toast of NY very soon. Thanks for indulging me :-)

Thanks Donna for your reports...you and Mari should be at every performance !! I have never seen him falling on his back during the cricket-bat scene.It's a showstopper anyway.I bet Stoppard loves it. He did "raising of the eyebrows " a lot at the Donmar and the audience howled. No wonder Harvey saw it three times, and then went out and bought the film rights....

It was Almodovar over Mendes at the BAFTAS. That is what is meant by a beautly surprise. (I feel sorry for people who vote for Almovar's sick vision) This is from the E. Telegraph: Beauty and a beastly surprise at the Baftas By Nigel Reynolds THE hit film American Beauty triumphed at the Baftas last night, winning six awards - one more than it collected at the Oscars in America a fortnight ago. Click to enlarge But in the biggest surprise of the night, Sam Mendes, the film's 34-year-old British director, failed to repeat his success at the Academy Awards by winning the Best Director award. Showing customary British independence, the ceremony formerly known as the British Academy of Film and Television Arts gave that award to Pedro Almodovar, the Spanish director, for his film All About My Mother. However, American Beauty was named Best Film and its leading stars, Kevin Spacey and Annette Bening were chosen as Best Actor and Best Actress. The title had eluded Miss Bening at the Oscars where Hilary Swank took the prize for Boys Don't Cry. American Beauty raised its tally at the star-studded ceremony when the composer Thomas Newman won the Best Film Music prize. It went on to carry off awards for Best Cinematography and Best Editing. Before collecting his award, Mr Spacey indicated his surprise at Sam Mendes's defeat. He said: "Without him we couldn't have made it." Miss Bening, who was unable to attend the ceremony because she is expecting her fourth child by Warren Beatty, beat the British actresses Emily Watson and Linda Bassett as well as the American actress Julianne Moore for her award. Although it was a thin night for British talent, Jude Law, one of the new British bratpack of actors, managed to reverse his Oscar defeat at the hands of Michael Caine to be named the Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Talented Mr Ripley. Dame Maggie Smith won Best Supporting Actress for her role in Tea With Mussolini. Law, now heavily in demand in Hollywood, arrived at the ceremony saying that despite his success he would never move to America because the film boom in Britain meant there were now huge opportunities here. The Irish director and novelist Neil Jordan won the Best Adapted Screenplay award for reworking Graham Greene's semi-autobiographical novel about adultery, The End Of The Affair. The highly-rated East Is East, one of the few all-British films up for major awards, won one only - Outstanding British Film. Law's win apart, there were no other awards for Anthony Minghella, director of The Talented Mr Ripley, or his team. And Notting Hill, the most commercially successful British film of all time, won nothing apart from the Orange Audience award. Orange, the telecom company and sponsor of the Baftas, polled 70,000 people to find the most popular film of the year. Notting Hill won with almost 14,000 votes. The sponsorship also meant the prizes were renamed the Orange British Academy Film Awards. The television awards are to be held at a separate event. Outside the ceremony in the Odeon Leicester Square, central London, hundreds of fans gathered to catch a glimpse of the stars as they arrived. They included Dustin Hoffman, Faye Dunaway, Ralph Fiennes, Cate Blanchett, Hugh Grant and Elle Macpherson. The performers went on to a dinner and a party afterwards. Ralph Fiennes came away empty-handed after being nominated for Best Actor for The End Of The Affair, as did his sister Martha, who directed her brother in the film Onegin. Lynne Ramsay, director of the highly acclaimed low-budget film Ratcatcher, set on a tough council estate in Glasgow, went home with the Best British Newcomer award.

beautly should be beastly.

v. interesting, Moon. Defies logic to not give the award to Mendes, regardless. BTW, I don't think that Hilary Swank was eligible, as Boys Don't Cry just opened (last week) in England. *clap clap* for Jude and an "are you kidding?" for best suppporting actress. On another subject, I've got to say that I was thoroughly amazed at the job they did on Fail Safe tonight. Fabulous work with a fabulous cast of actors (save one - wasn't Martin Sheen available?). Did you notice that Stephen Frears directed it. Wow! Quality television on a major network and next week a production of Picnic.

I was stuck with Don Quixote at my house. My guys and the Knight errant thing. ;-D The beginning was alright but then it fell apart. The had it taking place in the 18th Century, go figure! I too am glad for Jude Law. Sam should have won it.

