Reality checks and the road to Oz

Just tried to add a comment but Scott’s closed the blog – not surprisingly. Many, many thanks Scott for letting us Loppies continue to post. Hope fellow Loppies find our new home.
Ladies, do you think we should start investigating if there’s somewhere else we can go as we’re bound to run out of space on the new page even if it’s not for a while?

Hopefully can remember the message .... back in a few mins.

Many thanks Scott for your patience. Agree we need to move on but where to go? Any ideas?

Scott, I forgot to say thanks for providing the link to the new blog.

Lee is now 93% - or he was half an hour ago - might be up to 94% now. I also voted for CD cast. Thought I'd voted in all the polls but just seen there's also a fav Joseph song - will have to go back again.

Donna, yes you are truly a Loppy.

I think the best place to see Lee after the show is at the front of the theatre. The path by the stage door is quite narrow plus there's scaffolding at the back of the theatre. The road is also very narrow and a lot of taxis use it - possibly to avoid the Strand. When we were waiting briefly by the stage door Monday night, I had to get out the way of taxis at least twice and there weren't that many people waiting. I think they are deliberately taking Lee out the front to sign autographs etc. to avoid a possible accident - it really could be very dangerous out the back if there's a crowd. You can just see the headlines - fan crushed by taxi while waiting for Lee!

I also meant to say that when Lee finished signing on Monday, he was taken back inside the theatre, he didn't walk away. I guess this is for his own protection and to stop fans folloowing him.

Now for my weekly Stage visit (to the rest of the site I mean).

Glory be. I was beginning to get a RSI scrolling down the last blog. Thank you Scott.

Oh!!! major panic for a mo, thought we'd been shut down before I noticed the link.... many thanks Scott and not least for being sooo patient with us!

Mild panic when I first read Scott's message, then elation when I read further and linked to new blog. THANKS SCOTT for letting us carry on, you are an honourary loppy!
Just been told my washing machine is officially dead, so no new tickets for me yet as I now have to buy a new one, don't think ploppy will agree that visit to GO is more important than washing clothes for him and scollops!
Only 5 hours to go!

Scott - very very many thanks for allowing us to piggy back on your site for so long and letting us use this one for the time being. Be heartened to know that I read the rest of The Stage online and have even been known to buy a real copy (am in Amdram so it sort of follows). I send you a big kiss from all the Loppies. Did like the reason for closing us was to preserve the sanity of the moderators! We are of course completely sane ourselves.

Ladies agree that we may shortly outstay our welcome on the Stage site - we may have to really consider trying to find a permanent home, but I have no idea how to go about it. Perhaps we could all put our thinking caps on.

Diana - thanks for your info confirming we need to be at the front (though by August he may disguise himself to escape the fans!). Alee you must be really really psyched up by now!

Had a moment of sheer panic when I read Scott's message, but quite understand reasons for the move. Very good of him to allow us to migrate here. As for a future, permanent home, I'll talk to Ploppy who works in IT and also a good friend who runs her own website for her business. They might have some ideas. And maybe Donna could suggest something, she must be very IT literate to run her site?

Just had another thought - we could set up our own Yahoo users group, couldn't we? How hard can that be?

Thanks Scott, what a relief, like Alison I was getting fed up with taking about 4 mins scrolling down the old blog. People were mentioning "pages" so perhaps there was a quicker way,

Calling all LOPPY TEKKIES, I wonder if anyone can help or explain why I now cannot get onto RUG site at all, not through Google or using the helpful link on our old page, sorry can,t remember who set it up. However I approach it I just get the "This page cannot be displayed " message, it was O.K. a couple of days ago. Has my computer gone on strike or is it me ? Any ideas?

Carol, very!! (psyched up that is) Bladder can't take the excitement, is that too much info? sorry! Off to get ready now before ploppy comes home to take over childcare duties! Back later with review, I promise!

Alee - I am out this evening (seeing old friend over from Oz - haven't seen for 16 years!), but I will be thinking of you and will log on when I get home much later in case your review is already there! ....nappies may be the answer by the way!

Mabs try doing a google or ask search for Really Useful Group and approaching it that way.

Alee - enjoy!!! Have a great time tonight!!! Send GO our love!

Btw, thinking along the same lines as Katie...I know MSN have user groups, will try and find out how to set one up if that helps...

Scott, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you. You are trulee a wonderful person. You’ve even put links to and from the last page so we don’t get lost.

We will try not to outstay our welcome although we probably will.
Shirley, that’s the photo I was talking about. I have had it downloaded since I found it on the Joseph cast page and have blown it up so I can gaze at it in close up, but printing it out for him to sign is a great idea – if only I can get Ploppy to hang around for long enough (unlikely).

Vote just gone up to 93%.

Alee, have a great time tonight.

Thanks Scott for letting us switch over to a new page. Your tolerance is much appreciated, although clearly we are all perfectly sane, normal ladies who appreciate that a new theatre star has been born. There, that was quite restrained, wasn't it?

Alee, have a great time tonight. Who cares about washing machines when you're seeing the GO in less than four hours time!!

Hope someone sorts out a new place for us to meet. Can't have Scott's sanity tested too much longer...

Hello

Another busy day at work - thanks Scott for letting us start again over here, but if the Loppies want their own blog, I would be willint to set up one from my site? It is just a suggestion and I am not meaning to offend anyone?

Email me with your views.......???????

As for tips on seeing Lee - front of theatre it is then!

Also reviews posted on here are fine, don't feel like you have to email me too!!! But you can if you want too!

Thanks to for reassuring me that my behaviour this morning and getting all emotional was natural for a LOPPY!!!!! Hurrah!

Keep in touch Loppies and look out for some updates to the site later!

Love

Donna
xxxxx

Thanks Scott for being so patient - its not many red blooded men who would let a legion of excited ladies monopolise his website for weeks on end with lengthy diatribes and drool about ANOTHER MAN so you are truly a Loppy icon and we wont forget you! X
Aleee - have a great great time tonight - just think how much easier it will be for you to enjoy it when you know that there are so many lovely like minded Loppies rooting for you all the way, you will probably be the second most thought about person in the Adelphi tonight!
Loppies all I just wanted to say thank you so much for all the hours of fun and Loppiness over the past few weeks - Im sure I speak for all of us when I say I have really enjoyed logging in and reading all the comments and I hope that Loppyland has achieved at least what I wanted to do when I first googled the GO - improved his reputation, sent him all of our best wishes and made ALW, JB, DVO and the rest aware that they made the best decision EVER and it will repay them in spades!

Donna - thanks for the offer - what we do all think??

Alee you are probablee leaving shortlee so have a fantastic time - you will be in all Loppy thoughts!

Scott thank you so much, like everyone else I had a moment of total panic when I saw the blogg had been closed to postings. Very good of you to tolerate us and move us safely over to here. I guess for the time being we are doing good for the site just by virtue of the huge number of responses to your bloggs. Donna I would be very happy to move to you when the time comes. I love your site and feel we would be a good fit there, but dont think most of us would feel comfortable, or even able to cope, with a more rigorously monitored site like the ones RUG host. We are just not savvy enough in the way these things work.

So there you all are. Went away for a day, came back and you'd gone and at first I couldn't connect to this new page. It's no lie, I confess to feeling a little (oh go on then, a lot) bereft!!! But, hurrah, I've found you all. Pulse rate has returned to normal.

Donna - think it's a great idea to link up with your site if you're happy with that. Kinda makes sense in a way seen as, I think we all visit your site probably most days anyway.

Alee - you've probably left now but have a fab night. Can't wait to read your review.

Wonderful idea, Donna, and very good of you to offer. It's a definite thumbs up from this Loppy.

Alee, you've probably left already but I know you'll have an unforgettable time watching the GO, you lucky thing.

Hi fellow Loppies,
I don't know what I've done but I seem to have been blacklisted by the ALW organisation!
I can't get onto the RUG site however I try, using links, through Google or from BBC site, I now find I also can't get on the ALW official web site either, just get the "this page connot be displayed" message, It's very odd because I had no problem before yesterday. At first I just thought they were working on the site,
Could I have inadvertantly set up some kind of blocking device?
Who knows? "I'll just have to face the fact that" I'm barred, probably for life, things seem very black, please vote the GO for the best Joseph for me.

Thank you Scott for your endless patience and for sending us this way.

Thank you also Donna for the offer of letting us switch to your site. I'm with the others in that it seems a logical move to make.

Alee - have a simplee wonderful time tonight. Look forward to hearing about it.

Short but sweet at the mo as Dollops' tea nearly ready. Back later I'm sure.

Great idea Donna about coming to your site. I'm sure we'd all be very grateful to you for helping us out and giving us a chance to stick together.

By the way there is a short video from Lee on the Joseph website saying thanks for all the support (typically gorgeous and self-effacing in it!)

http://www.josephthemusical.com/video/lee_intro2.wmv

He's seems to really value the support he's getting.

Alee - still thinking of you. Bet you're near the Adelphi now? Oh, lucky lady! Have a fab time!

Donna you are wonderful! that's a great idea and feels absolutely right. Jackie, thanks for posting the link to his video, I've just watched it. I think he's getting more confident talking to camera, much less hesitant, I suppose practice makes perfect...

Jackie - thanks for that - oh bless isn't he sweet - isn't nice to find someone so taleented and yet so self-effacing and lovelee with it. Who could not like him?

Donna looks like you could have a mass migration soon if you are up for it!!

Wonder how Alee is right now - just think Donna your time soon - I think you are the next to go??

Still no photo and grrr Royal Mail on strike now so no hope before Monday/Tuesday!

Have a good evening all Loppies - I'm off to meet friend from Oz that we haven't seen for 16 years - I may just have to tell her about GO, although I can see Ploppy not being too thrilled. Sister also coming so I'm going to work on her for another visit to Joseph between August and June - wish me luck!

Donna, that's very kind of you. As others have said, I think we'd feel at home on your site whereas we certainly wouldn't on RUG.

I have a confession to make. I've just booked two more lots of tickets. There aren't any tickets left near the front in February when my Dutch friend is (hopefully) coming over again. So I booked G stalls for then and 1 ticket for me in mid April when I've got ROW A right in the middle. I so wanted to go once right at the front. That makes FIVE times. Am I being greedy? Daren't tell Ploppy. Ooooh just had a thought - I can say that the April visit is my 50th birthday present to myself !! Do you think he'll go for that?

Oh no, had forgot about post strike (yeah I know where have I been). My photo hasn't arrived either but I had consoled myself all week that the GO had insisted it didn't arrive until tomorrow as it's my birthday and it would have been my birthday pressie from him (so I live in cloud cuckoo land, what's wrong with that!!??).

That ain't gonna happen now then is it? Oh poo!!!!

Hi all,
Like the rest of you, I nearly panicked when the last comment sheet got closed down. How awful to have just found some fellow Loppies only to lose them again!
Thanks to Nicki and other, I took your advice and have got tickets, yay! They are not until April but I wanted to get really good seats. Am hoping to go before then though, just wanted a back-up.
Am really jealous of Alee, hope you have a great time and am looking forward to reading your review.
Have decided to try and talk my boss into letting me organise corporate hospitality to go and see Joseph, after all, there must be some benefits to working in marketing, he he he. Am beginning to suspect though, that people at work think I am selling company secrets or something, as everytime someone comes into my office, I have a guilty face cos I have frantically minimised my lee picture. :)

Oops, forgot to say. I am all for setting up another forum for us all to chat, Donna you are a star for voluteering!
Was thinking that we should set up a Loppie club, we could hold conventions, invite GO, etc. OK, letting myself be carried away now.

Diana - Five times - I'M SO JEALOUS.

Have to say though if I lived nearer (am up North in Yorkshire) I would be doing exactly the same.

I think you should deffo treat yourself for your 50th and what better way. I'm sure your ploppy will agree!!

Just seen a new video from ALW on his site in the Aldephi.
He is talking about how the show is now and about changes they are still making or are goning to make.
I don't how to make a link but the adress is :

http://www.andrewlloydwebber.com/sections/news/newsdb_video.php

I guess I do know how to make a link. You learn everyday?

Good evening Loppy conspirators.

Apart from checking out the site at least 3 times brieflee today, have tried to be a more devoted ploppy wife as sensing he's getting a bit peed off with me. Divorce off for good now as have decided I need some cash to buy 4th set of tickets. Will take dollops this time. Managed to get dinner done on time and ironed his taekwondo outfit for 2night on time too. Pretending to be organised and efficient.

Had usual Thurs morning aerobics class with best friend and then pub lunch where she indulged me with Loppy speak (even though she is not a convert). Even sang Daydream Beleever and Devil In D on the way home in car at top volume. Aah! She is a true friend.

Listening to Chris Evans on Radio 2 whilst devotedlee ironing for Ploppy, heard that a caller had been to see show last night. Ears pricked up and taekwondo uniform nearlee got burnt as I struggled to find remote for the volume. Then heard Chris say that they hadn't understood the dream sequence and that was it! No mention of being struck dumb with amazement or anything. Being a Joseph virgin, am wondering if an explanation of the dream sequence is required before I go or are they just thick?

Can't help you I'm afraid Mabs. Not remotelee technicalee minded. Have onlee just learnt what a blog is!!!

Agree with everyone re Donna setting up new place to move to. Thank you! Just think, Alee's in her seat right now and about to witness something special. Don't think I can wait another 2 weeks. Oh well, got all the reviews to look 4ward to. How long can we keep this blog up? Don't know if I can manage it until next June. I've got familee coming for Christmas!!

Big yay from me as well, Donna, fantastic idea to move over to your site - thank you for the lovely offer! I always check your site a few times a day and love it, and I imagine the majority of us here would feel right at home!
Have just had a little gander at the posts that have appeared since I last checked a few hours back (we are a prolific bunch!) and wanted to echo what Claire said earlier - thank you Loppies for being such a fab bunch of people! I never, ever saw myself as someone who logs on to a website daily, let alone contributes anything in writing, yet here I am checking the site a good few times a day....reading your posts always makes me giggle, and it's guaranteed that, even if I'm having a bit of a grump I'll end up with a big smile on my face!
Have started to get all jittery about saturday....am travelling down tomorrow with non-loppy friend, though there might still be enough time to convert her... I've been waiting to see GO for what seems like forever and all of a sudden it's only 48 hours away.... Btw, might have to request a new photo soon. My piccie is looking a little dog-eared because it goes everywhere with me....! Oh, back in a bit!

Finally got around to converting my name, although just kicked the computer (by accident) in the process!

Debbie, don't worry about not having seen Joseph before. It's aimed at schoolchildren being able to perform it, so there's nothing complicated. Just check out the Bible, Genesis Chapter 39 as Tim Rice says in his wonderful lyrics, for the story, which I'm sure you alrady know. I must admit I enjoy shows even more when I'm very familiar with them and my younger scollop walks around with the score learning all the words. In fact, both scollops know all the colours in order (which is more than I do!) ALW said in his latest video that Tim Rice has written a new song and altered the words in a couple of places in existing songs, so familiarity with the soundtrack is probablee good!

Saw best friend today, who knows about my Loppiness. Great relief to be able to talk about the GO without being laughed at. When I told another friend I booked my second lot of tickets yesterday she said bewilderedlee that I'd already seen the touring show and wasn't three times too many. Oh no, no,no! Still wondering how I can manage to go for a third time.

I also wonder how long we can keep this up - it's a long time till the tearfest.... Still it'll be fun trying!

Just spotted a bit of news on the live journal website - apparently Lee has an autobiography planned to come out towards the end of the year...!

Will read everyone's comments/view videos later (when Ploppy not about), but just had to share this: Big Dollop just said before bed about Sports Day tomorrow "in the meadlee race" (bless, she's no idea she's picking up Loppy speak!).

Your name does make me laugh Fleeona! Have you started scratching yet? BTW have we had the new definition of meadiocre yet (can't remember)? = extremelee special and talented. Sorry if it's already been done.

Esther, thanks for the link, theres some stuff on there I hadn't seen before, specifically the footage of all the Josephs meeting up for the first rehearsal. There a nice bit where Lee and Craig greet each other, obviously delighted to meet again, presumably after Joseph School. It almost makes up for the fact that during the sing through, you can see all the other boys quite clearly, but not Lee! The self-effacing one is behind Ben (I think) and you just can't see him. Mr Modest!

Have just realised another connection: Little Dollop's playgroup trip last Thursday was to Mead Open Farm (only taken me a week to notice that one!)

Miri - well spotted. An autobiography!! Can't wait. Plenty of insight into the GO and loads of photos no doubt. And, as I always have a book on my bedside table ploppy will not be in the least suspicious!! Although, if he wakes up in the early hours of the morning to find that I have fallen asleep with said book glued to my lips he may suss me out!!

Evening girls, glad to find you all. Definitely think we should migrate from here, starting to feel like the last people to leave a party, cant believe theyve put up with us for so long!

Found another little snippet - on you tube search lee mead, mad about the boy - a little meadlee of his best bits. (Be still my beating heart) ** This time tomorrow Ill be where Alee is, will send out the Loppy love from you all!
Going straight from work tomorrow - travelling up from Brighton,so will let you know Sat.....

Miri, make sure you lead the audience in a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday" on Saturday - its your duty as a Loppy!

PS I know its a bit weird to see the GO lipsynching to Dinah Washington but oh so pretty!!! Sweet dreams all x

Oh, Nicki, loud and clear!!!!!! As much as it's going to be great going with my friend I sort of wish it was a Loppie-do, because I can't think of a better way of spending GO's birthday than getting together and serenading him! I'll be lost without Loppie back up for most of friday and all of saturday, but will attempt to give a detailed account sunday pm as soon as I'm back home - I know what I'm like and won't be able to keep it all to myself!!! Have been busy ironing and trying to decide what to wear, what to do with my hair, you know, the usual stuff, since he's obviously going to see me in the upper circle and sing to me alone. Oh, and Donna, of course!!! I certainly didn't think, a few months back, that I would be getting myself so worked about about seeing an amazing, talented, genuine, lovable guy in a show in the West End...and the great thing is, he's going to be around for years and years!! Do you think we're going to end up like the Daniel O'Donnell and Cliff Richard fans 25 years from now?? It used to be a scary thought....

Fellow Loppies - if Steve has to close this as well I suggest we find a 'bolthole' to use instead. I have been running my own internet group for several years now and would be happy to set up a special one just for the Loppies - need a name and I can have the basic place ready to go very quickly.....Mead Meadows Loppyland ... suggestions please! It can be a place to keep in touch, share photos etc. Struggling to convert my name Caryslee doesn't look right :-( Have we a Carlee yet?

OK then girls or should I say Loppies! I will look into message boards - I have a few ideas! It won't be moderated! A bit like this site as I do not have the time!!

And I know that you're all about spreading the Lee Mead news same as me! What I need to do is find a suitable host where you can post like you can here! I will look into it ASAP but please remember that I teach ALL day tomorrow and will not be able to get to a computer much! Plus I am off to see the Meadster himself on Saturday night! We are leaving early in the morning and staying over night so I won't be back until Sunday tea time!

But ASAP after that there will be a permanent home for the Loppies!!!! I will link it from my site, that seems to make the most sense!!! Thanks for your vote of confidence!

Now I need you advice! How am I supposed to get to sleep tonight and tomorrow knowing that I seeing Lee in the flesh on Saturday! I am excited, nervous and all girlie all at the same time!!!!!!! Answers on a post card please!!!

Will be in touch soon - loveLEE dreams all round!

Donna
xxxxx

LOL just noticed Donna's offer to start a blog at her site! Excellent idea :-)

Have a great time Nicki - can't wait to swap reviews!!!!!! I'm going to have trouble sleeping with 48 hours to go, so let alone if I was in your shoes.....Enjoy!!!!

Calm Donna and Miri, breath deeply, think calm in control thoughts. After all you meed to sleep weeL so that you are at your best and able to enjoy every second of the experience. We are all reeLying on your total recall so that we can live it vicariouslee through you.

Might I suggest that we dont do anything to precipitive about moving from here, but make a planned move to Donna's site at a time to suit both she and Scott. We have been made very welcome here for several weeks now, and we need to be sure we are not leaving Scott in the lurch. Not sure why he wants us here but he has always made it very easy for us to migrate successfully. We now have a new page to fill which even with the increasing number of Loppies posting will take us a little while to overwhelm, and it is now only a few days until THE show formally opens and there will be the official review pages to move to as well. Scott, can you let us know what you would like us to do? Clearly we are eventually going to need a more permanent home, it seems to me that we are not a phenomenon that are going to disappear anytime soon.

Donna - looking forward to new link on your site. Will feel like true Loppy haven.
Re advice on how to sleep tonite. Don't think any suggestions will really work - far too much excitement for sleep.

Nicki - you must be on pins with LESS THAN 24 HOURS TO GO!!! Sorry didn't mean to give you palpitations!!!!

...Ok Shirley... how did you know I was hyperventilating?? Suddenly all I can think about is HIS show on HIS birthday!! And I'm supposed to be a rational, professional person all day at work tomorrow!!!! Although I must, MUST try and get some sleep now because otherwise I won't function at all. I know I'll be logging on at work because I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!!
Sleep well Loppies!!

MIRI - me too show and b'day all too much!

Hope you've sent a card :-) I have!

Now just a trial, but I have set up a bravenet forum from my site, latest news and go from there......

Please bare with me as I have never hosted something like this? It is on a 30 day trial, so if we don't like it we can change to something else!?

Thanks to Scott for all his hard work and support, if you want us to stick around we will and I will remove the link?

But in the meantime - who is going to be the first to post? That is providing you can......???????

Love

Donna
xxxxx who is not holding her breath!!!

Not difficult Miri that is exactly how I will be too. Its that strange thing like now when I still have lots of weeks to wait you just have to contain your excitement because it is just so far away, but it goes on a slow burn, it does not go away. Then the nearer you get the less able you are to maintain that control. Anyway, clearly you are going to have an absolute ball, and I have no doubt the theatre will erupt with gusto once the Happy Birthday starts. Sing loud and proud ladies, you are singing for us all.

Sweet Meads

Let's be clear: nobody is suggesting that you should move if you don't want to. The only reason I had to close the last comment thread is that the blog system was never designed to cope with over 1,000 comments on a single page. Every time that particular blog posting was requested, it was putting a huge load on the database server -- that's all.

It was a bearable load in comparison to, say, the number of times people were trying to load our Any Dream Will Do coverage straight after the programmes aired. In those cases, the sheer number of people requesting information had such a stranglehold on the server that it, well, did the computer equivalent of asphyxiating. The number of Loppies requesting the blog pages with their conversation on was, in comparison, quite small. However, because the amount of data on the page was growing with each comment that was posted, it mean that there was a swelling demand that was best to nip in the bud before it became a bigger problem.

Now, that thread had been going for a couple of weeks, so there's no cause for concern with this one just yet. And if you guys decide that you want to go off and find a website of your own that you can use, then feel free -- it would be wrong for anybody to stand in the way of fans of musical theatre, or musical theatre performers, to do anything along those lines. Just don't feel you have to rush into it on our account!

And to be honest, every web page that you view (in geek parlance, a "page impression") helps us in a number of ways. A number of the ad campaigns that you see dotted around the site are paid for on the basis of how many pages they're attached to -- so the more pages our readers see in total, the more content we can afford to create.

Hurrah, my photo was lying on the mat when I got in tonight. I knew immediately what it was and couldn’t help giving a squeal of delight (Ploppy not yet home). Nearly opened the envelope there and then but luckily a smidgen of common sense reminded me that I needed to turn the burglar alarm off first.

I wonder how many times Lee has signed his name in the past 2/3 weeks??!!

BTW there’s no need to scroll down to the end of the blog - just press Ctrl + End keys to go to the end, though if it’s a long piece (as on previous blog page) you may need to do this a couple of times.

Wonder how Alee is feeling and whether she got to see Lee afterwards …..

Hope those of you going Fri/Sat manage to get some sleep tonight!

Night night, sweetlee dreams.

Ladies! Hello - found you today just before going to see tonights preview show, but didn't have time to post then. Just got back and thought you should know asap that the set broke half way through the show (during the interval) and Lee and the rest of the cast gave a 'concert' performance for the second half with no scenery, props, etc!!

A few people got up and left (miserable sods!) but everyone who stayed was treated to a fab and hilarious second half performance. Well ALW said during ADWD that he wanted a Joseph who could cope when things went wrong with the set, and the whole cast - and especially Lee - really showed they know how to make the best of a bad situation. Actually I didn't think it was a bad situation at all as there were no flashing lights or scenery (brilliant though they were) to distract one from the man himself! He was an absolute star.

Thanks for the update, Scott. I think everyone will agree with me when I say it's not that we particularly want to move, more that we feel guilty about taking up your/The Stage's space. We just don't want to impose. However, given what you say re page impressions actually benefitting you, I don't think we'll be rushing away now.

Fellow Loppies, in my opinion I think eventually we should move elsewhere as hopefully we'll still be "chatting" like this for many months if not years. Donna's site is an excellent alternative if she's happy to have us - she is a Loppy now anyway - but there could be other options. So I suggest we stay here for a while longer, see if anyone else has a better idea, and this would also allow Donna time to set up something that will work long term rather than our rushing into something which might not cope/be a mistake!

And that really is it for tonight from me - I need my sLEEp.

Scott - thank you so much for offering to host us for a bit longer - Ladies are we all happy to remain until Scott finally tires of our strangeness - sorry meant to say intellingent conversation! Donna are you happy if we remain where we are for the foreseeable future?

Katharine - thanks for your post - it sounds as if you had a really interesting and different time this evening! Fancing people leaving!! I know they had a problem with the set a little while back when it injured a couple of the cast, but assumed it had been sorted......hopefully it will be back in working order asap.

I'm okay to stay here as long as we're welcome. Hope Donna's okay with that after her very generous offer.

Wow, Katherine - thanks for that - sounds like you had fun and a bit of a unique experience.. I can't believe people left whilst Lee was still on stage , whatever he was doing. Obviously, they were not Loppies. Disgraceful!!

Deffo can't wait to hear Alee's review now!!!

Just relieved for Lee that it didn't happen on opening night! - in a way probably a good thing it happened tonight as you can bet they'll make sure it doesn't happen again now. I'm sure they'll have the technical guys in there as we speak, and by tomorrow morning it will be the smoothest working set in London! Hope it didn't upset Lee - the only downside was not seeing him fly around the stage at the end - other than that the whole thing was absolutely brilliant.
They said during the interval that everyone there tonight should be offered tickets for a future performance or a refund, so hopefully most people will be happy with that. Look forward to reading Alees thoughts about it.

Re: People leaving - I know!!! What a waste of seats - wish I could have beamed all the Loppies in to fill them Star Trek style!

Katherine - I'm sure you're right and it will be perfection on opening night. It strikes me that Lee is professional enough not to let it get to him (and I haven't even seem him yet so I'm basing that on other reviews and what I've seen of him on TV).

So, did you opt for tickets for a future performance??

Everyone was told to ring the place that they bought the tickets from after 12 midday tomorrow, as all the agents will have been instructed about what to do by then. Will definately opt for more tickets!

Good for you Katharine - and if this time you need to beam in the Loppies (although I do hope you get to see the full show) I'm sure we'll all be available that night, whatever we happen to be doing at the time!!!

ha ha - now have visions of Loppies suddenly landing in vacant seats with their marigolds on -that would certainly test Lee's powers of carrying on like a true professional regardless of what's going on around him!
Actually, on second thoughts I reckon Loppies are way too stylish for marigolds. Lovely chatting to you. Off to get some shut-eye now, but will check in again tomorrow for Alees review.

Sorry for the delay inposting this review, you're probably all sleeping now, but at least you can read this later.Only just got home, missed train due to delay at the show, all will become clear!
REVIEW BY ALI
The children came on and were great, then Preeya,who is absolutely gorgeous! A huge cheer from us all for Lee's entrance (and for the TINY costume which barely preserved his modesty!!!) I thought Lee sounded a little husky during the opening bars of ADWD? However, far from being disappointed I thought it made him sound quite sexy!! The 1st half was absolutely FANTASTIC! Some great comical moments and of course fab singing from all the cast. Even from my seat in row K I was able to see the sweat running down GO's chest!! Close Every Door had me sitting on the edge of my seat and hardly daring to breathe. The interval dragged on a bit and finally an announcement was made that there was a technical problem with the set, collective gasp of dismay from audience! Some uneducated theatre goers began a slow hand-clap and a few left, they don't know what they missed! The cast agreed to come on stage, in costume, and sing the 2nd half concert style. It was brilliant, it really showed off their vocals and abiliity to adapt to such a situation. I think this is what the panel knew Lee would be capable of compared to some of the other Josephs. Pharoah deserves a special mention for his wonderful adlibbing and ability to hold the audience in the palm of his hand. I must just mention the moment between Joseph and Jacob, it gave me goosebumps and was truly moving. Unfortunately we didn't get the megamix. Too soon it was all over. The cast got a standing ovation (naturally!)
Part of me feels sooo disappointed not to have seen the full show, but I know I was a part of something very special tonight! At least I get to rebook and see it all over again (soon I hope?)

That's all folks, have emailed Lee to both thank him and congratulate him. Will catch up on posts later after some much needed sleep. Will update you on rebooking situation! Keep your fingers crossed for me!

Thanx for excellent reviews Katherine and Alee as usual.
Bit of a pity but as you say, something different and onlee true fans would stick it out. Must go, late for work. Back later!

In honour of our new home, even if it is only a short term lease, I have now "Leeised" ny name to Dilee. Note that this is pronounced similarly to daily and not doillee (sp?).

Katherine and Alee, thanks for the great reviews. I almost envy you seeing the "concert" given you are getting replacement tickets so will still get to the see the proper show. Can't understand how some people could walk out??!! Shame on them - clearly they weren't Lee fans.

I do agree with a couple of you re choice of photo. Don't want to sound ungrateful as anything is most welcome, but it would be fantastic to have one of Lee either full length in his black suit & white shirt or the black & white close up as Shirley noted from Gallery One. I ordered a couple (well actually five or six) photos from the Joseph press call but they still haven't arrived and haven't had a response to my email chasing up so am getting worried about them.

The news page on Lee's official site has been updated again. BTW not sure if I'm being stupid here - regarding the Somerfield magazine, is this a magazine produced by Somerfield the supermarket chain or is there a magazine with the same name - can't say I've ever heard of one?

Off to see if I can finally see the Lee & Preeya video - can't watch on home PC and difficult at work.

Alee glad you had a brilliant time despite the scenery failure - AND you and Katharine should (fingers crossed) get to go again in compensation - lucky you! I would love to arrived Star Trek style, and confess no I would not be wearing Marigolds! I am sure the theatre will be working overtime today to make sure everything is extra safe and working before a) Press night - not sure when that is, and b) Official opening night. Read a snipped in the Daily Mail which said that the show is good but noisy and that ALW is busy changing the orchestration. I also learnt from the ALW site that there is a new song in the show - but no indication who sings it (hopefulee the GO!!).

Losing track of who is going know there are three or four tomorrow, but don't know that any Loppies are there tonight?

Hi all, awake and surprisingly alert considering lack of sleep! Just managed to catch up on all of last nights post, wow, so great to know you were all with me (in loppy spirit), what a sisterhood I am now a part of? Didn't realise you already knew about problem with the set, so, sorry if I repeated everything. I think my review was a bit weak in comparison to previous ones but I couldn't really do the show true justice under the circumstances! However, rest assured, we certainly chose the right Joseph (didn't need to say that did I?) To echo all the others who've seen the show, you really can't envisage either Keith or Lewis commanding the stage like that! And would they have been able to adapt to the concert style performance? Not in such a polished professional way I'm sure.
SCOTT thankyou for your continued hospitality, glad to know we are benefitting you by staying here as well.
DONNA thanks for offering to host us, most generous of you, don't know where you find the time to keep up to date with us all let alone manage your own site? hopefully the pressure is off for a bit now that we can stay here a while longer!
Lots to do this morning so will hopefully be back later

Carolee, think the new song is by pharoah at beginning of 2nd half?

Good morning ladies!
Just a quickie before rushing off to get the bus to work - new reviews... and it sounds like Lee was and is the professional we all knew him to be, vene in the face of calamity!! All this has made me even more impatient for tomorrow night....will try logging on later today at work, but if not will be back sunday pm with my blow by blow account. Donna - I believe you're in the stalls (lucky girl!) If you look up into the front row of the dress circle and see a woman with big red hair waving frantically it's me!!!!!!! I'll count us down for thw happy birthday rendition!!!
Must go or I'll miss the bus!!!
Too excited to be sensible today!!!!

Alee thanks for that - just disappointed the new song didn't go to Joseph. Donna, Miri I know you are on countdown but in the back of my mind there is another Loppy going tomorrow, but could be wrong! Not at work today so out and about but will catch up later.

Donna, I've just emailed two photos to you from Monday night. Hope you get them OK.

Re a cast recording, I wondered whether it was worth writing to ALW via RUG (the address is on ALW's site - see Contact Us) and also Bill Kenwright (www.kenwright.com - Contact Us)? Can't do any harm surelee. Letters might get through more than emails.

Have just watched the Lee & Preeya interview - three or four times. Wonderful - could sit and watch it all day but suppose I'd better do some work now! I need the pennies to pay for all the tickets.

Alee and Katharine thanks for the brill reviews. Lucky you seeing a unique performance and probably getting to go again.

Disclosed to my mum (should she be a moloppy?) that we will be going next Saturday. She seemed very pleased started singing ADWD constatntly. She doesn't know all the words and if I may say sounded a bit Hilda Ogdenish. Said I will lend her the CD over the weekend. Dads face was a picture. He asked why I couldn't have just told her the day before we are due to go. Explained to him she may want a week to decide what to wear in the presence of the GO or to get her hair done etc. He didn't get it at all.

Saw the little piece in the Mail this am. He describes the GO as the very pale guy who won the frightful ADWD! Despite that he says it's good.

I'm happy to stay hear as long as it suits Scott and his people but will move if have to.

Oh I'm so excited and I've a week to go. Miri and Donna I don't know how you'll function today.

Oh and Diana thank you very much for telling me how to get to the end of this blog without having to scroll down each time. I really was doing that. I am that backward when it comes to computers.

Just wanted to say a big thanks to Donna for the kind offer to shelter us imminently homeless Loppies on her lovely website - there are some very kind people out there, kinda restores your faith in humanity doesn't it?
Also Miri and Donna - have a fantasticlee great time tonight - I know you will do all of us Loppies proud and again, remember we are all behind you 100%!
Went out for an impromptu meal with Ploppy to be last night and casually dropped GO and Loppyland into the conversation (as I am wont to do at any given time these days) and he said tell me you are not still LOOKING at that silly site - if only he knew I am a fully paid up, 100% committed (probably should be committed) member of Loppyland and there is nothing that can save me - except meeting him in the flesh and finding out he is covered in boils and really nastly and thanks to the sisterhood of Loppies I know thats not the case so I am officially beyond any human help ;-)

Hi all Loppies!
Not a regular contributer but I am reading on a daily basis and really enjoying the Loppieness. Haven't confessed my own Loppieness to anyone yet but the fact that I have tickets to see the show twice might just give it away! Wish I could go again!
So pleased to hear the show is as good as we all knew it would be with the GO in the lead, I just can't wait til October. Also, work is suffering due to constantly updating and checking the blog. Must go now, have day off and really must attack the ironing pile!! Will be checking in later!
Hope all those going in the next few days have an absolutely fab time...why am I saying that, we know they will!!
By the way, did you do the "stage door" thing last night, Alee?

