A Duck Tour for Erin's 1st birthday

Erin and Emma waiting to take our first Duck Tour.

Saturday November 10, 2012

For Christmas 2011, Emma and I were bought tickets for the London Duck Tours Amazing Amphibious Adventure. And, since the tickets were shortly to expire, we had booked our places on the 11:30 Tour. So, we were up bright and early to catch the 09:30 train to Baker Street, changing to the Jubilee line at Finchley Road. We exited at Westminster, where we then walked across Westminster Bridge and found a place on York Road to get a bacon sandwich and coffee. We then went into the Duck Tours Booking Office, where we left Erin’s buggy, before heading across the road to the Duck Stop on Chicheley Street. Exactly on time our ‘Duck’ began its Tour, with Sam at the wheel and Ali as our Tour Guide.

Leaving Chicheley Street we turned right onto York Road, where Ali pointed out the abundance of cast-iron and steel lampposts on London’s streets, so unless we wanted to stop at St. Thomas’ Hospital we should keep our hands and heads inside the ‘Duck’ at all times. We were then instructed in the rules of the Duck Tour:

If you see another Duck Tour vehicle, you MUST flap your arms and make noises like a duck.

End of the rules.

We then crossed Westminster Bridge, all the time waving at the ‘tourists’ who were bemused by our WWII bright yellow and blue ‘Duck’ on wheels, but who still smiled and took photos. A quick trip around Parliament Square and we headed up Whitehall, passed Downing Street and Horse Guards and up to Trafalgar Square, where we were told some quite interesting facts (some of which were new, even to me) about Nelson and his Column. From here we were drove onto Cockspur Street and then Pall Mall, where we passed many Gentlemen’s Clubs and St. James’ Palace and the Club where John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich ‘invented’ the sandwich. (Although for centuries people had placed meats between slices of bread and called them simply, “bread and meat” or “bread and cheese”.) From here we turned left onto Piccadilly, passing the Ritz Hotel and Green Park. At this point Ali gave us two different stories as to why Green Park is so green;

1. King Charles II and his wife were out walking in Upper St. James’ Park (as it was known), when she said to the King, “You should pick the most beautiful flower in this park and it give to the most beautiful woman you know.” So, King Charles II looked around and found the most beautiful flower he could and gave it to a passing maid. The Queen was so incensed by this that, on her arrival back at the Palace, she demanded the gardeners remove all the flowers and flowerbeds and never plant another flower in the park… Ever! And, to this day, there are still no formal flowerbeds in Green Park.

2. The Green Park was originally a swampy burial ground for the lepers from nearby St. James’s Hospital and, with so much leprosy in such a small place, the gardeners refused to plant flowers for fear of catching the disease.

I prefer story number one.

Destination Star Trek London, 2012: Day 2

Saturday October 20, 2012

DAY 2

Unlike the black suit and blue shirt that I had worn the day before, today I wore my Star Trek Dress Uniform. Not many people noticed, or maybe recognised it, on the train to North Greenwich, but they did when Len and myself walked to the Emirates Air Line Cable Car. You could hear the excited chatter and the click and flash of cameras. As we disembarked the cable car, we spotted a few other uniforms from various alien races, but not too many. It wasn't until we entered the ExCeL Centre itself that we became aware of how many people were in a costume of some kind or another. Some of the costumes were home-made or cheap imitations. Others were of far better quality and some actually fit the person wearing them. And others were out of this World. There were Humans, Bajorans, Andorians, Klingons, Vorta, Romulans, Trill, Omnipotent Beings (such as Q), Mugato, Borg, Ferengi and every style of Starfleet uniform from the TV Series through the films. The only species that I failed to see were Cardassians and Jem'hadar.

The entire place was considerably busier than the previous day, by at least a couple of hundred people, so I was glad that I had taken the opportunity to have my Captain's photos taken on the Friday. As we meandered through the crowds, I was asked to pose for the odd photo by various people in varying uniforms. Len suggested that if this was going to happen all day, I should charge. I saw a Klingon Warrior walking around and so asked for a photo with him, which he happily stood for. As the queues to the Autograph & Photo Sales Area died down, I went and purchased two tickets for the Bridge Photo Shoot. When these were bought we went to look at some of the canvas paintings and limited edition prints. Many of them were autographed and limited to editions of 500 or less. None of them however had a price on them, but signs did tell you to ask for prices. I suggested that if you had to ask the price, then you couldn't afford it. This didn't deter Len from asking the price of a glossy print of all five captain's, with their starships and autographs. The salesman answered £2995.00, without the frame. I was quite surprised that I wasn't picking Len up off the floor, at this point. I had seen a nice canvas of five of the most famous Klingons, with their ships and autographs, which I was informed was £345.00. He then informed us that he accepted all major credit cards. It was at this point that we hit the Klingon Zone for a drink.