Watched the first hour of DQ, shaking my head at the anachronisms, then called Evelyn up about 15 minutes into Fail Safe and told her to change channels. Taped the Sopranos. ;-) Saw the very ending to DQ (during a commercial), it didn't appear as though they were true to the book. What was Dulcinea doing at his death bed? Pathetic, expected to see some leftover leprechauns.

(Meredith) Something I've been curious about JE: what is her speaking voice like? She was born in North Carolina, and has lived in England A LOT. So, what kind of accent does she have? Hi Meredith, her accent in casual conversation seems sort of "transatlantic"--neither fully here nor there. On the Rosie O'D show, I believe she said she can easily switch back and forth between the two, and sometimes finds herself doing so in mid-sentence.:-) (Meredith) I told my DH about your JE encounter, but warned him it won't happen for us! We are going at night, and I for one, won't be hanging out by the stage door! If it's a nightime safety concern, fear not--remember, this is Rudy Giuliani's new and improved New York.;-) Seriously, I've walked around the theater district well past midnight several times--never a problem. The streets are crowded and full of normal folk, so party on and enjoy! When is your trip, and where are you from? Ann, when is your trip? I'm just sorry I didn't see TRT at the Donmar--there is no place like the Donmar! Moon, you asked about Jennifer's voice carrying. It was fine, very clear and strong, no strain. It was the fellows who seemed a bit too low at first. (Donna) I think he will be the toast of NY very soon. And well he should be--it's a brilliant job. Donna, thanks for your report on the evening performance. Your description of SD's work in this as "instinctive, not mechanical" in terms of how each performance is delivered is right on. It is very exciting to see actors who can do this.

Eh, what's that you say? Come again? It's whose birthday? Laura? Laura who? OK... HAPPY BIRTHDAY LAURA!!!

Happy Birthday Laura! May all your wishes come true!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LAURA

Thanks to Murph for the card. And thank you Karen for alerting me to "Fail Safe"...was like being at a play.WoW!! Big kudos to George Clooney for producing this. Don Q. was a loser...and with a good cast too. Written by John Mortimer who writes Rumple and other Brit shows. What a disappointment. Agree with everyone ...Sam Mendes got screwed....by his own countrymen too. Come on over here, Sam...we love you!!And bring the Donmar with you....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LAURA! (For some reason, I couldn't resist using capital letters. *heehee*) Saw the first two minutes of DQ and deemed it hard to follow. Then on to the Sopranos (Karen, wait 'til you see the talking fish--hysterical), finishing with Fail Safe. Could Brian Dennehy get any bigger? He's shaped like a barrel. Thought Hank Azaria did a great job. He's so different in everything he does.

Donna has posted the pic from TALK Mag of SD & Jennifer. http://fp.enter.net/~purrfect/dillane.htm Click on Dillane Dateline. Cute sound file from TRT too....

May I also add my Congrats, Laura! Thanks Karen for the Observer Interview..I was just about to type it all in and then I saw your posting so you saved my fingers! Did you check out all the nice pics that went with the article - nothing new I don't think but still it's nice to see!

Happy Birthday Laura! Have a great year.

Lovely Birthday to you, Laura.

(Mari) When is your trip, and where are you from? We'll be up there Easter weekend. We're seeing "Waiting in the Wings" on Friday and TRT on Saturday (keeping it all in the family ). We're from North Carolina, very close to JE's birthplace and her mother's home.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Laura

Happy Birthday Laura! Does this mean it's Jon's birthday today too?

Thank you all for the wonderful birthday wishes. I wish I could say it was a happy one, however it wasn't. Onward and upward (like watsihisname said on Ally McBeal.)

(Meredith) We'll be up there Easter weekend Just a few things to bear in mind for your trip: 1. Check the weather forecast carefully. You may need to bring everything in your closet: winter coat, shorts, etc. 2. Do not mention Hillary Clinton's name. It disturbs the mayor. Come to think of it, everything disturbs the mayor (but the place is cleaner and safer than ever). 3. Remember to ask "is that your final answer?" every time someone answers your question. 4. Bring Yankee garb. They won't let you into the city without it. 5. GMA is better than Today. You don't have to stand out in the street. 6. If you want to climb up to the crown in the Statue of Liberty, you've got to be at the ferry in Battery Park at the crack of dawn and not be afraid of heights--those steps get pretty darn narrow in her neck. Enjoy your stay!

