Saturday 25th April 2026

Alarm at 0830. Feeling very weary ahead of two shows today! Descended to make tea...drank it in bed. Drove down to Spode for brunch at the Quarter...had a triple croque madame...it was great, but a bit OTT...felt a bit sick afterward after too much cheese! Met Helen in the Little Vintage Tea Room next door...she'd cycled from Stoke station on her Brompton. We had coffee and a chat before I left for the theatre. Busy day...two shows. Got a text from Bob Golding, and actor I'd worked with at the Vic 35 years ago, saying he and his missus were driving up from Earls Barton to see the show. Only about 200 in for the matinee, but they were a good crowd...some enthusiastic dancers among them. Bob and Nikki came to my dressing room window and we had a catch up over the sill. They'd really enjoyed the show...as had Helen, who I caught up with in the bar. She cycled off to Stoke station on her Brompton. I ate my packed 'lunch' at a table outside in the sunshine...glorious day! About 275 in for the evening show. Jim, Bob and Julie were in, my ex-flat mates from Trent Poly days, with their other halves. I could see they were having a great time...Katherine said that Jim had been in hysterics every time I came on as Wilf. Managed time for a swift half in the bar afterward. Haven't seen Julie and Nick for maybe ten years! Made arrangements to meet in Barlaston for Sunday lunch tomorrow, before they ventured to their respective overnight quarters...Bob and Charlotte had brought the camper van and had paid to park up for the night at Sainsburys in Newcastle!