After our drink we both headed over to the Bridge Shoot Area and joined the queue. Although the queue was quite long, time flew because striking up a conversation was simple as everyone had something in common. Conversations ranged from best episode from any series to best film to best hero to best villain. A young Starfleet Admiral, in a uniform from Star Trek Deep Space Nine, asked to have his photo taken with me, which I of course obliged. Then we were near the front of the queue and my date with destiny. Unlike the photo shoot with William Shatner or Avery Brooks, you were given time to get comfortable and work out your pose. I opted for sitting in the Captain's chair with a small smile, as if to say, 'It doesn't get better than this!' Len opted for a more laid back shot of himself in the chair, which looks really cool. (This was the second USS Enterprise bridge that I have now had my photo taken on. The other was at Star Trek Adventure Hyde Park in 2003, when I got to sit on the bridge of the USS Enterprise NCC-1701-D).

With our photographs in our hands, Len was concerned that we had no way of keeping them from getting damaged. We could have bought a plastic sleeve for £1.00 but I decided that we needed proper frames to display this moment of history. So, two Destination Star Trek London frames were purchased. I had purchased two identical frames the day before to hold my captain's photos. Another wander around and another photo was requested. This time from a Starfleet officer, with green hair, in an Original series dress.

There was a Stormtrooper, from the Star Wars franchise, seen wandering around, but we avoided him like the plague. However, seeing a character from 'Galaxy Quest' was great.

Hopefully some of these photographs will appear on the Internet at some point, so that I can see them for myself. I was then asked to pose with a Bajoran Cleric and Seven-of-nine. This time I managed to get a photo of the three of us when a passerby offered to take the photographs for all of us.

After this we wandered over to the Main Stage, where a Star Trek Auction was going on. We watched from the side as various prints, memorabilia and props went under the hammer. Some went for surprising little, while others saw them raise thousands. We then went around the various Autograph Areas, so that I could try and get some more photographs of the people that I had grown up watching on TV and in the Cinema, Then, with time getting on, we decided to have one last look around before having one last drink in the Federation Zone. Unfortunately, we didn't drink our last drinks in the Federation Zone for reasons that I shall now explain;

THE FEDERATION ZONE: The Federation Zone consisted of a small bar selling tea, coffee, soft drinks, beer, pasties and pies, crisps and Romulan Ale. The seating area was made up of small round tables with chairs and looked like a relaxation zone, made even more clear by the six or seven Starfleet women in uniforms of the Sciences division giving out free 10-minute massages. There was also a massive set of 'Holodeck' doors and a 'Transporter' wall to have photographs taken against. The entire area was clean and reeked of Federation goodness. Yuk!

THE KLINGON ZONE: The Klingon Zone consisted of a small bar selling tea, coffee, soft drinks, beer, pasties and pies, crisps and Klingon Bloodwine. The seating area was made up of long wooden benches and tables covered in bearskins. The centrepiece of the area was nine-foot tall Klingon Warrior Statue, while around the sides was a Klingon Gong for "hitting not tickling", as one of the resident Klingons pointed out to a young Starfleet Cadet, who proceeded to make the gong ring out louder than a Klingon Targ at breakfast. There was also a Throne to have your photograph taken on. Basically, this was the place to be. Qapla!

So, we bought our drinks at the Federation Zone and took them to the Klingon Zone. Perfect! Soaking up the atmosphere, we sipped our drinks and talked about the last few days. We both agreed that this had been an experience that we both happy to have been a part of.

Until next time...

Live long and prosper.

Destination Star Trek London, 2012: Day 1

Friday October 19, 2012

THE JOURNEY

Len and myself travelled to North Greenwich via the Metropolitan Line, then Jubilee Line, arriving at just after 11 o'clock. We then took a short stroll around the O2 Arena as, on our last visit, we had not had a chance to take a proper look around. We then headed for the Emirates Air Line cable car, to continue our journey to the ExCeL Centre. 

On arriving we headed to the Airline Cafe Diner & Sports Bar, as I was feeling peckish. Len had already eaten but had a coffee while I had a latte and a sausage, bacon and egg baguette. The prices were very reasonable, providing you didn't want an alcoholic drink as they were very expensive. A standard 275ml bottle of beer was £5.50. A bottle of Cobra was £12.95 and a bottle of House Champagne was £70.00! Hence the name Airline Cafe Diner & Sports Bar, because their prices are Sky High. 

When we had finished we then headed to the Fox Bar, for a quick drink, before heading into the ExCeL Centre. With our 'three-day pass' around our neck, all we had to do was collect our 'Goodie Bag' and wait for the doors to open. We then headed into a room the size of three football pitches, where we waited to be let into the the main exhibition area. At exactly 2 O'clock the doors opened and slowly the queues began to move. 15 minutes later and we were in.

DAY ONE

As we entered the exhibition area, to our left was the Photo Shoot B Area and the Klingon Zone. Then you came to the Autograph & Photo Sales Area and then Talk Stage B. The Bridge Photo Shoot Area was next followed by Stage C and Autograph Area A, where the five Captains were situated. Next to this was Photo Shoot Area A and Photo Shoot Area B. Next to this was the Federation Zone and finally the Main Stage. In the middle were Autograph Areas B & C, The Museum, the Stunt Arena, Press Office and various stalls selling merchandise. 

