Although it came after Musicality, which has good claim to be the original musical theatre reality show, it was the BBC’s How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? which turned the selection process over to the public and triggered a series of similar shows, most successfully Any Dream Will Do.
Now, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation has become the latest to buy the format from the BBC, and like the original series, will be looking for a new Maria von Trapp. To be shown in Summer 2008, the theatre production duties will be handled by Mirvish Productions.
Now, much as I loved Any Dream Will Do, I suspect that even the Loppies will agree that the role of Maria is far more critical to the success of The Sound of Music than Joseph to the eponymous stage show — which, despite the name, is far more of an ensemble piece. Without wanting to take away anything from ADWD winner Lee Mead, the show would clearly be able to cope with an actor of lesser ability (as it is doing in a touring production with Craig Chalmers in the role). In contrast, a production of The Sound of Music with a dodgy Maria in the lead would find it tough going indeed.
I do think that the Maria/Any Dream Will Do format, which uses a casting director to screen the initial auditionees before receiving a callback to perform before the TV judges, works far better than the X Factor-like Grease is the Word auditioning did. But it’s still a risk.
Incidentally, while Andrew Lloyd Webber was apparently at the Canadian press conference, it’s not entirely clear from the report whether he’ll be directly involved in the Canadian TV show, nor whether he’ll be joined by fellow Maria judge, Live Nation’s David Ian. The CBC’s news article states that Ian is involved in the Canadian production, but then it also describes him at one point as a “BBC producer”. I wonder what the BBC Trust would have to say about that…
Woo hoo, a whole new blog. Thanks Scott. Bit harsh on poor Craig there (true, but harsh) :-)
Phew! I found you!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALI!!
Just wanted to say that before I catch up with you all tomorrow.
Bye!
Wow - panic stations there for a moment - thanks Scott for the shiney new blog!
Ali - I didn't realise it is your birthday - happy birthday, lass.
Right, my mum-in-law has come to look after me. I'll catch up with Loppyland tomorrow!
Thanks Scott. You are good to us.
Agree about Maria/Joseph comparison - but hey, guess we got lucky. Dont think the ticket sales would have been what they are if KtT had won somehow.
Don`t like the sound of a dodgy Maria, but even dodgy Donovan managed to fill the Palladium. oops,sorry - check your appliances everyone.
Thanks for the new locale, Scott. And I do agree with you about Maria placing greater demands on the actor than the part of Joseph. (But, ouch! Poor Craig!). As you will know, if you've been peeking at the Loppies' comments, we are, like Mrs Slocomb, unanimous in wanting to see Lee in more demanding role after his time with Joseph has ended. Indeed, there have been a number of interesting suggestions offered from the reasonable -- Raoul in Phantom (duh!) to the silly (title role in a musical version of Dracula! -- I admit it, that was mine!). While Joseph is fun, it's not a sufficient stretch for a man of his talent. However, the lightness of the part makes it a safer vehicle for an untried artist than a more challenging role like Maria.
If West Side Story becomes -- as rumoured-- the musical for this audition process next year, it might succeed if Lee was to be given the part of Tony and the search be for a Maria to play opposite him. I foresee women throughout the country taking crash courses in acting and singing just so they could appear on stage as his love interest. And they wouldn't even need a new advertising campaign -- they could just revise the How Do You Solve a Problem one!
Naughy scott I'd spent an age writing then you were GONE .Will have to come back later now
Rather harsh about Craig who is obviously hard-working and will learn. Smashing chap to talk to as I have met him so I hope he will do well.
Lee is obviously in a different league but his experience will have helped him although it didn't help with Daniel who was definitely "Nice!Nice! Nice!"
I would love to see Lee playing Lancelot or Arthur in a revival of Camelot or in Sunset Boulevard or almost anything really.
Im liking your idea Geri. Off to practise my soprano.
Geri - all very true and count me in for the acting/singing lessons.
Ali - so, Debbie let the cat out of the bag - Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday dear Loppy, Happy Birthday to Yooooooooooooo - just practising my singing skills for my audition!!
Alison - I feel suitably chastised and chastened over the "rejection" but I am sure it was prob "serendipity" that I did "reject" the gold lame top (never you) as now you get to wear the said top, drink cocktails for both you and Mabs and fall into the bath! whilst Auds can be the perfect classy lady in her silver jewellery - as i know she would never dream of such antics!!
Anyway just off to join the lush loppies tonight. Have been having ongoing medical tests for some weeks now but just been given all clear so off to celebrate. Try not to drink mid week (honest) but this an exception. Ploppy stuck in office working late so will have to "persuade" eldest scollop to join me in celebrating.
