albascot.net

Festivities 2010

Posted on December 28th, 2009 by bryan.
Categories: General.

Once again, I’ve let things slip with this site. Apologies!

I’m off over the festivities, so I will try to provide a couple of updates. I might even decide finally what the purpose of this site is - a blog, a home for my pics, an opportunity to grumble, etc. Whatever the purpose, it has to be more up-to-date and interesting. I will do my best.

In the meantime, merry Christmas to you all and best wishes for 2010! Bryan.

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Theatre Visits

Posted on October 12th, 2009 by bryan.
Categories: Theatre.

I’ve got round to updating the Theatre Visits page.

Pics and stories will follow soon.  I apologise in advance!

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Theatre Visits: April - June 2009

Posted on July 11th, 2009 by bryan.
Categories: Theatre.

I’ve been neglecting this site again.  I would apologise, but I suspect that I’m the only reader!

However, I have updated the Theatre Visits page.  It was a slow start to the year, but I’ve now notched-up four visits in two months to the Royal Albert Hall, as well as a night at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in the Southbank Centre.

Classic FM Live - 16 April **** (Royal Albert Hall)

Cassic FM’s very own Simon Bates compered a great evening.  The programme was wide-ranging and, reflecting the audience, ‘popular’.  And I don’t mean that in a snooty, bad way.  Soloist Faryl Smith (formerly of Britain’s Got Talent) was excellent - Ave Maria and Amazing Grace, sung with an innocence that only a 13-year-old could manage.  We were expecting a rendition of Concierto de Aranjuez by the maestro John Williams, but unfortunately he was taken ill at short notice.  However, his ‘under-study’ (whose name I forget) was a worthy replacement, helping me to realise that the guitar actually is an incredibly difficult and (when played well) beautiful instrument.  The London Chamber Orchestra demonstrated its talent throughout, but I remember especially Prokofiev’s ‘Montagues and Capulets’ from Romeo and Juliet and of course Strauss’ The Blue Danube Waltz - one of my all time favourites!

Various Voices: Voices of Our City - 1 May *** (Queen Elizabeth Hall)

London hosted for a long weekend Various Voices, a series of performances show-casing the wealth of talent in the worldwide gay and lesbian choral community: 60 gay and lesbian choirs from 14 countries; 2,000 singers; 50 concerts; 96 hours; and, no doubt, lots of ‘fun’!  The London Gay Men’s Chorus (including my partner) performed a number of traditional and commissioned London-themed pieces, easily over-shadowing their fellow choirs - Pink Singers and Diversity - both with their presence on stage and the power of their voices.  I’m not the biggest fan of ‘gay’ events / clubs / etc, but this was a great demonstration of talent by a community that really is no less nor more diverse than any other.

RPO Presents Filmharmonic - 8 May **** (Royal Albert Hall)

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and a celebration of film music, featuring classics from the ‘Golden Age of Hollywood’, together with the latest Box Office blockbusters.  OK, I stole that direct from the programme, but it sums-up exactly what the night was about.  We heard themes from all genre: Star Wars and Mission: Impossible (futuristic); Chariots of Fire and Out of Africa (very ‘Empire’); Gladiator and The Lord of the Rings (epic); and Dynasty and LA Law (very nostalgic).  It was also a reminder that really crap films can (almost) be saved by great compositions - Lesbian Vampire Killers being a prime example!

John Barrowman plus Special Guests - 1 June **** (Royal Albert Hall)

This was an outstanding performance by John Barrowman.  Unfortunately, the (very expensive) programme does not record for my failing memory what he sang, but needless to say it was top quality.  His range of songs was impressive, and he spoke openly and emotively with the audience.  I remember in particular stories about his childhood, parents, long-term partner and … dogs, lots of family dogs!  And, of course, he sang what is quickly becoming his song - I Am what I Am (from La Cage aux Folles).  There was also a special guest appearance by Daniel Boys, formerly of the BBC’s Any Dream Will Do and now appearing in the West End’s Avenue Q.  He has recently launched his debut album, and personally I hope that we will be seeing lots more of him!