After a quick scout around I headed to Photo Shoot Area A to get my photograph taken with Mr William Shatner, while Len went for a wander and ended up at Stage C where he listened to Paul Olsen give a talk about his 8 month task of airbrushing the Enterprise for Star Trek The Motion Picture, and how he then developed a photo-composition process that produced computer-like graphics 20 years before computers were up to the job. Meanwhile, as I waited for my moment with Star Trek's most famous Captain, we were all informed that you could not touch or shake hands with Mr Shatner. You could speak to him but you had to leave the area as soon as your photograph had been taken. The speed with which we were all rushed through was incredible. Between 15 and 20 photos a minute. Soon enough it was my turn. Mr Shatner was sat on a stall and barely met my gaze as I took my position. There was a flash and it was over. I offered my thanks, but received no reply as I left to collect my photograph. It had all happened so quickly that I wasn't sure if it had really happened or not. The evidence in my hands said that it had, so I wandered off to find Len. I found him near Stage C and suggested a beer. Since my next photo opportunity was at Photo Shoot Area B, we headed to the Klingon Zone.

After a quick drink, I headed off to get my photograph taken with Mr Avery Brooks, while Len went for another wander. Unlike William Shatner, Mr Brooks greeted you with a firm handshake, asked your name and really made the experience a pleasure. After the photo had been taken, I said "Thank you, Mr Brooks." to which he replied, "Avery. Avery." What a great guy.

With my two planned photographs taken, I went to find Len so that we could both have a proper look around. As we walked, we were surrounded by many alien races and a myriad of different Starfleet uniforms. In the B & C Autograph Areas we got to see many of the stars from all the Star Trek TV Series and Movies; JG Hertzler, Daniel Stewart, Bobby Clark, Denise Crosby,Walter Koenig, Cirroc Lofton, David Warner, Robin Curtis, Marc Alaimo, Andrew Robinson, Chase Masterson and many others.

Kate Mulgrew played Captain Janeway. This captain got her crew stranded (and decimated) in the Delta Quadrant, before making a seven-year journey home, where she was made an Admiral. Meanwhile, Harry Kim remained an ensign, never once getting promoted.

I tried to get some photos of them all, but it was difficult with all of the autograph hunters in the way. Still, there was always tomorrow. We rounded out the rest of the afternoon with a few more drinks in the Klingon Zone, before heading off for home.

HOMEWARD BOUND

We took the cable car back across the River Thames to North Greenwich, where we boarded a Jubilee Line train. The train was packed with commuters heading home, so we alighted at London Bridge. By now the rain was starting to come down hard so we headed for Bankside and The Anchor pub, as all the other pubs around Borough Market were rammed. 

After a pint we headed along Bankside to The Founders Arms, where we took shelter from the drizzle, before heading to Doggett's Riverside Bar. Deciding that the trains would be less busy, now, we headed to Westminster and caught a train to Baker Street and then took a Metropolitan line train home.

Walking with family: Greenwich to the Thames Barrier... and beyond

Saturday October 13, 2012.

Myself, Emma, Erin and Uncle Martin decided to take a trip to Greenwich. We took our usual route of the Metropolitan line to Finchley Road, where we changed onto the Jubilee line for the rest of our journey to North Greenwich. It was at this point that we were informed of a 'security incident' at Canary Wharf, meaning that the Jubilee line would terminate at London bridge. 

So, Plan B was quickly formulated; Breakfast at Borough Market, then the Thames Clipper to North Greenwich. This plan then changed back to Plan A, a few minutes later, when the 'incident' was resolved meaning that the train would continue on its merry way. 

Finally arriving at North Greenwich, we made our way into the O2 Arena, where had a coffee and a snack, before heading off to catch the Cable Car across the River Thames. Having an 'Oyster Card' meant no queuing for tickets, so we headed for the lift which would take us to the Departure Deck. The seats on the Emirates Air Line are comfortable and the entire trip lasts about 12 minutes. I took a short video of the first half of our journey, which offered amazing views of Stepney, the Olympic Park, the Thames Barrier to Thamesmead and beyond. 

We then walked around the Royal Victoria Docks towards the Excel centre, which next week will be full of Trekkers, Klingons, Ferengi and other species from around the Galaxy. We then traversed the Pedestrian Bridge at Royal Victoria Dock, in order to take some photographs. Unfortunately, no aeroplanes were taking off from London City Airport, so it was just views of the local cityscape that I could photograph. I did manage to get a shot of MillenniuM Mills, which I had last visited in 1988, when it proved itself as a worthy backdrop for Jean-Michel Jarre's 'Destination Docklands' concert.

From here we headed South onto the North Woolwich Road and into the Thames Barrier Park. This was my first visit to the Thames Barrier, so I took many photographs as I tried to capture the wonder of human achievement against nature. The Thames Barrier is the second largest movable flood barrier in the World and it was opened on May 8th 1984, by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

From here we made our way to Pontoon Dock DLR station, where we caught the DLR to Poplar. We changed at Poplar and caught a DLR to Cutty Sark. After exiting the station we headed into Greenwich Market to grab a bite to eat. Eating on the hoof, we headed for the Cutty Sark and took many photos and I bumped into someone from Watford. After a quick chat, we went to buy our tickets, which was perfectly timed as the heavens opened moments later. 