Eileen-LOL, Loved your travel tips! We'll put them to good use. I've already heard about the weather. Didn't it snow the other day!? So...what is considered "Yankee Garb"--anything, as long as it's black? The only tourist thing that is a requirement (requested by DH-he's such a romantic) is the Empire State Building. And, yes, yours truly is afraid (actually a healthy respect for ) of heights. We will admire Liberty from afar this trip.

(Meredith) Didn't it snow the other day!? It's snowing right now, as a matter of fact. Yankee garb--New York Yankees garb. Hats, jackets, etc. I should have been more specific ;-) Re: Empire State Bldg: get there early. The lines get really loooong and there's nothing interesting to look at while you're waiting. When you're up on top, face northwest and you'll see me waving to you from Jersey :-) Lastly, remember to substitute 'youse guys' for 'y'all' and you'll fit right in!

Have you got a Check List for me in July, Eileen, apart from not forgetting to bring my hubby,of course. Glad to read that the city is safe, does this apply after the theatres have closed, is it safe to walk back to the hotel!!You should publish a Tourist Guide.

Eileen-LOL again. Yankee garb--New York Yankees garb Shows you where my mind is--I thought is was some sort of anti-Southern thang that I needed to worry about! ;-)

At least you won't need your winter coat, Ann! IMO the safest part of the city is the theater district because it's crowded with tourists 'til well past midnight. Even if you mistakenly hop the subway to Queens (as my DH and I did a few months ago--wanted to go from 51st St to Madison Square Garden and took the E train going the wrong way. Shame on those tourists from NJ!) it's still safe. NYC is presently cleaner, safer and nicer than I can remember (and I've had to knock a few squeegie men off my windshield in years past). As long as you use your common sense, you'll have no problems.

Ann, the theater district has undergone a major overhaul. Some call it the Disneyfication of Times Square. Thing to be most feared: running into Goofy

Thanks Karen, & Eileen, I hear it can be very hot and humid in July , need to bring some stamina with me but I don't think that will be a problem as I am so excited about coming to NY for the first time.

Eileen, love your checklist :-) Laura, I'm sorry it wasn't a happy Birthday for you, but as I am late with my birthday wishes, may I wish you many happy years to come? And so you can start counting them now, here's my gift:

Another tip for NY - always carry small bills (single dollars and fives). Don't expect the taxi driver to always have change for a $20 bill (or to admit that he has).

(Karen) Thing to be most feared: running into Goofy Hee hee! Goofy sure beats the heck out of the peep shows and XXX movie theaters that used to populate Times Square and 42nd Street (picture a certain scene from Dutch Girls...)! Another tip (this won't affect you, Ann): if you drive in, be prepared to pay outrageous prices for parking. Don't be intimidated about driving in Manhattan. It's not as hard as it looks. Just turn the radio up so you can't hear all those annoying horns and pretend your car has no sides.

(Eileen)Lastly, remember to substitute 'youse guys' for 'y'all' and you'll fit right in! LOL...don't you believe it. Only the people from Neuw Joisey speak like that;-) ~~~~~ I feel as safe in NY as I do in London.(And it's not as expensive.)

Only the people from Neuw Joisey speak like that Only in Jersey City, that jewel *cough* *choke* on the Hudson.

(Ann)does this apply after the theatres have closed, is it safe to walk back to the hotel!! Ann, I walked in NY at night and didn't feel unsafe at all. We even took the metro at night. Just try to avoid empty streets. I had an excellent tourist guide with loads of info about safety.

(AnnW) is it safe to walk back to the hotel! That all depends on where your hotel is. There are far more taxis in NY than people, but you might have to lay down on the street to stop one after the shows let out. They are very reasonable (comparatively speaking). (AnnW) I hear it can be very hot and humid in July Very likely could be. However, remember, everything is air-conditioned here, except the outdoors and the aforementioned taxis probably, whose drivers are masochists. ;-)

Thanks Karen & Tineke, very heplful comments, knowing it is safe makes the visit all the more exciting.