Mind you Jane E you sound so perky after your op - you are a great advert for the NHS.
Happy birthday Ali - hope the whole family and not just your mum, were really good to you.
Carol - "glowing with soft radiance" - is that the alcoholic glow! talking of which I am off. have a good eve all.
Fi - so glad you got the all-clear. Pour yourself a very large one. And don't worry about celebrating on your own - all us lushloppies here will help you!!
Happy B'Day Ali. Hope all your pressies were exactly what you wanted (Lee tied up in a big golden bow?)
Fi, in the spirit of sisterhood, I'm having a glass of red with you. Just to keep you company, you understand. Will try not to splutter in over the monitor tonight.
Sonja sends her regards. She's bereft without her laptop. Actually, she got it working -- but now her internet is acting up. Damn that CO (Dodgy Donovan -- love it!) and the broom he rode in on!
Hi all. Oh I love new homes, Thanks Scott. We will be getting our own special review of Craig or Chris with the dayglow teeth later, but certainly with a strong supporting cast Joseph would have survived even without someone of Lee's calibre in it. But boy does it benefit from his talents. And so, of course, do we. Loving the idea of Lee as Lancelot, Vic. Those curls would be stunning. But I still have a hunch that ALW has finished P2 for Lee. Or is that just blatant wishful thinking on my part.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, ALI. You kept that quiet. Thanks for spilling the beans Debbie.
Glowing with a soft radiance is what I have been doing for nearly a week now. Well it was more of a radiation to challenge the sun to start with, but has settled down to a soft radiance.
Geri, I would just die to see Lee in West Side Story. Do you think Carol would give us singing lessons?
Happy Birthday again Ali and well done Fi, go and celebrate!! Lushloppies unite!!
Happy Birthday Ali.
Great news Fi.
As a display of Lushloppy solidarity, I'll join you in a glass of red. Cheers & good health!!
Here are some more of the Latin Tourist Phrases from Miles Kington to go with Loppy appliances hexed by the CO.
Primus inter pares-- the stove has fallen in the fire.
Volentli non fit Injuria -- the accident was caused by a badly fitting steering wheel.
And for Loppies suffering
Casus belli -- gastro -enteritis
Sic transit gloria mundi -- the nausea will pass away and you will be fine by Monday.
Sorry, I meant to wish Ali a Happy Birthday and say "What a relief" to Fi.
Kathleen - those Latin phrases are so funny.
In my book club magazine this month is a book (believe it or not!!) called "Uglier Than A Monkey's Armpit" and it's an insight into insulting words and phrases from other countries and cultures and it says it's brilliantly inventive, funny and scorchingly insulting!! Sounds like it might be worth look - it might give us some ideas for insulting JD without getting hexed - do laptops/appliances/cars etc understand foreign languages!?
I booked my flight & hotel -- thanks Shirley and Sonja for the help. I'm on my way. Well, in six weeks, but still...
The Loopy-Latin stuff is great, Kathleen. And all the discussion about words earlier reminded me of the late, great Richard Lederer whose book, Anguished English, had me weeping with laughter. It's about the assault the English language suffers daily. Here are a few examples from school essays, doctors' reports and so on:
World War II ended on VD day.
The blood circulates through the body by flowing down one leg and up the other.
The patient has no past history of suicides.
Louis Pasteur discovered a cure for rabbis.
The patient experienced mood swings because she suffered from PBS.
A brand claim: Every rectal thermometer made by Q-Tip is personally tested.
Vacuums are nothings; we only mention them to let them know that we know they are there.
Water is composed of two gins, oxygin and hydrogin; oxygin is pure gin, hydrogin is gin and water.
And here are a few more taken from novels. Deanna, I know you're above such things!
Shots rang out, as shots are wont to do
Her hair glistened in the rain like a nose hair
after a sneeze.
He was deeply in love. When she spoke, he thought
he heard bells, as if she were a garbage truck backing
up.
I was just feeling confident and smug that all my appliances, house, cars, computers are all working fine and I am happily insulting the minimally talented constipated one, and then a worrying thought struck. My Ploppy is at home until Tuesday when he flies out for some weeks. If any inanimate object is going to go wrong it waits until I get back from dropping him off at the airport. So next Tuesday afternoon/evening please lots of supporting Loppy thoughts. Chances are I will need them. But in the meantime I am happy to volunteer to be the chief JD insulter. I could get to really enjoy that role. Actually I already do really enjoy it truth be told.
Just got home and ploppy informed me there were 6 messages from the lOOpies and would I please reply, and btw he'd fixed the dishwasher (another hex?) I didn't even know there was a problem!