Now, many people have gone on about the 'greenhouse' or 'carbuncle' that now surrounds the World famous Tea Clipper, but I found it added to the Cutty Sark, rather than detracted from her. It also opens up the drydock, so that you get a true sense of the sheer size and scale of this historic vessel. This also allows you to get some unique views and perspectives, for your photographs, that you would never normally get of a ship. 

'Cutty Sark'

Last of the Tea Clippers.

Saturday October 13, 2012.

It was an overcast autumn afternoon, when I visited the Cutty Sark, in Greenwich. This was shortly after she had been rebuilt, following a catastrophic damage caused by a fire during restoration work, in 2007. 

It was a pleasant enough afternoon and, although the crowds were on the large side, they were hardly noticeable in the newly created space around the historic vessel.

Thames Barrier

A great barrier, restrains the mighty river.

Tuesday October 13, 2012.

I had begun to travel further east, rather than staying in the more familiar central and western areas of the Unfinished City. What had made this easier was the newly improved transport links, that included the Jubilee Line, the Emirates Air Line Cable Car, the Docklands Light Railway and the Thames Clipper.

I had taken the Jubilee Line to the Greenwich Peninsula, where I took a flight on the Emirates Air Line and then walked through the Docklands, and Silvertown, before I reached the Thames Barrier Park.

The weather was warm, with just a few clouds bubbling up from the south, as I stared out across the River Thames towards Woolwich, which was when I took this shot.

London Cable Car

Reaching for the Sky.

Saturday October 13, 2012.

I absolutely love travelling across the River Thames, via the London Dangleway, even though it is simpler, and cheaper, to stay on the Jubilee Line and travel below the River Thames.

Sunset from the Dangleway.

The reason for this is the novelty, which still hasn't worn off after countless flights, and the views which are unique. On a clear day you can see The Thames Barrier, Canary Wharf, The Shard, the Olympic Park, the Old Royal Naval College and, if you get your timing right, some spectacular sunsets.

Descending into the London Fog.

Len's 52nd birthday: Green Park to Borough Market... and beyond

Saturday September 8, 2012.

It was that time of the year again, when Len, myself and whoever else is free head off to London. Unfortunately, Steve B was at a wedding and Jason had no babysitter, so it was just Len and myself. 

We took our normal train to London but alighted at Green Park, for a change. Our first port-of-call was the newly erected Bomber Command Memorial in Green Park. The Memorial recognises the 55,573, airmen from all corners of the Commonwealth, who gave their lives to free Europe from Nazi rule, between 1943-45. Although they are remembered at the memorial at Runnymede and also at St. Clement Dane's church, on Strand, they had never had a dedicated memorial... Until now. And what a memorial! Architect Liam O'Connor has created a masterpiece out of Portland Stone, befitting these heroic airmen. The memorial is open to the sky in a symbolic gesture, so that the sun can shine down on the statues of the seven nine-foot bronze airmen, crafted by Philip Jackson. Around the roof of the memorial are sections of aluminium, salvaged from a Handley Page Halifax bomber that crashed in Belgium. There is also an inscription, on the memorial, that says "also commemorates those of all nations who lost their lives in the bombing of 1939-1945." Both myself and Len were completely gobsmacked by the size and presence of the memorial, so much so that it was a subject that kept coming up in conversation throughout the day. I was so affected by the memorial that, as we walked around London, I began to write a poem about it in my head.

From here we headed down Constitution Hill towards Buckingham Palace, where the crowds were gathered for the changing of the guard. So, with many of the normal routes sealed off for the Paralympics marathon, we made a detour on to Pall Mall, then Waterloo Place and on to Horse Guards Road. 

We walked by the Memorial to the Great War and the memorial to the 202 victims of the Bali bombing in 2002, before heading into Parliament Square. As we approached Westminster Abbey, we found all the tourists. The queue to get into Westminster Abbey were some of the longest lines of people that I have witnessed, for anything. Bypassing the crowds we crossed St. Margaret Street and headed into the Victoria Tower Gardens. We stopped in the shade of the trees overlooking the River Thames, before continuing our jaunt. We exited the gardens and crossed Lambeth Bridge and headed along the South Bank. 

The temperature was still climbing into the high 20s, with barely a breeze in the air, so we slowed our pace slightly. As we reached the old County Hall, we decided to grab a bite to eat, which we ate outside before continuing Eastward. Dodging the milling masses, who were there for the Thames Festival as well as the Paralympics, we walked passed the Jubilee Gardens, where a 1000 strong group of children were playing steel drums. It was an awesome sight and the crowds were really enjoying it. We then passed the Royal Festival Hall before going under Waterloo Bridge. With the tide out on the River Thames, children and adults, were walking and playing on the Thames foreshore, as we approached Gabriel's Wharf. 