The Metro system in NYC is awesome. We used it a few weeks back, for $4 you can have unlimited use for that day! (which is cheap, when you think of getting on and off all day!) Times Square has changed SO MUCH, I never once felt scared walking around. Ann, definitely check out the Frick Collection, it's small, but wonderful. There is a great Irish Pub in Times Square (on a side road, you can't miss it) called Langan's, food is wonderful! Even Penn Station has changed (for the better, however, all I remember is living in the bathroom (drank WAY too much):))

(Karen) There are far more taxis in NY than people Not any more. Lots of stuff written locally about the taxi shortage, due in part to booming tourism. Even without the shortage, I wouldn't ever count on getting a taxi when the theaters let out en masse or if it's raining. Unless you take off your clothes or do something else outrageous and attention-grabbing! (Laura) The Metro system in NYC is awesome Locals hate it--extremely confusing (stops change based on day of the week and time of day), used to be unsafe (remember Bernie Goetz?), abysmally crowded during rush hour. It can't compare to London's underground or Washington DC's metro. But implementation of the Metro Card payment system, major clean-up efforts, improved safety (still gotta watch for the looneys) and better signage have helped. Buses are another alternative to taxis. They take the Metro Card as well. Re: safety--it's not without controversy. Saw an all-too-true cartoon in this week's Newsweek. A tourist wearing an "I love NY" t-shirt is looking through a storefront at a collection of other t-shirts. The caption: "New York City has changed since I was here last." The t-shirts read "hold your fire, NYPD!" "don't shoot! It's a cell phone" "ask questions first, shoot later" "unarmed black male" and "I love being lead-free".

(LauraMM)Ann, definitely check out the Frick Collection, it's small, but wonderful It's small and wonderful ;-)

What's in it?

Beware of cyclist in NY. More people are hit by them than they are by taxis. What I love most of the Frick is the library. You should also have lunch at the Carlyle. Great place to run into old New York with their hip grandchildren. Also Cafe des Artists on the West side. Perfect for after Theatre or Opera/Concert dinning.

The Frick museum was Henry Frick's home (mansion is more like it). I believe he had it specially built to house his vast art holdings. Frick was a railroad tycoon--early 1900s. Beautiful collection of paintings (including many of the European Masters), sculpture, bronzes, porceleins, furnishings, etc. Well worth a visit; it's right on Central Park East at 70-something Street.

Thanks Laura and everyone for recommending the Frick Museum, will certainly add it to our List, just hope we have time to do everything we want to do.

Henry Clay Frick was perhaps is the best example of the American Robber Baron of the Guilded Age. For a time he was business partner of Andrew Carnegie in Carnegie Steel. Both Frick and Carnegie were pivotal figures in the Homestead Strike. However, I digress, the Frick in New York is well worth visiting. If you're ever in Pittsburgh, you might consider visiting Frick's home, Clayton, a Victorian Gothic mansion, to be sure. On the subject of Times Square, my friend E., a life-long New Yorker, says the only thing which remains of the old Times Square is the HoJo's (Howard Johnson's). While in Times Square you might run across the Homeless Theatre Critic. I'm not making that up -- he's real.

The Frick museum was Henry Frick's home (mansion is more like it) Also less intimidating than the Metropolitan Museum of Art...thought that one is worth a visit too.The Americana wing esp. and the Egyptian wing for the display..I swear you think you're in Luxor.So much of the other stuff,old masters) you have at the National Art Gallery and the British Museum.

Couldn't resist this one: UK's Optimum, MGM team for Flawless release (12/04/00) Optimum Releasing, the indie distributor that flashed its marketing savvy by re-releasing The Third Man opposite Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, has struck a joint partnership with MGM to release Flawless, starring Robert DeNiro and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Optimum and MGM have also partnered for a UK release on Mike Figgis� Miss Julie. Additionally, Optimum is re-releasing Jean-Luc Godard�s Breathless (A Bout De Souffle) on its 40th anniversary and has acquired Iranian Oscar nominee Color Of Paradise. Optimum was formed last year by Will Clarke, who was formerly at UK distributor the Feature Film Co. "The company is now in the position where it can comfortably release a diversity of mainstream and traditional art-house product with precision in the UK," Clarke said. ~~~~~~~ Don't know why they didn't mention the Secret Laughter of Women? ;-)

This article from The Guardian is about Anna Karenina, but interestingly it was directed by David Blair (as a last minute replacement) just after he did Donovan Quick. "Blair, his replacement, has come straight from making a film with Colin Firth and admits that he hasn't read the book and is still finding his way." http://www.newsunlimited.co.uk/arts/story/0,3604,160335,00.html

Sounds like they bit off more than they can handle.... Why didn't they get Simon Langton? He directed the 1985 TV movie with Jacqueline Bissett, Christopher Reeve and Paul Scofield. (Hey Donna , can't see dumping SD for Dougie Henshall)

re: Anna K. I think this is the production co-produced by Rebecca Eaton at WGBH Boston. It's on the schedule for next season Masterpiece Theatre on US PBS stations.