Thankyou for all the birthday wishes (and the virtual card Karen) I had 24 Brownies singing "Happy Birthday" to me tonight, complete with jazz hands?! very theatrical lot they are! Unlike the scollops whose version was about zoos and monkeys!
Geri unfortunately I didn't get the GO all wrapped in a bow but I did get my CiN ticket and told ploppy I was staying over, which went down surprisingly well with just a little comment about this becoming a very expensive birthday present and he hoped I'd return the favour on his birthday!
Thanks for the new page Scott
Just got back from the Swan. Lovely to meet Gillian. She will be on her way home now.
I'll get typing in Word and copy over, give me 30mins
My TV cable has been down all evening and my mobile needed minor surgery earlier. Think the CO's power dissipates as it crosses the sea?
Being of a curious mind and no TV to occupy me, I checked out some statistics on YouTube. With the very unscientific approach of looking at the number of views each of the major contestants received, I found poor old Lewis hasn't managed better than around 2000 views for any of his videos. Keith managed to get 20,000. And Our Boy, whose stuff we've shamelessly downloaded (ssh!) and watched endlessly, what of him, you ask: 50,000+ for Paint it Black. And the duet with J Groban is over 60,000. Plus most of his stuff is on YouTube multiple times, with multiple views for each video, plus the fan vids.
So with a cat that got the cream look on my face, it's goodnight from me (and it's goodnight from him!). Goodnight!
Jo4 I was just about to go to bed but now I'll have to wait, aw shucks!! Just time to load washing machine and pour a glass of wine. Back in a bit
Me too Ali, Have to read this one.
Jo4 - looking forward to your review.
Ali - you could tell your Ploppy that of course you'll return the favour for his birthday and go to the theatre (Adelphi of course) and stay overnight in a hotel with a bunch of Loppies (did we ever decide what the collective term for Loppies is) - very nice of him to offer, I think!!
Karen, I don't think ploppy realised his comment could be interpreted that way, might try suggesting that but I won't hold my breath!
Evening Loppies - back from rehearsal! Happy to give singing lessons, but rememeber I get to sing with the GO first!!! Scott thank you for the new home (agree with your comments re SoM vs Joseph) - I will give you my view on Craig after tomorrow evening! Jo4 - can't decide whether to read your review before I see the show or after........if you post quickly it might be before! Ali - Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday to You, Happy Birthday dear Ali, Happy Birthday to you (in my best soprano voice!). Shirley hope the CO hexes aren't stock piling for you next Tuesday! Fi - welcome to the Lushloppies - glad it was good news for you - raise another glass! Jane E hope you haven't worn yourself out today!
Well, star of the show for me, Vivienne Carlyle, the Narrator. I feel sorry for those seeing the show after 1st Oct. Also Wayne Smith as Pharaoh was excellent. For me he was better than Dean. I could understand what he was singing; also he had a sexier wiggle. I did see more of the show than I did in London. As I was not transfixed by one of the cast members.
The show was a different production. It did not have the dark eye make up for the brothers and the other touches which gave the London show the occasional melodramatic quality of a silent film . This was lighter and more amusing. Craig was softer in his acting (alright Scott, not as good –I did glance at the top at this page when I came in). His voice was fine for how he played it. As Gillian pointed out (I’m sure she will expand) the CED was different. (Body note, he has been to the gym, but still there is some requirement for support when he jumps about.) I did enjoy it; there was a part standing ovation at the end. Craig gave a little thank you for the ADWD support.
I was getting on OK with Chris B as Benjamin. Then he smiled, his Dad needs to tone down the whiteness of his teeth. Yes there is a backing track for the children, who sit at the sides of the stage, up steps, for some of the production. They were from the Jackie Palmer Stage School in High Wycombe. One thing that did annoy me was the high heels the girls were wearing when they were dressed in their Arabic costumes. Oh, the Mrs Potiphar seduction scene was very unsexy. The whole thing was much more child friendly, but as I said I can be a bit old fashioned.
It was an enjoyable evening. I’m glad I went. Gillian and I had a good chat before the show and at the interval we did a bit of comparing. I drove back down the A404 with Alright Now at high volume, somehow I needed it.
I'm home and have just caught up - speed reading. Interesting new home, thanks Scott. I can't say that I disagree with him. It was great to meet Jo. I also shall buzz off and put my thoughts in Word to copy and paste.
One day I 'll be first footing on a new page... It's always such a suck in the breath time when Scott sends that message - I'm dreading when he say - time's up completely. You wouldn't do that to us would you Scott? Please?
Fi - congrats on the news. Phew.
And Happy Birthday Ali - just in time before it's all over.