With the sun beating down we both decided it might be an idea to get a cold drink and find some shade. And, wouldn't you know it, we were by Doggett's pub. The inside of the pub was cool and remarkably quiet, as many of the patrons were using the various terraces on the upper floors, or sitting outside in the sun. This gave us a chance to sit down and watch a bit of Paralympic wheelchair fencing. Sadly the British man lost to the Chinese guy, but it was still fascinating to watch. We sipped our drinks, to make them last, before heading back out onto the South Bank.

Winston Churchill's Britain at War Museum

Britain at War Experience

Saturday September 8, 2012

Around the London Bridge and Tooley Street area of Southwark, there is a lot of work ongoing as part of the upgrade to London Bridge station.

Many of the attractions in the area are either moving, closing for a short time or, like Winston Churchill's Britain at War Experience, closing with no plans to reopen.

The aforementioned Britain at War Experience is a permanent exhibition open 7 days a week, only closing from December 24-26.

The exhibition includes the chance to huddle in an Anderson shelter and hear all the terrifying noises of an air raid overhead. You can get up close and personal with real wartime bombs, some of which tick, rare documents and photographs in the unique Bomb Disposal display.

This way to the Air Raid Shelter

You can even visit the 'Drury Lane' dressing room and catch a glimpse of the stars of the war years. Then there is the Rainbow Corner, which was a club to entertain the GI's.

You get to learn about the Land Army Girls and other women who fought in the war on the home front. 

There are Ration Books, Posters, gas masks and so mush more to see.

Although small you still need a good hour or so to see and experience everything, but it is still worth the visit.

 Britain At War

UPDATE

Although the website is still active, 

Winston Churchill's Britain at War Museum closed permanently in 2013.

Walking with family: Westminster to South Bank... and beyond

Sunday August 12, 2012

My mum, Uncle Martin and myself arrived at Westminster at 16:30. 

Our plan: Walk along the South Bank and take some night shots of London. 

With Westminster closed to traffic, due to the barriers still being in place from the Marathon, earlier in the day, we were able to get unfettered photographs of the Palace of Westminster, Boadicea, City Hall and more. Being able to stand in the middle of Westminster Bridge we were able to get some photographs from different angles. 

We then made our way onto the South Bank and began our stroll towards Tower Bridge. Around the Jubilee Gardens, there were many stalls, artists, rides, entertainers, musicians and much more. The throng of people enjoying the late afternoon sun, including Olympians and Paralympians, only added to the heady atmosphere of London at its best. 

With lots of stops, to take photographs, it was a slow but enjoyable stroll. By the Festival Hall there was a map of the World, made completely out of Lego. Because of its size it was very hard to get a photograph of the whole thing, but it was nice to see. It reminded my of my boxes of Lego that are still in my loft. 

Tower Bridge

Olympic Bridge.

Sunday August 12, 2012.

It was late afternoon as I travelled to the Unfinished City, to soak up the Olympic atmosphere.

After wandering around Westminster, I headed for Tower Bridge in the hopes of grabbing a few images of the Olympic Rings, which had been hung beneath her western walkway. The bridge was also being lit up with colour-changing lights, giving it an extra special look.

As night descended the bridge began going through a myriad of colour-changes, it was hard to find the perfect one to shoot. Then, as if on queue, the lights took on the colour of the Union Flag; Red, White and Blue.

Queen Victoria Memorial

Vintage Victoria.

Tuesday June 26, 2012.

Considering how many visits I have made to the Unfinished City, there are very few photographs that I have taken of Buckingham Palace or the Victoria Memorial. I have visited the area on numerous occasions, but crowds always obscured, or prevented, me from obtaining the shot I wanted.

However, on this particular afternoon, the crowds were light, so I was able to grab some great shots. I took this shot with a sepia setting, before adding a distressed effect later on.

Battle of Britain Monument

A Monument to "The Few".

Wednesday May 2, 2012.

I have always been fascinated by the various statues, monuments and memorials dotted around London, including the temporary pieces that appear every now-and-again.

I also have a fascination with the Battle of Britain, so, when I found out about this monument, I had to visit it.

Gallery

Review: 'Assassins' by Stephen Sondheim

"Everybody's got the right to some sunshine."

Tuesday 27th March, 2012 - They're Coming

My friend Steve B, and I, headed to the 'Pleasance Theatre', London, to see Stephen Sondheim's, Assassins.

The play explores nine of the twenty-odd attempts on the life of US Presidents, from John Wilkes Booth to John Hinckley, Jr. Instead of focusing on the assassinations, the play strives to understand the assassins, and their reasons for attempting to, and sometimes succeeding to, assassinate US Presidents, climaxing in a 'dreamlike' sequence, in which Lee Harvey Oswald is surrounded by the assassins of the past and future, who convince him that he is the key to connecting them all as one.

"Free Country, means a right to expect, that you'll have an effect."