Loppies - Loppies Loppies. I haven't had a chance to catch up so this suggestion may already be in the latest posts. Have been in communication with the lovely Donna aka MeadMistress who has opened up a blog page on her site for the Loppies. Check it out.
Now to go back and catch up - Oh my god, it felt like my throat had been cut, not being able to catch up with the gossip... we also had and continue to have computer issues at work..... Oooh it's great to have you all back again.

Great review Alee and so good of you to do it in the early hours before you went off into Lee dreams , so that we could all wake up to it this morning!! And, yay, you get to again!! Lucky you.

Thanks from me too Diana for the tip. I too was scrolling down for an hour (or so it felt) to get to the end so I'm as bad as you Alison.

Thanks for the review Alee - you are a trulee dedicated Loppy staying up so late to tell us all about it. Although you had a different show you got to see how well the GO copes with adversity AND you get to go again. How luckee is that!

Thanks Scott for being prepared to put up with us still - it's nice to know that our musical theatre ramblings (glad you understand that it's not just Lee but what he is capable of doing in MT that we appreciate) are vaguely beneficial to The Stage. Which, in case, other Loppies haven't looked, has very interesting articles and is well worth a read!

Also thanks to Donna for your generous offer of hosting us. Like Dilee I think that we should continue here whilst Scott is happy to have us, migrating to new pages as they become available, and maybe this would give Donna time to set up a longer term alternative to allow our Loppiness to continue as long as it can. Although I do find the thought of being compared to a Cliff fan a little scaree!

As has already been said, huge thanks to Scott for letting us stay. And thanks to Katharine and Alee for their reviews - what a fascinating experience to witness a West End show performed concert-style. Of course the GO was a trooper and coped marvellously - from ADWD we've seen how well he copes when things go wrong. I very much doubt if Keith the Teeth could have risen to the occasion. I guess that's why they have previews - so problems like that can be ironed out before the official opening.

Ooops, got to run, Ploppy alert....

Alison2, unfortunately didn't get to do stage door thing! Due to delay with second half we literally had to run to try to catch our train, which we then missed! Told sister that we shouldn't have bothered and that she'd denied me the chance to (hopefully) meet GO, her withering look told me to shut up! Will DEFINITELY try to see him before/after next time I go. Have phoned See to try to rebook but am unable to do anything until 12pm when Adelphi advise them about situation.

I was right, my comments re Donna's site were way behind the times. I've missed out on so much due to our computer probs. Can't afford to let half an hour go by in checking for posts, you just miss out on so much.
Great review Alee. Whilst you have the disappointment of not seeing the whole show, you did get to participate in an evening the Lee will be remembering for a long time to come I'm sure, you shared that moment with the GO.
And I so wholeheartedlee agree with you on the Joseph/Jacob duet in the 2nd half. Heartbreakinglee tender.
I think the other guests at The Chosen One's birthday show are Carol and Eleesa. I can't wait until my next visit, which is September - so far away. I might have to pop up of an evening a hang around when the show comes out to get a fix of the flesh again.
Gotta get back to work.

managed to get into work late (thank you Mr Bus Driver) and wind swept (apparantly looking like a missing member of AC/DC) but I'm here!! And off to get a train this afternoon to London! Really can't believe that tomorrow evening I'll be listening to his wonderful voice for real!
Sorry to gush, I do get a bit excitable, and seem to get worse as time goes on...
Just to add to the whole website conversation, I'm all for migrating over to Donna's site once we've exhausted our welcome here and Scott (Dear man!) says enoughs enough. I'm so grateful he's put up with us as long as he has already...!
Work beckons... I keep re-reading all the reviews and can't believe I'll be adding my own soon.... but must get something done or I won't be paying the bills next month! See you later!

Thanks for the review Alee!, you certainl;y saw a unique performance and will get the chance for more tickets too. leased you had a fab. evening.

Bit of a breakthrough for me on seeing the show - ploppy made me choke over my breakfast today by suggesting we get tickets to see the show! Tried to seem barely interested and said I would see what I could do. Ten minutes later, straight onto computer - couldn't get any decent tickets before 8 January (hope Lee is still fit after Christmas and New Year and not busy packing for his hols). Got J23 and J34 which look like great seats!!! Just keeping the lid on my excitement not to let ploppy know too much of my devotion to the GO and starting prayers that Lee will be there on the night!

.....7 hrs & counting!!
Hope theyve fixed the problem but if theres compensatory tickets in it Im sure Ill cope with the hardship! Will be thinking of you all & sending out the loppie-love to the GO

Have an amazing time, Nicki!!!!!!

Am I the luckiest loppy in the world? I've just phoned those fantastic people at See Tickets to rebook and not only have I managed to get the matinee performance on 22nd August, but I also got 2 extra seats for youngest 2 scollops and, wait for it, in row J23-27, even better than last night!! Somebody is certainly looking after me! I'm now on a real high and hardly noticing the fact that I only got 4 hours sleep last night!
Thinking of all you lucky loppies going tonight/tomorrow. Have a wonderful time, what am I saying? of course you will!

Just so happy to be here on The Stage blog, thanks Scott. Thanks to the two oh so happy reviewers, and going again!
I note that Josh Groban's Wikipedia entry does not mention his appearance on BBC'S ADWD with Sir Andrew/The Lord and duet with, dare I say it, Lee Mead. Perhaps when the JOSEPH reviews come out there will be reason indeed to enter it for posterity. I guess that ticket sales alone will determine whether a recording is released etc. Hope our little stampede to the RUG site did not whizz them off. Mustn't get ahead of events as they fascinatingly unfold. Glad the production won't be too 'noisy' (as I always say, loud is not better) I presume that's what Sir Andrew meant by 'too much like a Rock Concert' in his blog. Speaking of which, ooh look there's my seat in Row A!
The spokesman on Theatre.com for a musical now closing early protested that 'we are not based on a reality TV show'. I can understand the hurt but the discovery of Connie and Lee is so much more than that, it is so fortunate for the MT that their extraordinary talent did not languish in the wilds a moment longer than necessary.

Just noticed the date-Friday 13th! I'm not superstitious but I do feel it is now my lucky day. Have just managed to get another seat for show on that day for sloppy's friend (couldn't refuse as sloppy is paying for scollops tickets!) Lovely lady at booking office was shocked that we had managed to book them.She asked if I minded not seeing Preeya as the narrator as she is not doing Wednesday matinees, No offence, but as long as GO is in it I'm happy! I did get to see/hear her last night and she is fabulous so I don't feel I've missed out!

Hi Loppies just back from having my hair cut (about 10 inches off - Ploppy will probably divorce me!). All you lucky Loppies going tomorrow will doubtless have a great time and Alee - as you say you must have a guardian angel looking out for you!

Scott, I said you were trulee wonderful yesterday and I was right. I think you secretly like us, don’t you? If we can also help raise a little revenue for The Stage while we’re (gushing over) giving positive reviews about GO that can’t be bad.

Alee, so glad you had a great time in spite of tech problems. I can’t believe people would leave while GO is within sight. Mind you, it they do, we can move into their seats if they’re better than ours, so that’s not too bad.

Miri is going tomorrow and I am going on 18th all being well. We’re having a few technical problems ourselves at the moment so I’m not sure if we’ll be able to make it. Hopefully we will. I’m trying to be philosophical about it.

Alee - great news about the tickets. Trulee Friday 13th is your luckee day!! Loved the idea about all Loppies beaming down into vacant seats for second act. We'd all know who we were then! Can't beleeve anyone would walk out though - they need their heads testing...

Not sure how I'm going to feel when we finally go in January - the nervous anticipation is getting to me already what with all the reviews and people going over the weekend. Can't beleeve I feel like this and it's still such a way off! Must be the GO's sublime talent I guess. Fascinating how he's such a different character on stage, commanding, confident and happy in himself, yet off stage very modest, diffident and not someone who appears to push himself forward. I think it's this unique combination that has attracted me, plus the gorgeous curls, eyes and THAT smile, I guess!

Hope you manage to get there on the 18th Eleesa - would be trulee awful if circumstances dictated not. Loppy power will sort it out - perhaps if we all think you'll be ok at the same time (ok so I watch Dr Who too!) it'll work!

Eleesa, I do hope you sort out your 'technical problems' in time. I am also experiencing a rough time, Friday 13th has most emphatically not been a lucky day for me, but I am delighted for those who have been able to get good tickets or are going to see the GO very soon. And reading all your blogs is helping to raise my spirits on a day when I feel Paint it Black is the most approprate song ever.

HI all, just back from hols and hubby gone out to collect an item he has been waiting for. I haven't read all the comments I've missed yet, but glad to see you are still here, even if 'here' is slightly different. I'll find out in a few minutes I suppose if we are staying here or moving when I do a proper catch up, but just wanted to say hello.

Having seerious withdrawal symptoms. So so so envioius of all of those still to see the GO. Especiallee those off tonight. I just don't seem to bee able to get enough of the boy. He's on my computer screen (videos of ADWD performances) and I just long to see him in the flesh in Joseph again, and again and again. He's on the ipod repeating himself over and over.. and he just makes me smile.
ahhhhh.

Forgot to mention ta for spotting the 'Mad about the Boy' YouTube video, always loved that song, what an amazing voice Dinah had. Very clever fit to the words, tricky 'cad' word showing Lee in character as suave Man About Town. Fun with definite AaaaH factor, hope he isn't teased about it.

Welcome back Gillian, hope you had a good hol.

Auds, me too. Work is seriously affected. Any excuse to stop and check in here, LM Appreciation, google, etc.

Have just ordered 2 Josh Groban CDs as well as Joseph (old) cast CD so that when I go in October I'll know all the words.

Despite updating my profile on RUG site, I've not received anything so have registered again using my other email address and using Ploppy's surname and this time saying yes to stuff being sent. Will see if that works!

Don't forget to listen in both tonight and tomorrow!!

Everyone going tonight/tomorrow have a great time and hope you see Lee before/after the show. Looking forward to more reviews.
Donna's going to add the 2 photos I sent of Lee to the review section tonight.

Really must get on or I'll be here (office) late yet again.

Welcome back Gillian (have you considered Gilleean?)

Thank you Jacklee, Katielee. Yes Friday 13th has been a rubbish day for me and my family too. If we can't make it on Wed though, Ploppy says we will book for later on, so I will get to go eventually. My friends on here will be the first to know (and the last, probably, as I don't know anyone else who is remotely interested)!

Hi everyone

What youtube video are you talking about? Can't find anything new.

Nicki, you're not too far from me in Brighton. I'm near Gatwick. Could you poss drop off a programme on your way home? Thanks!

Think we're all very repetative re our comments on the GO but can fully understand it. Has there ever been anyone else who's got us this fired up? Not for me anyway. I think we feel if we keep saying the same things it sort of brings us all together more. Can't beleeve I've booked 3 times and about to book a 4th when I haven't already seen it and I've never even seen Joseph. I trust the reviews so much. It all makes compleete sense that he would be so good in it (and the rest of the cast of course). Don't think we're overdoing it - read in the paper today about the comedian Chris Langham and that girl. Her and her mum had seen Les Mis 50 times! (that's another one I've yet so see - will wait until Lee is in it).

Hi there, just thought I'd let everyone know that like Alee I had no problems at all getting a refund for last night - money will be going straight onto new tickets as soon as I get babysitting sorted. It was worth every penny anyway even if they hadn't done refunds, but Lee for free was good for me!!! So pleased you're going again so soon Alee.

Re: last night: Alees review said it all really - I agree that Lee sounded very slightly husky at times, but not in a bad way at all. I would also agree with what another review said about Preeya struggling a tiny bit at times with the very high notes. I don't think anyone will give a damn about that though as she has such a lovely stage presence, and gets it right 99.9% of the time. I think that 'Joseph' is not about total vocal perfection anyway - much more about the charisma of the cast, and this production certainly has that in bucketloads.It's like one big party!

Totally agree with Alee that Pharoah was particularly funny and really lifted the audience after the confusion during the interval with gems such as "you know they say the world's a stage - well it's not tonight!" The dynamic between him and Lee was brilliant.

The whole 'concert style' second half came across as a bunch of hugely talented people having a really good time up there, and Lee was certainly getting into the swing of things and bopping around nicely! There was an apology from the choreographer about a part where there should have been a fantastic dance scene, but obviously no room for that on the broken set, so instead the brothers all had a little boogie during that bit whilst the orchestra did its thing, which was most entertaining. Don't know if anyone who's been so far has mentioned the brothers - they really are fab - particularly during 'Those Canaan Days'.

I took a male older relative with me last night who had told me prior to going that he wasn't into musical theatre at all. I decided to take a chance and bring him along anyway, thinking that if anyone could convert him it would be Mr Mead. He loved it, and is insisting on coming again when I get our replacement tickets! Well done Lee!

Deblee, put Lee Mead Mad about the Boy in YouTube and it'll come up. It's great - just so sweet!

So sorry Eleesa if it doesn't come off for Wednesday - you know we all understand. Love and hugs from all Loppies.

back again, just read to the end of the old page so far, listebubg again to Midweek interview as I type but no Lee yet apart from the start, but I think I caught a glimpse of a copy on Donna's site.

Changed my name to Gilleean. Lee just started talking, back in a mo.

Name change didn't work, posted in hurry

listebugb??? obviouslee concentrating on something else.

Must do some shopping soon, no food in the house. Ploppy will be back soon, and I still have to catch up this page, plus the official site, etc etc. At least ploppy is back to work tomorrow afternoon so I have hours I can indulge.

Must tell you, I was so pleesed I had the camcorder tape of ADWD to take with me, but would you beleeve it, the camcorder died on me on Saturday!!! I didn't wear it out honestlee. Have now decided I must get a mobile phone like my sons which plays videos.

Jacklee, thanks for that tip. What a lovely and funny video that is.
And the song is just right.

Deblee, trust me - you go buy tickets no 4 and even no 5 right now with no hesitation! You're gonna love it, and it's such an uplifting show you can't help but come home on a real high. I'm still buzzing now! Don't want to spoil it for other people by giving too much away, but Lee in the pit after the brothers have thrown him in is also a real highlight.

Think what struck me most about him last night (as well as his other more, errm, obvious attributes) is just how bloody funny he is. He really knows how to laugh at himself, and it's wonderful to watch.

Loppie Ladies be warned; you will definately want to run onto that stage and wipe (lick?) that sweat off his chest! ha ha

Alert to all loppies. If you haven't seen it already, Lee has posted a new entry in his diary on his official site, thanking fans for birthday messages etc.

have quickly read through your posts before going to LONDON to see LEE in JOSEPH not that I'm getting at all shouty or carried away!! Missing my Loppie mates already and will get withdrawl symptoms from not logging on for next 48 hours, but should be able to at least give you my review of the show and the wonderful Mr Mead when I'm back, that's if I ever return to planet earth...!!! See you Sunday!

Thanks for that Jo2 but I think the site has been a bit premature in releasing that entry as it hasn't happened yet! Ooops.

I've come over all unneccessaree having Just watched the Mad About The Boy. The song was written for us Loppies clearlee. Phew. Gotta have a cold shower now.

Have a wonderful weekend Miri - I guess Sat evening just might be the highlight.

Hi Eleesa - just went back for another look. As you say it is a bit premature to say how he had spent his birthday. Perhaps it was prepared earlier for posting on 15th - only hope this doesn't indicate someone at his agents is writing his stuff and not Lee!

Had another look at Lee's diary, and the 15th July entry has been removed! Someone with a red face at his agents!

Just been checking eBay. Would you believe there are at least three of Lee's signed photos that we've got for free from his site currently being auctioned. One of them has 17 bids and is going for £60 - yes SIXTY POUNDS at present with a day still to go !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Katherine, I agree about the sweat, said exactly the same to my non-loppy friend today who didn't seem at all fazed by such a suggestion! Oh I can hardly wait to go again, but that just isn't enough! Ladies once you've seen him you will feel the same, You just get the urge to keep rebooking, someone take away my credit card before I do some sriuos damage!

Hello

Totally manic at school today! But I guess that is what I am paid to do! Would rather be paid to be Lee's unofficial webmaster! Ohh master and Lee is the same sentence - is that allowed!!!

Thanks Diana for the photos! They are on the site in the reviews section!

Thanks to to Deb for her fab review - also posted!

and Ali, please can I add your review with the hitches and the cast's ability to cope!!!!!!

Just over 24 hours for me and Miri! excited!!!!!!! yeah! I cannot wait!

Message board up and running on the site if you want to use it, have changed the colours so it is easier to read!!! Hope you do get time to post there sometimes too!

Thanks though to Scott and his willingness to keep this place open - any chance Scott that i could like this blog to my site?????

Love

Donna
xxxxx

On checking the site, the Media section is up and running with videos now.... the Loppies have more than likelee seen them all as they're all off YouTube.
Shame about them messing up the birthday bit. Kinda bursts a few bubbles for a bit. But die hard Loppies will forgive I'm sure. The GOs meteoric rise is unique really in many ways, and it must be a whole new learning curve for a lot of people - I mean, look at how it's affected us regular, normal ladees (butter wouldn't melt) We've turned into surfing/blogging/downloading queens, salivating over any ittee bittee piece of anything of the Curlee Haired God with the Golden Smile. It's difficult to look sophisticated and composed whilst drooling over HIS face as it stares back at you from the computer screen - or to look completely non-plussed when the boss has unexpectedlee glanced at the computer and you've not been able to reeduce or minimise the picture...

Donna the review is all yours.
just watched mad about the boy, it says it all really doesn't it? Ploppy thought watching the show would cure my obsession, in fact it has made it worse, or should that be better? I'm desperate for any little snippet to keep me going until next show. I WILL be at the stage door then come hell or high water!

now the official site is making me out a liar. I've just looked again, and all the video clips have gone.....
The gremlins have got into their system big time...

Thanks Alee!!!

I will update the review section later! But off to dye my hair before tomorrow's performance - one must be looking their best!!!!!!!

Bye

Donna
xxxxxx

Thanks for the heads up on Mad about the Boy. So true. Must be put together by a Loppy, and I love it. Auds I am getting to that state just reading all your reviews. Will just sneak off one day to the best seat I can lay my hands on. September is just too long a wait.

£60 for a signed photo? My first thought was what a cheek, then thought, that is enough for another ticket and he would get the money back anyway, but no, just too bad. Lee is giving them to us for free and it is taking advantage of a sweet kind young man.

Miri have an absolute ball. I will be amongt the first of the loppies teleporting in if any space materialises. Thinking of you

Hi everyone,
I have been a sleeping loppy for some time. Although I have not commented before I am constantly visiting the site to catch up with all the news and advice.
It really is fantastic to know that there are like minded people out there.
My loppiness has driven me to go mad on e bay. I managed to get 2 tickets for this Sat.(it was really exciting bidding up to the last minute and then being told that I had won the bid. However it is very easy to get carried away and spend a fortune!) Just to let you know, there are 5 really great reviews on www.theatremonkey.com

I just visited the Donna's site and in the newsection she writes:
" Looks like our pleas for a DVD has not fallen on deaf ears! Looks like we've got that and an autobiography to look forward to before Christmas!"

Does that means what I think it means? Are we getting a recording of the new Joseph show?
Does anyone have more info about this major News?
I am all excited!

No I don't think it will be Joseph - more of a documentary on Lee I think?

Or I could be wrong? It's just that i know that during the Heat mag interview a camera crew was following him around? There is a link to the blog with that information on it in one of the early entries to my latest news.......

Check back and see if you read it the same as me!

I am excited whatever DVD they bring out!!!!!! and breathe.....!

Donna
xxxx

I can't take it.. more wobblee knees news... I remember reading from John Alistair' s #5 blog, hr said that everywhere the GO goes so does a camera crew - "they are filming his journey for a documentary to be screened later on in this year" so that could be the autobiog. If the BEEB have their wits about them they'll also issue a DVDEE of the GOs ADWD performances and any other piece of footage that has a nano seconds worth of the GO's image. Then ALW had just better do an Original Cast DVD/CD. We'd be happee Loppies then? For a while at least. Broke, but happy.
So now there's a pre- and post- show Loppie club. I must make it clear, and I think I speak for all post show Loppies, that post show Loppies are NOT cured of the longing. The desire becomes more enhanced. In fact there is a great danger of drastic measures being considered in order to see the GO again, sooner rather than later, like selling that free signed photograph on ebay for the price of really good seat+. They could even be driven to considering breaking the code of Loppieness by lurking at stage doors for a glimps of their idol. Watch out pre-show Loppies. You have been warned... One visit will NOT CURE.
There should be a Public Health Warning tattooed on the boy. WARNING! Watching the GO perform causes constant cravings. Once Smitten Twice the addition.(Couldn't think of anything relevant to rhyme with 'shy'.

doh! spelling mistake.
"Once Smitten, Twice the addiCtion!"

Evening Loppies! Nice to be home again after a truly awful week at work. Yesterday was just horrendous, and since I tend to be the kind of person who can't easily let go of a bad day the omens for the evening were not good, but guess what! I started playing my ADWD downloads, I was singing by 'Mac The Knife', and by the time 'New York, New York' came on I was a truly happy loppie, dancing round the kitchen. I went to bed perfectly happy having not given work another thought all evening! I hope the GO reads this (in my dreams). I'd love him to know the kind of real happiness his talent can create for others, it's a rare gift and he should be proud.
It's nice we don't have to move just yet, and that our enthusiasm actually helps 'The Stage'. Scott has been very patient and kind and should be declared an honourary ploppy to the whole loppie sisterhood!

Hi fellow loppies,
Thanks for the review Alee, sounds like an interesting night, you are sooooo lucky to get free tickets to see him again!
Am so glad it is the weekend, more free time for GO googling, adoring, drooling over, etc.

To echo what Natalee was saying about GO's wonderful ability to make everyone happy, I had a stressful day at work too. But have just watched Lee singing 'Bad Day' and have decided that I wouldn't mind days being bad if he kissed me at the end of it (like in the video of the song).

I don't know if any of you remember my previous post about my date with nice, kind portly man? He's e-mailed me to thank me for a lovely evening, which was truly polite considering I nearly expectorated inhaled chorizo over his shirt! The thing is I inadvertantly let slip to my two fellow office drones that part of my problem with this guy is that he looks nothing like the GO. I had to sit through several comments about "a woman of my age should have more sense", "if he's nice it doesn't matter what he looks like" and so on... I couldn't help feeling they may be right and I'm being shallow, which wasn't a nice feeling. Anyway, after a truly awful afternoon, I returned to my office and to cheer myself up went onto the BBC ADWD web site and began to play 'I Don't Want To Talk About It'. My colleagues came over to look and listen. To cut a long story short it turns out one is a closet loppie and the other seems to be heading in that direction too, and both agreed I would have to be insane not to prefer a GO type person to NKPM, so am now worried in case I have converted two good, high-minded women into shallow, obsessed with beautiful face types like myself. I hate having a conscience. I need to spend the evening listening to ADWD downloads to drown it out!

Does anyone know if Lee will be at the radio 2 programme the weekender tonight? I am not completlee sure.

Esther - according to Donna's App. Site, yes he is.

Yes, just heard the intro to the show and they are trailing a Lee interview. Another late night Loppies.

Please, please please we have to adopt Mad about the Boy as our theme song. If you have not seen the video it is on You Tube, and Donna has it linked on her site too. It must have been made by a Loppy.

Shirley - I've just watched that vid - it's brill & deffo should be the Loppy anthem!!

AAAGGHH! Too many commitments and not enough hours in the day for all this loppiness. Keep logging on but PC is sooo slow and by the time it's all come up I invariablee have to log off. So frustrating. School fair over at last and evening in with youngest Dollop finished (Ploppy and eldest Dollop away so watched one of my fav films - Chocolat with Johnny Depp, excellent if you're interested).

Thanks Jacklee for advice on video - ages ago. Onlee just had time to watch it. Big grins. Also thanks to Katherine and welcome! Oh well, nothing for it but to purchase tickets no.5. Mustn't forget his holiday dates.

Just read theatre monkey reviews. Reallee excellent and got the old heart palpitations going again. Don't understand why people walked out. If you've paid for the tickets plus you'll be getting more, why get all arsie about it - it was a preview too. Some people too stroppy for words. I suppose we're all too loppy for words!

BTW was there an interview on Radio 2 tonight? Anyone still up?

Morning loppies - have just got back and am still on a total high.
Oh. My.God. Im not going to go into massive detail because youve heard it all before, but I have been theatring for a good few years now, especially musicals, and Ive never experienced an atmosphere like tonight, it was incredible. The place was buzzing, literally, before the show even started.
Its such a fun show and the GO is astoundingly good, his voice sounds incredible and he looks like hes having the time of his life, as does everyone else. Plus we got to hear him sing CED twice - both times so beautifully, it gave me goosebumps - worth the price of the ticket just for that! The brothers are fantastic.
It was so amazing seeing him play the role hes always wanted, he was born to do this. I loved him at the start, so cute you cant imagine why the brothers dont adore him like we do, but LOVED him in Egypt even more, power is definitely sexy! And the Joseph / Jacob relationship is only in brief snippets but so lovely
We were sat in the dress circle, front & centre & I wouldnt have wanted to be anywhere else, he sang straight at me what felt like the whole night!! **passes out at the memory**.

Going with a non Loppy who turned out to be Cloppy, she said to me afterwards "Oh my God, I havent felt like this since Boris Becker!" Well at least her taste has improved with age.
He came out at about 10 to sign etc looking fresh from the shower **passes out again***, & was so sweet with everyone, asked where we were from & spent about 10 mins outside. Loppy insanity made me forget my camera so only have a crap photo on my phone but its mine, all mine!!
Am so excited for those of you still to go.... youre in for a real treat. Its so simple but like one big party and GO just lights up the stage. Cliche but true. He has real star quality & Im not just saying that cos Im unbeleivably biased. Were booking for 7th June!!! Only wish it was sooner. Night all, off to bed, any dream will do as long as hes in it X

PS Forgot to say he also looks quite good in a loincloth actually, whod have thought it?

Nicki

What a fab review! Can I add it to the site!!! CED twice is fab!!! I am off tonight and will be waiting by the door too! Camera already in car!!

I won't be back until tomorrow tea time though as Ploppy and I are staying in a swanky hotel after! Ploppy is worried that I'll be making him wear a curly wig after tonights lust fest!!!!!!!

Hope Miri has a fab time too!!!

So excited...... that is why I am on line at 5.40am!!!!!

Love

Donna
xxxxxx

Morning Donna, not so long behind you. What is it with this man that we cant sleep? I completely lost it yesterday and phoned See to get the earliest 1/2 way decent ticket they had. Was offered 20 August - howl of anguish alerted the saleslady to the fact that an earlier one was indicated -' I suppose you can't get here for Monday?' Oh can't I indeed. Ticket bought, and now also in feverish state of excitement. Anyone one else there on Monday? Camera memory checked, on charging right now, flashy but cool outtfit selected - was too tight before all this now fits like a dream. Train times checked, tube route checked. Not that I am looking forward to this you understand........

Oh Nikki, I am forgetting my manners. Thank you for a fabulous review. You caught the atmosphere so well. Hope that cloud you are floating on supports you for many happy days.

Later today I am going to try and get my few remaining sensible brain cells in gear and write a response to the blogg Scott gave us at the top of this page. The idea that the theatre critic is the next big hurdle for Lee just does not hold up.

Morning Lady Loppes - "D" day (or should that be "GO" day for Donna and Miri and ?. Nikki - sounds like as with all the others you had a fantastic time. Shirley green with envy that you are going before me now! Three weeks and counting. Glad to say Ploppy has not yet initiated divorce after the hair cut yesterday, but keeps asking where his wife is. By the way he always asks how you fellow Loppies are, which is quite sweet, so I give him a little run down on who has been and what's happend (like the set breaking down).....so I am telling myself he will of course be delighted to stand outside the theatre so that I can see the GO for myself...............not sure that this is true though!!

I loved Mad About the Boy - brilliantly put together. As mentioned earlier perhaps it should be the Loppy theme tune.

I also found the Birthday comment on the official site yesterday - he is obviouslee going to be so busy today they told him to write it in advance! And of course A Very Happy Birthday to a talented, charming charismatic young man!

Nice to know we still have new Loppies coming on board and that the word out there is spreading!

Audlee et al - the vido clips are back on the official site!

..back again! Brain obviouslee not in gear yet - a propos the dvd - this is going to be a programme show at Christmas similar to the one they did last year for Connie (they showed it the week between Christmas and New Year) and followed Connie's journey from winning, through being introduced to the cast, rehearsals and finally first night - this is going to be the same type of programme, so no we still need to put pressure on for a cast recording - don't forget the RUG site poll!

Hi Carol, I have asked the LM Official site to include the Mad about a Boy clip on their media page. Dont know if they will, but we can only ask.

Well done Shirlee - it's worth a punt and it is just so good! Deserves to get a wider viewing.

Now ladies - altogether "Happy Birthday to Lee, Happy Birthday to Lee, Happy Birthday Dear GO, Happy Birthday to you".

Not sure if there is a post today after the strike....but still eagerlee awaiting my photo! Can't beleeve people are selling them on EBary!!

Off to the boring routine of shopping etc., and adding extra big hints to Ploppy that I want a MP3 (so I can download all the GO things from the web, then I can carry him round with me). I have primed my friend (the one who named us) to tell him it is something that I want, that a realee realee want!! Have a good day - wonder how the tonighters are feeling!!

Just checked the Johanan Ross site on BBC Radio 2. Easy contact arrangements. Just sent an email asking JR to wish the GO Happy Birthday from the Loppies.

Nicki - great review. HE is just brilliant isn't he? sigh. But do tell, how come you got to hear CED twice. That's the song that does it for me everytime; that and that last verse in ADWD reprise "Give Me My Coat..."
And OMG Shirley!! a ticket for Monday! You GO GO GO girl!
Donna, Miri : Oh, how lucky you are to be going to see our GO tonight. You've just gotta sing Happy Birthday to the Chosen One - just before the interval (after GO GO Joseph).
Oh, I'm just aching to see him in again....

Hurray, I just been to the site of radio 2 and noticed that one of the other guest Ewan Mcgregor is.
Well that is just perfect. Almost all my favourite british persons in one show!
The day couldn't start better for me.
I hope that Lee also has a fantastic day! Happy birthday, Lee.

Have just hear Jonathan Ross's opening remarks. I am fumigating, I doubt I will ever watch or listen to him again. His remarks are often deliberately provocative and cringe making but this is downright offensive to the MT and audiences. Just beacause Lee had to endure an extended audition in the full glare of TV should not give JR cause to sneer. How about a Stage article on this one?

Oh hell. Up at 6am yesterday, bed at 2am today due to loppylunacy - googling etc- awake at 6.45am due to overdose of GO ADWD songs going round in head and thoughts of theatre trip so far away (13 days 9hours 2mins). Bit of meaditation required. Repeat after me(ad) - Uuummm...deep breaths, inhale, exhale...

Shirlee! Thanx for ticket but will onlee send you the cash if you take me with you Monday! Better get a bit of meaditaition in quick before you have a stroke (ooh! wouldn't that be nice).

Nicki, excellent review of course. Where's my programme I asked you to pop through the letterbox? Do you think dress circle is better than the stalls then? (just trying to work out my next visit - got too excited yesterday what with all the GO items coming up and lost the ability to count as I'm onlee going 3 times at the mo not 4).

Esther, I'm a Ewan fan too! When will they get this inconsequental person off his show and put on the ones we want?
(sorry, whoever you are) Better go and send that e-mail to Jonathan re a Loppy message - we must reach the masses so that more distressed cloppies can join in the fun (and exhaustion).

Vali - missed the beginning. What did he say for goodness sake? May put that e-mail on hold...

That's Jonathan Ross for you - always struck me as a 40 something that thinks he's "too cool for school".

In reality - JR was AT ADWD enjoying himself - people have said that he was making very favourable comment about Lee too.

Don't pay too much attention - JR ALWAYS does this - even if HE thinks that he likes/appreciates a particular artist but they don't fall in with the COOL brigade - like. oh, I don't know - the Kings of Leon, Arctic Monkeys etc., (and let's face it - Musical Theatre has never been seen as "cool" - uh - these types don't know what they're mssing! - but it hasn't!) then JR will always find some way of "covering his back" to make sure he's not SEEN as UNCOOL by his, oh, so COOL friends! That's why I don't really like JR - don't normally listen - only listening for LEE.

JR always comes across as insincere - Lee, on the other hand is the opposite - he'll be the one who has longevity! Not only is Lee on his way to being remembered as the best and most popular Joseph - he said himself on the Radio 4 interview last night that, "of course, eventually, I want to be recognised for being Lee" - he's in this for the long haul - and as long as Lee's heart is in this - so will his fans' be!

Hopefully - we'll find that JR will actually be very complimentary towards Lee - hopefully!

It grieves me to enter this on our pages. He said 'for the aged and infirm we have Lee Mead on the show and let's face it he will be forgotten about in a year because that's what happens to the winners of these reality shows'. He then mentioned his birthday, I think, I was in total shock.
I have just fired off an e-mail to his site but I don't feel any better. I need a lie down again (first Adelphi-gate then this). Why does it have to be like this. I know Lee is very level headed and has said that not everyone will like him but this is such a spoiler on what should be such a happy day. My Granny always used to say jealousy makes people behave in an inhuman way.

Shirlee you are so amazinglee organised, emailing the Jonathan Ross show and sorting the last night get together, and do I envy you and all the others who have either been or are going soon. Great reviews everyone. I have to wait until November, unless I 'come out' at home and get an earlier ticket somehow.

I've just read the blogs on the days I was away and saw the 8th June idea - I'm going for the second time at the end of May so can't really go again then, and anyway I think I missed the boat while I was away, but I would love to meet up. Perhaps if you get together beforehand I could join you? even if I then had to go home afterwards and not to the show. Could you include me in any organising pleese. Not sure how you are all getting in touch with each other. Do I just put my email address in a blog?

I told my son while we were away that my second lot of Joseph tickets were going to be delivered to his address, he's happy to go with me, he's only seen school type productions. He also didn't think it at all unusual, bless him. This is someone who's grown up with Star Wars, and has seen the films so often he can virtually recite the dialogue of all 6 films from memory, and has a state of the art lightsabre in his living room. He also believes in doing what you want to do, regardless if anyone else thinks it odd - I could learn from him! But when it's ones ploppy who will think you are odd, I find it hard. As another loppy has already admitted to this, I confess I have passed the big 5.....something... as well and in a way should have outgrown all this, but I am also very glad that I haven't.

Listening to Jonathan Ross online as I type, and trying to do some proper work on the computer as well, I have a very small business I run from home, I have quite a lot I should be doing just now, and all I do when I switch the computer on when alone is read Lee relevant websites and watch videos! As ploppy is at home this morning I am doing some real work (apart from this blog:), and will reward myself this afternoon with the videos.

Thanks for that Vali. Feel like not listening now and giving him the listening figures but it is out of my control if the GO is on. How RUDE. I've never been a fan of JR either (Sue-Ellen, or whoever it was, my memory escapes me, should have shot him too!), His show is all about HIM (or Ricky Gervais - another plonker in my opinion although funny occasionalee). Hope Lee gives as good as he gets but I'm sure he'll be much too polite. Bet JR will take his kids to see the show. HYPOCRITE!