Very happy bunny day today - got the new job contract AND my sculpture class started today.
Loving those statistics Geri - not even I was that bored today. However, I don't think I could have been as thorough, or it would have taken me days as I'd have to watch each one again..
I'm hoping I've past enough time on the post so that when I hit the post button, there will be Jo4's review...
Jo4 thanks for that - I'll let you know what I think after tomorrow!
Off to bed now as gunky eye has started to bleed! Off to the doctor in the morning, but will still give you your early morning call. Sweet meads all.
Gosh Gillian that was quick.
Forgot to say to Scott-Thanks for the new page.
Thankyou Jo, wish I'd made the effort to see it last week, night all!
The collective noun for a group of Loppies is a giggle.
JO4 Sounds like faint praise to me. Does that sum it up? Certainly not the ringing praise we are used to hearing for Lee and the London cast.
Ali happy birthday & I have E-mailed Gillian comiserations to scollop on the Norwich score, Jane E best wishes, Fi good news I'm happy for you.
Talking about Serendipity, There is a nice film called Serendipity starring John Cusack.
I was having computer lessons today from Ploppy nearly in the divorce courts.
And would you believe it my son is a software engineer ( gets his brains from his Dad)
On the old blog i didn't refresh the page and when I pressed post a box came up saying no more comments allowed on this site, and all was lost.
Does the curse transfer over to scollops, the engine of his car blew up this evening.
Going to bed good night and sweet dreams.
Thanks for that Jo4 - sounds like a mixed review but glad you had a good night and another Loppy meeting so that's good. Looking forward to hearing Gillians take on it (and Carol's tomorrow).
Carol - poor you with the gunky bleeding eye (and no I'm not swearing!!) Tomorrow's docs appt is with Dr Mead I presume. I am sure he will prescribe lots of TLC, champers & Irish coffee adminstered by the BHB waiter. I'll bring extras, purely for medicinal purposes, of course!!
A giggle of Loppies, of course Shirley, how could I forget that!!??
Shirley-I went with no expectations, but had a really enjoyable time. It was a happy show.
Just that I consider that it is a different show. I did get to see the rest of the show and the other members of the cast. To be fair I did not really see the whole show in London, so any review I did was biased.
On CiN night I will not be staying over, I'm sure I'll miss out. I have had to get a sitter for my trips, like tonight and I don't want to push it. (Feeding is a bit of a chore in my house.)
I have to say that I have just had a very enjoyable evening. I had a great seat, 3rd row back in the circle (the theatre has a steeply banked auditorium) and a good view of the whole stage. I thought Craig was very good. Not perhaps all those superlatives we reserve for Lee, but definitely very good. His acting is much ‘quieter’ for want of a better word, but then the touring production isn’t as deliberately OTT as the London one, which is why I agree with Scott’s comment so far as Craig is concerned, but the London production needs Lee. Somehow I can’t see Craig throwing himself into the role the way Lee does, but it works fine in the context of the tour. It will be interesting to see where Craig goes next, and how much he continues to learn. His interpretation of CED is a bit different, which is wise, as it helps reduce direct comparisons. He hits all the notes in the right places, but no goosebumps. I liked the reunion with Jacob.
I did watch the whole stage, and feel that I have come away with a better overall impression than I did of the London Joseph, where I was either missing detail because of the distance to the stage, or because I was simply watching Lee through the binoculars. I’m now really looking forward to seeing the London production again from a different perspective. The narrator was excellent, I really can’t see Keith doing as well from next week. The Pharaoh was also great, you could understand all he sang, and as he was younger and slighter in stature than Dean Collinson, I found myself wondering about Lee’s Pharaoh a few years ago. Or maybe you don’t make the comparison when watching Dean’s Pharaoh because Dean has put a personal stamp on it?
Chris B was good as Benjamin, can’t say as I noticed the teeth, but I might have if he’d been playing JosephJ
The megamix is great, Craig takes a large part in it, and you can see how he connects with the audience, his little thank you speech still comes across sincere, and he’s been doing it since the start of the run.
I give up. Falling asleep here. Have to read Gillians review in the morning. Thanks for the clarification JO4, and glad you both enjoyed yourselves.
Carol, hope the Dr is able to help you. I thought you were on the mend last week but it sounds as if it is back with a vengence. I want to say - let me know if there is anything I can do to help you - but how can I from this distance? Thinking of you and wishing you well though.