The play begins with the song 'Everybody's got the right', in which we meet the nine assassins. Each assassin is 'issued' a gun and, after they have been given ammunition, they take aim at the audience as 'Hail to the Chief' is played. At this point John Wilkes Booth excuses himself and a shot rings out, and Booth is heard, off stage, saying 'Sic semper tyrannis.' The scene then changes to that of Booth, with a broken leg, hiding out in a barn, trying to right down his reasons for the assassination. His story is told with 'The ballad of Booth', by the 'Balladeer'.

We then see the male assassins. Charles Guiteau toasts the Presidency, John Hinckley, Jr breaks a bottle and Leon Czolgosz loses his temper. Guiseppe Zangara complains about stomach pains and Booth tells him that, in order to cure his pain, he should shoot President Roosevelt. The radio then announces Zangara's failed assassination attempt, and we are introduced to five bystanders, who sing, 'How I saved Roosevelt'. Czolgosz sings from his 'electric chair' but is annoyed that there are no cameras.

Sarah Jane Moore and Lynette Fromme meet on a park bench, with Fromme spouting out the teachings of her lover, Charles Manson. Moore goes over her life history, real and imagines, until both women connect with hatred for their fathers. They then shoot a bucket of KFC, before laughing hysterically about the fact that they both know Charles Manson from different times.

Czolgosz, Booth, Guiteau and Moore all join in a barbershop quartet and sing, 'The gun song', in which Czolgosz decides that he will kill President McKinley. While the Balladeer sings 'The ballad of Czolgasz', Czolgasz meets President McKinley and assassinates him.

We then meet Samuel Byck who, dressed in a dirty Santa suit, is talking into a tape recorder and recording his thoughts about crashing an aeroplane into the White House, in order to kill President Nixon.

John Hinckley is then seen sitting on a stool, trying to play a guitar as Fromme enters. She spies a picture of Jodie Foster and teases Hinckley about it, by pulling out a picture of Manson and singing 'Unworthy of your love'. A picture of President Reagan appears and Hinckley shoots it. Missing each time, the Proprietor mocks Hinckley with Reagan quips.

Charles Guiteau is giving shooting tips to Sarah Jane Moore and tells her that he is to be the next Ambassador to France. Moore rebuffs his flirting attempts and the scene changes to a train station and Guiteau meets President Garfield. Guiteau believes he will be made Ambassador to France, because of a speech that Guiteau wrote for President Garfield. Guiteau is mocked by Garfield, who Guiteau promptly shoots. We then see Guiteau going to the gallows with the show-stopping number, 'The ballad of Guiteau'.

Moore and Fromme meet to assassinate President Ford and, much to Fromme's dismay, Moore has brought her son and her dog, which she shoots accidentally, along. An argument ensues and they drop their guns as President Ford enters. Not recognising him, until it's too late, they have no recourse but to throw the bullets at him, shouting 'bang' as they do.

Byck records another message to President Nixon, as he is on his way to the airport to hijack an aeroplane to crash into the White House.

The assassins meet up and try to understand why their dreams haven't been met. The balladeer tries to make them see that there are other ways to achieve their dreams. The song, 'Another National Anthem' plays and the assassins sing it louder and louder until the Balladeer is forced off stage.

The scene changes to that of a sixth-storey store room in the Texas School Book Depository. Lee Harvey Oswald is about to kill himself, but is interrupted by Booth. Scaring Oswald with information of his past, Booth tries to convince Oswald to make a difference by assassinating President Kennedy, rather than killing himself. From the sides of the stage, the other assassins all appear and, as one, try to convince Oswald, that if he kills President Kennedy, they will all become one in history. Oswald takes the rifle from Booth and moves towards the window. Taking aim, he fires, as the assassins sing, 'November 22nd, 1963'.

After the assassinations, the bystanders tell where they were when the President died with the song, 'Something just broke'.

The assassins regroup one more time for the reprise of 'Everybody's got the right'.

End

At just over 90 minutes, the show is a perfect length and that the cast were brilliant. It was really interesting to see how such dark parts of American history can be made into such a thought-provoking stage play and musical. The set was incredible and deserves to be seen by as many theatre goers as possible, as does the play. Ray Rackham has put together a clever and versatile group of actors, who have each put in 100%, which shows on stage. Even though everyone gave a sterling turn, a few actors did, for me, stand out.

Martin Dickinson, as John Wilkes Booth, was absolutely brilliant. His presence drew your attention every time he took to the stage and, from seeing his list of credits, I can understand why.

Brandon Force was mesmerising, with his extroverted portrayal, of Charles Guiteau, which was fresh and not too over the top.

Alexander Forsyth, as Leon Czolgasz, gave a supremely introverted display as the man who believes that killing the President will change everyone's lives.

Bronwyn Baud gave an absolutely entertaining portrayal as Sarah Jane Moore.

2ND COMPANY PRODUCTIONS

ASSASSINS

MUSIC & LYRICS BY STEPHEN SONDHEIM

BOOK WRITTEN BY JOHN WEIDMAN

DIRECTOR RAY RACKHAM

CHOREOGRAPHER CHRIS WHITTAKER

MUSICAL DIRECTOR JOE BUNKER

ASSASSINS runs from 21 March - 7 April 2012

at

THE PLEASANCE THEATRE

ISLINGTON

On Wednesday 28th March 2012, Jonathan Ross made this 'tweet'

jonathan ross ‏ @wossy

Just home from watching Sondheim's Assassins at the Pleasance Theatre. Great show and it's on for 2 more weeks. Grab your tickets now!