Just seen the messages I missed while on the extended typing session, I didn't hear JR say that, must have been when ploppy was talking to me, or when the sound was down as I had a phone call - just hoping I didn't miss Lee while I was on the phone. What an odd thing to say about someone who's about to be your guest! Maybe he's just trying to create controversy for the sake of it. Though Lizilee probablee also right. So much more reallee cool to say what you think, and if he made favourable comments about Lee at ADWD then his opinions vary depending on his audience - very uncool.

Must do some work

Gileean by no means put your email address out on an insecure site. We managed it by me just putting my mobile number on here, on the principle that it is easy to change if idiots get hold of it and start giving me trouble, and the Loppies then texted me with their addresses, so none of us ever put anything online that could trace us.

Vali, I know Lee brings out the protective muscle in us all, but deep breathing now and try to calm down. I suspect that being something of a giggler he has chosen to go on The JR show. I am sure every show on TV and radio are vying for him, so he could have taken his pick.

JR was making a much wider point, and I must say that there are very few talent show winners I can remember. Will Young, Connie and Lee are going to be the exceptions, but I think all the others really have sunk without trace and look pretty pathetic trying to reignite their oh so brief careers. It is one of the reasons that I have said before I am just so pleased that Lee came through an ALW vehicle. Whatever else one may think about him ALW really does nurture his artistes and is in it for the long haul with them. Imagine how awful if it had been a Simon Cowell show and Lee had just been exploited, worn out and dumped. Actually I think he is extraordinary enough to have survived even that, but we dont have to find out. Lee himself knew not to go that route, so have confidence in him. He will deal with JR just fine.

Just listen to them talking about Mika, 'cockiness' 'arrogance' 'well, I guess the talent justifies it' - this from two of the most c&a people in showbusiness and without the talent to compose or perform and generally bring joy to the world, (and goodness knows we need it).

Shirlee you're right about most TV talent show winners. Pleased to say I voted, though only a normal once, for Will Young, as I recognised something there. Lost count how many times I voted for Lee. Ploppy remarked I must be getting the engaged tone a lot:))

I will look back for your phone number.

Oh was I voting when I kept ringing that number, I just wanted to hear Lee keep saying 'thank you' to me.

Lee on next

Oh my, he even sounds lovely with his mouth full of chocolate cake! I love that boy!

JR loves the sound of his own voice doesn't he?

That was fun!

How Lee kept his cool with the inane JR either not waiting for a reply (as in which was your least favourite song?) or repeatedly asking him how handsome he thought he was (obviously embarrassing him) I have no idea. The only reason he has guests on that show is to make himself look clever and amusing. He certainly has no interest in what they have to say. Huh! And throughout GO was as lovely and polite as ever.

Noooooo!!! Just put video on to listen to Lee (recorded it while scollop swimming) and it stopped just after GO cut the cake @/&%$£"! Anyone know if I can listen to it again?
Went out with friends last night and found a closet loppy, maybe I can persuade her to come to show with me asap?

There is a listen again option on bbc website for all radio shows, Alee. I listened to Weekender from last night when I got up this morning. You can also "fast forward" through all the earlier stuff. As you know, GO was on about 12.45 so you can skip almost all the show! Fairly easy to navigate but any problems blog back!!
GO and chocolate cake...mmmmmm!

Alison2 thanks I've just listened to GO. Just wish JR could've let himm speak a bit more! I thought GO sounded more relaxed than he has in other interviews? Off to school fete now but will try to catch up later, otherwise it takes me a month of sundays to read all the blogs I've missed! Thinking of all you lucky loppies going tonight wish I could come too!!

Have got over temporary fume. Listened again, JR says the 'older and infirm and I count myself among you', well we are promised 'waffle and the occasional insult' on the website of R2.
He did say what I put in my e-mail to the show about the search for Joseph being different from other talent shows. I note he hasn't seen Phantom and says he 'doesn't really go to the MT' and sees musicals on film, 'Gypsy'?. It's all about him isn't it, what an ego.

Wasn't it great last night when Sir Tim Rice said how much he liked Lee's Paint it Black?

Afternoon loppies!
Had a long sleep, finally, after dropping off about 3! Auds, I guess I was lucky - not sure if its a permanent change to the show, he sang CED at the end all dressed up in the gold armour - full song, just as good if not as poignant as half naked in jail - boy does he blast the last line! That got him the first standing ovation of the night - but tell me.... did I imagine the kneesocks & black & white patent dolly shoes????!!
Hopefully those lucky girls who have been will know what I mean??
About the seats, Im sure the stalls are a great vantage point for checking out the sweat in minute detail , but the way our boy sings the big numbers he seems to look straight into the middle of the circle - very lucky for me!! Plus when hes raised up at the end, he levitated right in front of me with the hugest grin on his face....**sighs**
Mind you, he works the audience so well I dont think it matters
where you sit, what a star!
Also Im guessing in the stalls you get the full effect of the skimpiness of the loincloth. Not that it occurred to me at all of course. Not once. At all. Just with hindsight. Hmmm.

Youre right about the addiction though, once youve seen him once, you just want more - now thats scary! Such a feelgood show, Im still in the clouds.
Donna , of course post the review - Id be honoured!! Off to the beach now to top up my freckles then going on line later to book tickets for next time, not sure I can wait til June though!

Have just read Nicki's review and oh God, I want to go Now!!! not wait till September.

Reading your comments of the JR show I gather you all are not big fans of him. But I am
The interview was relaxed and I think that Lee was relaxed.
I had to laugh at the cutting of the cake. I thought it was hillarios(not quite sure that is proper english)

Haven't caught up with last 20 odd hours of comments yet so someone else may already have replied re the film crew following Lee everywhere. The BBC are making a film of him, called something like the winner's story, which is due to be screened around Christmas. I'm going to be away then!!!!!

Listened, very impatiently, to Jonathan Ross Show this morning - naturalee. Bit teed off with him. His opening comments annoyed me about reality show winners only having a short life span and than vanishing. You can’t compare Lee (or Connie and some of the other finalists for that matter) with Big Brother!! And then had to wait right until the end of the show for Lee only for them to run out of time when the other guests had chatted away for yonks, especially Vic Reeves! He didn't even play the single. However, what there was was great - particularly with the birthday cake and nice to know Lee likes chocolate - me too.

Yesterday’s London Evening Standard and London Lite both contained an article and picture on Thursday’s performance. Provided my "new" PC doesn't crash yet again (having major problems with it and currently using 12+ year old PC instead!), I'll scan at least one of the articles and forward to Donna to add to LMAS site.

Alison and I think someone else mentioned a small bit in Friday’s Mail. I didn’t spot anything in our copy (I’m useless at finding stuff in papers). Can someone advise what it was about/what page it’s on pleese?

Elisa & Katie, hope everything works out. We’re with you in spirit.

Katherine, I so agree with the additional comments you posted yesterday re the show, especially about Lee being so funny. The short scene in the pit was hilarious - I don’t recall seeing that side of him before.

Auds, love “the Curlee Haired God with the Golden Smile” - just need to work in something about his lovelee eyes …. something about deep pools maybe ….

It seems that everyone who’s seen the show is even more captivated afterwards. I can’t wait to go again and am desperate for every snippet about the GO.

Will be thinking of everyone there tonight and wishing I could be there to join in singing happy birthday to Lee.

Wow, did you see the fan on Livejournal Squee who has today been invited to the opening night by RUG because she seems like a big fan? Do you think they would invite Donna ? I know she is going tonight but hey..........

Dilee, the bit in the Mail was in the middle pages on the Baz Bamigoyle(?) section - a small snippet on the top right. Vali, can you direct me to the radio prog he was on last night where Tim Rice commented pl?

Just listened to JR - too much of him and not enough of our man. Was all ready and on tenterhooks this morning when a friend rang to say should we walk our dogs. Thought I'd better go else the poor thing would be in all day whilst I catch up with all things Mead. Normallee I'd be outside on a sunny day - my world has been turned upside down and every other way.

Remembering past posts and how multileengual the Loppies are thought I'd leeve a message for JR (who was attempting French on his show) - "Ta guelle!" (pronounced 'girl' but spelleeing a tad incorrect methinks). Can't quite remember it's true meaning but know it's not too compleementary. Did agree with him on one thing though when he said at the beginning of his show about Phil Collins on Live Earth being a bit too old to be swearing and trying to act all cool at his age. Used to love Phil and Genesis music but gone right off him now. Looked a prat.

Good luck Loppies for 2night. My jealousy is increasing each time someone goes - or should that be envy? I want you to have a fab time but wish I could come too! Onlee 13days 3hrs 14mins to go now (and many more sleepness nights).

Oops, it's dated the 12th, don't remember it there yesterday.

BBC2 Matthew Wrights Weekender of Fri 13th, Sir Tim is a phone call quite near the beginning then there's the lovely interview soon after with Lee at the Adelphee I presume. Nice show Matthew, classy and intelligent, covers theatre in a friendly way.

But what show was it on?

Sorry! thankx 4 that.

Have now caught up. Glad to see I wasn’t the only one fuming about Jonathon Ross’s comments at the start of the show. Hope the GO didn’t hear that bit! Although I don’t often listen to JR radio show, I watch his TV show and normally like him. I was very tempted to turn off but of course couldn’t miss hearing Lee. Pity JR didn’t let Lee answer the question about least favourite ADWD song - I’d love to know what his favourite and least fav songs were.

Auds, I couldn’t have put it better re post show Loppyness. Lee sang CED twice on Monday night too - first time in the cell (incredibly moving) and then towards the end of the show.

Thanks for last night’s review, Nicki. You have clearly joined the post show Loppy club! They’ve obviously sorted the set problems from Thursday night - hopefully permanentlee, though things do go in threes ….

Shirley, you lucky thing, only 50 odd hours to go! I so want to ring up and get a ticket for August, even if it’s right at the back in the corner, but I must resist temptation - five times should be more than enough. But I really don’t know how I will last till October - even checked with Ploppy again if he’d changed his mind about going (still no). I think I shall have to go along one evening after the show to get another glimpse of the GO just to keep me going. Anyone want to join me?

Will have to wait until Monday to listen to Mad About the Boy - must get broadband once the PC is sorted out (if ever).

Thanks Debbielee re Mail.

Hope Lee has a fantastic evening tonight.

Nicki, no you weren't dreaming about the white knee highs and patent shoes! I thought Lee looked genuinely terrified at that point when faced with Mrs P! Did you also notice the gold Doc Martens? Oh I can't wait another 5 weeks, I want to go tonight (and tomorrow and Monday...) Could bankrupt myself in the process though!

Just read review re:12th July on Theatre Monkey.How I wish I could have written so eloquently, read it if you get the chance as it says everything I wished I had said!

...loved the gold DMs, always notice shoes! Altho plenty of time in bare feet - also a good look.
But then what wouldnt be?

Just discovered that my best friend is a closet Loppy! LOL She has come to stay for the weekend with her Ploppy and almost the first thing she said was - did you watch ADWD? I said yes and revealed my photo........................cue squeals of delight! She really thought she was on her own in her obsession...LOL I have told her that there is no cure and she is definitely a Loppy! I bet Donna has a great time tonight - her forum is super but I can't post there (some sort of technical hitch ....) not fair! grrrrrr So glad we still have this place:-) Anyway we intend to spend most of the weekend watching the GO whilst our Ploppies watch war films on TV! Glad I missed Jonothan Ross! How dare he!

Carys, I've tried to post on Donna's forum too and can't. Not sure what you're meant to put in under instant messenger and website. It's probablee glaringlee obvious but seeing as I used to hate everything to do with the computer before (now it's my best friend) I'm not clued up at all with such things. Have learnt a little from my loppy friends though. Might be because I was trying to do it on the laptop and I don't think it's set up correctlee for me there.

Hi Deblee, what's the problem you're having? I've just tried a test message on there and it's accepted a preview so I would imagine it would be ok. I think the Instant messenger and website are optional, so you can leave those out. Have you entered the text at the bottom, which is a security measure?

Thanx 4 trying to help an old retard! (is that pc these days?) Think I'll try on the main computer 2morrow as am now settled comfortablee on the sofa, Lindt choc within arms reach, laptop on lap with fav page in view, remote control nearby and DVD fired up and ready to play Casino Royale as haven't seen it yet (bet Lee would look better coming out of the water tho). Yep, you've guessed it, Ploppy away for the night so I can do whatever I want. Bliss!

Forgot to add cherries in the bowl on my lap (cue visions of feeding them to GO whilst he lies on a chaise longue). Who wants to be at the theatre anyway when one can have all that? (boo hoo)

Deblee, can't imagine why anyone would want to be at the Adelphi when you have all that at home :( Think I'll have an earlee night. lol

Have spent a lovely evening watching Lee .... well not quite the whole evening, in reality under a minute but repeated a few times. Seriously, I’ve just watched Regrets, the episode of the BBC’s Murder in Mind Lee appeared in in 2002. Interesting story in which Dennis Waterman plays the lead character. Lee is only on screen for a few seconds at the start of the episode and speaks just one word but he is instantly recognisable even with short hair. Lovely to see him even though it is so short.

I was quite excited to find Lee was in something I already had. I bought the DVDs some months ago as my fav actress is in one episode and I also enjoyed the few episodes I caught when the series was first shown and wanted to see more.

Oooh there's an ad on telly at the moment for Right Guard with song Bad Day - unfortunately not sung by Lee. But the actor in it does bare a very slight resemblance in that he's got dark curly hair though not Lee's lovelee curls.

Looking forward to reading the reviews from tonight's show.

Good morning Loppies, there are some FABULOUS new photos on Donna's site. Go to the Forum bit, follow the instructions and drool. Although having read about Debbie feeding him cherries maybe you dont Mead them.

Morning Loppies - just seen the photos from the link on Donna's site - wonder how she and Miri are this morning - can't wait only 26 days to go aagghh! No post yesterday (are they still on strike) so still no photo to drool over! I also heard Have a Nice Day and thought - if only if were Lee's version, so that's started me back on my campaign for a DVD of the series from the Beeb - they will be made not to do one, it would sell like hot cakes! Have a good day everyone - I'll be back later, but have visitors all today.

great pics on Donna's site, looking forward to her review! No new diary entry yet on official site?

Morning ladies

Couldn't find the photos. Nothing seemed to happen. Please help! Also, onlee just realised I have a bigger connection to GO than I thought. My eldest dollop's middle name is Lee!! Well, it's spelt slightlee differentlee (Leigh) but your'e being pernickety now! Down to the deed poll office I go. How could I onlee just remember?
You'd have thought last nights loppies could have found a laptop somewhere. Don't they realise we're on review standby all day?
Shirlee, tickets are under lock and key buried underground in a deep vault. Cheque is written, just mead to buy a stamp. As I've already mentioned to you in a note, I nearlee wrote "50p onlee" at the end!! Thank you SO much.

I went to bed last night deeply deeprived.. My server had gone down for the day and I was unable to check in with my Loppies, or any/all of the sites for updates on the GO. Deeply Deeprived. So this a.m. I feel safe again back in the haven of Loppies.
I've just done listen again on Jonathan Ross - and I have to admit I do enjoy him - and I think Lee was just incredible with him, a total natural. I guess I'd imagined that it would be a bit daunting for the GO to be put through a JR interview, but by heck did that GO hold his own - without trying. If you think of all the big stars and celebs the Curly Haired One has met during these past 4+ months.. Josh Grobin, Donny Osmond, Jason Donavon - Peter Kay actually coming to his dressing room!! To name but a few - and he's still so 'boy next door' - damn fine one at that.
Can't wait to read the reviews to come...hurry hurry hurry.
Dilee, I'll join you for a bit of after showing hanging around...
Those are great show pics. Oh, I soo hope they do a film on this show..... That'd be the most played DVD in the house. It'd go everywhere with me.
ALW missing out on a shed-load of dosh if he didn't do this..

Greetings all....I seem to have missed something. What is the poll that was being referred to earlier at 92/93%. I looked on the Rug site and couldn't find anything, but I would be happy to add my two penny worth if directed where to go.

And after all the wonderful reviews, I too am now going round with the biggest grin on my face in expectation of finally getting to see it myself on Saturday after buying earlier tickets on eBay! That is presuming the tickets arrive, of course. It sounds phenomenal and I can't wait to see the official press reviews! Jonathan Ross doesn't count, although I usually like him. Apart from nonsense of pretending not to know what his name was etc, I thought it was very uncool to have railroaded the GO into such a short slot at the end. But I suspect there is some other undercurrent going on. Maybe his wife was a little more enthusiastic than he liked, or something like that. I would still love to see the GO on the Jonathan Ross television show. It might well still happen. It depends on when during the day they actually film it. But that sort of exposure was always going to wait until after opening night, and after the press has confirmed just how phenomenal the boy is in practice!

Jo, for the poll on whose your favourite Joseph, go to the RUG site and click on Shows then Joseph. Bottom right hand corner (you might have to scroll down) is a load of questions. Just keep clickin on Joseph until the that question comes up(anywhere between 2 and 15 times in my experience), then just below the question is a send & view button, and tadah! you've voted. And you can do this as many times as you like.

Not sure what happened with the poll, took me much cycling to get the 'Who is your favourite Joseph' up, and Lee is down to 90% again. They have amended it though and included another couple of Josephs including Philip Schofield. What it is Jo they have a whole range of polls which just cycle around - I think randomly - and you just have to keep hitting the Joseph button until you get the one you want.

Welcome back Auds, wondered what had happened to you, computer failure has never seemed so important.

Debbie, no need to go for the deed poll, Lee is from Leigh so you were spot on after all. Such foresight.

I cant quite believe I am going to be at the last night of the previews. Won't that be just so special. Strangely not frantic or anything - just eeirly calm.

Jo, re favourite Joseph poll go to http://www.reallyuseful.com/rug/shows/joseph/index.htm
and the user polls are on the right hand column. If it isn’t the right one, keep clicking on “Joseph” on the left hand column until it appears or try "refresh". Look for soundtrack CD as well on "favourite item of show memorabilia"

By the way everyone, I've just been back to see how the voting is going and they've added Philip Schofield and Patrick Cassidy. GO is down to 90% !!!!!!!!!!! Must vote again.

On reflection, I think I was a bit hard on JR, as the cake bit was funny and I do watch his tv show, though he does like the sound of his own voice a bit too much.

One more thing. For those of you who have been to the show – I’m still hopeful of making it – what was the new song about and what are the lyric changes that ALW was talking about in his video? Anyone know?

I’ve just opened another window and seen that Shirley and Auds have said most things I have but I’m not deleting it as it took me so long to type!

It's a good job GO wasn't born in Southend-on-Sea then.

Dont know about that Eleesa, very sure the maternity hospital is not in Leigh.

Have just read yet more glowing reviews on theatre monkey, having been directed to check it out from here. Really great! But did find the comments of the theatre monkey himself a little offkey. He is clearly insinuating that the cast would not just have preferred a different Joseph but that they were actively voting to back A N Other, presumably Keith! I don't believe it, but what an unpleasant and unnecessary comment to make! Prejudice against the GO, just because he won the part on a reality show, is still prevalent! And worrying!

Have to say, though, that I am not keen on the prospect of casting lots of shows in the same way. A plethora of reality show winners, each getting their one show and 5 minutes of stardom, is a dreadful prospect! The ADWD show was as good as it was only because of who won! Who is to say who might win on another occasion. It could too easily have been Keith this time, if for no other reason than the result was thought to be too much of a certainty to need to vote! And if Keith had actually won, the show would probably still have been successful enough, although not extended already. In a horrible way, the very fact that the GO is as fabulous as he is, is probably going to ensure that other major parts are going to be lost to other reality show winners who wouldn't really be preferential casting. It is too easy to imagine that the powers that be may assume that the furore created is more of a consequence of the process rather than re one special guy! Connie Fisher got an amazing response as the first such winner, remember, but with the best will in the world, apart from the mentioned "Funny Girl", where is she going to go? It is a good thing that the Grease show wasn't so successful! But I really hope that the critics are not predisposed to be judgemental for the wrong reasons.

Hi Loppies...
Just sent this post once but it got grabbed to be approved, so here goes again...

I posted the link to the show pix on Donna's site. It has changed since, so here is the new one...
http://photo.wenn.com/index.php?ref=dream%20coat%20130707&version=int&session_id=7130847a3b1654c453657fbce58c912f

If this doesn't work, just go to ...

http://photo.wenn.com

and go through the thumbnails til you find the Joseph one.

GOrgeous pix...enjoy!

Jane x

Hi Loppies...just tried to post twice with updated link for the new Joseph pix link I put on Donna's site, but both posts have been grabbed and held for approval by blog owner! Maybe they didn't like the links I put to the site WENN (actually just putting those 4 letters in will work too!). Last try before I give up!

Just wanted to say, re Jo's post, that the short video of Lee meeting the cast for the first time totally disproves Theatre Monkey's claims... they all screamed and ran towards him as he came thro the door, hugging him and squeeling like so many adoring Loppies!!! They were clearlee as delighted to have him as their Joseph as we all were!

Hope you get to see the pix WENN have on their site - they're amazing and gorgeous of Lee. Jane x

I had a bit of trouble with the WEMM pics as at first I copied and pasted the whole link, which got me to a blank page saying the picture wasn't available. Then I just pasted the first line of the link, and scrolled down a page of picture icons until I found the Joseph one, and clicked on that, and there they all were. The link to the Joseph pics is now at the top of page 2 of the WEMM index.

Hi Jane, I thought I'd seen all of GOs videos... but I don't recall viewing the one where HE meets all the cast.
Oh dear, I was onlee going to sit a while at the computer... and now I've gone thru all the vids again and the washing is begining grow mould in the machine.... darn this addiction. But oh, how I a just adore that boy.

I don't think the theatre monkey's comments are serious, probably just trying, rather clumsily, to tie the 'plot' to the ADWD series. As to the cast's feelings about having the star chosen by a TV vote, I should think they were relieved they got someone who has experience, especially as whoever won was going to miss 2 weeks of rehearsals. Remember the comment from the chap in Lord of the Rings when Ben asked how a cast would feel about having a star chosen by a TV show? Well Lee has a track record, and therefore much less to prove. He also knows what's expected and what is going on - I recall an interview where he was explaining to the interviewer about 'tech' rehearsals.

But Keith in second place had less experience than all the last 6, and less acting ability, (in the semi final, poor Ben was getting no feedback at all from Keith in their duet, whereas Lee and Lewis made a proper job of theirs) Keith's learning curve would have been huge, I'd have been very worried if I were in a cast and he was chosen. Although he has a great voice, it beats me how the public voted someone with 'just' a voice into second place in a musical theatre audition, and the next competition, if there is one, may not be so lucky to have a 'Lee' type. The GBP took to Lee (who can blame them) but those voting for Keith clearly didn't understand the point in my opinion.

Hello all - just popping by to say hi, and casually check for reviews....nothing yet I see. Im dying to know how last night went, am guessing he`ll remember his 26th birthday if he was serenaded in front of a West End audience!
Listened to JR this morning and I really enjoyed it! I do like JR anyway, & I thought Lee sounded like he was having a blast, kept hearing the Lee-giggles - plus he got cake, so its all good really. Chocolate generally puts me in a good mood. Lee with a faceful of chocolate on a Sunday morning even better, just wish I couldve seen it!
Also loved all the talk of handsomeness - and - Lee, the Loppies love your ears even if you dont.
Shirley, have a fabulous night tomorrow & anyone else going this week - am contemplating eBay myself right about now....

Eleesa -
about the songs, Pharoah does an extra song, ballad type thing based around Elvis song titles, couldve lived without it to be honest - the only lyric change I noticed was something about voting, cant remember what exactly but ADWD reference.

Nothing earthshattering Im afraid, but then ALW does have a very strange sense of humour, and anyway I havent forgiven him for his remark about "hopefully soon we`ll get the show back to what its supposed to be".

Anyone would think having a sex god with a golden voice in the role wasnt what he wanted?
Im sure he`ll get over it when he checks his bank statements.
Back later for the reviews....

Auds, try the Lee Mead Appreciation site, Latest News, scroll down to near the bottom, 20th June, you'll find the vid clip there.

When theatremonkey says the other brothers didn’t get the brother they wanted, I don’t think he means the cast, he’s just making a joke about the storyline as, let’s face it, if the brothers did like Joseph, there would be no story and we’d all have to go home after the first couple of songs.

Thanks Nicki for the song/lyrics info. I was expecting something better than that, but never mind. It was weird what ALW said re “teenybopper rock concert”. As you say, you’d think he’d be laughing all the way to the bank with Lee as star.

Thanks Gilleean. How did I miss that. Phew, I'm glad I'm caught up now. It's quite ntriguinghow a loppie can listen/watch over and over again to any little snippet of the GO.
If I remember correctly, the additional song as Nicki says is in Pharaoh's bit - there's a reference to 'any one from any where could become anything just on a vote' not the exact words, but to that effect. Peculiar to this run only meethinks.
Shirley, I've decided... I'm going to try for a ticket tomorrow night - hang out of a no show. Could this be the beginning of a downward spiral - spend all my money on seeing the Mead, don't pay the mortgage, loose the flat - loose the job because of continual inappropriate usage of the internet ergo not doing the job at all...

Hi Auds,
I have the 'Lee meets the cast' video on my PC, downloaded as a RealPlay file, but can't remember where it was from!

Can anyone else?

Someone announces "It's Lee!" as he walks in the room and they all shriek delightedly and run towards him for hugs! He has to stop them to put his bag down, and they shout "Speech". Lee says he's really excited and can't wait to start, and they shout "So are we!". They seem to adore him and to be reallee over the moon that they got him and not one of the others! The guy on the far right of the room looks like Dean Collinson who plays Pharaoh.

Wish I could remember where it came from, but I have soo much Lee stuff clogging up all corners of my computer and I just forget whose it was. Maybe someone else will remember and put a link up here?

Re the link to Joseph pix, just for the record, the letters are WENN (World Entertainment News Network) and if you click on photos and phot database you will the Joseph link on the 2nd page atm, it does seem to keep changing tho!

Ah that's where I saw it! Thanks Gilleean!

Yes, I doubt there is another one in a million yet alone 10,000. Agree about how it could all have gone so horribly ....different. It is not just about the look and voice, his acting was standout.
His voice always best for the role for me (being no expert I am copying from Wikipedia describing the voice of the sensational opera star Juan Diego Florez, they don't mention his looks - those black curls again !!!!! which is a pity since it was his combination of looks, acting and voice that really sent the opera crowd wild on his debut at 23 as a stand-in) back to the plot - it is described as a light lyric tenor of exceptional beauty which while not of great size is nevertheless audible in even the largest houses due to it's unusual harmonic structure, the higher part of the range being particularly strong and brilliant, with almost no sense of effort and the lower the weaker. Breath control impeccable allowing the longest phrases to be sustained with apparent ease. I know we are talking MT not opera but as you can see as I always say loud is not better. I like to think this voice quality is something like what Josh Groban heard in Lee when choosing him for a duet. In the clip I couldn't quite make out who's voice description was who's.
Re Stage Monkey, Baz in the Mail was rather 'meeow' too. I think some blokes are a bit rattled by it all. I was a bit concerned about what ALW meant by Rock Concert but it seems he was talking the loudness of the production generally and was changing some of the orchestration.
As for the pics wowee......(Ploppy won't look he doesn't want to spoil the surprise - Elvis fan).

Apologies to Stage Monkey not appreciating his little joke about brothers oops again.

Have had single playing on repeat for some time today (Ploppy gone to golf so house to myself, hurrah) and wondered whether Lee, Lewis and Keith each recorded all of Close Every Door and then it was edited together after the final or they sang it together and it just happened Lee had the larger part?

I am sure they must have all recorded it all, which is a good point, must mean that they have Lee's recording of all of it. Which means they can release it. Dont for the life of me understand why ALW and the BBC are sitting on such a goldmine and not releasing their Lee material. OK so the sound quality will not be studio perfect, but for goodness sake we are all sitting watching and listening to it on our computers on You Tube or whatever and no that is not studio quality either.

The Lee meets the cast video is/was on the Joseph and RUG sites. I think it was put out pretty promptly to reassure us. There was a lot of concern, I think on the first of Scott's pages we hijacked, about how the cast were treating Lee, and lo out of nowhere came that clip - the first they released.

Auds, I will walk past the line tomorrow night. Think bright pink hair and it will be me so say Hi.

I am going to sit down seriously and compose a reply to Scott's inflamatory opening to this page anytime now. Sorry it has taken so long Scott. Blame house guests and a cold.

Re that 'favourite Joseph' poll on the RUG/Joseph site, normally it comes up randomly with other polls, you have to keep refreshing the page till you get it. Well I finally got it, then saved the page to my favourites, and since then, each time I've gone there via my favourites, I've got the page with the favourite Joseph poll, makes life so much easier for multiple voting:))

Another easy way to multiple vote is to send your vote the first time and then press the back button and it comes up again. If you do this repeatedly the percentage goes up. (Although this doesn't seem very fair I do it anyway!)

Shirley, which bit do you find inflamatory? Richard Jordan's comments (the 'reality check' of the title I presume)?

Hi, back again. Very strict with myself and repeated in a chant like fashion - "Must clean the bathroom, must do the washing, must feed the children, must take dog out, must go and check webs...NO! Must eat, must hang washing out, must turn on dishwater etc etc. The onlee thing holding me together was the thought of more stupendous reviews to read once I caved in but no - where ARE they? Will be on anti-depressants soon.

Shirlee, thanx for your vote of confidence in me having the foresight to name my child after a phenomenon 11 years ago - maybe I'm in the wrong line of work and should think about renaming myself Gypsy Rose Lee, ha ha. Am very worried about you saying that you're calm before tomorrows' show. This is not a Loppy reaction and I fear you may have gone into shock. If this is the case and you are physicallee unable to make it to the theatre, can I be first in line for your ticket?

Finally, they must face the show’s biggest and most influential judges — the national press critics, whose notices ultimately determine whether they, the TV show, and the production have succeeeded or failed.

You know Scott I was with you all the way in your Blogg, and indeed most of the way with Richard Jordan. It is harder for the winner of a reality theatre show. Especially where, as in the case of ADWD, the BBC extended the run of the show by a week. But that the national press critics are the most influential judges? Sorry we part company right there.

What we are all missing here is that this is a fairy story. Talented but struggling young actor gives up hard earned role as understudy to reach for his dream. Villain of the piece must be his ex boss, can't you just see the interview - Lee 'Um, I'm entering this reality tv show for the role of Joseph.' Villain -' well you neednt think we're keeping your job here for you, if you go you go and thats it.' Being a really nice hero his family and the love of his life stand by him and support him, so after much soul searching he decides he cannot miss this opportunity. Then the really magical stuff starts to happen. Our Hero, having originally had his talent repressed by years of rejection, now uses the experience he has gained during the wilderness years and grows and blossoms throughout the series of shows. His hair grows and grows and does wonderful things to the way his whole face looks - he becomes stunningly handsome. His natural goodness shines through in his performances and we all take him to our hearts. The judges at first cautious are soon falling over themselves to heap praise on him 'definitely a leading man' , quintissential leading man,', 'a star', 'an international star', 'a superstar'. And we sat at home watching. Many saying 'We know that' from day one, many more saying 'We know that' from show 2, and show 3 and show 4, and then after Paint it Black we were ALL saying 'We know that', and you know what? We were all voting and voting and voting so that our hero's dream would come true.

But this is the real world and rather than the Happy ever after promised at the end of every fairy story there is the daunting challenge for the winner of leading the brand new production of a West End show. Leading in this sense does not just mean being the star, the principal, it also means leading the cast, so doubly important that the winner has the training, experience and talent to inspire confidence in them all. So now we begin to understand why our Hero had to suffer through the hard times.

And then, and then I hear Richard Jordan say, his biggest challenge - the national critics. Well under anything like normal circumstances that might not be so far from the truth, but remember this is a fairy story and things happen differently when magic dust has been sprinkled over our hero. Within 2 weeks the first 3 months of the show are effectively sold out and the whole 6 months is filling fast. That quickly the show is extended for a further 6 months. A total of half a million seats and they are selling fast, as anyone who is trying to book now will tell you

Then the previews start and, thanks to the wonders of the internet, we are all reading reviews that audience members have posted of their experiences, and they are fabulous. A few critisisms of other actors - nothing that would discourage anyone from going to see the show - but our hero, ahhhhh our hero. The magic dust sure did its stuff on him. No one, but no one has a bad word to say about him. The superlatives flow, peons of praise ring out, each agreeing with the previous ones and adding more of their own.

So where does this leave Richard Jordan and his ilk? Even if they all slate the show, tell us that our hero has feet of clay, bad breath and a nasty case of sssibilance we won't believe them, or care. But they won't do that you know. They may not be quite so blinded by stardust as those of us who have already and will in future spend our hard earned £s to fill the theatre week after week and month after month, but they will recognise a success when it smacks them in the face, and they will be too busy leaping on the bandwagon to threaten our hero's happy ending

Just in case not noticed, there is actually a rather sweet animation on youtube accompanyng the "Close Every Door" medley. It can be found with a search for DN Angel.

I have to say that I find that version quite difficult to listen to because of the change to Keith's voice which is really quite jarring to my ear. He obviously knows he is supposed to emphasise to effect, but has no real understanding re why and how to do that. But he has a wonderful instrument in that voice, he has just got to learn to use it with greater understanding and feeling. And it's old news now, but it is worth looking back at the video of the Jesus Christ Superstar duet. The end in particular is quite an interesting study in the difference between the two finalists. It is how to do it versus how not to do it, next to each other. Keith just doesn't know what to do with himself physically, or how and when to use his arms. How anyone voted for him, when that demonstrates so clearly how he couldn't act, I don't know! But whatever some people seem to think, I don't believe for one instant that ALW wanted Keith as Joseph for that very reason. He couldn't say so overtly in case that was the outcome, and he would have had to make the best of it. But he did specifically say something to the effect "From checkout, to Czekhov, I don't think so!" I think that was fairly clear! And he did make another clear distinction when he specifically said that he thought Keith would have an amazing career as a singer while Lee would have an amazing career in the theatre!

I can't wait to hear the whole thing sung by our boy on his own! I can feel the goose bumps just thinking about it.

Oh and Debbie, not a prayer. If I have to crawl the entire way I will be in that seat. And that assumes failures in train, coach, 3 different cars, cycles, feet.......

Deblee, well done for noting Shirlee's state of mind. I think that might be for a Ploppy's benefit though. But if I see you tomorrow night Shirley, and you're not wringing your hands, or fighting your way through the crowds at the front door, I'll have to intervene - I feel it would be my duty as a Loppie to do so of course - and insist that you're in no state of mind to attend - and take your place. Won't that be terribly kind of me?

Best not reply to that one - we might get thrown off the site!!!
Honest Shirlee ... only joking.....promise. Pleese forgive.

Was flipping through Friday's Evening Standard - I'd seen a disturbing article on the lovely John Simm and how he's fed up with his fans!! My guts churned at the thought that our GO would ever feel that way *deep sobbing** - and CAPOW, I find a lovelee big picture of The Curly Haired One With The Golden Voice and his 'brothers' in an article about the glitch in the show on Thursday. I wonder why they keep refering to the GO as "Lee Mead - who one the lead role on TV show ADWD"? Like we need reminding-- duh. Surelee EVERYONE knows who he is??? How dare NOT THEY????

Gilleean - clever girl. Thanks for the tip re the Joseph poll. I'm going to copy you now.