Why didn't they get Simon Langton? Obviously not everybody thinks that the sun shines out of his behind... ;-) I was unhappy with some scenes in P&P which lacked "vision" and buoyancy. He is generally OK, but does make occasional mistakes (for which less experienced audience - i.e. most of us - tend to blame actors).

He is generally OK, but does make occasional mistakes (for which less experienced audience - i.e. most of us - tend to blame actors). Well...being a member of the "great unwashed", I didn't see any errors and was generally mesmerized by the whole production.One does hear of lighting that wasn't the same in some scenes etc....I just chalk up to people who always look for those thorns in rose bushes....

I'm talking mainly about small points of concern to those who are particular about the period. The Republic of Pemberley site is forever chewing over full details of what and why could be considered not quite right. But I agree that on the whole these relative trivia do not spoil the enjoyment. Yes, I was also mesmerised! Most scenes were brilliant, some outstanding - thanks to great casting, of course (though I'm still not too sure about cartoon-style takes on some characters).

I know there's been discussion here from time to time on why CF doesn't win BAFTAs and theater critics awards. Thought this might be of interest. ********** Caine mutiny opens acting class divide Oscar winner's outburst unites stars from humbler backgrounds against snobbery in British film and theatre as valleys lad quits for States Film Unlimited Fiachra Gibbons, Arts Correspondent Friday April 14, 2000 The acting profession was last night thrown into a tizz over the five letter word that is still its greatest taboo - class. Nudity, violence and strong language hardly raise a hackle these days but pulses have been set racing after three "working class" stars branded British film and theatre "class ridden" and "snobbish". Michael Caine set the cat among the pigeons by using his acceptance speech for his lifetime's achievement award at the Baftas to complain about how as a south Londoner with a "duff accent" he felt ignored and unloved, like "a stranger in my own country and profession". The former meat market porter turned Hollywood star was promptly dismissed as an ungrateful, grouchy "millionaire whinger" until Jane Horrocks, who played alongside him in Little Voice, rallied to his defence. Horrocks, 36, insisted there was "a lot of snobbery" in the film industry and said she was told to ditch her broad Lancashire accent at drama school. "Juliet Stevenson, Judi Dench and Maggie Smith are always getting awards. That isn't to say that they don't deserve them but it's much easier for them," she said. "It happens a lot with the middle and upper classes in the profession while a lot of people in the lower classes are ignored." Bob Hoskins piled in to confirm that the British industry was indeed full of "lunatics" who judged actors on their accent and backround rather than their talent. "There is still a class aspect in this country. It is ridiculous," he said. Last night the plebeian thespians found support from an unexpected quarter. Actor Corin Redgrave, head of the nearest thing British stage has to a royal family, said there was "sadly a lot of truth in what they say". What is more, he claimed, it is much more difficult now for working class kids to become actors than it was even in Caine's day. "If it was hard for Michael Caine in the sixties, it's harder now. Back then there were a lot of working class actors and writers coming through. Take Albert Finney or Tom Courtenay. They could get grants to go to drama school but they are only given now on a discretionary basis, which means more often than not they are not getting them at all. I get heartbreaking letters all the time from young people working all hours to get through drama school. It's wrong and that is leading to working class people not being represented in the way they should." Philip Headley, artistic director of the Theatre Royal Stratford East, said the class divide still held. "You only have to look at the careers of someone like Ann Mitchell, who was so brilliant in Widows on TV. She should be a mainstay of the National Theatre and the RSC but only now in her sixties is she getting to play the Greek tragedies on really big stages, and that is with Peter Hall in America." Headley said the real unfairness came at awards, where middle and upper class actors usually clean up. Occasionally, working class actors do scoop the big awards though. Kathy Burke won best actress at Cannes for Nil By Mouth, but even she has not entirely buried the class hatchet. When Helena Bonham Carter complained that you "have an easier time if you're not pretty and you're working class", Burke wrote her a little note to sympathise: "As a lifelong member of the non-pretty working classes, I would like to say to Helena Bonham Carter (member of the very pretty upper middle classes): shut up you stupid c***." Even so, film and the theatre are still far less exclusive than many areas of British life, maintained producer Stephen Woolley. The bias emerges at award ceremonies. He added: "Award committees will inevitably always go for the face that fits or that seems to be right and respectable. "That's why maybe John Hurt who played Stephen Ward in [the Profumo film] Scandal never won a Bafta for his performance - people did not want to be seen as backing his character." Actor Ray Winstone, a former boxer who won huge acclaim but few prizes for films such as Nil By Mouth, is much less circumspect. "People say there's no class system. Let me tell you, there f****** well is." The oiks Sir Ian McKellen: Don't let the knighthood fool you. Famously fled the "middle class" West End for down to earth Leeds. Ray Winstone: Started as a boxer and was an amateur English champion before the director Alan Clarke spotted him. Jane Horrocks: Lancashire-born actor who refused to lose her accent while at Rada Kathy Burke: describes herself as "a north London working class Irish peasant and proud of it" The toffs Helena Bonham Carter: Aristocratic blue blood from a long line of bankers and politicians. Rupert Everett: Scion of wealthy Norfolk gentry, who was packed off to Ampleforth when he was seven. Ralph Fiennes: Can trace his lineage right back to the Norman Conquest where his forebearers built a castle at Hertsmonceux in Sussex. Kristin Scott Thomas: Got that cut-glass accent at Cheltenham Ladies College.