FInd out what everyone else thought of the show.

Walking with Family: My 40th Birthday

The Old Royal Naval college viewed from Island Gardens.

"Age is important only if you’re cheese or wine. Or something collectable." - Solomon Short

"Forty is almost like being a grown-up." - Solomon Short

Sunday 25th March, 2012.

Although it wasn't my birthday until Monday 26th, myself, Emma, Erin, my mum and uncle Martin decided to go for a day out in London. Alysha had a dance competition in Hemel Hempstead, so wasn't able to make it this time. We were up early, which wasn't bad considering the clocks had gone forward, and left the house just before 09:00. Mum an Martin met us at the corner of our road, and we made the short walk to Watford Metropolitan station. After all the 'Oyster' cards were topped up, or purchased in Martin's case, we boarded our train. 

We changed onto the Jubilee Line train, at Finchley Road, and continued our journey to North Greenwich. We exited North Greenwich station and walked out onto 'Peninsula Square'. The weather was decidedly cloudy and chilly so, after a few photographs were taken, we went into the 'O2 arena', for a look around and to warm up. We walked along the length of 'Entertainment Avenue', which takes up over half the floor space at the O2, and waited for the coffee shops to open. At 11:00 we went into 'Starbucks' for a drink and to feed Erin. Once we had finished, and Erin had been changed, we headed back outside onto Peninsula Square. 

The weather had improved considerably, so more photographs were taken, before we made our way to the North Greenwich Pier, to catch the 'Thames Clipper'. Because we all had 'Oyster' cards, we all got a 15% discount on our fare. After boarding the 'Clipper' we all sat at the back and got our first glimpse of the 'Olympic Stadium' and the 'Anish Kapoor Tower'. We also saw the supports for the new Thames Cable Car. 

The journey to Greenwich Pier was quick and we were soon at the 'Old Royal Naval College'. More photographs were taken, before we headed into Greenwich village. As we passed the 'Cutty Sark', Martin told me the story of the ships figurehead. Something that I was unaware of. 

The Cutty Sark’s figurehead is a young witch named ‘Nannie’ who was a character in the poem 'Tam O'Shanter', by Scottish poet Robert Burns. The poem concerns Tam, a farmer who, after an evening of drinking, was riding home on his horse called Meg. On his way, he saw that the churchyard was occupied by a collection of witches, with the Devil himself playing the bagpipes. Tam saw that among the group of witches, there was one which was young and beautiful. Her name was Nannie, and she wore only a 'cutty sark', Tam was bewitched and, in his excitement, he cried out "Weel done cutty sark!" The witches then pursued Tam who fled for his life to the bridge over the river Doon, for he knew that witches could not cross running water. Nannie was faster than the others and, as the mare galloped over the bridge, she seized it by the tail, which came off in her hand. Hence, the figurehead is always shown holding a horse's tail in her left hand. After this, we headed to 'Greenwich Market'. Greenwich has been home to a Royal Charter Market, originally assigned to the Commissioners of Greenwich Hospital, since the 19th December 1700. It used to be situated at the West Gate of the Old Royal Naval College, before moving to its current location in 1831. 

After a good look around we sat down to feed Erin and I bought Emma a coffee, while I had a pint of 'Ghost Ship' Pale Ale, from the 'Coach & Horses'. Meanwhile, my mum and Martin went for another look around and bought some prints. When we were all back together, we headed to the front of the Market and bought some food. Emma, Martin and my mum had Roast Beef with all the trimmings, while I had a spicy beef stir fry with rice. We then had a look around some more shops and more things were purchased. We then made our way back towards the 'Old Royal Naval College', and went into the 'Discover Greenwich Centre'. More photographs taken, before Erin was changed and we made our way back to Greenwich Pier. 

Once again we boarded the 'Clipper' and enjoyed a trip down the River Thames. We passed Canary Wharf, Surrey Docks, Bermondsey and Wapping before alighting at Tower Pier. With the sun beating down, we walked along the Thames, in front of the 'Tower of London', towards 'Tower Bridge'. After crossing 'Tower Bridge', we made our way onto the South Bank and continued heading West. Lots more photographs were taken, before we stopped at 'Hay's Galleria' for a coffee, and to feed Erin. We then continued along the River Thames, passing 'Southwark Cathedral', 'The Golden Hinde', 'The Clink Prison Museum' & 'The Globe Theatre'. 

We then crossed the Thames, via the 'MillenniuM Bridge', and headed to 'St. Paul's Cathedral'. As we were all getting a bit tired, we decided it might be worth heading towards a station. Farringdon station seemed our best bet, as it was a Metropolitan Line station, and it was less than a mile away. So, that's where we headed, passing the 'Old Bailey', the 'Musicians' church' and 'Smithfield Market' before reaching our destination. 