Just had to have another look at the WENN photo's. You gotta love the size of that loin cloth. :-))

Oh well Shirlee, "life is like a bowl of cherries" (said in the manner of Forrest Gump) which is what I'll be returning to for another night. Hope your transportation isn't THAT awful. Have a wonderful time. Liked the fairy story by the way. Feet of clay? Bad breath? Sssibilance? Surelee not. Methinks you jest. Like you say, the tickets are sold, the seats are full, how can the critics influence us? We're too far gone for that. The talent has been spotted and approved by the voters. Having never seen Lee in the flesh nor even Joseph itself, there is no doubt in my mind that my evening - when I eventuallee get there - will be one of my best ever visits to the theatre and I don't need Baz Bambigargoyle (or whatever his name is) from The Mail to tell me whether it'll be a success or not - it already is!!

Oh Shirley that was fabulous! You really have a way with words, I hope some of the magic dust falls your way tomorrow night.

There is a new video on youtube (well the clips arent new of course but will we ever tire of them? I think not) It sums up the GOs "journey" (copyright Bill Kenwright) and pretty much reflects everything you have said. Go to the LJ site to access, its easier. MMmm, lovely & poignant, in case any of us need reminding. Brought a wee tear to my eye.

Still no reviews. Do you think it was all too much & they are lost & wandering the streets of London having forgotten their own names?? Kinda how I felt.
Will check back later before calling out a search party....

Dear Loppies,
I'm back and haven't quite yet touched down to earth from last night!! Haven't caught up with all that's been going on either whilst I've been away, but thought I'd just add my account of last nights' events first, that's if you lot don't mind!

I was up in the upper dress circle in the front row (tried leaning forwards but got told off big time by the people behind me so thought better of it! Fortunately I'm quite tall, so as long as I sat bolt upright I saw everything. EVERYTHING!!).
I won't go into too much detail about the show itself as you need to see it to really get the atmosphere, but suffice to say that the first time Lee appeared my heart skipped a beat. Seriously. If at all possible, in "real life" he is even more....oh! How can I describe him???? His voice was spot on. His acting flawless. Comic timing genius! The way he interracted with the rest of the cast amazing - it almost felt as if the whole production had been put on by a bunch of good friends who thought they'd have the best time of their lives, and it showed.

I had serious palpatations and some rather disturbing Mrs Robinson moments throughout the show, but as stunningly amazing as he looked (how one man can look sooooooo good in a loincloth is completly beyond me!) it was his talent that shone through. His voice is so incredibly expressive, every gesture, every movement, no matter how small was part of the story telling. He is going to go far. Joseph really is just the beginning, this man is going to be around for years. And I feel so honoured to be amongst a select group of people (Yay Loppies!) who have recognised how unique his talent is before the rest of the world notice it because frankly, the sky is the limit for the GO.
As aware as I am of gushing for Britain, Lee's most unique ability is to make you think he is singing to YOU. No matter whereabouts in the theatre you're seated, you get the distinct impression he is looking at you and giving you a private performance. After the megamix he did a second rendition of Close Every Door which was so beautifully sung, so spinetinglingly awesome that even now, almost 24 hours after the event it gives me goose bumps. He looked so happy to be on stage, so caught up in the moment and so proud to be where he was - I would challenge anyone not to fall under his spell during a performance. The theatre was full, and there was no opportunity to sing happy birthday to the man of the moment inside the theatre (boo!!) but everyone was clapping, cheering, standing ovation to the whole cast, but the star of the show was Lee without doubt. His performance confirmed what I know we've all mentioned to a degree at some point; even if Lee had not got the role through a TV show, even if he had just got it through a standard auditon, his reputation would already be going ahead of him, and this would still be the show to see - his talent is such, it just can't stay hidden. It was always going to happen for him, it was just a question of how soon. His time really is now.

I got out of the theatre quite late, and about 10 mins later Lee appeared - Happy Birthday was duly sung, but this part of the evening was slightly marred (for me anyway!) by the way the crowd surged forward to get their hands on signed photos - some people were leaving with what looked like handfulls! Lee was courteous and friendly, but looked slightly bemused by the crowd - I wouldn't be at all surprised if some sort of barrier was erected to keep people under control. I was amazed at how many women were sending their husbands/boyfriends into the crowd to get autographs and photos - I naively expected a slightly more sedate welcoming of Lee, but although I was standing to the back of the crowd I was pushed forward by three guys and pretty much lost my footing...I'm a fairly sturdy person and all but went flying... managed to gain my composure but got elbowed in the side!! I really think it has taken Lee completly by surprise how much he is adored by the general public.... it's as if he doesn't believe that all these people could be there for him! And yes. Off stage he is just as amazing as he looks onstage - he's charming. And he really doesn't get how good looking he is, which is even more deadly!

I thought (again naively) that seeing the show would somehow make me put things in perspective, but if anything all I can do is think of going again and again! Also, I realised I have developed a big soft spot for John Alistair... huge big hunk of a guy... although this is probably the wrong forum for that!

I envy everyone who hasn't seen the show yet, because when you do see it for the very first time, the feeling you will get is indescribable. Awesome. Enjoy!!!!

Shirley - just opened my post. You're the best!!!!!!!! Should get a little something in the post from me by Tuesday....thank you so much!!!!!!!!!xx

Oh Miri, that was a wonderful review. I am so excited about seeing it for myself. In exactly 24 hours I will be sitting in the stalls trying to keep breathing, waiting for the curtain up. Still cant believe I am going to see the GO in the flesh with my own eyes, with no television camera in between. Already resisting the urge to set out now so I get there in good time - its about 2 hours away is all.

A little worried about the crush outside though, I suppose given the price his autograpn is fetching on ebay people are just turning up after the show to try and take advantage, and paying no regard to the genuine fans who really care about Lee. Maybe they should start letting us wait in the foyer or somewhere else inside the theatre so that those thugs have no access to the GO.

Oh Miri, that was a wonderful review. I am so excited about seeing it for myself. In exactly 24 hours I will be sitting in the stalls trying to keep breathing, waiting for the curtain up. Still cant believe I am going to see the GO in the flesh with my own eyes, with no television camera in between. Already resisting the urge to set out now so I get there in good time - its about 2 hours away is all.

A little worried about the crush outside though, I suppose given the price his autograpn is fetching on ebay people are just turning up after the show to try and take advantage, and paying no regard to the genuine fans who really care about Lee. Maybe they should start letting us wait in the foyer or somewhere else inside the theatre so that those thugs have no access to the GO or indeed to us.

http://www.lee-mead.co.uk/reviews.htm

Read my review here - totally awesome evening - even spoke to Lee!!!!!! Wow still on cloud nine!

MIRI can I use your review on the site?

Donna
xxxxx

Shirley you lucky woman! Words really cannot describe what you are about to experience - I really can't remeber the last time I've been so priviledged to be in the company (albeit with another 1000 people) of someone so charismatic, but so humble and unpretentious.Short of having his entrance onto stage heralded by flying cherubs and a halleluyah chorus.... you get the picture! And I don't know if this is an appropriate way to describe him, but the man is Beautiful. With a capital 'B'. His eyes!!!! After the show, when he was doing the autograph thing, I could really only catch glimpses of his face and voice, but it's in those eyes. He really is something else. I defy anyone at all not to be mesmerised.

I very much didn't want to do the "fan" thing because as silly as it sounds, I feel Loppiness is supposed to stand for the fact that we're not there to make him feel uncomfortable but to celebrate his success and talent. There seemed to be a fair few people out front who just wanted their memento at any cost, and a lot of people, mostly those of slightly smaller stature didn't get a look in because it was really quite worrying to be in the middle of it, and like I said, |I'm not exactly a lightweight! Don't get me wrong, I'm no "holier than thou" and would have adored to have my opportunity to wish him a happy birthday and tell him how much I enjoyed the show - hell, given the chance I would have probably gushed from here to eternity - but since he does come across as shy and slightly overwhelmed by this publicity - currently anyway - I'd hate to think that he might start dreading the whole meet and greet situation because of overzealousness... oh well. I'm with you about the foyer, though, maybe something could be arranged via something like this forum....hey, a girl can dream!

Review alert - Donna's is in as well. Pity you 2 had such a miserable time last night. Mind you disguise the misery and disappointment very well. Even piccies of GO talking to Donna.

Miri, you are so right. From my observations Loppies are the kindest and most caring of people, and of course we extend that to Lee. It really bugs me that people who dont give a damn about him are taking advantage of his generosity.

Have just read Donna's review, and it sounds like her experiences at the stage door were very different to mine, lucky woman! What I wouldn't have given for a wink and a smile!! I'm more than prepared to accept it may have even been about different prespectives as she was in the front and speaking to the GO and I was at the back with a few of the more unruly ones... the one thing that does remain the same is we both saw the same show on the same night and obviously have the same opinion, ie Lee couldn't put a foot wrong on the night...
Just seen "mad about the boy" for the first time and it's become my anthem... am also desperately trying to get another ticket for october/november as I'm going again in feb and then in june...so ideally I could try and get a ticket for march/april as well and space out my visits by a few months.... the credit card company still loves me for now (I hope!)!

Hello fellow loppies,
Have just returned from a weekend away so have been deprived of both the delights of the GO on YouTube and, of course, your lovely company.
Wow, what wonderful reviews from Miri and Donna. I really felt like I was there with you, so real did you make it. And Donna, you lucky, lucky lady, speaking to the lovely Lee.
I would have frozen up and been unable to say anything vaguely intellegent.
Fingers crossed girls, for the theatre critic reviews next week. Although, surely they cannot help but be bowled over by the talent and wonderfulness of the man himself?

Thank you Miri and Donna for those wonderful reviews. I loved the show when I first saw it some years ago but this run is going to be historic. It's so kind of Lee to make personal appearances out front in the Strand but for his health's sake (and voice) I don't think this can last (imagine being all hot then going out into the cold night to a crush). Not to mention being breathed on. Loppies worst nightmare is a poorly GO. I'll be glad just to get to see him in the show.
True Colors vid! Captures it so well.

Wow! What brill reviews. I paged down to the end to begin with and saw Shirlees comment about having a miserable time and thought maybe the whole set had collapsed and it had been cancelled. Don't do that to me!! Everyone is so enthused and full of near hysteria when they write these reviews that you reallee feel as if you're almost there. My heartbeat actuallee quickens as I'm reading it. Keep looking for a chance to approach Ploppy about taking dollops and whether he'll want to come. He onlee knows about 2 visits at the moment and thinks I'm mad for going twice as it is. There, took the bull by the horns and mentioned it. He's quite tired so the response was quite muted. "Aren't you going twice already? Why don't you wait until you've seen it? No, I'd rather go to a concert". Guess he'll never understand. I took his response (probablee incorrectlee) to mean that I can take the girls but don't involve him. Result!!

Off to bed as earlee to work 2morrow. Thanx for all your info and reviews girls. Am a semi-satisfied Loppy 2night (as still haven't been yet of course). Sweet meads. xxx

So sorry Debbie, my feeble attempt at humour. Did not mean to frighten anyone.

Sorry to be so verbious tonight, I guess I still can't quite fathom I was there yesterday, but just reading your comment, Cara, about the theatre critic reviews; personally I'm not always an easy person to please. And sometimes I set myself up for a fall by being besotted by something, building it up in my mind, getting a chance to see it for myself and then being bitterly disappointed. Joseph had the exact opposite effect. The whole production completly bettered any expectations I had, from The Narrator (who was awesome and got wolf whistled...!) to Pharoe (very funny, entertaining, fantastic!) to the brothers (all were brill, but did I mention John Alistair earlier? Hmm... think I did...!) and the dancers were amazing. If a critic feels they need to criticize it will be the whole "reality tv" angle as I really, truly cannot see how they can fault Lee's performance in that role or any other part of the production for that matter. The children were also cute, the atmosphere adrenalised and enthusiastic. The entire production is set up as an experience to leave the biggest grin on your face when you leave, and it did more than that for the majority of people leaving the Adelphi... I didn't overhear a bad word (not that I was eavesdropping or anything!.) In short - any bad reviews will be because someone has been paid to write something negative!!! I know I'm biased but it's very difficult to fault a production that is about fun and positivity. And frankly, Lee is wonderful and the critics will be bowled over unless they are tone deaf and blind!!!

Donna and Miri - fantabulous reviews girls.
Oh Donna - HOW LUCKY ARE YOU!!!! And he 'knows' you.. WOW! And the photos of him talking to you; Like Zoe said on one show, the boy is STUNNING. And you Miri - he looked straight at you! - I'll say it again - you are lucky lucky girls. Oh how envious you have made all of us. TERIFFIC flipping FANTABULOUS reviews. So so so 'get' the Mrs Robinson moments. Phew.. switch on the fan someone.
Gotta watch a video again - get my breathing back down to normal.

What a nightmare! 1st ploppy monopolised laptop for 4 hours?! when I finally got my hands on it it kept crashing, then found all my bookmarks had disappeared! Had to find all the sites again to read the GREAT reviews but don't seem to be able to bookmark them again, any suggestions?
Really panicked when I couldn't get here to catch up, and what a lot to catch to read it's taken me nearly an hour!
Shirlee, no ticket yet but I'm hoping it arrives tomorrow, we get our post really late but I'll let you know and send cheque by return. Have a great time tomorrow, as if you need telling?!

Thanks for the great reviews from Donna and Miri
and Shirley I loved your fairy story, brilliant!
I really think the critic's reviews from Wed. onwards are going to be completely irrelevant for this show. I'm sure GO will get fabulous write ups but on some other sites I have seen criticism of certain aspects of the production and the direction, however even the most curmudgeonly of them agree that the cast and particularly our own GO is excellent. These days of the www we've all seen reviews of the previews by real paying theatregoers and are not going to be so influenced by the opinions of cynical and sneery critics!
I have to wait 'til Oct. to go but its so exciting reading all the Loppy's reviews. I have spent the last couple of hours catching up with this blog and all the new vid.s etc.

I had a non Loppy friend to stay for weekend, we saw Les Mis on Fri. I was a bit disappointed, I saw it 20 years ago when it first opened at the Barbican and though tit fantastic but this production I felt was rather tired and lacked the original energy also the stage at Queens theatre is really too small. On Sat. we went to Little shop of Horrors which was great fun with terrific performances from "Audrey " and "Seymour".

But of course its Joseph I really want to see!
It must have been a unique per formance on Thursday, that's the joy of live theatre, anything can happen..

ShIrlee - I don't know how I missed it, but I've just caught up on your fairy story. How eloquent and exact. You're one talented ladee yourself.

New Youtube fan vids 'Lee Mead - Paint it Black Fan Video' (Jul 14) and 'Lee Mead - Close Every Door (Fan Video)' (Jul 15)

Some lovely moments in each of them. It's a good thing there are the fansites to link the homages.

Have finally summoned up the courage to join the merry band of Lee admirers on this blog. I have tickets for December so all your comments are keeping me going.

I too picked Lee from the very first ADWD, and soon realised that he was very talented. Loved his part in the song Maria, so much depth and emotion. (there seems to be a small glitch on the video on Youtube, that jumps a bit for the final few notes!)

I agree about the worry of Lee getting harmed/fed up etc with any fans who overstep the mark.(or breath bugs over him!) Possibly the management will not want to make him appear unavailable, as after all the public got him to his present position.Some journalists could make bad headlines, claiming him to be "changing with fame" if he was forced to withdraw a bit.Probably a no win situation.

Hi Pauleen, and a very warm welcome to the Loppies community. I promised myself I was going to have one more look at youtube and then to bed... but couldn't resist a last visit to this blog. So, once again, welcome.. but goodnight for now. Hope we see(hear) you again soon..

Just got in & read your fabulous reviews, took me back to Friday and heartrate quickened a little. Youre right Miri, he is Beautiful - not many men genuinely can be called that. And the photos!! I really hope the critics on Tuesday take the show in the spirit it is meant, they can be so snobby but this show is about fun & everyone leaves with a huge smile on their face so surely theyve done their job.
All the cast are so amazing as you say, but Im sure its our boy who has the most to prove to people who (cynic that I am) will be wanting to find something to criticise. I know Im a fully paid-up technicolour Loppy but Im in no doubt he cant fail to impress. You just dont see a talent like that very often, and when you do its something so special.
Im definitley booking again, I need another fix and SOON! I may just jump on the train my next free weekend & queue for a return -
I would never normally go again so soon, but feel like I was so hyped up the first time I might even enjoy it more when (ever so slightly) calmer and safe in the knowledge its as great as I hoped it would be.

Thanks again for the wonderful reviews, been to a barbeque today and unbelievably noone metioned the GO at all! Im now going to bed a happy Loppy.

Oh my God! I have just found THIS! It is obviously from the same photo call as the WENN photos but they didn't include this one............

http://www.queerty.com/news/go-joe-go-20070713/joseph2jpg/

They have a couple of others too! But this one leaves me speechless!!!!

And I'm supposed to SLEEP now???!!!

Gulp...thanks Jo. I'm waving a copy of the Radio Times feebly to cool me down but it aint working! And if you click on the words 'Go, Joe, Go.' there are more - all will make you come over all uneccessary.

Oh dear...after I've just absorbed so many intelligent and thoughtful words about his TALENT! ps...thought at first this was a site about keyboards?! Night x (Gulp)

Keyboards?...... Not quite!

But not very surprising, though, when the GO looks like that!

Ps.....I love the expression "coming over all unnecessary!" Very descriptive! Sweet dreeems all!!!!

Morning Lady Loppies and welcome to Pauleen! Miri and Donna fantastic reviews - are you back on planet earth yet! Donna how fantastic that the GO spoke with you (and only right and proper bearing in mind all the time, love and attention you spend on the webiste - go Girl!). Wil catch up with all the other comments lateer, although Shirlee - love the Fairy Story - so true!

Wow, those photos are Hot, HOt, HOT - so am I now, hot and bothered. Never understood what Mrs Robinson saw in the young Dustin Hoffman but the GO? beginning to think I get the general principle - just theoretically you understand.

Jane1 please explain - keyboards?

Thank you all for your kind words about the fairy story. Had fun writing it, and have been cheeky enough to email it through to the Official site. Who knows maybe the GO will get to read it too - well a girl can have a dream too. Hope Scott enjoys the sssibilance dig. Go back and read all his critiques of ADWD to see where I got it from, they are excellent in every other way.

12 hours to go, but hey, who's counting.

Good morning, and what a GOOD one! Just looked at THAT pic. phew!!! How's a girl supposed to concentrate after that? Might just have to print that one off.

Jeez, those photos !!! Thanks Jo! What a wonderful way to start the week - put me right off work though.

I was looking through some articles re ADWD last night. The Sun dated 10 April had a quote from Lee as to why he should win: 'He believes he'd be a 'strong, sensitive, cheeky and deep Joseph''". Absolutely!

Does anyone know how tickets for Grease are selling? And no I don't want any - just curious to know in comparison with Joseph.

Back later when caught up

*********************************************************************
Just heard the presenters say that Lee is on BBC1 Breakfast this morning. I don't know what time. They just said coming up.
*********************************************************************

Ladies - time to press record for BBC breakfast - I believe the GO is about to be interviwed - looks like I'll be missing the bus to work!

Oh help, just checked back here. Have I missed him?

Breakfast TV is on until 9.15am so I think GO will probably be on last like last time

Phew no, just seen them trailering it again.

oooh blast - just got into the office, no chance to set video - hopefully it will be on YouTube or something later and I can pick it up from there. Shirlee - do hope the official site will print your Fairy Story - it's just so right! You are presumablee now in the state of unable to do anything that the other lucky previewers have experienced, still only 25 days to go and it will be my turn.

Eleesa, thankyou, I need to keep this site up permanntly or who knows what I might miss? Video now on record, will enjoy later while scollops at school!

Mornin loppies...Shirley, 'keyboards reference was a feeble late night joke due to sLEEpyiness! I meant QWERTY keyboards, as the site was called queerty and at first sight............oh dear, never mind! Dashing off to watch BBC for Lee preview at 8.50 I think.

A bit about Joseph about to be Breakfast News.

Just checked the Official site too, the 15July diary entry has been reposted.

Oh my god i feel sick (in a good way.) Shirley how you must feel now I cannot begin to imagine. Reasons for feeling sick:
1. I will be seeing GO on Saturday if I live that long.
2. I have no computer access at home. I have been in work over an hour and all I have managed to do is catch up on all your postings.
3. Nicki your review was brill. I could feel the butterflies in my stomach starting.
4. Just after I read Nicki's review the boss turned up and wanted a chat.
5. She went eventually. Miri then set me off. I'm not a pushy person but am determined to wait back for autograph/photo on Saturday (never done such a thing before). Now in blind panic. What if it gets too manic and they decide to protect GO and he stops coming out. (Donna i haven't read your review yet because that will involve going to another site and you all know I'm backward with computers and in the state i'm in would be disaster. Will try and read it at lunchtime)
6. However as I could see I was getting to the end of your comments and Jo's link was getting favourable reaction I did manage a peek. Big mistake. I think I asked some time ago whether there were any men out there loving our boy and was he a gay icon yet. Getting there I think?
7. I've booked time off end of this week beginning of next but I don't think I'll be able to cope without you lot in the run up to my big day. Added to that if i then have to catch up with a weeks postings, do my own review and the small matter of catching up with work (i do have a very responsible job although i don't expect anyone to believe me) I might explode.

Aside from that enjoyed J Ross. Was looking after my nephew who is almost 4 and wanted to go to the park when it was on. Put a tape in for an hour and a half but nephew wanted to be at park longer. He's never seen Auntie get quite so firm before. Fortunately as they kept the best to last I managed to hear it. I think GO sounded as if he wasn't taking offence and appreciated JR is just like that.

If i don't get back today Shirley love it and can't wait for your review.

Oh My God, what to say after that. I am speechless and grinning from ear to ear after seeing that 'Close every door' on the telly, how the hell am I going to cope seeing him a few feet away from me? Feel that very old fashioned but oh so appropriate word SWOON will rapidly be coming back into vogue.

GO not on Breakfast personally, but some FAB footage of the show, sweat and everything! And Zoe Tyler agrees with us to quote he is "a beautiful, beautiful man" Go Zoe! For those of us who have been, what a reminder and roll on next time, for those waiting to go, what a preview, now you know why we have all been gushing! I was holding my breath again through CED. Oh help, I can see today is just going to turn into a loppy one with nothing done again, c'est la vie!!

Shirlee, "swoon" should most definitely come back into fashion, that's exactly how I felt at CED! God, I envy you tonight, I could watch it over and over and....

Oh I am watching it over and over and over and ... For once Sky+ behaved. All previous faults forgiven.

Oh. my. giddy. aunt.
Those pictures!!! Should never have checked them at work!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OMG - OMG - OMG - I AM WORK.... AND I OPENED THAT LINK.... I've got to go home now!. Bloomin' heck. If only I'd stayed up a little longer last night to catch that, I'd at least have had time to adjust myself to working. But hey, what a START to the day. THANK YOU Jo.
Now to catch up on the rest of the news....

Shirley, ditto! Will wear video out at this rate, might succumb to ploppy's pleding and allow him sky?

What have I missed??!! I KNEW I should have just 'peeked' on this site before going to work - I could have at least called in sick for the a.m.

Alee, I feel a deal coming on. Agree graciously, if (really big if) you get to go and see Joseph again SOON.

Audlee, you just missed film from the Joseph previews of COMC - good and funny, but then of CED complete with loincloth, sweat and pathos, the film session those photos were taken at is my guess. It is, quite literally, breathtaking.

OMG!!! Isn't he just sooooo beautiful!! My Sky+ box behaved too, my mum alerted me, I think she has an inkling (spelling?) that I am a Loppy although she won't know what that is!! I really can't wait til October!!! Think I will have to go and watch it again!

What are you doing to me?? Having resigned last week (nothing to do with becoming GOs new wardrobe assistant, unfortunately), I now feel no obligation to check work emails first and logged on here instead - and what do I find? Only that I missed the clip on breakfast, and THOSE PHOTOS!! How can I be expected to work now?
I think this is taking over my life.

Shirley - you are one lucky woman, go and swoon on behalf of all Loppykind.

had to get a black coffee and if only a long cold shower were possible maybe I'd be better able to focus on what I'm supposed to be doing.... btw, Shirley - how goes it.... 9 1/2 hours and counting....!

Nicki, doesn't look like he needs a wardrobe assistant with that loin cloth!!
Miri, I think cold shower is a good idea!!

......Oh Im sure he could do with a hand to get it on & off....& mop him down....hand him his towell etc. We cant neglect the poor lad can we?!

Hurray - sister just rang to say she was watching Zoe and the video on Breakfast this morning and has videoed it for me - I think she's a Cloppy really!

Swoon is very definitely the word! Can't look at the link at work as it is blocked, but from comments perhaps it is just as well, will look when I get home to night, when hopefully the post will have fetched me my photo!

You're right, maybe we could organise a rota, I'd hate him to think we were neglecting him....
Back to the real world...ironing on day off...now what shall I watch whilst I do that...?

Please someone youtube it - or Donna, our website heroine - link it to your site?? Pretty please? I know you have nothing better to do of course. Im going now, really have to do some work today, will pop by later to see if you have all recovered.

Count me in for mopping duties!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just back from going shopping. Left my purse behind. I ask you. I did though have my diary with all details of Joseph booking, photo for the GO to sign, fully charged camera. Guess it won't take you long to work out where my poor addled brain is.

Oh Shirley... with you every step of the way. guess your review of tonight's show will only be up tomorrow a.m. given it takes you 2 hours to get into town. I'm so excited with/for you. I wish it was me - again.

Audlee, with you on that one. Don't you think it gets worse after you've been?
I remember someone saying there is a video clip of Lee meeting the cast for the 1st time, how do I find it or can some kind loppy please post a link here? Big thankyous

Hi Alee!

Go to Donna's website (Lee Meed Appreciation Society) and scroll down on her 'latest news' section to 20th June and there is a link to snip of Lee meeting the cast.

I almost feel as if I'm going again, knowing that Shirley is going to see him tonight.... can't wait for your review, and am sooo envious that you've got the "first time feeling"....me, I'm dealing with major withdrawl symptoms having seen it once and am now desperately trying to get tickets to go again.... as in to see it soon...as in next month.... or something.... aargh!!!!!!!

You know if we didnt already have one I would be suggesting we formed a self help group. Not actually doing much helping, but a lot of fun sharing.
Miri, Sadly I have already worked out that it is then 64 days until my next lot of tickets. Somehow I dont think I will last that long....

Well Shirley - if you feel you can't wait I'm more than willing to go with you if you want company!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I plan on doing some research (and probably grovelling to the bank manager!) because I can't wait till february!

Hi, not getting much done today.
I too went on Saturday evening and as others have said it does not reduce the obssesion, but compounds it. You just want to see it again and again.
I was in the dress circle and it just felt as if I was having a personal performance. It really feels like he is singing directly to you. I would be interested to know which seats are considered the best. I plan to go again and want to make sure I am seated in the best place. At the moment I wonder whether the dress circle is better than the stalls!

Jo2, many thanks for that, don't know how I missed it before?

Shirley, postie has just delivered my ticket for tearfest! Thankyou and cheque will be in post this afternoon. Just need to find somewhere safe for it due to imminent house move, would hate it to go astray!

I don't go for the first time until November!! After all these great revues I can't wait that long. I'll team up with anyone who wants company say July/August/Sept, except sat 23rd sept. I just need an excuse really to put to ploppy.

Just waiting for him to go to work so I can check the sky+ for this AMs clip on BBC breakfast. Just managed to set the recorder going (I hope) before we went out - thanks to ploppy, though he doesn't know it. I never put the TV on in the morning if it's just me at home, he always does, and I heard the comment he would be on just before we went out out. Fingers crossed it worked, as full quality is better that Youtube. I have to say, mind you, we are much lucker now than a few years back, we'd have had nothing to feed our obsession, pre youtube/internet etc. The TV and radio intervues and appearances would be have been once only. Doesn't bear thinking of!:)

still can't find video of this a.m's BBC screening on youtube... This is just not good enough......
I have some devistating news (for me anyway). I'm going on holiday for a week this Saturday to the USA. I may convert my friend in Chicago to be Floppie (friend of a loppie) then WE can watch the GO on her computer... Who cares about going to see the sights etc..
I perhaps had better take my lap top with - then I know that I will at least see him continuously on my screensaver at night, if she doesn't go for me sitting at the computer everyday trawling the sites for updates.

Hey Loppies...just browsing in my lunch break and found this great photo -

http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb262/leemeadonline/Potters%20Holiday%20Camp/mead_l21.jpg

NO CURLS!! but very manlee & GOrgeous. I like it more every time I look at it. Almost recovered from Jo's late night link to the steamy pix and this morning's BBC1 preview of the loincloth song etc, but I did need a lot of cups of rosyLee to bring me back down to earth!

Darn - missed BBC Breakfast. If only I'd checked back as intended I could have watched it at work but no I decided to be noble and get on with work instead. Nice reward!

Shirley, have a great time tonight.

O M G......the recorder worked, you'll have gathered. Watched it 3 times, and now I have to go out again. But can rewatch tonight. So fantastic to see him in character as 'joseph'. He is just wonderful. I don't know that just that snippet will keep me going to November though.

'm sure Youtube will have it soon for those who missed it. I don't know how to get it from sky+ into a PC, maybe all those who upload still have 'old fashioned' VCRs.

At last!!!! Ive found you!!! Oh my god panic stricken thought id lost my loppies! My pc has been playing up this morning and just until now!! and wouldn’t let me on any of the stage site I managed to see the loppy page was shut then couldn’t get on anything else!?? ( Ive done something Miri would be proud of I have changed some setting on my internet so I’m not sure if Ive doen anything major but at least I can get on here now it seems- time will tell!!)

. Just wanted to say afternoon to you all, and that Im back safe and sound from Florence, which was fab by they way. God Ive so much to catch up on from you all, missed you and loppiness so much!! It was lovely to drive to work this morning and have him on in the car didn’t realise how much I missed listening to it( the insanity is creeping back slowly after a grown up week away!! )!! Could do with a day to catch up let alone catching up with work!! LOL!!! Very excited to start to reading everything when I have 2 mins (hours more like)

Hope everyone is well by the way and enjoyed the show those who have seen it already. Very jealous!!! God Im glad to be back home and amongst like minded friends.

Thanks scott for allowing us a new home, we appreciate your tolerance so much!!! Please please if we move will you let me know it may take me a while to catch up and with a pc that’s not playing at the moment too, don’t want to be left alone in my loppiness ( tis a scary world without you guys as we all know)

Hi all Loppies -
I missed seeing the clips of the GO and Zoe on BBC Breakfast TV this morning. If anyone comes across a link to it, please post it here as I am sure there are others in the same boat!! Thanks.

Me too, Jo2. Please if anyone finds links to this morning's BBC clip post them ASAP. Donna if you're listening, bet you've recorded it?

Louise, welcome back. And extreemly well done for locating the 'comfort zone'. Good luck with all the catching up.. I find it difficult at the best of times!

Welcome back Louise!! I completly get what you mean about it being a scary world without Loppy support - hope you had a great time in Florence!
Shirley - will be thinking of you tonight, I know I was having kittens a few hours before the show... have fun!
I'd better get back to work now - has been a completly wasted day on the work front but a very fruitful day with regards to catching up with all of you and swooning (there's that word again!) over the lushest of pictures... see you all later!

Phew!! I feel so much better now!! Have just booked 2 tickets for 7/6/08, Row R in stalls, am guessing itll be OK as the theatre is pretty small. Was feeling utterly bereft with no future ticket, so credit card has taken another hammering! No idea whos coming with me, but Im sure if I can find no local Loppies maybe one of you girls might want to join me? Hope we can all meet up on the night, I missed the boat for the previous tearfest tickets but we`ll all be in the Stalls bar...
Still have to go again between now & then though, its just too far away. Whats happened to me? Im gonna be a poor student in a couple of months and have lost all sense of financial perspective in the face of the GO!
I reckon seeing him in the flesh doing his amazing thing on stage makes the craving to go again worse cos you know what youre missing... I certainly tend to feel a bit envious around 7.30 of an evening! But I know you girls understand. Thank God I have you to keep me (relatively)sane.

There is a video link on Donna's site that is worth a quick squizz. Not the one from Breakfast today.. but all same it's quite LOVE-LEE.

Ok Loppies all ready and just about to head off to the station. Butterflies doesn''t even come close to describing it. Not sure if I will be back in time to do a review tonight, but will in the morning if not. Wish me luck, I cant believe how brave I'm being going off on my own.

Shirley, to be honest, if you can't go with a loppy your'e probably better off on your own as non-loppies just don't understand, I'm speaking from experience! Have a brilliant time!!

Shirlee - have a wonderful time!! We'll be thinking of you!! Louise welcome back - hope you had a lovely time in Florence - it's a fabulous city! As you will have gathered we have been relocated but thanks to Scott are still around and thriving!

Shirlee - have a wonderful time!! We'll be thinking of you!! Louise welcome back - hope you had a lovely time in Florence - it's a fabulous city! As you will have gathered we have been relocated but thanks to Scott are still around and thriving!

Welcome back Louise. Glad you found us and that you enjoyed Florence. I’ve been there myself and loved it.

I’ve just returned from the hairdresser, which I’d booked when I thought I was going to London. Ploppy was home and said “I thought you might have had your hair multi-coloured to match the dreamcoat”. I smiled forlornly and then he said that we are going after all, even though it has been very difficult for him to sort out. I have the best Ploppy in the world (this week). He said he couldn’t let me miss it. So I now have things to do; tickets to pack, camera to recharge (if I am able to hang around afterwards to see GO), Scollop to relocate, cats to cattery. We see the show on Wed evening but I don’t know if I will be able to report back as I won’t be home until the weekend. Anyway, you won’t need my review as by then all the glowing press ones will have been released. I can’t believe it’s back on. Aaargh!!!!!!!!!! – as GO said when he won.

Deep breath. I am calm (repeat mantra as necessary).

Lucky you, Eleesa!!

Think I might have a Cloppy friend who may potentially want to go, but how do I clear a 3rd trip with hubby?? Teenage daughter impressed by footage on BBC this morning, if I only knew how to get it on youtube for those who didn't see it! Hopefully someone more computer literate than me will know what to do and post same!!

Oh what a wonder Ploppy you have (this week). But regardless, we must have your review. It's very important for Loppie's to tell Loppies of their own experience. It's like we've all been to it through you. The Press reviews just won't have that 'loppieness' about them - as RAVING as they will be about the GO. That BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL BOY and he gorgeous EVERYTHING.

Hi Loppies
If you haven't seen enough photos of the GO, take a look at the official Joseph site (josephthemusical.com/news.hmtl) where there are lots more of the show just released by RUG. As if there would ever been enough of the dreamboat in a dreamcoat (and naturally from loincloth up!)!! These are just great loppy times!

Shirlee - the brave one - will be on the train now.. I'm all fidgety for her. Oh I do hope there are no problems with the trains.. that would be excrutiating. Doesn't even bear thinking about. Can you imagine the telling off the train driver will get if she's a minute delayed??
The GO has been singing to me all day. It's wonderful. Repitition is a fine, fine thing, as long as it's name is Lee Mead. sigh.

Yes, all loppy reviews definitely to be savoured!

But this is interesting! I thought he never actually got to play Chris when understudying for Miss Saigon. But someone was moved to comment re how very good he was when she saw him in Aberdeen! See bottom of review. Description includes how incredibly good looking he was as well. Sounds rather like him to me!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/norfolk/content/articles/2005/04/08/theatre_review_miss_saigon_march05_feature.shtml

Hello

Just got home from work and updated some reviews and some more news to the site!