The King and I - 21 June **** (Royal Albert Hall)

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic, staged in the round of the Royal Albert Hall and featuring the hugely talented (and expertly casted) Maria Friedman as Anna Leonowens.  Well-loved songs, a strong supporting cast and orchestra matched by an equally impressive set and venue, and a bottle of wine.  There is nothing more to say.

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Happy New Year!

Posted on January 8th, 2009 by bryan.
Categories: General, Holidays, Restaurants, Theatre.

2009!  Where did that come from??

The festivities proper started on 19 December, with an indoor picnic and party games at my last day in the office in 2008.  In the evening, a friend and I went to Cadogan Hall, where the London Gay Men’s Chorus (including Graeme) was performing “For Christmas’ Sake”, featuring carols, comedy and very exhausting audience participation.  This was my second LGMC concert, and they’ve both been great - although there is one member of the Chorus that I just wish would choke on his microphone!  Never mind, I got to gush over my ’star’ boyfriend and I even won a raffle prize - a very impressive set of xmas tree baubles!  It wasn’t a very late night, because I was up early the next day to head to Edinburgh.

It was another early start on 23 December, but this time it was for a visit to the dentist and the news that I’ve to get a wisdom tooth out under general anaesthetic - great!!  I then met a friend at Le Sept, probably my favourite restaurant in Edinburgh.  I know smoked haddock and crayfish crepes won’t appeal to everyone, but I’ve yet to be disappointed!  As my friend was abstaining from alcohol, it wasn’t one of our usual marathon lunches, and I spent the rest of the afternoon and early evening attempting (unsuccessfully) to finish my xmas shopping.

Christmas Eve was relatively quiet - just a visit with my Dad and Sister to Edinburgh Zoo.   Unfortunately, my Sis was working night shifts over xmas, but I still had Graeme to look after me - amazingly, it would be the first time that we would wake up together on Christmas Day.  After opening a few presents, Graeme, my Sister and I went round the corner to my Dad’s house, where we exchanged family presents and tucked into brunch.  Graeme and I then went to wish the animals at Edinburgh Zoo a ‘Merry Xmas’ - yes, my second visit in as many days!  Meanwhile, my Sister was preparing an informal (but very tasty) haggis supper, which we had to throw back before she started her night shift.  Graeme and I spent the evening lounging in front of the TV, enjoying the traditional xmas nonsense - although Wallace & Gromit’s “A Matter of Loaf and Death” was excellent!  Boxing Day was our formal family xmas celebration, with a steak pie dinner at my dad’s house.

Our trips to Edinburgh are always pretty manic, and we never have enough time to see everyone and to do everything that we want.  However, on 27 December, Graeme and I met up with my long-time friend, David.  We had dinner at the Smoke Stack, which is definitely in my list of top five restaurants in Edinburgh, and drinks at The Street; but we had no energy for the clubs.

We had a relatively quiet day on 28 December, but after dinner at dad’s house, Graeme, my sister, a couple of her friends and I headed to The Spylaw Tavern, to test our brains in the local pub quiz.  Amazingly, we came second in the main event, and somehow won (yes, won!) the bonus round and the £50 prize!  In the mood to celebrate, but not quite dressed for the occasion, we bought pizzas and alcohol and headed back to my sister’s house, going to bed in the wee small hours.  After a late rise the next day, we sought some retail therapy for our sore heads at The Centre, Livingston.  30 December brought our annual dinner with family friends - it’s one of those ‘traditions’ that nobody remembers why or when it started, nor indeed (if I’m being totally honest) why it continues.  Oh well!