Well, can anyone find fault with our Colin's accent? ;-)

Awards always will be a matter of a little bit more than just merit... - unless of course award boards agree to feed all the names in the computer and leave it to the cyber-chance... Michael Caine continued his accusations at a private party attended by his family and friends after last Sunday's ceremony - including Horrocks and Hoskins, who seemed to be prattling under the influence... Apparently later Caine tried to diffuse the situation and another of his friends, film director Michael Winner, said jokingly that "Michael has had a bad day today: no one gave him an award... when his wife passed him his coat, he made an acceptance speech..."

Awright Kathy Burke. LOL!! Hmmm, if the theory is that "upper class" actors have the "upper hand", then it still doesn't explain while Colin continues to be ignored. Wasn't he just complaining in the recent article posted on 129 that he's always resented being called "posh"? Hey, we know he's not a toff, but he sure can pass for one.

Hmmm, if the theory is that "upper class" actors have the "upper hand", then it still doesn't explain while Colin continues to be ignored. Perhaps because the establishment people know he is not one of them and he has no desire to be one of them.

Michael Winner? Michael Winner??? Dear god in heaven. Has that man ever made a decent film, much less an award winning one? He's a revolting little t**d, my dears, and a f***ing miserable excuse for a director. Babbling to myself, just ignore me.

I quite agree, Chris. But Winner *occasionally* manages a witty remark - and the one above happens to be quite funny. Apart from that he is everything you say - and one of Caine's cronies... Enough said.

Colin also backs causes that are note politicaly correct and makes movies like Tumbledown, which was not well recieved by some of the powers that be. It was too near the truth.

Colin also backs causes that are note politicaly correct Humane treatment of less fortunate people regardless of their background is not politically correct? and makes movies like Tumbledown How many such movies has he made so far? He also makes movies like Playmaker. :-)

(Arami) How many such movies has he made so far? He also makes movies like Playmaker. :-) Well he is an ACTOR, and that is what ACTORS do, they make movies. Good or bad.

Article in the NY Times about Stephen Dillane: http://www.nytimes.com/yr/mo/day/artleisure/realthing-thater.html

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Oops - I don't know what happened there... Well he is an ACTOR You don't say..................? ;-) Article in the NY Times about Stephen Dillane: http://www.nytimes.com/yr/mo/day/artleisure/realthing-thater.html Here's a professional who really has got it cornered... Comparisons might be unfair...

(Arami) Here's a professional who really has got it cornered... Comparisons might be unfair... Ah, go ahead and live dangerously, Arami.;-) Nice article, Karen. It captures what a number of us here have been saying about Dillane's abilities and technique.