Cannot believe that I missed Zoe / Lee on BBC breakfast but by that time I was teaching! If anyone has it Sky plussed and could run me off a copy I would be very grateful!... Please email me if you can? I will pay all costs!!

Hope you have a good time tonight Shirlee and if anyone has a review that i have missed and wants including, then let me know PLEASE!!!!!!!

Love and Hugs

Donna - who is still on cloud nine!

Well ive done it!!! Ive done sod all work this afternoon and caught up with you, I had to , justifying that one wasted afternoon tis better in one go, so then im not too far behind you all!!! Though the pile of work and new 'project' I was supposed to start today, is still to be done, ploppy wouldnt be pleased (tis my boss after all!)
I have to admit that when i was away i found out i could get my email on my mobile ( again loppyness casuing money probs, i have no idea how much that will have cost me!) to check whether i had won tickets, sadly i hadnt!)

Obviously cannot comment on all posts, but all I can say is WOW!!!! you have been busy, and can I just say thanks for the welcome back, you are truly a lovlee bunch of people and feel privelaged to be a long serving member of the loppyfest!!!

Your reviews are great and make me all the more excited about going in october!! I love how we are all there in spirit when one of us goes!! Shirely i hope you have a great time btw. i too feel tho once youve gone you will be bitten by the bug!!! though ploppy has said that if i want to go away with my single friend for a wknd i can do, ( dont need his permission but we are saving money at the mo) so hoping that next year will go to see it with her too.

loppy tearfest is a great idea!!!! I would love to provisionally come and meet you all if i can, but my schedule is v unpredictable with work etc cannot plan too far ahead etc but I hope to get last minute tickets or something, fingerscrossed. Would be so cool to see it with you all. is it the 8th June??

I have yet to look at other sites, interviews and pictures but will save that for tommorows treat, when i am supposed to be working. LOL!!!

Have a great night everyone, see you tom! need to change my name dont I suppose louleese is naff Loeese??

God must go have to fill up the cupboards and go to s'bury on they way home!!

Hi all

My lovelee lovelee Ploppy said when I got home from work - "Er, I think Joseph was on the TV this morning. I set to record but I'm not sure if it did" and then tried it for me and there He was in all his glory. Fabulous. Sorry Donna, would'nt have the first idea how to run you a copy. Ploppy went slightlee down in my estimation when he then asked if he should delete it. WHAT?!*?! Lucky I was there to prevent such a crime being committed. Will be able to have another longer lingering look (as I had to feign slight disinterest whilst he sat there) when he goes out 2night.
Shirlee, you're nearlee there! Onlee 1hr 51mins away from nirvana.

The RUG Joseph site has been updated with some fantastic pics from the show: http://www.josephthemusical.com/news.html

I want to go again!

Wow! Just sneaked back while packing and looked at the new pics from the show, I'm even more excited now.

L(ou)eese - I haven't forgotten about cosying up to the people in U3 & 4. I'll do my best.

OMG, I couldn't believe it when I got to work today and furtively looked to see what my fellow loppies were saying, an interview on BBC. Curses, I missed it.
Couldn't post comments at work either as boss is back. Well, after the many brilliant reviews from you all, I decided that I couldn't wait for friends to come back from holiday (honestly, how long a holiday do you need!) and phoned See and got a ticket for Friday! Have taken the day off work to allow a full day to get ready. Is anyone else going on Friday (20th)? I really want to stay afterwards to see if I can get an autograph, but feel I might chicken out (am going on my own) if I don't have loppy back-up. Eeekkk, so excited!

Eleesa I'm so happy for you, your ploppy is an angel, mine however is a "devil in disguise" and not very well disguised at that! I confessed to having a signed photo of GO, he asked if it was genuine and did I have to pay for it. When I told him about pics being sold on ebay he was about to suggest i put mine up, but clearly thought better of it! I fear ther is no hope for him, however the youngest 2 scollops are well and truly smitten like their mum!

JOSEPH REVIEW ALERT!!! Radio 4 Tuesday 17 July 7.30 pm
'Front Row' (Review of new shows, books, arts etc) will be reviewing Joseph. I was listening tonight where they reviewed Pau Potts new cd (from ITV talent show), and mentioned they would be reviewing Lee Mead in Joseph on Tuesday. So presume they will be seeing show tonight and not on press night. This prog. is always available as listen again on BBC website so you can catch it then.

Jo2 Thanks, now I know how to listen to it again I can do that later tomorrow night, I'm getting quite good at this technical stuff!?

Hi Alee!
Just looked at Radio 4 website and Listen Again for this prog. is not working at present (they hope to resume service soon!). I have emailed Debbie with info. so hopefully she will record it. Curses on the BBC for mucking about with anything which may contain references to the GO!

Joz - I presume you don't mean you e-mailed me! Anyway, it's working now as I'm partiallee listening to tonights show. Don't forget about the interview in Bella mag 2morrow and what is the Somerfield mag? Never heard of it. Thanx for the tip on 2mowwows review. At least that can keep us all going until we buy up every paper we can get our hands on Wed am. Damn! My sister is coming up from Cornwall for a night Wed. It'll have to be a non loppy day. How inconsiderate of her. Well done Cara. How I wish I could join you.

Just to letyou know the BBC breakfast news article is on You tube now!!!!!

Dear Loppies,

I had been with friends on Saturday who were talking about films they wanted to see. I said the only things I wanted to see were at the theatre- namely Joseph.

Wandering along the Strand- I suddenly saw "Joseph" in lights. It was like "Wow- I did'nt realise it had started". I wandered in to the theatre and "just happened" to get a returned ticket to see Joseph 20 minutes before the show.

Despite being a restricted view, I could see most of the stage, I was able to move to make sure I saw Lee (who is absolutely gorgeous to see close up through binoculars).

When he rose up at the end near the dress circle it was amazing, he was waving and smiling at everyone. He really is a lovely guy.

I was told he would be out the front. I I was right there- I could have touched him, but did'nt want to mob him. I told him I'd voted for him, and that he was fantastic". He looked right at me and said "Thankyou". I got his autograph, and he looked at me again as he gave it back to me, and I got a couple of photos.

He has a beautiful face, amazing eyes with lovely dark lashes, and lovely curls, and seemed to look younger than when he was on ADWD (where he seemed more manly and older to me when he is performing).

I have been on a complete star-struck high ever since, like on Cloud 9. He was so brilliant and lovely, and every time I see a photo of him, I'm saying to myself "He's gorgeous".

I was so excited I could'nt sleep and wanted to tell everyone about him, and have been online looking for photos of him. I've been on the Loppies site for hours today reading through all the comments about how talented and charismatic he is, that we all feel. Then I discovered I'd seen him on his birthday too.

I can hardly hardly stop thinking about him, looking at him, or listening to him sing, and smiling. I seem to be a loppy. So glad there are others out there who feel the same way about him.

I wish I'd seen him on Jonathon Ross, and Breakfast, and I now wish I'd got ADWD taped, as I want to see all his performances again.

I live in London, so I think I may go shopping and for lunch around the Strand and the Adelphi, and see if I can spot our hero, and maybe try and get another ticket to see him again soon. Once is definitely not enough. I definitely have Lee Mead fever.

Hope I get to meet some other Lovelees or Loppies (anyone who likes him as much as I do- people I can talk to him about who understand its not like a schoolgirl crush- although it feels quite like it the way he makes me feel and smile. Whoar.

Better eat something now. I can't just drink Mead all day (even though its a favourite drink !!)

Dear Loppies,

I had been with friends on Saturday who were talking about films they wanted to see. I said the only things I wanted to see were at the theatre- namely Joseph.

Wandering along the Strand- I suddenly saw "Joseph" in lights. It was like "Wow- I did'nt realise it had started". I wandered in to the theatre and "just happened" to get a returned ticket to see Joseph 20 minutes before the show.

Despite being a restricted view, I could see most of the stage, I was able to move to make sure I saw Lee (who is absolutely gorgeous to see close up through binoculars).

When he rose up at the end near the dress circle it was amazing, he was waving and smiling at everyone. He really is a lovely guy.

I was told he would be out the front. I I was right there- I could have touched him, but did'nt want to mob him. I told him I'd voted for him, and that he was fantastic". He looked right at me and said "Thankyou". I got his autograph, and he looked at me again as he gave it back to me, and I got a couple of photos.

He has a beautiful face, amazing eyes with lovely dark lashes, and lovely curls, and seemed to look younger than when he was on ADWD (where he seemed more manly and older to me when he is performing).

I have been on a complete star-struck high ever since, like on Cloud 9. He was so brilliant and lovely, and every time I see a photo of him, I'm saying to myself "He's gorgeous".

I was so excited I could'nt sleep and wanted to tell everyone about him, and have been online looking for photos of him. I've been on the Loppies site for hours today reading through all the comments about how talented and charismatic he is, that we all feel. Then I discovered I'd seen him on his birthday too.

I can hardly hardly stop thinking about him, looking at him, or listening to him sing, and smiling. I seem to be a loppy. So glad there are others out there who feel the same way about him.

I wish I'd seen him on Jonathon Ross, and Breakfast, and I now wish I'd got ADWD taped, as I want to see all his performances again.

I live in London, so I think I may go shopping and for lunch around the Strand and the Adelphi, and see if I can spot our hero, and maybe try and get another ticket to see him again soon. Once is definitely not enough. I definitely have Lee Mead fever.

Hope I get to meet some other Lovelees or Loppies (anyone who likes him as much as I do- people I can talk to him about who understand its not like a schoolgirl crush- although it feels quite like it the way he makes me feel and smile. Whoar.

Better eat something now. I can't just drink Mead all day (even though its a favourite drink !!)

Sorry my comments were duplicated as in my eagerness I pressed "Post" twice !!

Oh my - we are all hopeless cases I think. Cara, Wish I could go Friday, Im in London seeing friends but i dont think I can persuade them to queue for a ticket, but its too long til June!!
Im going to see if I can get a single for the weekend after instead, am very much fearing for my bank balance right now but somehow I just dont care!. Janlee, I dont know what to say - you lucky girl.... Hope Shirley has a bit of your good luck tonight.

Sorry Debbie - meant to say I emailed Donna (which are did) as our guardian of all things GO related on news media! Glad the listen again bit is working again! Oh lordie this GO stuff makes me so nervous trying to make sure I dont miss anything - but all worthwhile of course!

Janlee, welcome! You sound as if you've got a load off your chest and feel a whole lot better for it. You've now entered Loppyworld. It's a great feeling isn't it? Lucky you getting a ticket AND living in London. Wish I still did before familee and committments took over. I'd be volunteering to work at McDonalds (which I think isn't far off) just to get a possible sighting every day. That's desperation for you. It would be worth smelling of chips and burgers and looking like a spotty teenager to get a glimpse.
Just wanted to add that when I listened to my Lee CD in the car tonight, I thought how good the music arrangements were for his songs, esp Devil, Paint and Daydream. They reallee make you want to tap your feet and dance (bit difficult when your'e driving but I sort of managed it). Have to switch over quicklee to the radio once dollops enter. Expect GO is rising above Shirlee at this very minute!

PS Janlee, you can download all his perfomances from ADWD if you go the BBC website & find the ADWD page - Im guessing itll still be getting hits so will still be available? Just look under videos - save them to your desktop & get a fix of the Meadster whenever you like! Its good for your health.

Hi Jules
Help! Can't find the BBC item about the show from today's Breakfast prog. on youtube - how is it listed?

Neither could I, but got the link from the LJ site

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIejJEso6mw

hope that works

RADIO 4 'FRONT ROW' REVIEW OF JOSEPH - sorry loppies all - this is on WEDNESDAY evening at 7.30pm Radio 4 - NOT Tuesday as I posted earlier. Sorry loppy-brained at present - I wonder why???? Also available on 'listen again' facility on BBC website if you miss it - Dominic Lawson is a fair reviewer so I am hopeful he will do the GO justice!

Just seen the Breakfast TV thing and am now off to officially keel over. Again.

Thanks Gillean - I had spent ages looking so grateful for your links. Think this Loppiedom is driving me completely crazy!

Hi Janlee - I loved reading your post because it just shows that Lee is gaining new fans every day - every minute even!

Welcome aboard- you can be a Loppy or a Lovelee - it's all the same! I just thought it was lovelee that you had gone to the theatre on the off-chance - then you got a ticket - then you met Lee and got his autograph. By all accounts - the man is just a gem to each and every person he meets. He is just so considerate, it seems!

Anyway - thanks for posting your review and a very warm welcome!

Love, Liz x

Crisis!! Crisis!! I got home, all ready to log on for another evening of Mead madness with my fellow Loppies and my pc conked out!! Seriously, nothing!! I tried everything I could possibly dare to (which isn't much) and just couldn't log on, and in my desperation had to get my ex to fix the stupid thing (read; my life line!) and had to have all programmes reinstalled which means I've lost all my photos, links and stuff.... ex asked me why it was so important I had it all set up for tonight, I got a bit cagey, he just said "Oh, it's Lee, isn't it." I tried to play it all down a bit, but I think we all know the truth; this really is like a self help group for the addicted, like someone mentioned earlier, and I need my little bit of Loppiness on a regular basis throughout the day!!!

Have been watching and rewinding the BBC clip from this morning... oh my poor little beating heart... Shirley is probably on her way home now having seen the Adonis in action - can't wait to hear her take on it all!!!

Right - I'm now going to do some heavy duty googling to get all my photos, youtubes etc back asap. Such hardship!!!
See you all later!!
Ps - Big hello to Janlee!!! Welcome to our Loppy world!

Hi there fellow loppies,

Thanks for my welcomes to loppieland from Nicki, Deblee and Lizilee !

I've been trying to get the downloads from ADWD from BBC ADWD website, under videos. When I tried to sign up for the YouTubes it asked for verification, but it was'nt clear to me what they wanted, so it did'nt sign up for me.

Also got the still photo of the man and lady on the Breakfast programme, but no movement or sound. When I moved the red circle I got a few images of Lee as Joseph in his multicoloured coat, but no movement or sound.

Wish I knew some lovely local bloke to come and help me with this (preferably called Lee Mead !!)

Can anyone help me to know what to do, to see some moving videos with sound ?

Hi Janlee
How frustrating not to get youtube breakfast tv item working. Have you made sure your computer doesn't block pop-ups Youtube uses pop-ups to start vids. You can check by looking under Tools on your Internet bar, and under Internet Options you can click into Privacy to see how your pop-ups are set up. If block-ups are blocked, you can change it to allow pop-ups by putting a message on any page that has them to allow you to overide the block just for that session or whenever you visit any site. Hope this makes sense - worth a try.

Hi there Miri-

Thanks for the welcome to Loppy world.

Sorry about the problems with your computer. Hope you get your Lee fixes set up and running again soon.

Any tips how I can get my video clips running so I can get some more Mead tonight?

Otherwise will just have to scan some pics and listen to the ADWD CD again. I love it (except when Keith over emphasizes "ask" in it. That spoils it a bit, but I just enjoy the rest of it.

Lewis and Keiths voices are nice, but Lee's voice sounds much more manlee to me- and sends tingles down my spine, imagining him too.

I thought Lewis was sweet but not old enough or experienced enough for the role. Even though Keith's voice was powerful, I was not keen on him at all for Joseph.

Quite liked some of the earlier possible Joseph's that were knocked out, but none of them had the professionalism, and stage presence of our superstar Lee Meads.

I hope I have some nice dreams with him in, and that maybe he will interpret them for me personally !! (Any Dream Will Do) Dream on...................

Thanks v. much Gilleean for the link to this mornings BBC Breakfast prog.
I still have a slight feeling that Zoe could be more enthusiastic about our GO, why on earth didn't she KNOW, even at the final, that he was obviously a dead cert?
I am still not able to access RUG or ALW sites, my computer had a bit of a nervous breakdown last week and is still refusing to go near those sites! Thank goodness I can still get on here and the Official and Donna's, so I'm still able to feed my addiction!

Hello Loppies. Now that I've finally read all of your postings (it's taken a week!) I feel like I know you all so I guess it's time to stop lurking and introduce myself! Our internet access at work is severely restricted so I only get to check in with you at home in the evenings once the scollop is safely in bed out of the way. If it wasn't for all of you tirelessly trawling the web I would miss out on so many wonderful GO related things. Especially thanks to Jo for the link to THAT picture (perhaps it's just as well I can't acess the internet at work, I'd never get anything done!). I'm really enjoying all the reviews but it makes me feel so jealous. My tickets aren't until the end of March which seems an eternity away. I am very relieved that some of you have said that the view is ok from the dress circle. I'd thought I had got pretty good tickets (dress circle C25-27) until I looked on Theater Monkey and now I'm not so sure. If anyone has similar tickets & goes before me, please tell me what the view is like. I'm not too bothered for myself but I'm taking the scollop and as he's only 7 I'm worried that he may not be able to see past rows A and B. It's not so much that I'm worried about his enjoyment of the show, it's just that if he can't see very well he may get bored & start to fidget which might distract me from my rapt contemplation of the GO!!

Radio 4, Saturday 21 July, 'Saturday Review' starting at 7.15 - promises another review of Joseph.

Welcome Janlee and Lindsee to the wonderful world of Loppieness. I'm glad you've both taken the plunge. I loved your story Janlee - it just goes to show that he didn't ADWD to captivate his audience, he only needed it to get him there to show that he can do it all on his own.
A suggestion for Lindsee - your tickets are well placed. There are booster cusions at the back (as you come into the Dress Circle) go either to your left or right when you come in and behind the back row 'O' - which has kinda weird seating - you'll find these cusions, there for the taking. You can 'boost' your scollop's seat and he'll have a decent view.
The BBC show was brilliant. Thanks for that link Gilleean.
Obviously we will be late to work - wherever that may be - on Wednesday morning - listening and waiting for the reviews on BBC... Oh what a LEEFEST. Delicious.
I've got some exciting news to impart - but only after Shirlee's review has been posted.
Good night for now and sweetmead dreems.

Nicki-

Is your spare ticket still going for 8th June? My birthday is in early June, so it would be a real birthday treat to go then. Please let me know.

It would be great to see our gorgeous guy then.

Decorate your screen with Lee! I have created a screensaver with selected pics of the GO and Paint it Black playing in the background - plus a couple of others. Then if you have time on your hands there are a couple of jigsaws to play on your PC - pics of Lee of course! and if any of you haven't got all his songs from ADWD there are high quality recordings in wav form (beware large files!) all can be downloaded from my own sharing folder

http://www.4shared.com/dir/2967469/96951085/sharing.html

enjoy

have just told Ploppy what I want for Christmas and again for my birthday in March ......amazingly he didn't say No! I have to treck all the way from Anglesey but I am determined to get to see Lee in the .... flesh ..................swoons.....

Mabs...don't want to worry you undulee, but i have been unable to access RUG or ALW sites for over 2 weeks now! They just time out. I have broadband so don't see why I can't get them when I can get EVERY OTHER SITE IN THE WORLD! Think it must be sod's law. I've tried everything, including various things I didn't understand on techie sites, but nothing works. Pretty frustrating when everyone on here talks about all the voting, pix etc that are on them. I've decided to stop trying and and just sulk.

Wonder if Shirley's feet have touched the ground yet?

Hmmm...2.20am...I might be able to sleep if I hadn't watched the loincloth preview this morning...the singing was STUNNING, all that emotional power and glory and the strongest neck muscles I've ever seen, but the disturbing effect of all this was that I just wanted to lash myself to him with the washing line!!!

Sad. Very, very sad. Better put myself to bed.....

but those nipples..................................................

...still waiting for Shirlee's review - welcome new admitted to it Loppies and any other's waiting to take the plunge. Loved the snippet from the Breakfast show and now I CAN'T WAIT!! By the way still no photo - is anyone else waiting or am I being victimised? Shirlee - in the post however was my tearfest tickets - cheque being posted today!
Regarding RUG and ALW - have you tried clearing your browser and starting again, or refreshing the screen - worked for me when I was having problems (think it was the lovely Shirlee who suggested it).

Morning all,

Sorry for going back 36 hours but didn't get a chance to read the blogs till last night and now I'm 12 hours behind again! Wish I could split myself in two. Really struggling to keep up - it's work v Loppies v housework v watching/listening to Lee

Shirley, looking forward to your review. As Nicki said you do have a way with words. We'll soo know what the critics think. Not that it will make much different to tickets sales etc but obviously we want glowing reviews for Lee's sake.

Having read Miri's great review, I think I was lucky to go last Monday as the group waiting afterwards wasn't that big and were well behaved. There was little pushing and when someone had got Lee's autograph, she (and a few hes) moved away to let other fans take their turn. It sounded rather a scrum on Saturday night. I do hope Lee isn't going to be put off of coming out front/back after the show to meet fans.

Oh yes swoon is definitely the right word. I too get wistful around 7.30 pm thinking about what's happening at the Adelphi.

Eleesa, so pleased you can go after all. Only trouble is once seen, you'll have the bug even worse.

And now I'm finally going to try to watch Mad About the Boy and yesterday's BBC clip. YouTube etc. are blocked at work and only having dial up at home means I have difficulty watching videos online.

Twelve hours and counting ....

I texted Shirley last night, sounds likw she had a wonderful time, can't wait for her review!

Ok my lovely Loppies, deep breath Shirley, and here we go. First you are going to have to wait a little while I tell you just a couple of snippets about me. I have never in all my life gone to the cinema alone, certainly not the theatre. I am no shrinking violet, but its just not something I do, so you realise just how far outside my comfort zone this whole excursion was, and quite how remarkable that I even undertook it.

My train left Swindon at 4.58 due in at 6.00 so I left here all washed and polished - even my toe nails polished if you believe my idiocy - giving myself 45 minutes to make a 15 minute journey. All went swimmingly until I arrived in what I thought was the long term car park at the station, only to see that it was for season ticket holders only. Only other bit I knew was short term parking, so minor panic set in. Drove back out of the car park and explored more the Swindon's infamous roads. God bless satnav. Second loop around I spotted a fairly nearby long term car park and resigned myself to the walk. Not a problem but now I have a walk by myself very late at night, oh well no help for it. Then I go into the station. A queue like you would not beleive for the 2 open counters in the ticket office, neither of which are moving at all. No, not at all. By now I am down to 10 minutes before my train and the groups at each of the windows is getting the full history of british rail and then some and those of us going for current trains are getting really restless. The lady in front of me had been there for 15 minutes and not moved forward 1 place. I took myself off to the barrier and must have impressed the staff there with my desperation cause although they would not let me through took me to the automatic machine, barged me through the queue and did the business for me. Phew, on the platform with scant minutes to spare. Got on the train - a 1 hour journey - and the first thing I hear being announced is that there is a problem with the flushing system and none of the loos on the train are working. Now ladies, go with me here, so excited it even registers with BR staff, and no loos. Not a comfortable journey to London. Good job I remembered where they are in Paddington.

Anyway that is the end of the alarums and excursions, now down to the fun. Got to the Adelphi in good comfortable time, they were searching handbags so I offered mine to the security guy who waved me through, but then called me back. My description here of me being the one with the very pink hair had worked. It was Auds who had spotted me going by and he was helping her attract my attention. Oh ladies, such excitement already. The very first Loppy meeting. I presume here Auds, but I think we very much recognised ourselves in each other and I am thrilled to have met you. Sadly she had been told there were no returns last night, but she thought she might be outside to see Lee after the show, so in I go on my own. The audience had me amazed. Yes there were plenty of men in there, but the huge majority were ladies. Not girls, ladies. Ladies with friends, ladies in groups, ladies with their daughters - lots of children too. Felt right at home and completely unthreatened.

The show started right on time, and the orchestra is excellent. Have to say that up front in case I forget later. The children all came and sat on the stage then Preeya started the prologue and I guess that was about my biggest complaint of the night. There are a couple of loud high notes in there and she was so sharp it hurt. Either she got better or I lost my critical capability once the GO appeared not sure, but if she really cannot reach those notes they should take them out, it would not harm the show one jot.

Then Joseph comes floating into view, we all cheer and cheer and off it goes. The children were wonderful, the brothers - oh they were all excellent - everything was just superb, but Lee was just so mesmerising on the eye, that I really do need to go again soon to appreciate the rest of it more. He conveyed the feelings so well, tenderness with Jacob, pathos in CED, and hugely funny - we were all roaring with laughter. You know I would love to see him redo some of Charlie Chaplin's stuff he would be just magic in that too. And that voice (yes I know you were thinking loincloth but tough) oh that voice. It is great on the telly, but to have it being produced just feet away is awesome. It really is a most impressive instrument and I cannot wait to get some really good recordings to enjoy (ALW have you any idea how much money you could be making from a cast CD?) Anyway it gave me goosebumps OK?

I suppose I have to tell you all that the loincloth was brief, the pecs and stomach impressive, but you have all seen the photos for yourselves now, so I wont dwell, but BUT BUT BUT, why has no one mentioned his legs. Aren't men allowed to have fabulous legs? Well whether he is allowed to or not he has. I finally get this male thing of are you a leg or a breast man. Well I discovered last night that I am very definately a leg woman. In the Potiphar scenes where he is in white knee highs and that tiny loin cloth - oh I am not even going there.

I cannot begin to tell you how fast the time flies. When the lights came up for the interval I had to check my watch, just could not believe it could be that time already. The whole thing is just a wonderful romp, and I had a blast. Of course standing ovations, we are not rude you know and they all so deserved them. Then having been tipped off by Loppy friends I made my way out to the front of the theatre to see if Lee would show. Just outside the door saw Auds again, she had gotten a seat - she can tell you about her celebrity spotting - I was only capable of spotting the one celebrity myself. She was just outside the door, right at the front of the crowd and I joined her. I had told the ladies sitting next to me about Lee coming out to meet us so they joined us as well. Certainly worth getting out there promptly to be at the front but so worth it. At about 10.05 his shadowing camera crew appeared in the foyer and joined us closely followed by the man himself. I know everyone says he looks better in the flesh and I am certainly not going to be the one to disagree. He really really does. We were so very close to him, Auds caught my eye and just put out a finger and gently touched him. That close. He had this huge stack of singed photos that he was giving out - the same as the ones he sent us by the way - and was very concerned that we all passed them to those at the back so no one missed out. One big bloke behind me said to Lee 'I want 5' Lee was giving them to him to, I just turned round and told him not to be so greedy. He said he had 3 daughters, and I told him yes, right and he would have them on ebay by tonight, at which point he shut up. See, told you I'm no shrinking violet.

Anyway once Lee had passed out all the signed photos he started signing pretty much anything put in front of him. Right next to me was a very old lady in a wheelchair - her family had bought her for a birthday treat, and he was just magic with her. Asked her if she had enjoyed the show, and explained that his Nan was 89 recently, just delightful. He was like that with us all too. I had printed off photos from his site - that lovely black and white one and when I asked him to sign it said I thought he would recognise it, which he did. Said 'Oh, thats the new one, do you like it?' Strangely I replied in the affirmative. But he signed and chatted until he was called back in. Guess the security and theatre people cannot get home until he has finished so they don't give him long. I know he is always described as shy, but ladies just say something quietly to him, and he responds by chatting away and is clearly totally engaged in the whole experience. He is kind of trapped in a different bubble now and does not know how much we are enjoying his work, so tell him and reap the rewards. I have some fabulous photos which I will get to Donna, and remember this was on the basic setting, no telephoto lenses in use at all, so you will see just how close we were.

Enough already. Thank you all for your kind words and thoughts, you really did help me get there and I would not have missed it for the whole world.

Morning all!
So pleased I managed to log on without any problems....still have a problem playing certain files and accessing vids and stuff, but with a bit of patience (ha! more like foot stomping and kicking the pc) I should be up and running and back to normal speed soon!
Still waiting with baited breath for Shirley's review (no pressure, Shirley!) but am sure she had a fab time. And I'm sure we'll all be thinking of a certain young man at around 7.30 pm tonight when he has his grand official opening - so exciting!
I managed to get a very small photo of the GO on my mobile phone amidst the scrum, which is now my treasured possession - showed people at work and they had the audacity to ask "who's that?" Heathens....It's a really cute picture (albeit you can only see a broad smile and a mop of curls) and, naturally, glancing at it surreptisiously throughout the working day keeps me going until I can catch up properly once I get home from work...
But - work beckons and I must get in on time today because I've developed a bad habit of being late due to compulsory checking of this site for any news!!!
Have a great day, every one, new and seasoned Loppies alike, see you all later!

Shirley - that was wonderful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You spoke to him... So pleased you got the chance! What a wonderful review!!!!!!!!!!! Must agree with you about everything, I know what you mean about the legs - can't wait to see them from the stalls!!!

Shirley, you've clearly joined the post show club. Thanks for the review and especially the detailed after show report. Lee is one very, very, very special man.

Now seen Mad about the Boy - understand why everyone's raving about it. And also watched yesterday's BBC Breakfast Show preview - I could feel the shivers down my back again listening to CED. Absolute magic! I'm not in a fit state to do any work.

Shirley, I knew your review would be worth waiting for, you put it across SO well! And it's true what you say about the pace, don't blink or you miss something! Really glad you got to meet Auds as well

Fantastic review Shirley. I was thinking of you last night. Can't wait to see your photos. I'm a gibbering wreck. I really don't think I'll be capable of photos. I'll find speech difficult.

Missed GO on TV yesterday am so off to YouTube now and then back for Auds gossip later.

Shirley, thanks so much for getting up so early to post that review. Lovelee to hear how he chatted to the elderly lady and all you others. Lets hope he continues to be able to do that throughout the run. I really must pluck up courage and try to get a single ticket for myself asap.

Re the BBC Joseph clips and Zoe interview on youtube, it's interesting that the clip was put on youtube by the BBC themselves. I know ADWD was a BBC show, but they seem to be aware there's a big interest in Lee. I had a look at the full list of their uploads and viewing figures, and Lee is well up there, of the Diana concert interviews, his interview has been viewed more times than Take That, Duran Duran and the Princes, only one ahead is David Beckham, and that's a completely different fan base, after all.

As I'm doing this from the office computer, the Stage moderators may hold it back as from an unfamiliar source, which has happened to me before, then it appears hours later (if at all) but in its right time slot, weird!

Just watched yesterdays breakfat bit on You Tube. Picking myself up off the floor. What a lovely start to the day. Please can someone let Donna have just the Close Every Door bit because i need to see it again and again. Alternatively if anyone can DVD or video it for me I'll pay for the DVD/tape and the postage.

Cheers, it actualee worked this time:)

Better start work. I'll have to find a pic to have under my other work pages to keep me going all day. I have been known to play youtube vids with no sound!

My ploppy may be getting an inkling of my....interest, shall we say in all things Joseph, if not specifically Lee. He came up behind me yesterday lunchtime and read the screen over my shoulder, 'what reviews are those?' he says. Joseph I say. 'Is it on already' says he. So I explain about opening night and previews. Then he comes from work 11.00 pm last night, looks in sky + for something he'd recorded, and says, 'any reason you recorded breakfast TV?' (Silly question, at the very least he should have said 'why have you recorded...' - would I do something without a reason) 'There was a Joseph clip' I say. 'Have you watched it yet? he says, 'yes' I say, 'but (panicking) don't delete it!' which he was clearly itching to do to clear nearly two hours out of the memory. I haven't let him delete the Diana concert yet, 2+ hours of it, but he didn't twig it was only the Joseph bit I was interested in.

Shirlee - so glad you have a fabulous time (I know what you mean about going anywhere on your own!), and really thrilled for you that you met and spoke with him (by the way did you ask him where my photo has got to - it still hasn't arrived), and also that you met up with Auds! Loved your review - we are obviously all very articulate!!

Can someone tell me how I download the ADWD videos to my home computer - thought I had it sussed, but they don't work!! Loved the dvd clips from Breakfast yesterday - they MUST do a cast recording as well as a DVD of ADWD - they would sell millions!! Don't they see the marketing potential???

Suppose I had better do some work................... catch up later.

Shirlee, thank you so much for your fantastic review. I knew it would be worth waiting for and as has been said before you are an eloquent writer. It makes all of us who have a while to wait before we see the show feel part of it all, although I would really love to go more than the twice I've already got booked. Just not sure how to get this round Ploppy without appearing totally Loppy!

I'm glad I'm not the onlee one not to receive my photo yet Carolee. I sent off for it a week ago on Saturday and can only assume the wretched postal strikes haven't helped! Still watching yesterday's BBC clip made up for it. What a man - what a voice! And aren't the new photos on the Joseph site fab - especially the CED ones!!!!

BTW Gillean, know what you mean about the Sky+ box - my Ploppy hasn't sussed why I have the Diana concert marked as Keep and I recorded the Midweek slot on the radio but he hasn't spotted that yet!

TV review alert. Watching Breakfast just now and they trailed that they will be doing their review tomorrow morning 'from 6.00' so more overtime for the recording devices methinks.

Sorry Carol I forgot to ask about your photo, can't say that the brain was in anything like its normal condition yesterday, and certainly not after that show - hope it arrives today. They clearly are not rationing them he had a real stack to hand out.

Dear Shirlee,
Another wonderful post from you, so glad you caught the train, then horror no loo, I was suffering with you.
Great review of course, I was worried about your walk to the car park on the way home, but I expect you floated there on cloud 9!

Shirlee - a truly wonderful review, I am so glad you had a fab time! looking forward to updating my site with it - I might edit out the journey from Swindon though if you don't mind!!!!

Looking forward to the photos though..... thanks for thinking of me!

Also check out my site - two lovely MP3 of interviews not heard before from Diana and also downloadable vid of BBC breakfast yesterday!

Love to all Loppies!

Donna
xxxxx

Forgot to say Jane1, glad I'm not the only person barred from those sites, like you I've learned to live with it now.
You can still vote in tv awards without going through RUG, just google National Television Awards and that takes you to the voting pages.

I stumbled on a review of the 2004 Joseph tour yesterday, Lee's praises were sung re:pharoah, have been trying to find it again but no luck!! Think it was re:performance at Mayflower Theatre in Southampton? If anyone else has come across this please can they post a link, it is worth a look and underlines what Bill Kenwright said about not previously noticing Lee's obvious talent (or something like that!)

Hi all,
Closet loppy here, but have been reading your posts for ages.
But I have a crisis! I can't get onto the joseph site, andrew lloyd webbers site, OR the really useful site!!!!
Whatever could be happening?? Was working fine yesterday!
So does that make 3 of us that are barred?

Caught the end of BBC Breakfast show today - they mentioned at they would be reviewing Joseph on tomorrow's programme (Wednesday) - no idea of when but usually their 'show business' slot is towards the end of the programme.