Hogmanay is one of my favourite times of the year - Scottish, world recognised … and really, really fun!  Graeme and I celebrated with dinner at the Smoke Stack (I said it was one of my favourites!) and drinks at The Street (sound familiar ??), before watching the fireworks that heralded the arrival of 2009.  The pyrotechnics are impressive, but the best part of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations is the sight of over 100,000 strangers cheering, dancing and embracing as if they were ‘well kent’ friends - I’ve only spent one New Year’s Eve in London, but it definitely lacked the atmosphere that you get in the Scottish capital.  After the fireworks, we headed to what is now a traditional Hogmanay flat party, hosted by more or less the same people for almost 10 years.  Needless to say, there was chatting, drinking, singing, drinking, games … and a bit more drinking!  Continuing the Scottish theme, we finished a great night of celebrations with a haggis and sausage from Rapido, undoubtedly my favourite chip shop.

Despite not getting into bed until the wee, wee small hours (i.e. 5am), I was up on New Year’s Day at 9am to officiate at the Portobell Promathon, a surprisingly popular (to the extent that it does not have to be advertised) race that attracts hundreds of runners.  I don’t understand the attraction of running practically in the North Sea during a Scottish winter, but then again I go along every year to watch.  Weird!  Anyway, I was shattered and hungover, so I spent the rest of the day at my dad’s house.

2 January was our last full day in Edinburgh, so we had a lot to fit in - lunch with my friend Laura and her fiance, coffee (and PlayStation 3) with David and lastly dinner with my Dad and his partner at another favourite haunt, Katie’s Diner (the food is great and the owner is hysterical).  Then it was up early on 3 January for the return journey to London, work and a bit of a rest!

So that was how I ended 2008, and welcomed in 2009.  Who knows what the year ahead has to offer, but it looks set to be ‘interesting’ - a looming recession, soaring unemployment, a general election, pointless wars, a dying planet.  As you can see, I’m staying positive.

Happy New Year!

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Theatre Visits

Posted on December 6th, 2008 by bryan.
Categories: Theatre.

I know I’m crap at posting to this website, but at least I’ve updated my Theatre Visits!

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A quick catch-up

Posted on October 7th, 2008 by bryan.
Categories: Films, General, Theatre.

It’s been a while since I posted a blog, so here’s a quick update about what I’ve been doing:-

• Graeme and I enjoyed another two BBC Prom performances (Nos. 66 & 75), including the Penultimate Night of the Proms.  I know the latter does not have the kudos of the Last Night, but Beethoven’s Symphony No 9 (’Choral’) was outstanding: I’ve wanted to hear it live for years, and now I can’t wait to experience it again.  Ratings - ****/5 & *****/5.
• We also got the use of a Royal Albert Hall box for Classic FM Live.  The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and its conductor, Vasily Petrenko, were on fine form, with a programme featuring Bizet, Puccini, Schubert, Sibelius and Tchaikovsky.  There were also quality clarinet and trumpet solos by Emma Johnson and Alison Balsom; and the voices of Alfie Boe and Kate Royal - especially when united for Ave Maria - were sublime.  The canons and fireworks of the 1812 Overture were a fitting end to a great evening.  Rating - *****/5.

• My sister visited us for a long weekend, which included a night at the cinema (’Taken‘ is excellent - ****/5) and a day trip to Whipsnade Zoo (very cold, but great fun - ****/5).  However, the best part of the weekend was a visit to Alton Towers, undoubtedly the UK’s best theme park.  My queasy tummy and dizzy head testify to us trying most of the big rides (’Oblivion’ and its vertical drop was the best), but my favourite ride was probably the ‘Runaway Mine Train’ - plenty of twists and turns, kids laughing and lots of smiles, all without the need for a post-ride sick bucket!  We visited on an October weekday outwith the school holidays, which I would definitely recommend.  Alton Towers - *****/5.

That’s all for just now.  B x

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Hitting the dance floor

Posted on September 20th, 2008 by bryan.
Categories: General.

Sore, pounding head!  Twitchy, aching tummy!  When will I learn when to say ‘no’ to more glasses of wine?