After a few minutes we boarded a train bound for Chesham and took this to Baker Street, where we changed onto a Watford train. We finally reached home at 19:00, at which point Erin passed out. Then Alysha came home, from her dance competition, looking exhausted. Lots of semi-final places but no medals or trophies, this time. Next Sunday Alysha has another dance competition, so hopefully she will win a few there. So, some food was ordered in, before we all turned in for the night.

All in all another great day in the World's Best Capital.

Elvis Presley: Live at the O2 Arena

Friday March 16, 2012. ~ The King comes to London

The day started with Emma, Erin and myself heading to Rickmansworth, in the morning, just for a change. 

We got a bus there and started to mooch around the charity shops. A few good bargains were found and then we checked out the other shops. Soon, Erin started to get hungry, so we headed to 'Caffè Nero's' so that we could feed her and we could have a sit down. 

We then had another mooch, before getting a bus home. After a spot of lunch, I headed upstairs to change my clothes and get ready for the afternoon and evening.

Len arrived just after 15:30 and, after he had got changed out of his work gear, we each had a beer and headed off to Watford Metropolitan station. We took the train, which was one of the new trains, to Finchley Road, where we changed to the Jubilee line and continued our journey. 

We arrived at North Greenwich just after 18:15 and headed towards the O2 Arena. Since the doors to the show didn't open until 19:00, we decided to head into the 'American Sports Bar & Grill' for a drink. We then went to the 'Union Square Bar', as it was closer to the arena doors, for another drink. 

At 19:00 we bought a souvenir programme each and joined the queue to enter the arena. Within moments we were through and heading up the escalator into the Arena proper. We then made our way down the steps to find our seats were on the Arena floor, about 60 feet from the stage. 

I think we were both surprised at how fast the O2 Arena filled up and the differences in ages. Toddlers, children, teenagers, young couples all the way through to the elderly. Some people were dressed as Elvis, while others were there for the pure entertainment factor.

Walking with friends: My Stag Day

Saturday March 3, 2012.

I was up early this morning, and I was looking forward to going to London for the day, with friends. After bathing, getting dressed, and after bathing Erin, I booked a taxi and headed for Watford Junction. 

I arrived at the station just before 09:00, and waited for Stephen Brown. Within a few minutes, he had arrived and, after purchasing our tickets, we made our way to the platform to await our train. We arrived at London Euston and headed into the labyrinth of tunnels to get the Northern line train to London Bridge. 

We arrived at London Bridge, just before 10:00 and headed into Borough Market and ordered breakfast at Maria's Cafe. I had a Steak bap, with rocket, olive oil and mushrooms. Beautiful. After breakfast, we had a look around the Market, before heading to the station to get the Jubilee line train to Canary Wharf. 

On arrival at Canary Wharf, we followed the seriously bad signage until we arrived at the DLR station. A few minutes later, and we were on our way to Greenwich, a place that I had not visited since I was at school. We alighted from the DLR at Cutty Sark station and made our way to the Old Royal Naval College. 

The Royal Naval College was based in Greenwich from 1873 until 1998 as a college to teach all aspects of naval sciences. More courses were added as and when new skills were developed. 

We walked around the grounds and viewed the buildings, before heading to Greenwich Market. The Market was packed with stalls selling wares of all kinds: Clothes, food, clocks, trinkets, magic tricks, paintings and coffee amongst others. I bought us both a coffee - Amaretto flavour for Stephen and Vanilla for me. I also bought 100 grams of Tia Maria flavoured ground coffee, for home. 

After leaving the Market, we headed for the Cutty Sark. 

The Cutty Sark was built in 1869, and, on February 16th 1870, the Cutty Sark left London on the first of eight trips to China. Throughout her working life, Cutty Sark transported cargoes such as Tea, wool and coal. She travelled to China, Japan, South and North America, Angola and more. In 1895, the Cutty Sark was sold to a Portuguese company, and her name was changed to Ferreira. In 1922, she was sold to another Portuguese owner, and she was renamed Maria do Amparo. She was then bought by an Englishman and, in 1923, her true name and nationality were restored. After being berthed in Falmouth and then Greenhithe, before being moved to her current, and final resting place. On May 21st 2007, a fire gutted the Cutty Sark, while she was having restoration work undertaken.

All around the ship, the paving and walkways are still being relayed, so it is difficult to see her clearly. The Cutty Sark will reopen to the public, next month. As time was getting on, we decided to head back towards the centre of town. It was at this point we decided to take the Clipper along the River Thames, rather than get the DLR and have to change trains at Canary Wharf. 

So, with the time close to 12:40, we boarded the Cyclone Clipper, and settled into our seats for our trip upriver. Having never travelled along this part of the River Thames, it was exciting to see the housing developments, and how each had been uniquely designed.

We arrived at Tower Bridge and disembarked the Cyclone Clipper, on the North Bank, in front of the Tower of London. After walking along the Thames, in front of the Tower of London, we came to Tower Bridge. We crossed the river here, and headed along the South Bank, towards London Bridge.