Shirlee, and excellent and erudite review. It's only what we've come to expect from you. And how great was that that we got to meet. And it was also good to hear about your journey to the show - come hell or high water!!!!!!
When I was getting dressed yesterday morning I decided that I would try for a 'return' ticket for the show. Knowing Shirley would be there spurred me on; otherwise I might have got to the end of the day and changed my mind. Thank you Shirlee.
I went to the returns desk about 6.30, and they said that there was little chance but I should try again later - so I stood outside and waited and kept a lookout for the pink haired lady. I thought I had missed her because it was getting quite late now, gone 7pm, and I was sure she would've been there much earlier. And then, there she was. After a brief hello and a hug and a kiss, as Shirley said we very much recognised ourselves in each other she headed off to her seat. That was a great buzz.
Before that I was resigned to the fact that I wouldn't get in to the show and was dithering as to whether I should 'hang-out' at a bar or restaurant until the end of the show, but gave myself a good talking to. I'd come this far, I should at least give it another go. So I went back to the bookings window and had a lovelee chat with the girl manning the position and she said she would let me know when I should give up the wait. So I stood fast and celebrity spotted. Terry Wogan, Natash Kaplinski, Richard Bacon and numerous others I recognized but couldn't name - of course it was the BBCEEs Children In Need night, so Pudsee was also hanging about - the kids just loved that.
It was quiet weird actually, I saw a family come to the window with tickets in hand and I thought - ah, there's my ticket. Still I waited patiently. About 5 minutes later that girl caught my eye and said with a great big grin "I have one for you." They are so kind there, honestly. And sure enough, when I got to the seat - Dress Circle 'O' it was with that family I'd spied at the window.
One woman sat the other side of me was so excited when the GO came on that she turned around and gave me a great big hug!! That boy presence just creates such love and spontaneity....
At the end I hung around and wait to see if I could spot Shirlee again, and of course I did. You can’t miss her. And then, the BEST BEST BEST bit. He was arms length from us when he came out to hand out signed photos. At one time, he was leaning right over me to hand out photos and I my face was right in his chest!!! He smelt freshly showered - mmmmmm – no overpowering cologne, just fresh and sweet. Ahhhhhhhhhhh. Rabbit in Headlights time though!! I didn’t dare move, I couldn’t. I could only breathe in his closeness. It was after that, when he moved back to central position that I reached up, and I wasn’t stretching at all, honestly, and gently touched his arm as he once again stretched to hand out photos. How I managed to stay standing I will never know. I remained dumbfounded and Shirley then just got stuck into a conversation with him. I'm in awe of the girl!
[Note: Loppies, the signature on these handed out photos are printed on the picture. I believe the photo that came directly from his publicity company has an original signature – at least mine has as it was the one thing I checked, so it makes it that much more precious. You can tell because of the shine to it. A printed signature has a matt finish.]
He is truly much much more BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL up close than it’s any human being’s decency to be. Those gorgeous dark curls still damp and framing that extraordinarily handsome face. Those dark eyelashes! That wonderful smile! Such an aura about him. Mesmerising.
So thank you once again Shirlee. Your bravery to step out on your own last night urged me on to follow my instincts and I got what I came for, and WAY MORE besides.
So, I recommend hanging around for ‘returns’ but do remember to have cash on you for the ticket.
And thanks for the BBC link to the show - can't recall who put it up now. But I went back and watched that a couple of times. The CED performance is to die for.
And now I'm nervous for him for tonight. I thought that it might be wasted energy though, like being nervous for Torvell & Dean in case they make a mistake!! Although, after what Zoe said about him being nervous - and she should know the boy having spent the last 3 months with him - has kinda set me on edge.
Oh, and welcome Gem. It's great to have you among us.

Thanks Shirlee for a fab. review. It was almost like being there myself - (if only)!! It is great to get loppy reviews which are so much more focused on the real things of interest (GO in all his variety!).

Now on a high - postman arrived with my photo (at last!) and my second set of tickets. I could have kissed him! ONly problem is the photos a little bit bent, but I guess it'll soon be like that anyway ....

Also go onto the Telegraph website http://www.telegraph.co.uk/joseph
and there is a video clip from the show with Preeya singing, then the brothers and, of course, Lee. It's fab and I think it must the night that someone mentioned about him clipping Preeya with his coat when he twirled in it (quite funny).

It really whets you appetite to see the show with all these clips - can't wait so long - need more tickets sooner I think...

Morning Loppies
Shirley fabulous review as has already been said - so glad you got to meet the GO, it was a bit of a scrum when I was there as well, but he really does his best to give everyone a bit of time. It takes me ages to catch up with all the posts, we`re a talkative bunch thats for sure.
Miri - I too have the photo on my phone for secret squirrel glances throughout the day, although I only found out yesterday I could have zoomed it & got a close up of the gorgeous eyes! If only Id known.
Lindsee - welcome!! Your seats are great, I was in C19/20 of the dress circle, youll have a great view - the GO looks up a lot esp during CED, so its easy to imagine hes singing to you and you alone. Im not totally deluded and aware that theres a spotlight & probably a monitor showing the conductor between us, but a girl can dream??? Auds is right about the booster cushions, the kids in front of me had them & could see fine.

Janlee, Im going to catch up with the Cloppy I went with last week, but if shes not willing to commit to 7th June the ticket`s all yours! Im not going to even attempt to persuade anyone without an interest in the GO as it just wont be the same, especially on (we think) his last night!!

Got a bit depressed reading some very negative reviews on Whats on Stage site, very pompous and patronising about the show and its target audience; although even then almost everyone acknowledged GOs talent - just slagged off the production. I think they may have missed the point. Dont go there, itll just annoy you - anyway, we know different dont we?
Just hope the critics tonight dont follow suit, wish I could be there to cheer him on!
Am off to give a presentation now, decided against wearing myLee badge....

http://archive.dailyecho.co.uk/2006/3/10/99674.html Alee I lived in Southampton all those years and could have seen him. Feel retrospectively deprived. But anyway checked the local paper there and could not find the Joseph review you saw, but did come up with this one of Miss Saigon.

...Oh my God Auds, you SMELT him!! ***swoons***
I may need some time to recover. Catch up later.

Morning all! Thought I'd go back to being Fiona as Fleeona just doesn't have a great ring to it!

Supposed to be doing some scanning and DTP work at home, but it has taken me the last hour or so to catch up with everyone's news and reviews. And, of course, I simply had to watch yesterday's Breakfast clip - my word! I see the costumes are the same as in the DVD with Donny Osmond - very colourful (although, I must say I do still have a soft spot for the dungarees that the brothers/Joseph all used to wear in the touring production, which I saw many times in the 80s/90s).

Enjoyed reading all your reviews - well done Auds for spying and meeting up with Shirlee!

Carol - re the ADWD videos, I just right mouse clicked over the video name and clicked "save target as" to save them on my computer.

Short but sweet this morning as I really need to get some stuff done before picking Little Dollop up from playgroup in an hour, but Ploppy away for next two nights, so lots of Lee-time later!

Jacklee, have you noticed on that Telegraph link you gave us aif you click on Lee's fan site it clicks to Scotts original One for the Loppies page. See he can't get away from us.

Auds I am seriously hot and bothered now, and I was there. He did smell delicious though, you are quite right. And also yes, he is so beautiful he should come with a health warning. And of course he is just completely unaware of the effect he is having on us all. So glad I helped give you the confidence to come. It just doesn't bear thinking about what we would have missed if we had chickened out.

You know Loppies, having watched that BBCEE footage again, it looks like they've filmed this show, so I'm pretty sure there'll be a DVD out - Xmas most likely. Lets hope that they add all of Lee's performances et al to the package. Wouldn't that be HEAVEN. I'd have to get two DVDs - one to burn onto the computer and stay very close to the TV. Another to go with me everywhere I go, just in case I get the opportunity to watch it again. I can see the purchase of a portable DVD player coming on. But only if the BEEB do as they should.

Just thought you all may like to know that Lee crops up in Chit Chat, The Stage's weekly diary column, this week...

Thanks Scott, I am sitting here with a total attack of the giggles. You have an evil sense of humour. There's Auds and me going into raptures about how beautiful Lee is and you hand us a link to this page. In our defense I can only say that he grew into his looks, and grew his hair of course. It does explain one thing though. If that is what he still looks like inside his head I now understand why he would only rate himself as a 4 1/2.

The shirt - ha, ha, ha! Mind you, he did mention the lurid lime green shirt in one of his interviews. Must say, he's definitelee improved with age!

Just had a look at the new photos on the Joseph site (thanks for the heads-up Donna) - will definitelee have to work on taking Big Dollop to see it as the snake in the pit is her favourite bit on the DVD - creases her up every time!

Oops - nearly late for picking up Little Dollop!

Loose women about to discuss Joseph and talent discovery.

Against advice I did the What's on Stage website, and ignoring the forum totally, I found an article published yesterday, about the new Pharoah song, which says it (the new song) will be included in a new cast recording released later this year. Don't know where they got their info from, but hope it's true.

http://www.whatsonstage.com/index.php?pg=207&story=E8821184595129&title=Lloyd+Webber+%26+Rice+Premiere+New+Song+for+Joseph

Oh Scott - you are wicked. But he was young then.. looking very tweely sweet. But that doesn't deter us in the slightest. We all have pictures like that in old albums.
The GO definitely has matured perfectly though.. From sweet to absolutely hunkely downright unashamedly flippin and totally gorgeous.

Scott - how could you do that to us?? Do we know his age when this gem of a picture appeared.............certainly like a good wine improves with age!!

Fingers crossed re the Cast CD Ladies - just think of all the christmas present problems it would solve for our families - I think it is RUG's duty to help them all out!

Hi
Just back from my holeeday - well actually it was more of a holiday as no GO music or pics as still havent persuaded Ploppy or scollop to download the music (or is that burn a CD - I loose track of right terminoleegy - both for ICT and loppyland.)
You have all been very busy girlees with all your chats and I havent begun to catch up so excuse my ignorance (nothing new there).
Shirlee thanks so much for ticket for tearfest and cheque will be in post. I am realy looking forward to both seeing show + meeting you all. Can i wait until June to meet up and will we have run out of things to say on the blog before then. BTW I agree with you Shirlee about morally right to own up to Ploppy about tearfest BUT my advice to Debbie and ALi is dont! I did and Ploppy now suddenlee very concerned about my safety and how will need to come with me and check out I am OK - Like I am going to be whisked away either by mad Loppies (as if we are mad!) or be abducted by handsome younger man (onlee in my dreams!!).
Re colours for tearfest - can we be a muticoloured coat of bright colours as red and black do me no favours - and it sounds same for others. That way everyome can choose colours to suit them but will still reflect loppiness.
Re names - i give up on loppiffying mine. Already a Fleeona and whilst I might want to be a Filee I think Ploppy (and Scollop) would argue Old Nag may be more approp!
Anyhow must dash back to work. looking forward to catching up on all the reviews and bllogs over next few days (really need another week).

Just checked back with RUG and the FAQs are still showing no new cast recording featuring Lee Mead being planned.

I had a thought about those blocked by ALW/Joseph/ RUG sites - have you been doing a lot of voting in the polls? Mind you I have too so that probably doesn't work either.

I have had an idea for the tearfest. If you go to google and search for Loppy along with us come millions of references to lop eared rabbits - also known as Loppies. So how about we take with us a pair of those pink furry ears that sit on an alice band and have gently flashing lights. We could put them on for the Megamix. Only a couple of quid each and we could then wear whatever we like.
Fi, as we will each have our own tickets we can actually meet in the theatre. I think even my husband cannot believe I am in danger of abduction in the front row of a show. Real genuine London black cabs line up right outside at the end of the show (and end of Lee show) so even paranoid me cannot but think it is safer than any single trip to the shops.

Shirley - I like the rabbit idea - I'm up for that! My Ploppy is fine about the Tearfest - he wrote the cheque out for the ticket for me, so obiouslee he is a) anxious to get rid of me and hoping I will be abducted (unlikely methinks), or b) wants me to have a good time with my fellow Loppies and has faith I will find my way home to the station ok (when doubtless he will come and collect me). Told you I had him well trained!

If they don't do a cast show record I shall cry - will they be able to cope with the guilt about that - I think not!

Having a blonde moment there - Shirley you weren't emailing yourself it was me!!! Apologies - must be all the excitement of talking about the Tearfest (only 24 days until I go for the first time).

Carol

Thanks for the link, Scott, and giving me the giggles.

Scott, you are wicked giving us that link! But does it put us off? Not one bit - even with the awful lime green shirt! He's just grown into his looks, otherwise he wouldn't be the GO !!

Bunny ears a great idea.

I got to thinking about holidays last night and I remembered Louise (I think) saying she was just back from Florence and I immediately thought of the David sculpture then immediately thought of the GO in his loincloth. Some time ago there were discussions about who to put on a spare plinth in Trafalgar Square. Not sure if there is anything permanent there now but if not sculpture of GO me thinks. I did a pottery class for a couple of years so if he'd like to pose for me I'd give it my best shot.

Thanks for all the links, yes, even you Scott! Friend rang to say Loose Women had been discussing ADWD and thought it unfair that someone from a theatre school background had won. Did anyone else watch it? what else did they say? Found article in Bella mag. today, nothing new but GO complimented by Denise van Outen. Can't wait for tomorrows reviews!

Thanks for the link, Scott - all I can say is BLESS HIM!!! Shy little teenage smile.....! Awwww.... I've come over all motherly...but only untill I read your comment about putting him on a plinth in Trafalgar Square, Alison... I'm sure he wouldn't mind posing for you, nice, friendly lad that he is. Do you need an assisstant (volunteering!!!)???

How come no-one has logged on yet to Loppy site since 8am? You must all be trying to keep the boss happy and the money coming in, so you can see Lee more often in the flesh (and it certainly is well worth it- Wow).

Scott and fellow loppies- Have we lost all the previous loppy entries before July 12th? Does anyone still know the link to get back and see all the old entries before, as I had wanted to go back over it again, having only quickly read it through most of yesterday or the day before for the first time (it had loads of info in it- hope its not lost? I am losing track of time with this pure Lee addiction.

I downloaded iTunes, and as I'm not on Broadband it took about 3.5 hours, and it was meant to be saved into a temporary folder, but its not there- how frustrating is that?

Have been trying to watch the video clips form the ADWD final. Got a bit of Lee movement on the video, and frontal shots of him singing but no sound.

What programmes of software do people have on their computers for playing these video or DVD music clips in order to actually hear Lee singing? I am dying for that treat.

I need some serious help to start to hear Lee sing and see moving video clips. I'm a bit nervous about the pop-ups as I am IT not very confident or knowleable, so am rather technically challenged. Can someone give me some further info about this to elay my concerns?

I'm tempted to go and learn at a library, and then am concerned they won't let me play Lee singing (unless they have headphones of course).

Amazinglee- I'm been into the website for Joseph and seen all the official photos of the show. I've also been into the Lee Mead Official website, and it was great to see the photos there, and Lee's Diary etc, plus to get his email address.

Jo- what is the link to THAT picture that Lindsee mentioned?

Well Opening night tonight. Wish I had an endless supply of money to keep going up there to see him.

....the original comments are still on the BLOG site - if you go to the stage front page (www.thestage.co.uk) and feed in "Lee Mead" on the search it takes to you to Scott's original reviews of all the ADWD shows. We started blogging on the one for the final, and then moved across to the one which Scott posted as "one for the Loppies" - that's the one with 1000 entries and it is still there ...... not for the faint hearted!

Carol x

Hi Janlee
It is possible to allow pop-ups just for a particular site (the one you are downloading your vids. from), and you can make it a temporary pop-up too - you should get the choice. Then as soon as you log off from that site all pop-ups are blocked again from all sources. I used to get the same problem downloading from BBC Joseph site until I discovered my pop-up blocker was the problem!

Hi again Janlee
Just had another thought. Do you have Real Player downloaded onto your pc? This is what you need to see and hear BBC downloads etc. It is something offered by the BBC site itself, and is a download - you will find all about it on the BBC website.

Hurrah! Finallee caught up. Keep thinking of things to add but by the time I've reached the end, they've mostlee been forgotten.

Excellent reviews Shirlee/Auds. I've used to go to the French cinema near Leicester Sq on my own many moons ago when my boyfriend worked nights. Felt a bit funny but got used to it. Would have loved to meet you both there but had to get the dollops to Guides!?*!? BTW cheque is inthe post Shirlee.

Re the tearfest, maybe we should all dye our hair a technicolour. Sounds like you're already there Shirlee. I may choose to go peach. Yes, sounds safe enough. Fi, haven't had the courage to mention tearfest to ploppy yet. Have done so to various colleagues and all I get is "Ooh, be careful. You never know who they might be". Well I feel I do actuallee - a mad woman with pink hair and floppy ears and various other rabbit impersonators. Think I will confide in him next May (gives me just enough time to work up to it). More imp things on the agenda ie booking for me and dollops to go before Feb. Can't decide on the stalls or dress circle - any tips anyone? I'm in Upper Circle first time and Stalls next 2 times. Feel I may need a different perspective this time.

Just want to add a message to Scott - could we possiblee view an old pic of yourself to guffaw at? It makes the GO even more perfect, knowing that he has crap photos from the past. But look how he's matured! My mum always got out a revolting school pic of me to show everyone, with hair in bunches, uneven teeth and piggy eyes. She thought it was lovelee. She had her cataracts done later which might explain it.

Hi Janlee - me yet again
If you don't have Real Player, you can download the free version from http://uk.real.com/player/ - there are pay for version but the free one is ok for what we need.

Thanks to Shirley for the super review and to Jacklee for link to Telegraph, hmm, they have a link to us! Really good Arts coverage the Telegraph and a video too. When the definitive D'Arcy appeared we were thrilled at work to have a pin up of him from the Radio Times, these IT days we are positively spoiled (and why not?)
This alchemy change in looks thing has always fascinated me. I can think of two examples of people I knew who turned from just OK to real beauties, one at 20 the other at 35. I don't just mean 'makeover' stuff'.

I don't know what is wrong with my computer but all the loppy entries since 8am were not there before- there's loads there since I sent my entry.

Nicki -Please convince Cloppy she does'nt need or really want to go (I'm begging you). You need a true smittten Loppy beside you. Please let me know ASAP about whether I can come with you on June 7th for my birthday treat. Where is the seat and how much is it?

Fanatastic reviews- Shirlee and Audlee. Wish he had been quite close enough to lean over me too, so I could have smelt that cleanly showered gorgeous man !! He really is stunning in the flesh- absolutely beautiful face. The TV did'nt do him enough justice. Still he said looked at me to say "Thank you" when I spoke to him, and looked at me when he gave back the autographed programme.

I was in awe and and wanted to respect him and his talent, so did'nt feel I could touch him (even though I wanted to), although probably may have been able to if I had leant over the person in front, but I was concerned as I think there were young children there, and did'nt want them or our precious Lee hurt.

Hopefully get closer another time if I pray hard. I''ll keep on dreaming.

If you visit the official Joseph site http://www.josephthemusical.com/video.html you will find a lot of stuff I hadn't seen before (live numbers from the show, and a lovely montage too).

Scott - funnily enough I too wondered about a photo of you.......I did a search on the Stage site but you have obviously decided to remain incognito!!

Ladies Please reassure Ploppies and friends that we are not sinister - far from it! We are all (comparatively normal - I think) - sorry think Ploppy will draw the line at me dying hair - he's only just come to terms with my having had it all cut off!

Janlee - a hint for whenever you check into this site, always hit the refresh button. It should appear as an icon at the top of the web page - a little page with two arrows. That'll bring you up to date everytime.

Debbielee, with you all the way. my friend reacted in a similar way and ploppy remains in the dark for now, cheque winging its way to Shirley as we speak!
Tickets for 22nd August arrived today but 1 missing, now had to rebook it but 4 seats away from the others, hoping people in between will be kind enough to swap?

Bless!! I definitely have some far worse photos in my collection, as Im sure have many other 80s teens...now showing my age.
It wasnt our fault...it was the fashion - spiral perms, fingerless gloves & blue/pink lipstick was never a good look.
Still, look at him now, amazing what a few years, steaks & a good hairdresser can acheive! Plus I think hes gonna improve with age. In the photos where hes gripping the bars & looking up (at me in the dress circle of course) he is a true Adonis ... Zoe was fair salivating on breakfast TV. Mind you, I always thought she had a thing for him, do you remember the final & the looks from both her & DVO when he sang "You look like an angel"...Hmm

Janlee, will definitely keep you posted re the ticket, give me til the weekend to check, wont forget you I promise!
Auds, I was thinking the same thing about the BBC footage, Its definitely clips from longer footage, so I reckon there will be a DVD in the offing at some point....go on RUG, be good to us Loppies!

Shirlee - Just looked at our pics on Donna's site - who is that large bear behind Lee? You told us you went on your own and now we see you went with Pudsey!!

Hi...Janlee. The link for THE picture is http://www.queerty.com/news/go-joe-go-20070713/joseph2jpg/ , but there were obviously lots taken at the same photo shoot, and most are linked through the LJ site. I still think this is the very best photo of them all though!

I am now going to make myself very unpopular because I didn't like the clip of the coat of many colours. It didn't sound well arranged to me and even seemed quite stilted. And although this is going to be taken as close to sacrilege, I am not sure that the GO sounded as arrogant and as full of himself as he should have done when pronouncing himself a walking work of art either. That could be more about the poor arrangement though.

The GO obviously IS a real walking work of art, but I really want this show to be fabulous as a whole! However succesful it already is, it won't serve him best if it is perceived as a temporary vehicle for the reality show winner and successful only because of that. So much as I have been delighted at the reports of those already seriously Lee addicted, I did (possibly unwisely) go to also read the reviews of non-loppies on Whatsonstage! As warned, it was indeed quite depressing! And although so warned, that still came as a bad surprise! I know there will always be a few who will refuse to like something just because they want to be negative, and/or just because of the reality show issue, but some of the criticisms did tally with my instinctive reaction to that coat of many colours clip. And it is not as if these reviews were by people who don't know and/or like Joseph. So from eagerly running out to get all the newspapers tomorrow, I am going to do so now with rather more trepidation! And I am now going to go back and read all the wonderful reviews that have been posted here and on Donna's to make myself feel better. I am actually going to see it myself at last on Saturday and, bad reviews aside, I can't wait!

NB...Just to make it clear, though, to those who don't want to read the negative reviews themselves, NO ONE was actually criticising the GO himself! That wasn't the issue, and that says a lot in itself in view of general negativity otherwise. Priya Karidas is criticised for not being up to the high notes and the new song doesn't seem to have gone down well. But mostly the negativity is about the arrangements and the staging and looking unpracticed. I know the show is in part a memorial to Stephen Pimlott, but should it have been? I think the powers that be were anticipating another Connie potential, rather than someone who will be so much bigger. If they had known, I think they would have gone to the expense and trouble of a full new production. And I don't think there is a snowballs chance that his part in Joseph will be extended beyond the tearfest. ALW will have other plans by then!

Hello from Canada! Yes, Loppy fever has hit these shores thanks to the internet. There are hordes of us just waiting to board planes and get to London to see Lee perform, if only we could get the tickets. And afford the airfare. You get the picture.

Hi there fellow Lee addicts,

Thanks for tips about Real Player Jo. I seem to have it as a Google updater on the desktop, (but when I was trying to complete the sign up it was preventing me). I now don't know how to link the Real Player to the Videos on the ADWD website. Can someone help me on that please?

It does'nt help that I don't have Broadband.

Thanks Nicki about keeping me posted about the June 7th ticket.

Thanks for the link to THAT picture Jo- will look at it in a while.
I've been getting RSI trying to keep up with the rest of you very experienced Loppies, and I'm obviously having to run from scratch to catch you all up.

I'm still a bit lost on some things- what is "tearfest" and what does "LJ" stand for (site) ?

I wish I was a computer whizz kid- its so much more important now not only in work, but in following Lee's amazing career taking off- and the fact he is so amazing on both the ears and the eyes (sounds like amazing on the smell and touch too !!) That only leaves taste- his girlfriend has got it made. How blessed is that girl?

Jo, have just read the reviews and feel a little downhearted myself now. They are the first 'bad' reviews I've seen. Sorry to say it but am wondering if we've all gone a little bit OTT and are not being subjective enough. I have no doubts that the GO is great from what I saw from him on TV and how he made me feel but I have to say that the set didn't look amazing from the Breakfast clip. Am I wrong? Sorry! Not just trying to jump on a put down bandwagon but am trying to be a bit more realistic in my thinking for the first time in weeks. Someone put me on the straight and narrow.

Deblee, know exactly what you mean. Having seen the clips and read some of those reviews it is very hard to get the real feel of what it's like in the theatre. I wonder whether the video doesn't record the sound aswell as it might and it's certainly hard to get the impression of a stage show from a zoomed in camera position. The GO looks great and CED sounds fantastic, but I think we are definitely missing not being there for the performance.

I remember on ADWD that Lee said he performed to the studio audience and we don't hear any of the audience reaction really on those video clips. Perhaps that is why it appears less than what all our Loppy rerviewers have described so ecstatically up to now.

It has just occurred to me that the video clips are probably from one of the early previews so things may change slightly by tonight. I still can't wait to see the GO in the flesh and hear his beautiful voice for myself. I guess this is why he is an MT performer and not just a singer, It's the whole package that makes you tingle!

I'm sure that those lucky Loppies that have already been will know how good the show is and can reassure you Deblee.

I know what you mean about the reviews, but I have to say I dont agree - maybe they should have started a brand new production etc, but that was never what was planned, it was always going to be a restaging of the original Palladium one from the nineties - lazy, maybe.
The thing that got me was how scathing they were about the audience and the fact that we might be unable to tell good theatre from bad - again missing the point I think. Ive seen a few productions of Joseph, and they have always had an amateur "look", thats part of its charm - the show started as a 20 minute school play, and so I think its important they keep the essence and spirit of the original. I
Les Mis it is not, and has never pretended to be. Its just an innocent feelgood show, its camp and silly with catchy songs, and an engaging leading man (oh yes) but it isnt highbrow or spectacular by some standards.
Im not going to pretend Im an expert on musical arrangements so maybe others can tell me Im deaf, but I have seen a lot of musicals and I cant say i noticed anything amiss, and there was - hopefully it will be sorted - thats what the previews are for after all.
Maybe Im wrong, Im sure the critics tonight will inform me, but to me, Joseph has always been about fun, silliness, and the best way to introduce children to live theatre - one little boy watching on Friday was nearly leaping out of the box during the Megamix!! (Lee 20 years ago???) So dont go expecting spectacular scenery and speciall effects because youll be disappointed, but go with an open heart and your dancing shoes on & youll love it like I did. I dont for one minute think its the best vehicle to showcase the GOs talents, as vocally its not a huge part, but its the part he wanted after all. I dont think he`ll be in it after June, but because he`ll be ready to move on.
And to the guy who wrote the most negative reviews, the fact that he disapproves of the audience clapping along when that is clearly the expectation in a show like this just said it all for me.
Maybe they should have staged a brand new production, but they havent - all I know is I saw the Palladium version and I didnt come away with a smile that lasted for 2 days like I did on Friday!
Although seeing the GO was a major factor, I just had a really good time!!!!!!! So they can say what they want, Im still going again!!

evening loppies, L(ou)eese here!!! thanks for my name!!! sorry cant remember who cleverly chose it, sorry!

just a quick one to say hello as ploppy is due home any minute. after my lack of work yesterday i have had to work hard all day plus ploppy was in office too so havent had chance to read all your comments, but had to check in, you know whats its like,

i got as far as Eleesa, remembering kindly to cjeck out my seats for me! Thanks hun!! will try catch up tomorrow morning before real life gets in the way.

im having a severe lack of loppyness indulgence withdrawels, but the glimmer of hope is in the distance as of weds next week ploppy is working away so will have at least some evening time to catch up in all these amazing clips i have seemed to have missed!!

right best get on , see you tom. good luck mr mead tonight, the press will love you , but they're loss if they do not see you for the star you are!!!!

PS - I did agree about Preeya though - she has a lovely tone in her lower voice but the high notes were a struggle at times.

More video clips from the show are up on the Joseph the musical site - you may need to download Quicktime but there's a link on the page. (I just hope it won't now take over all my other media files which I use Windows Media Player for)

http://www.josephthemusical.com/video.html

It has the BBC ones plus several more

Thanx for the reassurance Nicki. Think I just needed to hear it again as I've never seen the show so don't know what to expect. At least if I know there's few sets etc I can't be disappointed on that score. The other thing is that I'm nervous it won't get great reviews for His sake (plus the rest of the cast of course) as after all, it is his first big role and he so wants the approval of everyone for his all round talents. I know WE love him and although He appreciates that He finds it bemusing as well. I'm sure it's the recognition of people in the business which counts a lot too.

By the way, WELCOME CANADA (in big letters so you can hear me). I'm intrigued to find out how you heard of Mr Mead. Shame you can't be Cloppies but as you prob know, that's already taken. I know He's got quite a few Dutch fans. Hey! We're going global girls!!

Exciting news................................................

There will be a NEW CAST RECORDING OF JOSEPH!!!!!!!!

Oh happy days, look at latest news on my website for more details!!!!!

I am extremeLEE happy!!!!

Wooooooooooooooooooooooooo Hoooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!

Evening Loppies and welcome Canada! Just got home and there on my doormat was my long awaited signed photo!! Yes!

Haven't read the review on Whatsonstage but from your comments above I am presuming they are comparing it to "big shows" like Les Mis and Phantom? The thing about some shows is that they don't need big sets, as long as they have a cast that can capitvate and hold and audience and the divine Mr Mead can surely do that! Also, as pointed out, it was a show written for children - it's still performed by schools throughout the country, it is a wonderful pastiche of musical flavours and I do hope they aren't going to start doing the show down because it is not "high art" - it is meant to be a frolic, fun and an enjoyable piece of theatre for all ages. From the Loppies who have been lucky enough to go already, it appears to tick all those boxes (plus having the GO as the star!). What more are we asking for than to be entertained - that's what theatre is about!

debbie

I remember seeing Derek Jacobi in The Tempest at Stratford some years ago and loving it. Went with a group of colleagues from work in Oxford and was astonished on the way back to hear some of them really dissing his performance. You know some people try to boost their own egos by criticising people and things they could not hope to emulate. Having said that if we all liked the same things there would only need to be a few dozen songs, films, TV shows, foods, stars, anything really. It is just because we all see things so differntly that there is such diversity in the arts.

Add to that the £10M in advances that Joseph has already taken at a time when other shows are struggling and folding. Rather than look at the reasons for failure in their own productions much easier to slate the runaway success just down the road, shouting 'Unfair, Unfair'. It's not of course but easier for those poor souls soon to be unemployed and broke to believe that it is.

Having said this Joseph is a total romp, it is kitch, funny and light hearted. It shows its roots and is non the worse for it. What did worry me after all the scenery problems was seeing the sets moving in the breeze. Worried for the safety of the cast I mean. It looked as if a lot of money had been thrown at the set in the second half and nothing in the first. But surely that is right. It sets up the contrast between Canaan and Egypt surely the point of it all.

I had been thinking about whether Joseph would get extended again, and came up with the following. ALW will get Lee out of it in June, no question. Lee has filled the theatre in record time and that at a time of year when traditionally the West End suffers. Now I know for a certain fact that if any of the others had won ADWD I would not even have considered going to see it, and I would lay money that many of you would say exactly the same thing, but here we are booking to see it 4 and 5 times each already. And I know with similar certainty that I will also be going to see the next production Lee is in, and so will you all. My guess is that having trained Craig up in the touring production, if he does really well they will try him for 6 months in the West end to see if he can carry it. Yes ALW took a risk on opening with an unknown - as in the sense of not knowing who was going to win - but he took the risk in a small intimate theatre,k which as it happens just adds to the charm of this production.

I imagine his expectation of getting as lucky as finding Connie's counterpart was limited, could one really get that lucky twice. But then through comes Lee who doubles and redoubles Connie's potential, so by now ALW is planning a much bigger venue for Lee, and my money is still on it being in the new Phantom - time will tell.

Jeez I love your sensibility Shirley - the voice of reason and Loppieness roled into one. And here's my version:-

Well I've seen the show twice now.. Well probably only once, the first time having eyes ONLY for the GO who could do no wrong, and from an extremely good vantage point. The 2nd time being last night from not a good vantage point. This did not detract from the enjoyment and the essence of the show, and whilst I wasn’t hugely disappointed with the set, staging etc., I thought it was a simple as the story line, so worked very nicely. I've seen a touring production as well, but years ago and I couldn't tell you how good or bad it was, but I remember it was fun. - but not on the level that I have enjoyed this production. The kids loved it, and were excited about the leading man as well. The grown-ups (ladies) lurved the star; and the supporting cast were dead right – off-key, flat or not. You try running around like a lunatic, cavorting and dancing AND singing. So maybe Preeya doesn't quite hold it on a couple of notes, but her duet with the GO is just fine.
And besides - remember this is a Loppie site and dedicated solely to the Curly Haired One with the Golden Voice, so we are duty-bound to be one sided / singularly visioned, are we not?

And I'm with Shirley re not bothering to go to the show if either Lewis (hmm, well maybe - he was quite cute) or Keith had one
I would also hope that the GO isn't still performing after June and is being comforted and cosseted and pampered by ALW for another leading role.

And A HUGE WELCOME TO CANADA.. This is such fun.

PS: Donna, thanks for keeping you site so brilliantly updated. I managed to save that real close up of the GO as my screensaver at work. It is FANTABULOUS.

Hi there loppies, and Hello Canada,

Sorry some of the Official reviews not as great as ours. But after all its the public that put Lee there, so hope our reviews get a mention, rather than the critics being... well, critical.

Do you think we might need a different name than loppies, so people might take our opinions rather more seriously, rather than thinking we are a bit loopy or loppy? Just a thought. What do other Lee addicts think?

Donna- please can you send me your website details so I can get the info about the cast recording- that is great news.

Gillian- hope your Meadia files don't get taken over completely with Mr. Mead, or maybe you might find that rather nice.

Hungry now and thirsting for more of Gorgeous MeadLee, but some normal life needs to go on.

Thanks Shirley, Carolee and Nicki - it's lovely to have it confirmed that what we have all felt is true and that Joseph is a wonderful show to see live with the GO as lead.

I agree that it appears unlikely that ALW would want Lee to extend again as he is clearly so capable of many other MT roles. I would still love to see him in West Side Story - the way he breathed Maria in the ADWD performance sets my pulse racing every time! (And I, too, have thought that he would be the perfect lead for Phantom 2 Shirley!) Also Jesus Christ Superstar judging by his performance on ADWD would be a dream. To be honest, like all of us, I would pay to go and watch him in whatever his next role is. This boy is going to light up the West End for many years to come I feel.

Oh, less than an hour to go now. I so hope it goes well tonight and the GO and the rest of the cast get fabulous reviews.

Janlee - the website address is www.lee-mead.co.uk

Book mark it as I try and keep it as up to date as humanly possible with a full time job, a ploppy and two scollops!!!!

Donna
xxxxx

Janlee, LJ is the LiveJournal message board for Lee, just google 'livejournal lee mead' and it will come up. Some more lopppies, except they don't call themselves that. Their site makes good reading, and sometimes they get news first. It's where I found out about the new video clips on the Joseph site.

Donna, I saw the info about the new cast recording on the 'what's on stage' site, but wasn't able to verify it. Great news, the idea of seeing Lee, then buying Jason was not to be contemplated!

I think Shirley is on the right lines re ALW and Lee and his future.
Also agree re the production, it is a low key set deliberately, and however much money they are taking - which couldn't be guaranteed before Lee won the part - ALW was hardly going to invest 1000's for what may have been only a 6 month run.

Back when ADWD was on, the only negative, yet sensible, comments about Lee not being Joseph was that he was too good!

Happy days indeed!!!!!! That's fantastic news - thanks Donna. That'll be right up there on my shopping list to add to my other recordings. Don't have a copy of the original Palladium production as Mr Donovan not really to my taste and as I've mentioned before, I'm kind of biased towards the old touring production as that is the one I've seen most. I've never even heard the megamix! ALW couldn't really have ignored our request much longer and as others have said, it's easy money for him.