It was an old colleague’s leaving do, so a few of us gathered for drinks and nibbles in Camden.  It was a weird night - not least because the guest of honour left before 10pm - but it was great fun: lots of banter, a decent(ish) pub, not many idiots and, for the first time in ages, we went for a boogie!

You can probably count on two hands the number of times G and I have gone clubbing in London.  It’s not that we don’t like clubbing; more that I’m not a fan of the big commercial clubs.  It’s probably because I grew up on the Edinburgh scene, where there was (and still is) only one permanent gay club - CC Blooms.  It’s naff, dingy and dark, but it is what it is and you can’t ask for much more than that.  The Black Cap in Camden is much the same: black walls, lots of mirrors, cheap booze (and occasionally cute men).

Anyway, it’s now the morning after the night before and I’m beginning to feel a bit rough - head, tummy, legs.  Alcohol and age are terrible things!

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Newsflash!

Posted on September 9th, 2008 by bryan.
Categories: General.

After two years of part-time study, three years of work experience and numerous exams, I’ve finally been ‘elected’ Associate of The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (ICSA).

As well as presenting financial and professional opportunitues, this means I’ve achieved two of the goals I set when I moved to London in 2005: firstly, to gain top-level experience in the charity sector; and, secondly, to qualify as a Chartered (Company) Secretary.  I’ve even had the odd bit of fun!

Most importantly, I get a few more letters after my name ;o)

AlbaScot LL.B.(Hons) ACIS

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It’s time for an end to the segregation of children by faith

Posted on September 5th, 2008 by bryan.
Categories: General.

As children across England and Wales returned to school this week, an eclectic mix of organisations joined forces to launch the Accord Coalition, which promotes inclusive schools and an end to special arrangements for state-funded faith schools.

The Coalition’s Declaration of Aims argues:-

• that in a pluralist, multi-cultural society, the State should promote tolerance and recognition of different values and beliefs;
• that schools should welcome all and be committed to non-discrimination; and
• that schools should promote a culture of questioning, of knowledge, of respect and of exploration of values, where students develop their own identities and sense of place in the world.

The Declaration continues, stating that State-funded schools should:-

• operate admissions policies that take no account of students’ - or their parents’ - religion or beliefs;
• operate recruitment and employment policies that do not discriminate on the grounds of religion or belief;
• follow an objective, fair and balanced syllabus for education about religions and non-religions beliefs; and
• provide their students with inclusive, inspiring and stimulating assemblies, in place of compulsory acts of worship.

‘The Guardian’s’ Polly Toynbee is also President of the British Humanist Association, a member of the Accord Coalition.  She used her most recent commentary piece to highlight and to oppose the (increasing) segregation of children by faith, especially in the era of the ‘Academy’.  Neither she nor the Coalition calls for anything extreme or radical - only that children, teachers and other school staff should be free from discrimination on the grounds of their religion or beliefs.

Toynbee writes that ‘class, ethnic and faith segregation are the most damaging reasons why the Accord Coalition needs to prevail’.  She adds: ‘The State can’t protect children from pernicious views and doctrines [about creationism, sexuality and women's rights] at home - but it has a duty to protect them in State schools’.  If only the State subscribed to that view.  Instead, we have 7,000 faith schools, with more opening every year in the form of Academies, which already discriminate against the majority by focusing much needed funding and expertise on the few.

Toynbee suggests that ‘faith schools may be Blair’s most damaging legacy’, yet their number continues to multiply with the permission of Parliament.  That’s why we have two choices: either to give credit where it’s due and to continue to despair about the undue and unfair influence of religious interest groups over our elected representatives; or to support the Accord Coalition and it Declaration of Aims.  I know what I will be doing!

To read Polly Toynbee’s commentary in full, click on the link below.

Faith schools may be Blair’s most damaging legacy (’The Guardian’, 2 September 2008)

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Photo Album - new pics!!

Posted on September 3rd, 2008 by bryan.
Categories: General.

Cardiff - June 2008

London Zoo - June 2008 (1)

West End Live 2008

London Zoo - June 2008 (2)

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