Love the video clips - had similar thoughts about the Coat song, but then I guess the sound might be a bit funny if there wasn't a full audience to absorb it and respond to it.

And the photos - palpitation-city! Really got to work on Ploppy - I mead to see Joseph (it is at least 10 years since I last went).

Welcome Canadian Loppies (could they be I-Loppies, for international?)! Ploppy and I had our honeymoon in Toronto and Niagara, some long while back, and we loved it over there.

Better go as rice is about to be ruined!

Having said that, re the cast recording, the Joseph site is still saying nothing, and offering the Jason CD for sale. Could it just be that they know no one will buy Jason if there's a new one in the offering? I wish the two articles, so far, that mention a new recording would confirm the info is from ALW/RUG and not just hearsay.

Having said that, re the cast recording, the Joseph site is still saying nothing, and offering the Jason CD for sale. Could it just be that they know no one will buy Jason if there's a new one in the offering? I wish the two articles, so far, that mention a new recording would confirm the info is from ALW/RUG and not just hearsay.

Rice saved and being eaten in between words!

Audlee - I thought we were duty-bound to be Lop-sided (groan!).

Half an hour to curtain - good luck to the GO and all the cast.

Thanx for all your comments. Feel much better now plus read a lovelee review on the Joseph website written by a man no less (as in not a torso-obsessed Loppy).

Janlee, see what you mean about the name but don't think I could stomach it. We are Loppies, no more, no less. Can't think of anything else that describes us better. We don't need credibileety from anyone else. I think our comments show what a humorous, intelligent bunch we are! The name is a bit daft but then so it the show apparentlee so it fits us perfectlee. Still far be it from me to decide so lets have the votes in...

Back later to check before bedtime.

I hope not!! As I think the new cast deserve a new recording! Plus there is often no smoke without fire.

It's like when they extended Lee's run in the West End, it was reported by other sources before it was confirmed by RUG!!!!!

Fingers crossed but no breath holding maybe?

Donna
xxxxx

Just finished downloading all the lovely new clips from the official site - if you don't know how just right click and save target as and the files will be yours to watch again whenever you like! I have captured the telegraph video too - the software you need is called capture whiz pro - and for You tube get tube hunter and collect all the Lee stuff from there too:-) Then get yourself a sharing folder and spread it around!

Can't believe how much new stuff is here today! and love that we are linked to the official site as fan site! looks like we are here to stay!

Donna...youre so good to us, where do you find the time?
My sad old laptop is not coping at all well with my Loppiness and the new video clips are all stilted & keep freezing, any suggestions from the computer literate amongst you would be appreciated!!

I know i keep banging on about Lee as Marius, but I really hope he isnt tied to ALW forever - I think ALW is past his best, I havent liked any of his shows since Phantom, and Les Mis is my favourite musically, just so beautiful.
Since it moved theatres its much smaller and could really do with an injection of new life from the GO - seeing him sing Empty Chairs at Empty Tables or A little Fall of Rain would truly break my heart in two! Thats my vote...

Unfortunately, cant think of many shows where He would be half naked again so we`ll have to make the most of this year... just to lower the tone!
And HELLLOOOOO CANADA!!!

You know we are all forgetting how much the camera loves this man. I seem to recall that Julie Andrews had a moderately successful career filming musicals.......

Oh God, 3 minutes to go. I am so nervous for them. GO,GO, GO JOSEPH.

Having said that, re the cast recording, the Joseph site is still saying nothing, and offering the Jason CD for sale. Could it just be that they know no one will buy Jason if there's a new one in the offering? I wish the two articles, so far, that mention a new recording would confirm the info is from ALW/RUG and not just hearsay.

Curtain up - Good Luck Lee and the cast!

You'll wake up to rave reviews in the morning I am sure!

Love and Hugs

Donna
xxxxxx

Sorry about that double comment, the system said my message was too soon after the last and try again later, so I did, and now ther's two:)))

Go, go, go Lee - West End leeding man. Good luck to all the company - you'll get fab reviews - can't wait to see them tomorrow.

Re a name change.. I don't believe it would be appropriate. That would mean we were taking ourselves seeriioiuslee. There are other sites for that I beleeve. This is where we express ourselves totally and freely from our united obsession of the GO, and discuss seerious issues like floppy bunny-ears and technicolored hair dye for Tearafests... Besides, just beecause wee're Loppies, doesn't meen our opinions and demands don't have weight. And we have the amazing maDONNA (thank you thank you thank you) who has that fantastic website that Lee knows all about and discussed personallee with the good lady.
I like your thinking Nicki, lowering the tone 'n'all.
Whilst I really lilke the idea of a new Cast recording. I WANT A DVD!!! I want to watch the GO as well, not just listen.

I like being a Loppy!
I like having permission to be silly amongst like-minded friends, with a name that reflects the light heartedness of what we're all about! Saying that, some of the reviews and opinions I've read on this site wouldn't look out of place in extremley reputable publications...
I'm with Auds about the dvd. A cd is fine and great and brilliant, but watching him ...oh well...you know...!
Canada???? I've had my best holidays ever there!!
So much has gone on on this site whilst I've been at work I'll probably take most of the evening to catch up, especially as my pc is still slow-coaching along in it's own precious time.
Am desperately trying to get a ticket for October... anyone care to join me if I can bag two????
See you later!!!!

Love to Miri, please let me be the first to grab your hand off.

It's a deal, Shirley...am working on it as we speak!!!!!!!!!!!

First saw the show with a dollop on my lap, we loved every minute. This production looks great to me. Coat clip with children adorable. I've never gone for the idea that Joseph is really arrogant, just your average teen being given the latest fashion as a reward for being a good boy, he's probably very useful at home, and very clever because of the way he rises to become comptroller of a household and then Egypt. It's never suggested he is lazy and over-indulged. It's a shame his Dad uses him to check on his brothers out in the fields, compounding their resentment, but I think delinquent behaviour is implied such that Jacob is worried about them.
As regards a live performance, there is a clip on Youtube of John Barrowman singing live in a stage production and the exitement of live theatre is that you might not get vocal perfection every time as in a CD studio rendition but the emotion just blows you away. The unofficial reviews have been great. Like the new 'Elvis' number, great fun. Proud to be a Loppy.

Well into the interval now - do we really have to wait until tomorrow to see how it went. Not at all sure I can do that.

Miri and other Loppies, I forgot to tell you something useful I discovered last night - suppose the rest of you might know it already but it was news to me - the 2 ladies next to me last night had been at the show last Thursday when there was the scenery malfunction and they had rung See on Friday morning to see what replacement tickets they could get. None available. Then when they and I seperately rang on Friday afternoon there were seats, so don't take the first no as a no not ever if you cant get seats the day you want, it may just be a case of try, try and try again before you succeed. Oh yes and that was for E in the stalls so thumping good seats at that.

Not Loppies, please dont frighten me. Course we are Loppies, it just chimed from the very first moment Carol's friend christened her with it. Apart from the fact that we all feel it reflects our lightheartedness there is the external factor too. We are already quoted on Lee's Wikipeadia entry, have radio mentions, and are in the wonderful way of the internet, linked into all sorts of sites as The name for Lee;s fans - and the GO knows about us too. You dont get given brand recognition like that within a couple of months and just throw it away

Auds & Nicki - thanks for the tip about the booster seats. That's really set my mind at rest.
Totally agree about a cast DVD. Released just in time for Christmas would be perfect. After all they've filmed it now, it would be a waste not to use all of the footage.
I also don't think Lee will stay in the show past June. Although a brand new musical does sound like an exciting venture, I'm actually hoping he doesn't do Phantom 2. Sequels rarely live up to the standard of the original and already the idea of Phantom 2 is being ridiculed by quite a few sections of the media. I would hate for Lee to have worked so hard to prove himself, only to have to go through it all again by taking a role in a show the critics are already predisposed to dislike. Personally I'd like to see him in a role that will make full use of his intensity and passion so my vote also goes to Les Mis.

Lee in Les Mis would be amazing. Frankly anything he would be cast in would be unmissable, but yes, Les Mis. One musical which I haven't seen mentioned on this site before but which I love dearly is Chess... am a bit of a closet ABBA fan for my sins... some of the music in it is fab and I could easily imagine Lee as The Russian or The American.... hope I haven't lost any friends with my admission!!!!!

Well said Shirley. Loppies is more than just a daft name. It's a statement about the sort of people we are ... ladies who are old enough to know better but young enough not to care! We all felt an instant affinity with the name, just as we did with this blog. If we stopped being Loppies we would be just another fan site. As Loppies we are so much more than that.

Oh Miri, I love Chess too.

Yay Shirley!! I'm not alone! I saw Chess in London soo many years ago, and have so many fond memories of those days (was a student etc etc) but have not yet spoken to anyone who really rated it as a musical, so I'm well chuffed!!!!!!!

Like the rest of you, I am proud to be a loppy (should we get badges?). We are sane (mostly) lovely ladies who are clearly excellent at spotting talent a mile off.
Am totally over-excited about going to see the GO on friday, can't believe that I am going. Unfortunately, I may not be able to post for a while, or write review quickly, because my home broadband is being switched to another provider tomorrow, and because of some silly issue with closing down old connection and then setting up a new one, I am going to be internet-free for approx 5 days! What am I going to do? I will be able to check the goings-on at work in snatches (when boss isn't looking) but won't be able to post review until next week (Donna, will send review to you too for your site).
So please think of me when I am bursting with excitement about seeing the GO but unable to share with you all. Boo, hate internet providers!

By the way, also wanted to say YAY for CD recording, but would definately be better on DVD (I wonder how many plays it would take to wear out a DVD?).
Also, welcome to our Canadian brethren, glad to see that word of the GO has reached the other side of the 'pond'.

By the way, also wanted to say YAY for CD recording, but would definately be better on DVD (I wonder how many plays it would take to wear out a DVD?).
Also, welcome to our Canadian brethren, glad to see that word of the GO has reached the other side of the 'pond'.

Agree with you all - Loppies just seems to fit. When Carol's friend came up with such an apt description of us it seems churlish to drop it. And I think we all associate ourselves as fans of the GO in musical theatre and understand that we are all perfectly sane ladies (who maybe ought to know better but enjoy it anyway!) who appreciate that we are fortunate enough to be around when a star is born.

Cara, think the idea os badges is great - maybe Shirley as our great organiser could sort out some pictures of the GO (full curls, smile etc) with a Loppy logo. Any ideas anyone?

Forgot to say agree with you all that cast recording would be fab, but DVD even better. If ALW wants any more millions then he'd release these in time for Christmas and job done!

Also, belated HELLO to Canadian Loppies - good to know we are an international phenomenon!!

I'm proud to be a loppy too, especially as I've just discovered you all to talk to about our special West End leading man. I'm sure his opening night is going great. Wish I was there.

In view of all the above Loppy and proud of it! Oh help, it has nearly finished. I am so there with them all tonight. They have gone from us all clapping, cheering and bopping to people whose job is to watch, dissect and analyse, how different an experience must that have been for them without any other stresses. Oh well, for better or worse it is over now, and back to the amateurs clapping, cheering and bopping again tomorrow and for the next 11 months.

Just heard, the set broke after 6 scenes, 10 minute delay then they carried on. Didn't spoil the show but POOR Lee, on his opening night of all nights... Oh, I could cry for him, but I'm sure he carried on like the pro he is. Aaargh!

See link below:
http://www.lep.co.uk/showbiz?articleid=3037708

Oh poor Lee. I so wanted opening night to be perfect for him.

Oh, the poor Angel!!! You know, I have absolutely no doubt he would have just taken a mishap like that in his stride... I suppose the critics will have a field day, but frankly its the general public and their opinion that matters. I really feel for him. I hope he realises how loved he is!!!!!

Gutted. Hope they are forgiving.... Somehow I doubt it tho.

Cheer up ladies. That might be just what was needed to lift it from the review pages right onto the news pages. Lee and that cast are well able to cope with a little adversity and come through triumphant.

Dear Fellow Loppies,

Sorry I raised the issue of possiblity of having a different name. It was just meant to be a light comment. I was'nt there at the start of the loppies, and only just discovered you before Scott moved the site. I'm not nearly as experienced yet as a loppy as the rest of you.

Despite seeing Lee on ADWD and voting for him, I did'nt look for or find your site until after seeing him on Saturday night. By the time I saw him in Joseph and the flesh, I was on Cloud 9, and then so relieved to have fellow loppies to talk to who feel the same as I do about the voice, black curly hair, eyes, charisma of a certain amazinglee incredible performer.

Really hope he gets great reviews for his first night.

I really hope we get a DVD of the show. Lee is SO watchable, as well as to hear him over and over again. Could'nt hardly take my eyes off him through the binoculars.

What a nightmare! Have been thinking about them all evening (esp. Lee!). You just know that his performance will have been perfection despite the set problems.
I really, really, really cannot wait til October...how do I get to go before then living so far away and not able to pop to the theatre on the off chance of returns (lucky you Audlee)!
Sweet meads everyone!

24 hours ago Auds ....

Just seen the comments about the set breaking- Poor Poor Lee.

But like Joseph I'm sure he will have overcome adversity work in his favour I'm sure. After all he is going to be a mega star once the world sees him as the loppies do.

Well done that Loppy, first with the report. I bet the show's reception was tremendous, nothing like a little mishap to break the tension, make people realise they're only human etc. The Show Must Go On - one of my favourite lyrics by the way.

As regards Phantom 2, the Americans would adore Phantom of Broadway and remember Cole Porter's late flowering was Kiss Me Kate, just love it. Ref above, Josh Groban in Chess is on Youtube, worth a look if you're curious. I had a few probs, have we used up this page?

For a supposedly 'simple' production, it seems there's quite a lot of technical/mechanical stuff that can go wrong. At least this was something fixable after a short delay, I'm sure Lee and all the cast rose to the occasion. They do need to be able to 'trust' the set though, the technical people will have to get on it. The article has an update re a standing ovation and John Barrowman's comments - Lee was fantastic the public made the right choice - that I'm sure wasn't there the first time I read it.

Got sky+ set for tomorrow, and will be surrepticiously(?) checking the news websites while at work. I wonder which paper(s) would be the best to buy, the Telegraph has already taken an interest, so that maybe. I can't buy them all:))) Can I?

Must have another quick look at those new video clips before bed. Sweet meads.

I can't beleeve it. They seemed to be jinxed with their sets. How many more things will go wrong? I suspect they tried even harder after that to impress. It's so unfair. I know all the cast will be upset but it's got to be worse for Lee who's the one out to prove himself above all the others. Let's hope the critics don't use it as an excuse to slate the show from every aspect. They reallee should sort these problems out though (she says not knowing anything about the difficulties of stage production etc).

Evening Loppies (glad I haven't got to tell my friend we've ditched her name!) just back from rehearsal to hear about the set mishap. I am sure they will have coped admirablee and hopefullee the press will appreciate that. By the way - Chess is one of my fav musicals - Ploppy took me for my birthday years ago, and strangely enough we had the understudy for the Russian and he was brilliant. When the show closed in the West End Ploppy bought us tickets to go again during the final week and lo and behold they had fetched back the same guy we had seen to finish the run! I'm still voting for Lee as Marius, or Chris, or Raol, or - well basicallee anything!!

Only 23 more sleeps until I go!!

By the way the returns thing that Auds was talking about - quite often hotels take blocks of tickets so that they can offer them to their guests, and if they aren't sold they return them to the theatre (or to the Leicester Square Half Price Booking Kiosk) - so it is always worth a punt!

Carol - Loppy and proud of it! xxxx

Just checked & youre right they have updated the review - Love you JB!, off to bed, too many late nights.... feeling heartened now & sure theyll have pulled it off - just a shame it couldnt go perfectlee on his first opening night.
Sweet Meads xx

Evening all...I've been lurking since the beginning, and just wanted to say hi, and thank you all for brightening up my day for the last few weeks! Please don't change being Loppies - I love the name, and I like the idea of being old enough to know better but not caring two hoots!

Looking forward to seeing the reviews tomorrow - like Shirley says, I suspect the malfunction will send him straight to the news pages...with lots of pictures.

Sweet Meads everyone. I am just shattered after yesterdays 4 hour night. Having read about the standing ovation I can now sleep happily. Take care all.

Just got back onto computer to catch up on news - still only read up to 16th July (must learn to reed faster) as ploppy set up anti virus check which took whole eve and I couldnt access internet at same time. he says def not a ruse to stop me spending all my time gazing at GO and catching up on loppydom but somehow i dont believe him.
Aargh - just seen bit about set failing tonight but agree with Janlee that him overcoming this adversity and STILL being a star will work in his favour with the reviewers. Also from what we learnt about him during ADWD he has had to work hard for where he is today and I am sure those experiences have set him in good stead to deal with hiccups like this.
Anyhow off to bed. Sweet meads everyone.

What a rollercoaster ride this site is? One minute I'm on such a high reading all your comments, the next I'm feeling so low. I was devastated to hear about the set tonight, but I agree that it will put GO on the front pages and show what a star he really is.
Have tried to watch new vids on Josph site but unable to download quicktime player (already have realplayer) please help!

Oh, our precious Angel... how could this happen on this auspicious night. But have no fear. The GO is not the CO for nada. He will have very likely worked harder than any other performance to ensure the audience went away mesmerized and totally enthralled at his talent. He’ll have cast his spell over the crowds (read critics) and they will say little about the equipment hiccup and wax lyrical about the GO.
How's that for positive thinking??

Good news - just heard Lee on Radio 5 Live (after 11pm news) so you can Listen again. He sounds really chuffed and happy with how it went. Reckons delay was only 3 or 4 minutes and got standing ovation so let's hope those reviews are fab. David Frost was on after Lee and said he thought Lee was great - good on him!!

Sweet meads Loppies!!

Would you believe it!! First early night in weeks, Ploppy listens to 5 Live in the other room while I nod off, & I hear muffled Lee tones... thought I was dreaming but no - they had a short interview & review at the after show party!! All is well for our boy, he was pretty up beat, show must go on etc, said he was really nervous earlier but seemed on quite a high & the reviewer said mixed opinions on the show but great energy & a "tremendous Joseph"! He sounded impressed anyhow, lets hope the others follow suit!!
Had to get up & share.....night all x
PS Googled Loppy earlier, dictionary definition: droopy & pendulous!!!!. Hmmm, may need to work on our branding.

Hello all you lovely Loppies out there (old and new alike)
Haven't been with you for a few days - "real life" took over I'm afraid (wots that all about!!??).
Have had a stressful few days, made worse by the fact that I have been unable to join you for my daily fix and to be cheered up.
It's taken ages to catch up but have now gone from being completely stressed out to having a feeling of calm and loppiness descend over me.
So much to catch up on, I don't know where to start, so I won't, I''l just say that I now have the biggest smile on my face that I've had in days. Those pics/vids - wow!!
So, thanks to all of you and your comments and links, I have now been restored to being one truly happy Loppy.
Thank you all. It's good to be back ladies!!

Its on News 24 right now

Ploppy read definition of loppy over my shoulder and went away sniggering!?!

Maybe we should take revenge by giving Ploppy the alternative definition of Particularly droopy and pendulous..

News 24 interview showed Lee smiling, described standing ovation, Lee said the audience very different but thrilled with SO, and always said if he had done his best he would be content. Nlow I really really am going to bed, perchance to dream

Shame about the set, but we know our GO can take it in his stride - one flash of that megawatt smile and he's got the audience in the palm of his hand (I imagine)!

Miri - I love Chess too, saw it as a student in Manchester many moons ago. I'd definitely be in with a chance to see GO in that if it ever happened as Chess just happens to be Ploppy's fav musical. Maybe Tim Rice is thinking of doing a revival? But I shall also add my vote (once more) to Les Mis, my second fav musical ever (after Joseph and on a par with JCS). Again, saw it as a student in Manchester (21st b'day pressie from boyf, now Ploppy). Whilst it would be great to see him as Marius, I think he would make a very engaging Enjolras with his brooding looks and dark curls - and we know he can run up that barricade with a rifle in his hands!!

Right now though, I'd settle for getting to see him in Joseph. Great to have all the new vid clips to go through. Have just watched the Diana performance and whilst extremely annoying that the camera cuts to audience in the final "amazing coloured coat", it is rather funny looking at the expression on the face of the posh woman standing next to the other posh woman singing her head off. She looks like she could cheerfully throw her over the balcony. Perhaps she's a loppy and was peeved at the GO being drowned out by her over-enthusiastic neighbour.

Well, I really should go to bed as it's very late for me - funny how I always go to bed so much later when Ploppy's away, nothing at all to do with loppiness..... Til next we post!

This is definitelee my last post tonight - honestlee! Have just looked at the index page for TV Today and can see a definite pattern emerging: all other stories have between 0 and 3 comments attached to them. Reality Checks has 495, well on the way to match One for the Loppies' 1042!!

Review from The Independent. Guess she's not a Loppy, but overall quite favourable.

http://arts.independent.co.uk/theatre/reviews/article2779469.ece

The man from The Times liked it

http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/stage/article2093549.ece

as did the man from The Sun

http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2007140001-2007330155,00.html

The Mail is quite positive

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/showbiz/reviews.html?in_article_id=469142&in_page_id=1924

But the Guardian were horrible so I'm not posting their link!!

Still 3 out of 4's not bad!!

Oops! just tried to post some more reviews but it got grabbed for approval. Probably didn't like me putting 3 links on, I'll try it again without the links. The Times & the Sun both gave very positive reviews .... The Mail gave a reasonable one .... and the Guardian were just downright rude. Note to the Guardian correspondent - the GO does NOT have "chubby thighs"!!

PLEASEE let the reviews be good! The set breakdown was a problem, but really shouldn't affect critique of performances! But you can never be sure what may trigger claws to come out. I have just been holding on to the idea that the critics will have 2 opportunities to diss reality show casting and they might just hold off for the second given the disparity of potential. I have already noticed that Paul Potts's cd offering has rightly received a drubbing, although I don't suppose that will affect sales.

And thank you JB for being nice! It doesn't surprise me though. Apart from the fact that I think he probably is a seriously nice guy (I love his zest for life), I still have a suspicion that he shared/shares a modicum of Lee obsession on the quiet! The photobucket album of John Barrowman photos that has now been made private, and was possibly never intended to be anything else, was interesting! The various sections, apart from the more personal ones of Scott and family and friends, were all only filled with photos of himself alone or himself with A N others. And that applied to the Maria show as well. The only exception was that sub folder re the GO and the huge quantity of photos there of him that were mostly screen captures, but not all.

Oh, and just for the record, did I not see somewhere that Lewis has been moved into The Sound of Music and the 16 going on 17 Hitler Youth boyfriend? I think he will be good!

Night all, or am I the only one up still? I have never been an early bird, but am contemplating bed now only because I want to be awake from 6.00 onwards for that first review on the TV!

Looks like I may be the last one to leave the party again...I do sleep, but my tendency to insomnia is increased by general feverishness re the GO and all things in loppyland atm!

Carol (think you are also Carolee?) I gave someone the tip re clearing cookies/refreshing etc some time ago and it worked for her but, alas, the problem more of us are having with the RUG and ALW sites seems insurmountable. Every link I've tried in 3 different browsers (Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox & Opera) times out. I have never had chance to get onto the sites to vote, so it can't be that. It's prob a deeplee technical thing that we can't begin to understand.

I have trailed round an exhibition all day today - feet like the Leettle Mermaid now, but the long read that is all today's postings has restored my zest! (like getting thro a paperback book each day!)

Am speechless about Shirley and Auds' meetings - with each other and the GO. How magical to meet kindred spirits in a loppyland that didn't even exist a few weeks ago!

Did anyone SEE the pic of Lee looking handsome in a black suit, sans curls, that I posted the link to (yesterday?). I thought he looked just as GOrgeous with a trendy haircut. Not sure if the link worked anyone??? Will post again if not.

Dreading the fingernails of spite being sharpened by those critics who are too cynical and world weary to just say "YES!" It wouldn't be cool for them to be hugely impressed and positive after all.

It could be a bit of a James Blunt situation...

Fingers crossed for tomorrow, that Alice is still in Wonderland, that Father Christmas is real, that the Easter Bunny has loppy ears...and that the critics will be as bowled over by the breathtaking talent as we all are.

PS...forgot to say another HUGE thankyou to Mead'sMistress for keeping me going with priceless downloads on her site, of all the things I can't get to see on the RUG and ALW sites. Thank you SOOOO much Donna - you're an absolute star!!! x

Jane1 - yes I am one and the same - home computer comes up with Carolee, office one with Carol! Just going to read reviews anywhere I can find them! Will catch up later with everything else. Ploppy in shower, so have just the brief "window of opportunity" now!! Speak later!

Several reviews on mu site.....

Some are good so not so good!

Critics - leave Lee's leg alone, they are how a man's legs should be!!!!!! Or else........

Thanks for the comment above Carolee! / Carol!

Several reviews on my site.....

Some are good so not so good!

Critics - leave Lee's leg alone, they are how a man's legs should be!!!!!! Or else........

Thanks for the comment above Carolee! / Carol!

Several reviews on my site.....

Some are good so not so good!

Critics - leave Lee's leg alone, they are how a man's legs should be!!!!!! Or else........

Thanks for the comment above Carolee! / Carol!

Joseph being reviewed on bbc breakfast at 6.50am!

Jane1, got link and loved pic, ta! Saw Jb pics on photobucket (before made private) and ordered a few, wasn't sure if it had gone through but they arrived yesterday. Am now drooling over them when ploppy at work!

I hope you're up and about? HE's on BBC1 NOW!

Got to work before 6.30 am to read the reviews and catch up as I'm away for next few days - great timing NOT! No internet until Sunday evening and possibly no TV for next couple of days. Help! Have programmed both videos at home to hopefully tape any programe which might include something on Joseph/Lee but bound to miss something.

Absolutely great news that there is going to be a cast recording! I can't wait. And if there is also a film/DVD of some sort that would be even better.

Someone asked about a link to 2004 reviews of Joseph tour. Not sure if this is the one referred to but this has several reviews: http://www.aord.co.uk/joseph/reviews.htm I think I've seen some more somewhere else as well.

Dilee, thankyou, that's what I originally found but couldn't remember where!

Just skimmed through the reviews via Donna's site (thanks again Donna) - pretty good all round. The Guardian gives a poor review but what's new; however the Times has some very nice comments.

Watch GMTV news at 7.30 and 8am for another look at last nights show + DVO

I did say things go in threes - the accident with the scenery, last week's problem and now last night. But hopefully that will be it and everything will run smoothly now.

I would also be surprised if Lee stays in Joseph after June. I'd go to see anything with Lee! I've already decided that if - no when - Lee is on Broadway, I'll go! Great to learn Lee already has support in North America.

Miri, I'm an ABBA fan too - I take it you've seen Mammia Mia - probably a silly question?

I'm proud to be a Loppy too! I like the idea of badges for the tearfest. How am I going to cope for five days with no Lee or Loppies?

Ok I dont get this. Why is it that the papers I usually buy are dissing him. And the Grauniad - shame - still they were consistent in getting it all wrong - say Joseph is only booking until January.

Thanks for the reviews Donna.. you are such a star.
I guess they have to find fault somewhere, but you gotta wonder why they feel the need to critisize body parts. Couldn't find fault with much else? Didn't want to be seen as a 'loppie'? Perhaps resentment that he's already 'done the West End'. But honestly, the GO is the GO and will get our adoration come what may, surelee?

My phone is hot this morning. My loppiness obviously hasn't gone unnoticed and friends and family keep ringing to tell me GO is on tv! I KNOW!!! BBC1 7.50am next apparently?
Read everything on Donna's site - THANKS Donna, don't know how you fit it in with family and teaching? But we're glad you do! You make everything so accessible for us-reviews, vids- don't know what I'd do without my (frequent) visits?

This may be old news but the Joseph site has now got a page for Reviews - hover the cursor over News and you get a dropdown menu of Joseph news, your reviews and archive news. Only one review there so far - Shirley, Auds, Donna, etc - how about forwarding your reviews?

...here I go again...my my, how can I resist you...!!!! Happily humming along to Mamma Mia at the mo, so pleased closet ABBA/Chess/mamma Mia fans are coming out of the woodworks!
CHUBBY THIGHS???? I'm speechless! One of the biggest problems I have currently is that I'm completly, totally unable to see anything other than perfection in the GO - have just read the Independent review which doesn't rate his voice...must have been at the wrong show!!!
Must go to work....must get something done today....must not obsess about getting more tickets today...must not worry about pc problems...
Loppies, have a great day!!

Unusually I put BBC breakfast on while I had mine, and saw that bit at 6.50, but sky+ should be recording the whole thing. (I forgot to check the recorder was running, as I was too busy watching the TV in the kitchen!!) Couldn't find the online reviews myself, thanks Donna for getting links out to them so soon.
Listened to radio 2 on the way into work, whatshername who does the slot to 7.30 mentioned the show and the reviews, she said Michael Billington (Guardian) seemed to have swallowed a lemon:))) but 4 stars overall. Lets face it, it's meant to be a lighthearted romp, so was never going to appeal to the Guardian, or be what they think their readers should like.

Just watched/recorded the piece on Breakfast (7.50am, so will probably crop up again before the end). They say they'll have their critic on soon giving her opinion.

Sarah Kennedy said this morning that the reviews seemed to all be positive except for the G------n's "chubby-thigh" remark - she wondered whether the critic had been sucking on an acid drop!

Will read through rest of reviews over on LMAS a bit later. Need to do motherly duties first!

OMG!! Wogan has just played "King of my heart" on the radio. So there MUST be a cast recording of some sort in existance

Nice review in Mirror: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/topstories/tm_method=full%26objectid=19472062%26siteid=89520-name_page.html

Plus separate piece on the technical hitch: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/topstories/tm_method=full%26objectid=19472060%26siteid=89520-name_page.html

The Telegraph has something but it's not a review: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2007/07/18/njoseph118.xml

Have just had a comment held - probably because of the links. The Mirror has a nice review and separate piece on technical hitch - go to www.mirror.co.uk and put Joseph in search box - Lee proves he's a winner and Any Dream will ....D'oh.

There's my memory for you, I said lemon, should have been acid drop.

I think the Times review is best, the Sun is so full of praise withour really saying anything, the Times praise is more 'reasoned' somehow, and therefore more worth having. I bought the Times and the Sun but haven't found anything in them, maybe too early an edition.

Good or not quite so enthusiastic, none of the critics seem to echo the misery in the What's on Stage forum, I'm glad to say.

Sorry Gilleean - didn't mean to highlight any memory lapses, your comment came up after I'd sent mine off!

Morning Loppies - not only was the GO on BBC (and they interviewed Anthony and Chris C as all the "boys" were there last night) but also a snip on GMTV - I was channel hopping before I came to the office and inadvertently stumbled on it. Ploppy says Sarah Kennedy saw the show on Monday and thought Lee was great! Trust the Gruniad - as they can never get anything right, I think we can ignore the "Chubby thighs" - this reviewer should get a life! Anyway the BEEB clip of the GO afterwards showed our lovelee Joseph still on a high and that's as it should be. Just going to check out the website reviews now....I'll be back!

Yesterday someone suggested I might like to organise the Loppy badges for the tearfest and my poor fevered brain has taken a grain of pollen and made a boulder out of it. No wonder I am not sleeping, it is in overtime mode. You have noticed I am a natural born stragegist and organiser, cant even hide it in a blogg.

I was thinking about the picture of Lee, and that it should be an original, never seen before, specially taken for the Loppies photo. Now how to achieve that? Obviously I have to talk to the person at his agent who now deals with all things Lee, but why is he going to talk to me? Then goes the brain, why just stop there? We are clamouring for a DVD from Joseph, we want ADWD material in a portable non techy form and so on and on and on.

Then in the Adelphi they were selling a Lee Mead tee shirt, but it was not classily produced like the Joseph stuff it just looked like a cheap and tacky - now I dont want them thinking that Lee stuff is not going to sell, but I am not buying trash.

Then I got to thinking about all the other Loppies out there who still think they are the only ones, the non 'connected' Loppies who dont even have a computer. How on earth are they coping? They are going to see Joseph, sure, but we know that just makes it worse, they need to know we are here. Everything so far is online - Lee's official site, Donna's wonderful site, the Livejournal, the Lovelees and us of course. Then I was looking at the number of hits each page on the forum Donna has set up, are getting. They are getting hundreds of hits, and my guess is just the same thing is happening here, if the number of hits/posts ratio remain anything like constant we are talking thousands here.

How it feels at the moment is that we are like ants in a huge field of grass. We are all leaping up and down shouting about what we want and the powers that be are starting to notice a strange background noise and throwing scraps of cake into the field to try and keep us happy, but they dont really know what we want. Now think of that wonderful duet between Lee and Josh Grobban - I am strong when I am on your shoulders, you lift me up to more than I can be. Take that literally for a moment. Now we are standing high above the grass telling them just what we want, not having to rely on their best guess. If we can demonstrate that we are talking for large numbers of people we will get to talk to the decision makers face to face.

But how to do that, we are such a disperate lot, and each with their own identities, Loppies are very different to Lovelees, and then there are the children who love Lee too. So we share a common interest but from a different perspective. While the traditional fan club had benefits it would not encompass all of our various needs and wants and is so last century. The obvious model that springs to mind is a Union. Even cogitated about a name Lee Supporters Union?

Historically stars and groups were very supportive of their fan groups/clubs, and I am sure Lee would love a way to communicate effectively with us all.

Lots of thoughts about how to do it securely and to make it safe, but we managed for the tearfest to exchange names and addresses without putting any of us at risk, so there are ways round these problems.

If I am totally out of me tree tell me and I will go away and sulk in a corner for a while, but I will bounce back so dont pull your punches.

Morning all. I was thinking positive thoughts for our GO all last night. The only review I've glanced at was in the Mail.Didn't think it was all bad but you've all done alot better. I think he said the GO is as beautiful as his coat. That coat as we've already decided is not at all beautiful so what does he know. I don't think I'll go out of my way to read any more.

I actually want fun from my entertainment so it sounds right up my street and nothing is going to dampen my spirits for Saturday. I don't go to the theatre a huge amount (I'm a Joseph virgin) but see a lot of films and have noticed that frequently the ones that get 5 star reviews can be really miserable. They may be very good but 9 times out of 10 when I've paid good money to see something I want to come out upbeat. Maybe I'm shallow but that's how I feel. I can get all the human misery I need from my job.

From what you are all saying the reviews seem to agree the GO is a star. It was obvious from the first time he appeared on the TV screen He walked in and even before he had sung I had a Denise Van Outen moment and said he'll win if he can sing. As Shirley said the camera loves him and he'll go far.

I'm Loppy and proud.

Think the Independant's angle is silly (last comment) and a tad irresponsible in today's world. Is reviewer frustrated political science major? Dig at ALW too, charming (not).

BBC Breakfast TV with children's excitement on going to show last night captured the point of it all.

In SW record sales for Joseph at Bath Theatre Royal reported.

Shirley as I was reading your last post and even before I got to the mention of a Union I thought was this lady ever a Union leader (take that as a compliment from me I may read the Mail but it's not my spiritual home.) It's a great idea but how to set it up isn't my bag at all.

Ohhhh. Two lovely telly reviews. Both the Beebs critic on Breakfast and ALW's daughter on GMTV were very positive and lovee footage of the GO. So enjoyed it for real, and lovely to be reminded of just how good he is. Even the loosing Josephs recognised what an enormous Leep forward he has made.

Lots of cheques/cash arriving. Thank yous to Carol, Debbie, Miri and Katie - teddy bears too from her! And of course into my own very sweaty mit on Monday from Auds.

Alison, actually I was always on the other side of the table in those negotiations, but always recognised and respected their prespective and take your comments as a huge compliment. thanks.

I'm at risk of starting up an appreciation society for Shirley here - you're such a wordsmith and so eloquent with your writing!! I see what you mean - I always find that the best ideas come gradually, but you're spot on about making a noise... realistically I suppose some of the current so called "Lee fans" might gradually fall away with the advent of the "next big thing" (what I mean is, in a very roundabout way, is I guess some people love the novelty for a while and then decide to go on to other things) but I find that because Loppies, whom I identify with so completly, tend to look at Lee from totally different angles than so many other "fan clubs", we look like we're going to be here for the long haul. And there are bound to be more people out there like us, who just don't know how to access information on Lee and the show, or just don't have a place to come to share their feelings and dreams...I feel truly blessed to have stumbled across you guys when I did! I'd love to belong to a "union" or a "society" which gave us access and info without being overwhelming or scary or fanatical...I'm sure there's a way around it!
I truly hope the powers that be (ie ALW, RUG, Lee's Agents etc) log onto this site every once in a while, because they would get some great ideas and also appreciate just how much support there is out there for Lee and his future career... let alone opportunities to expand all this further...!

Shirley, you are a born organiser, go for it, I wouldn't know where to start to be honest but I'm happy to follow orders!

Miri, I'm with you on the appreciation club for Shirley. Such a 'bigger picture' thinker.

Yippee. Took a day off work for scollop's sports day but have just been told that it's cancelled as the sports field is still waterlogged so I have a whole free day. Now .. should I be good & spend the time catching up on all those littel jobs around the house? Or should i make the most of unrestricted Loppytime? Hmm .... lets see ... No contest really!!
Shirley, I like the idea of a union as an umbrella organisation for all the different fan groups, allowing each to retain their separate identities & demographics, but I don't envy you trying to set it up. The amount of work involved just networking with the other groups to see if they'd be interested would be horrendous.
I still think the idea of a Loppy badge is a good one. It would give us a foolproof way of recognising each other at shows etc. Agree that the pictiure used should be unique to us. It may be worth our while contacting Lee's agent anyway. After all, we're well on our way to filling a second page of Scott's wonderful blog and have the Wikki entry so they can see we are already becoming a force to reckoned with. What have we got to loose?

Am just reading through some of the reviews - the Independent mentions the presence a plot synopsis in the programme. I seem to recall all the programmes I have from my trips to Joseph include a plot synopsis and I never saw a problem with that. If you've never seen it before (and it seems there are many that haven't) then it serves as a junior school Scripture/RE refresher of the story. It doesn't mean that you won't have a clue what's going on just by the show alone. I'm sure as Lee settles into the role over the next few months he will develop his portrayal of Joseph with subtle changes perhaps. As people have already pointed out: high-brow theatre this ain't; it's a hand-clapping, toe-tapping, feel-good two hours of absolute energy, joy and fun. You only have to look at people coming away from the theatre every night (wherever it's on) with huge smiles and humming/singing the songs.

One of the other critics talks about the different song styles as bizarre, as if he hadn't expected them. But those songs have been around for well over 30 years so won't be surprising to a large proportion of the audience.

Sorry if I'm starting to ramble and I was given fair warning not to bother reading the reviews, but I did want to temper my loppiness with a more balanced, pragmatic view. Should have realised though, loppiness is the way to go as far as Joseph is concerned and pragmatism just doesn't have any right to get involved!

Let's face it, the critics can hardly fly too much in the face of massive ticket sales and the GO's huge popularity and, more importantly, talent.

Rant over, must tidy house! (Also, this has taken so long to type, there's probably a good dozen more comments to be read.)

Re contacting each other, Donna has an email link at her site to a hotmail address obviously set up just for Lee type stuff, not her personal email, so Shirley could do something similar. I belong to an MSN group where an email address can be made public as part of your profile, but only to other members of the group, and membership can be, well, moderated, for want of a better word, so people can't join just to 'harvest' the email addresses.
I also belong to another forum, which is purely email. Members email their comments/questions and those emails automatically go to all the members, and any replies are seen by all the members. Emails/replies on the same topic turn into threads. The organisation that runs it holds the email addresses securely. This is a 'proper' organisation, you have to pay money to join, and it has a public website to attract interest as well as the members private email forum.

I'm not suggesting either is the way, and I have no idea how to set up either, just a few thoughts into the pool.

Morning Fellow Loppies - back again. The critics seem to be having a dig at ALW and the actual show itself (critics seem to hate success!). Just remember when it was written ALW was the same age as Keith the Teeth! As I mentioned earlier it didn't set out to be pretentious and arty - part of its charm is that is has some many lovelee different styles in it - french bistro, cowboy howdown etc. etc. Those of you who haven't seen the show before please don't be put off by the reviews - it is fantastic fun. In fact, what's not to like about it! Apart from which it's leading man is a born natural star. As those of you that have been with the blog for a while may recall I do Amdram and we once had a review from a NODA rep (National Operatic & Dramatic Association for the unenlightened) who obviously decided he didn't like our director and made this fatuous comment "you will appreciate that the plaudits of your own in-house audience may not be a fair-market view of reality" - i.e. the paying audience who really loved the show (and some came back twice) didn't know what they were talking about!

OK got that off my chest (or ample bosom) - Shirlee quite agree with everything you say - I was thinking that we could be LUST - Lee Umbrella Support (but that would give the wrong idea about us!). I'm all for badges if we can get them done (know some sites who produce badges for our shows), so now it's red, black, or bright colours, pink bunny ears and badges for the Tearfest......do you think anyone will notice us?

Another big thanks to Donna for the website - she's a marvel. Ooops boss wants work done, better go for the minute!

Miri, I think you're right about other GO fans, some will drop off quite quickly (when the initial hype dies down) others a bit further down the line (maybe after they've seen the show?) but us loppies are here to stay for the long haul. We are following Lee's career as it rises, not just hanging onto the coat tails of a tv reality prog. I hope this will be recognised by ALW/RUG etc.

I had butterflies all day yesterday thinking about the first night, I just can't imagine how Lee can have been feeling, I know he's a pro with lots of experience and confidence in his own ability but still what an ordeal.

However as expected he rose to the challenge ( thanks DONNA for your great site with the reviews on so quickly) but really what is the matter with that set, after last week you would have thought they'd have had it failsafe, no wonder ALW looked like thunder.

The GO seems a very private person and don't you think he's proably longing for all the interviews and publicity to die down and just have some peaceful days with a calm performance in the evening? Or maybe I'm quite wrong and he's loving it all and been wanting this for years. He's been under such pressure for so long that he must be exhausted,Oh dear,I'm coming over all maternal!

Thanks again to Shirley, I'm sure the Loppies have a great future with all your energy and ingenuity to steer us along.

Shirley, forgot to say I didn't like Lee t-shirts on sale at Adelphi either, also they don't cater for those of us with more generous proportions!! (although I have just gone down a dress size and feel I have loppies to thank as I'm too busy blogging to pick at anything!)

Woke up to the GO this morning after falling asleep with him last night - only in the radio sense but still, theres worse ways to be woken.
Im so glad most of the reviews are positive and seem to appreciate the show & GOs multiple plus points, the woman I heard confessed to being "a little bit obsessed" so her review was definitely Loppy-esque. Chunky thighs indeed....
Havent managed to catch up with all your posts yet so not sure whats going on, it may just be still a little early for me!! Will revise & catch up later.

Some very,very bad reviews of the musical Kismet nearly put me off going recently. That together with the fact that it was the day after the failed car bombs. However I really loved the show, it was very uplifting and I'm so glad I didn't let the critics spoil it for me. My husband who has had a stroke sang all the songs on the way home. I am so glad I am taking him to Joseph (hence the front row stalls for the wheelchair) I know he will love it. Plus our son was once in a school production, it may jog his memory. I shall not be taking much notice of the critics this time, I only have to listen to Lee singing with Josh to know how good he is, I prefered Lee's voice. I too would love to see him in West side story.

http://www.whatsonstage.com/index.php?pg=207&story=E8821184748025&title=Joseph+%26+the+Amazing+Technicolor+Dreamcoat

Dont know if the above will work but heres quite a positive one from our friends at Whats on Stage ... thighs get a mention again! You notice no metion of rippling abs, manly pecs and general all round deliciousness?! Jealous? Surely not!!

Nicki, link worked, thanks - it saved me searching myself. I think the show will just get better now the pressure of 1st night is off, GO can now get on with what he does best! More criticism seems to have been directed at the show itself and the set rather than Lee himself, and even then it has been about his hair, thighs etc. I loved it and even if I hadn't been before it wouldn't put me off. We are the true critics, I don't just mean us loppies but the paying audience, keep writing the reviews!

Just dashed out to buy all the papers - stupid me also bought the Times even though my parents get that and are keeping it for me. So pleased for Lee that the reviews are generally good.

Will be back on Monday by which time no doubt I'll have a lot of catching up to do!

Hi Pauleene, hope you and hubby have a wonderful time and really feel part of the action on the front row - even with the orchestra in between you and them! I was on the front row for a production of Arthur Miller's 'The Crucible' years ago at Sheffield's Crucible octagonal theatre, and it was so gripping I lierally felt as if I was about to be dragged out of my seat and accused of witchery!

I totally agree with you about Lee's voice over Josh Groban's. I do really like Josh, but there was a tenderness and soaring purity in Lee's rendition that effortlessly transcended the lines Josh sang. Have heard lots of other versions of this song (Westlife, Russell Watson, Brian Kennedy etc etc) and I have to say that Lee's voice and interpretation of the lines he sang are by far the most spell-binding and beautiful. (From a purely selfish point of view, maybe Josh should have picked Keith instead?!)

Could I ask a favour of some kind fellow loppy please? Would someone post the contact email addresses of both RUG and ALW sites on here for me, so I can report to them the problems more and more of us are having, in being unable to EVER access their sites. If there are 3 of us here who can't get on, there must be many, many more in the outside world!

...the review from The Stage is on the front page (www.thestage.co.uk).

(Editor's amendment: direct link to the review: http://www.thestage.co.uk/reviews/review.php/17449/joseph-and-the-amazing-technicolor-dreamcoat )

Jane1, I can still get onto both ALW and RUG sites at the moment, but I must be incredibly thick 'cos I can't find any email addresses anywhere only postal ones! I've signed up for both newsletters but have received nothing so far. Sorry, maybe someone else can find them?

Jane1 try "online_team@reallyuseful.co.uk" it's worth a try?

Can't see one on Joseph the musical, but there's this for RUG
Online_Team@reallyuseful.co.uk

Thanks Alee/ and Gilleeean for your suggestion re RUG, don't know about you Jane1 but this didn't work for me, got a few sites listed but still unable to get into them grrrrr.!

All my sites seem to be working today. I did clear the cache and history if that helps.
Seems to be some good reviews! Shame about the technical hitch but of course that didnt phase Lee!
Good news about a cast recording too! Just need to work on a DVD!! And I havent got to see the show yet! But am going next week.

Jane1 et al - I can still access both sites, but can't see an email address - there is a "Contact Us" which just produces an autoreply but that's not much use if you can't access the web in the first place. Assume you all done the delete from browser, delete cookies, delete history and refresh options? Have you tried as a link from Donna's page - that usually works for me??

Still no mention of a cast recording on the site by the way!

Thanks guys...I'll give it a go!

Alee, Glad you liked the curl-free pic. Sometimes feels a bit like sending a message in a bottle on here as so much is posted!

'Critics' are paid to criticise I suppose, or they'd be called 'Appreciators' but maybe some of them are being lukewarm just BECAUSE the audiences are so boiling hot. Sadly, I know from my own singing experiences that if everyone is applauding enthusiastically except one person, it's that person's face that sticks in your mind. Hopefully Lee will be a bit more philosophical and listen mainly to the people who really matter - the paying public.

One critic (can't remember which) singled Dean Collinson's Elvis number out as a real highlight, while Michael Billington slated it. Nuff said!

And I think the word 'chubby' in relation to Lee's thighs (apart from being rude and irrelevant) was just a jealous man's way of saying 'very muscular'! Let's face it, Michael Billington could have been the original model for 'Mr Potato Head' so he's not going to wax lyrical about Lee's loveliness!

I think these guys/gals who are managin only the briefest comment on the GO are just too scared to say anything really really good about the Chosen One in case they show their own 'loppieness'. The Stage reviewer gets a bit of a 'dig' (I thought) at his arrogance [where? pray tell?] with just a snippit of nice stuff about his voice... then prattles on about a tried and tested format - "grew tired for the format"! Jeez, how pretencious. Well, I suppose it is the SHOW they're reviewing - but this is one with a difference. And what's the 'whatsonstage' reviewer like? Beastiality! Crikey, I'd rather admit to being a Loppie than THAT!!
Me? Got the goat? What makes you think that? Eejits.

ladies go to nicki link at 10. 53 am then on the right hand side click wos tv and you will get openingnight t v footage it is at the bottom of the page . enjoy

Gem & Carol, thanks...have tried EVERYTHING over the past two weeks! If I could the PC a constipation remedy to clear it out I would!

I even went on a site that posts in deep techno speak and downloaded a little programme that was supposed to help fix it, but to no avail. I've clicked links on everyone else's sites and tried sneaking up on both RUG and ALW sites under the cover of darkness, in the early hours, hoping they wouldn't notice me slipping thro, but have been thwarted and foiled in every desperate effort :-(

I'll email online_team@reallyuseful.co.uk and see if they have any suggestions...

Jane1, it is very annoying, and I only had problems for one day! I did try turning my 'phishing filter' off too as that was making alot of things slow. Not that I have any idea what its suppose to do!
maggieee, finally got to that footage, took me a couple of clicks, and everyone seemed to love it! Well done Lee!

I have just been on the Amazon site trying to spend a few quid to make up an order for free delivery. I came across a skin fat measurement caliper - I used to use these to measure body fat when I was in health promotion. I offer myself to measure the GO's thighs!!!!( just think I used to get paid for grabbing mens thighs- I'm sure I could be re-trained!!!!) I hope this reads as it's intended!!!

Just goes to show how people, especially critics, can disagree with each other, MB in the guardian says lee misses the 'element of self satisfaction', for which I read arrogance, and 'the Stage' sees the arrogance needing a touch of warmth. I guess they cancel each other out:))
The Whats on Stage reveiwer amused me with his 'mums will like him and other older women find him sexy'. Sorry, but the Mum's - of all ages - find him sexy too!!
I think from his comments beforehand, Lee is more sanguine about the the critics than we are on his behalf. Or at least, he knows rationally he ought to be, whether it works in practice, when you are the lead, don't know. There are some artists that just never read them.
Still, that hurdle is over now. Until his next lead role.

Hi all, seems a long way back up the page but has anyone seen the Telegraph review by Charles Spencer http://www.telegraph.co.uk/arts/main.jhtml?xml=/arts/2007/07/18/btjoseph118.xml

Pretty positive (and he even voted for Lee - does that make him a Cloppy?!) I think the comments of some reviewers do smack of slight jealousy of the GO's amazing talent (and physique maybe?), but at least most seem to recognise that although he took an unusual route to audition for the part he is a real pro and deserves his opportunity. I dread to think how Keith or Lewis would have coped with the technical hitches...

I've just spent 45 minutes on the Kids Week website trying to book tickets and eventually got some for my Dollop and me to see Mamma Mia in August plus a meet the cast Q & A session. Fantastic! Dollop wanted to see this or Lion King or Joseph but was complaining that she would prefer not to see Joseph three times (as we're going in Jan and have seen the touring production) but sadly all Lion King and Joseph tickets had gone . Now have RSI in both wrists from repeatedly clicking on book tickets on site and pressing redial on phone with other hand!! The things we do for MT!

BTW Shirley, I, too, am an admirer (like Miri) of your unfailingly eloquent posts and your obvious organisational ability. I think an umbrella organisation of Lee fans is a fantastic idea. Can't remember who said about linking to Donna's website but she is very good at keeping us all up to date and I think that Lee's people should understand that her site provides a much more informative service than theirs does currently.

I'm sure that Loppies are here for the long run, as we all clearly wish to see the GO in whatever productions he does, but do understand that some fans may drop off as time goes by and (maybe) a new reality TV star appears. I hate mentioning that phrase in the same breath as the GO, because he does not fit that category, having the talent to ensure longevity in his chosen career, but I suspect some fans follow the latest star and then switch.

Probablee missed loads of posts now becasue it has taken so long to type. Clearlee need a touch typing course to be a true Loppy!!

'Not only Joseph but The Great British musical star we've been waiting for' Bill Kenwright speaking on that link Maggee gave us. Now who can he possibly be talking about. He may have been wrong about Lee in the past, but BK is very gracious in defeat.

Glad I got in my leg comments yesterday. Feel no need whatsoever to defend them today. Who needs to defend perfection.

...just seen the preview on What'sonStage.com and noticed Jason Donovan damning with faint praise while Jess Grandad, I mean Conrad, claimed Bill said he'd had a better body!

Oh dear, jealousy seeping out of so many male pores. This contrasts with the lovely Donny Osmond (also a GO in his time) who stood up first, with his family, to gave a standing ovation as Lee rose up to the dress circle. He also looked more happy and relaxed, being onstage with Lee at the Diana concert, while Jason was busting a gut, giving himself a hernia trying to match Lee's HUGE last note in ADWD!

Phew! Caught up at last. Just been watching the video too, Jane1, agree totally with your comments re jealous men!! AM just off to trawl other sites for full updates. Back later.

Charles Spencer, what a dear dear man.. Now that's the review that was needed. Seeing the video of the opening night footage was also somewhat comforting. The bit where the GO is speaking to camera (obviously at after party) about working out every day I believe is the most relaxed interview I've seen him give. In my opinion of course. My god but that boy is beautiful.
I was glad to also see his Joseph 'house buddies' were suitably impressed and a little grateful if wasn't them??

oops - type spotted I was glad to also see his Joseph 'house buddies' were suitably impressed and a little grateful IT wasn't them??

Have just been doing a quick recap on the reviews and comments about last night in the papers, and can't help but think that virtually all negative comments of Lee are somehow linked with the phrase "Winner of tv's ADWD". I think a huge amount of critics feel that the way Lee got the part makes him an easier target, as alot of them would have to capitulate big time if they admitted that a so-called reality tv winner (man, I hate that phrase!!) has not just done well but is every bit as talented and charismatic (if not more so, I'm biased, I know, but that's just the way I am...) as MT stars who might have got their parts in more conventional ways. The reviews, like someone earlier pointed out, sway so much from one extreme to the other (too arrogant/not arrogant enough/ weak voice/strong voice/blah blah/blah blah) that I think it just confirms what we all knew to be true anyway; Lee is fab in the part of Joseph. It's his first starring role - I'm certain he'll develop even more skills as time goes on, as does anyone new to a job. It's a great show, it's fun and bouncy and happy, but he has yet to show us exactly what he's capable of in even meatier roles, and this show is preparing him brilliantly for those. Critics always hate eating humble pie, so they'll have a dig at anything they possible can, trying to prove a point. I personally dislike critics with a passion - I'm about building people up rather than knocking them down, so critics go against everything I stand for!

Lee is adored by the general public and nothing will change that unless he went all Darren Day on us, which I somehow don't think will ever happen! The man can sing, dance and act and somehow manages to combine that with coming across as down to earth and humble, likable and self effacing. It's not "cool" to admit the general public got it sooo right! As for the production/stage malfunction - hey, you've said it all and I totally agree with your views and have nothing more to add!

There!! I've said my bit, and short of sending all the negative reviews back to the writers covered in red marker pen and corrections in the margins (which is tempting but you'll be glad to know won't happen!) I'll make do with venting my spleen with my Loppy-friends happy in the knowledge that we know we're right!!

Agree 100%, Donny Osmond so genuinely supportive, gave him a little encouraging pat on the back when he was looking terrified at the Diana do, Jason didnt even give him eye contact and almost exploded on that last note in his (pitiful) efforts to outshine the GO. Think he was a Keith supporter anyway (Oh God, can you imagine what might have been), & I saw him in Joseph and he really wasnt very good.
And Im not just saying that, he seems (usually) like a nice enough guy, I just always thought he was overrated. I saw a small touring production around the same time he was on in the West End & the Joseph in that was far better.
Cant remember Jess Grandad, before my time I think. Amazing what the green eyed monster can do!!

Thanks Alison2! Just wanted to add that I have given far more credence to the reviews posted here by those of you who have already been to see the show (a week on Friday for me!). They have been decidedly more thoughtful, insightful and genuine than many of the critics' reviews.

Well done ladies - you have made me long to see the show even more than I already do.

Yes Audlee, they did look *gulp* relieved...except Craig of course!! And I agree that interview about working out was the most relaxed Lee's ever seemed. And of course I agree about him being sooo beautiful... soooo GOes without saying!

OMG...I must get some proper work done!

Aaaargh, internet searching interrupted by visit from non-loppy friend!! Not the type to be converted though and anyway, I quite like my own private mini-obsession for now.

Isn't it strange that beautiful is the word used to describe him when, conventially, it should be handsome? The word just seems to fit perfectly though...

Must go, shopping to unpack, daughter's dance shoes to dye, hubby's birthday presents to wrap...real life gets in the way doesn't it?!!

I've just bought an Evening Standard with front page banner
"WAS JOSEPH SABOTAGED?"The article inside says there is a dispute with stagehands over pay and conditions, I would think it unlikely, most probably cockup rather than deliberate but some people can't resist a good conspiracy theory.
Nicholas de Jong says GO "flaunts the smallest ego of any Joseph I have seen" which I thought at first was complimentary but then goes on to say "his Joseph looms small, faint and insignificant when not singing" which I find hard to believe as I could never take my eyes off him when he was on the stage.

"Small, faint and insignificant when not singing".........??????????????????????? Eh????????? I really do think he saw a different show to me. ...must try hard not use bad language... even the guys in the audience on the night I was there were raving on about how fantastic Lee was! I always used to hold Donny Osmond as the gold standard of Josephs (Jason was just a bit too Stock Aitken and Waterman for me...sure he's a very nice man though...) until Lee came along because he is just the whole package. i don't think the entire nation, Loppy or non-Loppy can be so blind or biased!!!!! Grrrrrrr!!!!!!!!

How can the Daily Mail review claim that he doesn't move particularly well??? It was his ability to move well that showed through week after week in ADWD. I haven't seen the show yet, but can't believe that paralysis has set in!!! ( remember the stairs that he ran up and down, and his dancing with the Josephines? He made it all look so effortless. AND singing so expressively at the same time. AGHHHH!!

Just contemplating Alison2's comment re usage of the word Handsome (or lack of use) in respect of all things GO. The first thing that comes to mind when using that word is the saying "Handsome is as Handsome does", which to me is an attitude that I do believe the GO possess. And the word Beautiful has a sort of purity ring to it.. waddaya think ladyees?
I was also mulling over the phenomenon that is the Chosen Ones fan base.. What is it that has thousands of us all drooling over him (in a fairly proper fashion)? Bill Kenwright was definitely on the right track, but perhaps in all of his political correctness there was one thing he couldn’t really say.. Our first home grown British STRAIGHT and truly HUNKY Star/Leading man come kind human being.

I never really like Nicholas de Jong's reviews before this - his upper regions to far up his nether regions for my liking - and this just confirms it more for me. They complain like bilio that he was already a professional before winning, then slam the heck out of him because he's not experienced enough... Perspective. Perspective please journalists!

I thought I'd calmed down... obviously not enough.

Does anyone have a link to the Mirror review? I cant find it and it sound good from the bits I have heard. Incidentally just in case anyone has not seen the BBC review yet they are playing it every hour on News 24. It has that lovely interview with Lee right after he came off stage. Gosh, given that it is Wednesday are they in the middle of the matinee already?

Auds, I put a little package in the post to you today. Hopefully it will arrive in the morning, and they will not have bent it.

Pauleene, rest assured HE does move very well indeed, the pit scene with the snake being just one example. However, he is not a "greedy" leading man and is happy for the spotlight to be on the rest of the (excellent) cast when appropriate.

Shirley, Dilee has Mirror link at 8.17am!

Auds, hear,hear! love your comment about upper and nether regions, may have to borrow that one sometime! Forgot about matinee in all the excitement, hope GO really enjoys it. It would be a shame if he tried too hard to please the critics. Somehow I don't think he will, he has too much integrity (is that the word I'm looking for?). Wish I could write as effortlessly as you Shirley, I know what I want to say but never translate it to the page as well as I'd like! But I'm sure you all get the gist?

If any of you are still having problems accessing video or any part of the RUG Website or JOSEPH official Website please email me or postin the RUG message board (if you can post) and I will be happy to help you.

The one thing about the videos I have found is if you have an old version of Quicktime then you must upgrade. If you are fine there open your Quicktime first and then try to play the video. They do take a while to open. I had one take longer than others.

Sorry I only saw someone say they had problems. I can't remember who or what the problem is...but I am always willing to help.

The JOSPEH thread I have about the videos you can post in there on the RUG message board and I can post about your porblems. I also will say if you do not have DSL or a fast internet service you may not be able to get the files open.

Yours,

Carolyn

My apologies in advance, lovely Loppy-ladies, because I know I'm being rather vocal today, but for some reason this whole opening night review thing has got me going and also made me rather protective of GO, as I notice it has for a few of us....
Audlee, with you completley. When I saw him "for real" beautiful was the first word that sprang to mind. "Handsome "suits a more rugged face, "pretty" describes someone like - oh, like Lewis, say - and "beautiful" is the best of both. Just like Lee. (sigh)
I think you hit the nail on the head with regards the reasons for his fan base...he's straight. He's hunky. He's beautiful. And he's the kind of guy your mum and dad would have adored if you'd taken him home to meet the parents (certainly compared to some of the questionable characters I introduced my parents to!) but there's something a bit naughty about him as well which is kind of nice. Kind of.
(deeper sigh)

Pauleene - trust me - the man can move. He can dance while he sings and acts - and watch him go in the megamix!!!!!

I'll second that Alee, in case anyone is minded to believe the critics forget it. He moves like a dream - does the twist right at the front of the stage too. My feeling exactly Alee, he was indeed a generous leeding man. Not inappropriately, but not trying to upstage when he shouldn't. Think it is probably just another of those things he could not win, if he had been more pushy that would have been wrong too. In my not at all humble opinion he did a fantastic job, I loved the show, and am more than happy to stump up the readies to keep right on going. And as for saying that it looks likely to be a success - excuse me here but £10M in advance sales and a 6 month extension. What exactly does constitute a success.

Afternoon loppies!!

Hope everyone is well, welcome to new loppies too, how brilliant we are international too!!

Well ive managed to read all posts today and have even made notes so I don’t miss anything out!! Well prob will have by now as I started typing this a while ago. Really feel out of touch at the mo, in regards to clips, reviews etc etc, as after ive caught up with you it doesn’t leave me much chance, but thanks to you lovely ladies I am kept informed and will catch up next weds when ploppy is away!! I really need to get back into the routine I was in before Florence ( GO I agree looks a tad david esque!!!!) , maybe next week when I’m manning the office on my own I will get chance to indulge during work time!!

Well here goes- sorry If I miss anyone out!

Shirllee and Auds, what great reviews and star spotting, and how fabulous you have had the first loppy meeting too! And to get to chat to him too….. call me insane but I thought that’s how he would smell!??

Loppy ears- great that would be so funny!!! Im so hoping that I can come next year!! And hurrah for the cd, but would prefer dvd!!!

Alison2- I too agree that October is too far away and have the same prob as you, with having to have a hotel too to pay for!! You lovely ladies are getting me through the long months though.

Shirley- I bow down to you, you are amazing and seem to put into words exactly how we feel, I am too classed as the organising one at home/work in my own unique style of course, but you are in another league entirely. I am up for anything that goes on. We want to be taken seriously and admire Lee for being Lee the performer, tis not just a passing phase!!

I was thinking of them all at the aldephi last night, oh no to hear about the mishap, but they are professionals for a reason, and pleased it went well otherwise. Well done cast and mr Mead!!!

Miri etc- I too love chess, my am dram group did it a few years back before I was an adult member , they were the first northern group to do it, it was brill, I was helping sell programmes and watched it every night. My dad had a small part in it too.

I have made a discovery that I can see this site on my mobile ( I knew there was a reason why I had a techie phone other than for Bluetooth purposes for work calls) , so can catch up a bit easier sneakily even if I cannot post. This is going to come in handy next weekend when I am under sufferance having to go on a hen night to Dublin on friday, its under sufferance as I have to go as its my future sister in law, and its going to be the whole ‘hen do’ hog with dressing up etc, which tbh is not my thing. Think we are angels, maybe I’m the devil in disguise!!!

Had a bridesmaid dress fitting this morning so really should get on with some more work then its off to ballet tonight too!!

Oh yeah one last point- , joseph tis a fun show surely ? and not meant to be taken so seriously, as Ive mentioned before Ive not seen it before as there has been many other shows on my priority list, Ive been in it too many times to mention, as a child and adult, but all I can remember is that each time Ive done its been so enjoyable, and the audience and cast have a whale of a time!!

Have a good evening ladies, see you tom.

I've read a bit more of "The Standard" now and there is rather a nice quote from Tim Rice about our GO:-

"I just hope the public don't take anything away from the boy because he was found off the TV programme as he truly is a star and he will only get bigger from now on"
Do you think this is directed at the critics really?.

Thanks for the offer of help in getting on to RUG, ALW and Joseph sites, CarolynW, I don't think i can reach message board as can't access any of these sites at all, how should I e-mail you?

ERROR ERROR. I MEANT TO SAY The first thing that comes to mind when using that word is the saying "Handsome is as Handsome does", which to me is an attitude that I DON'T believe the GO possess

My personal email that I use on the RUG message board should come up when you click on my name on this blog...if not here it is: carolynw_poto@yahoo.com

If you can't get into the RUG message board then there is more problems than just the video viewing.

If you can get to the JOSEPH Website to try and load them then you should be able to get to the message board on RUG.

The message board is under join in (you must be registered for the message board). The join in that you did for the JOSEPH Webiste may allow you access if not it is not that hard to register.

Anyway, just email me and I will try to help you. I worked as an Administrator of a publishing system before I retired. I do all my own website stuff and also have learned through my own problems loading videos how it can be a bother.

Just an FYI. The less you email the Online Team at this time the better. They are busy working on getting new photos and other news out to all of you and others for the various shows, specially JOSEPH.

Those of you who have seen the show or are able to see it are lucky. Living in the US I am sad that I cannot enjoy the show. Seeing Tim Rice on stage in the video on ALWs site made me sad. JOSEPH is one of my favorite shows.

Anyway, I do look in at this page a few times a day and just came back to see if anyone needed help. I do not like scrolling bbs or blogs as they call them now. Also, using this to help someone is not the easiest way. That is why I asked anyone having problemsto email me or post on the RUG message board. Sometimes others can help you also as they may have had the same problem, and just figured out how to get the videos to load.

Yours,

Carolyn

Couldn't agree more with the comments about how appropriate the adjective 'beautiful' is for the GO. It seems to sum up the loveliness of his features but in a masculine, not feminine way (a la Lewis's cheekbones). Lee always seemed to move so well about the stage on ADWD and his acting was so good that you didn't notice he was acting (in contrast to some of the other boys).
It is truly hard to believe that all that ability could just vanish over night.

I am still convinced that jealousy is at the heart of some of the critics' reactions, both of how he won the role and his lovely voice and ability to mesmerise his audience (and all Loppies!). Clearly all the Loppies that have already had the privilege of seeing the show have been spellbound by our GO's performance and had a thoroughly enjoyable evening. And after all, that is what it's all about surelee!! We pay our money to go and watch some very talented people entertain us and transform our lives away from the humdrum everyday reality. This is a special gift and one to be cherished, not mocked or to be envious of it.

Sorry, just realised I'm quite annoyed by the unnecessary sniping - just hope that the GO has enough industry experience to look at all the reviews calmly and know that we, the paying public, know that he's a star!

Oh, OK. Maybe I will buy the Standard again. I really like what Tim Rice says. I think that these are the guys we should be listening too (if we felt we really needed to) re the GOs future. They're the ones that REALLY matter and should KNOW.

Just had a look at the touring Joseph reviews from the link above, somewhere, gutted that one came near me and I missed it, ploppy not keen on going to musicals, but given the reviews the GO got for these performances I'm even more baffled he wasn't given more than just understudy roles afterwards. He did say somewhere that he didn't meet Bill Kenwright except one flying visit, so I daresay if BK didn't see him with his own eyes, performing, but still, someone should have.

However, Joseph is clearlee a role Lee wanted to do, and if he had had a reallee good part when the auditions were announced he may never have gone for it. He would still have become a star, I've no doubt, but this way he gets his 'Joseph' ambitions out of the way before he goes on to bigger things. So I expect it was all meant to be.

For those that can get to the message board, you may be interested in seeing the review by one of the fan volunteer moderators. She got to go to opening night.

link to my email address just click here

Yours,
Carolyn

Forgot to say, if Lee had become a star in the normal way, we wouldn't have got to know him in the more in depth way that we have done, because of ADWD, may not have become the theatre goers we are clearlee gojng to become, so it wasn't just meant to be, but all for the best for all of us.
Now I wonder if I can make 2 consecutive posts?

Forgot to say, if Lee had become a star in the normal way, we wouldn't have got to know him in the more in depth way that we have done, because of ADWD, we may not have become the theatre goers we are clearlee going to become, so it wasn't just meant to be, but all for the best for all of us.
Now I wonder if I can make 2 consecutive posts? It wouldn't let me this morning.

Hi all
Yahooooooo - my signed photo has just arrived (after a week and half - was beginning to fret ever so slightly) and is now sat in my briefcase waiting to be taken to work and put up on my noticeboard - not much work will be done now methinks for gazing at said pic. Like the idea tho of what someone said (much) earlier about sneaking him home for weekend visits, although thanks to you lot and to Donna's site my laptop is now awash with Lee stuff.
Have to agree 100% that beautiful is the word that describes him perfectly.
I was also surprised to read the comment about him "moving" as one of his strengths on ADWD, I thought, was how he moved around the stage so I'm pleased to hear from tbose of you who have been that he can certainly move it and shake it.

Obviously I can make consecutive posts, in fact you got both the one I thought I'd stopped, and the typing corrected version:)) Sorry!

I wonder if his Mum reads any of these posts. If she does, I hope she doesn't get too upset. I'd like to think that our 'restrained' compliments for the GO would make her more proud of her boy (as if she could be more proud). If he was mine I would be busting a gut with pride.

Carolyn, I couldn't upload quicktime last night but tried 1st thing this morning and had no problem. Have now watched the vids on Joseph site (several times!) but thanks for the post, nice to know we can all help each other out!

Must go and cook some supper, its so annoying that family want to eat EVERY day!
Don't forget Front Row radio4 at 7.15, I usually like Mark Lawson, hope he doesn't blot his copybook this evening.
Oh ,just this second heard GO's on BBC1 London news at 6.30, supper will have to be late!

Well if she does read it, I have to say that his parents brought him up really well. He's unassuming, and polite and grounded, and if he wasn't we wouldn't all like him so much, and worry for him about the reviews etc, regardless of his good looks and talent. It's the whole package.