Sorry, just felt the need to do some maths, looking at Loppy statistics after the analysis of the Youtube views
Blog dates/ Numbers of posts/ days/ Posts per day
20 Jun -12 Jul Posts 1042 Days 22 Posts per day =47
12 Jul – 31 Jul Posts 1475 Days 19 Posts per day =78
31 Jul - 21 Aug Posts 1633 Days 21 Posts per day =78
21 Aug – 4 Sep Posts 1505 Days 14 Posts per day =108
4 Sep - 14 Sep Posts 1003 Days 10 Posts per day =100
14 sep – 25 Sep Posts 1164 Days 11 Posts per day =106
Not getting bored with this Lee thing then?
Now that's funny, Jo's review wasn't up on my computer when I made my 'I'm home' post, now her review is before it. I didn't read Jo's first.
Jo I came home down the M40 then M25, M3, much faster, but that only works with little traffic.
Now I too can go to bed after Gillian's review. I forgot to mention the excellent music, a nice light touch on the keyboard and directing. He looked 12 but was probably in mid 20's. Less musicians, as you would expect from a touring production.
Nightlee night all.
Gillian - good review thank you - interesting thought as to where Craig will go next.
Jo4 - not getting bored? er that'll be a no then!!!!!!
Good night all. See you in the morning.
Carol, hope your eye is better. You will enjoy the show.
Gillian, good to see your quick journey home. And the review shows 2 people see things in different ways.
I am going now
Hello, ,just a quick catch up before I fall asleep, I thought I'd lost you again, bit late, but thank you Scott, I second Auds, please keep finding us a new home.
Jane E, I don't know what my Ploppy would make of this blog. Glad your home and ok, take care.
Geri, loved the excerpts from Anguished English, especially the two gins! Loved the statistics from You Tube, and as for Lee in West Side Story!! I loved Riff in the film, but that was because I wasn't struck on Richard Beymer, but Lee as Tony, that would be a different kettle of fish.
Jo4, thanks for the review, not a patch on our boy then??
Ali, just in time I think to say Happy Birthday.
Nite nite all
Good gracious Jo4 some number crunching you've been doing, good work! There's definitely no falling off but I suspect the nature of the posts has altered a bit since June. There's now more chat about non Lee related topics such as books, films, phobias and hatred of h..wk. etc. and more cloud 9 fantastic beach, broomsticks, cafes, waistcoats, curly haired waiters, Irish coffee and other beverages discussion.
Also quite a few Loppies have actually met or planned meetings and generally feel they know each other better. Isn't it interesting how things develop?
Glad you enjoyed the Division 2 Joseph, Jo4 and Gillian.
Morning Beachbunnies - early morning alarm call! Expect to see you on the beach shortly, all well wrapped up as I get the feeling it is cold out there - BHB waiter will need to be kept warm too. As I will be restricted in beach activities this morning due to eye (perhaps I can utilised the red and black eye patch Shirley!) I suggest I wait in the Bistro with the young man whilst you all do your daily workout on the beach. He and I will ensure copious amounts of Geri's coffee are available for your return. I know it seems harsh to send you out to exercise but we have to remember that Aunty Eva will soon be back on the beach and if you are out of shape she will start to wonder what has been going on in her absence. So that's warm track suits and trainers for most of you; the pink diver's suit for Shirley and me, I'll just slip into this little black number. Karen - I picked up the supplies earlier on - who is getting the hot croissents today??
My the beach is deserted this morning. Come on, Loppies, up and at-'em! Time for a quick run before breakfast. I've made the Irish Coffee particularly Irish this morning -- that'll set you up for the day. And I see we have scrambled eggs, bagels, croissants, danishes, and so much yummy stuff we'll be filling our faces all day. But we have to work up our appetite first so, one two three four! HUP two three four!
The BHB is sad you're not around. He said he found you all a bit annoying at first, but now he's used to you and kinda misses you when you're not around. Never mind, just the two of us for a run, then. He promises to keep me warm if I get cold. Gosh, suddenly I'm freezing!
Belated happy birthday, Ali. Hope you enjoyed your day.
Thanks Jo4 and Gillian for the reviews. Glad you both enjoyed the show and interesting to read about Craig's Joseph. Have a good time tonight, Carol.
Loppy statistics make interesting reading.
I'm going to have to love you and leave you again as, among many other things, some furniture needs to be rearranged prior to a meeting. The things I do!
Good morning all. Glad to see lots of exercise going on down on the beach. If you dont mind Carol I will pass on the diving suit. Bought my own scuba kit down with me - much prefer the freedom of being untethered, but I do wonder if my wet suit will be enough to keep me warm. Might see if I cant find some nice lobster for the lunch menu - L thermidor anyone? Cant stick with bread and cheese forever. Nice fresh fish soup as well. Needing more warming victualls this weather. Isnt it nice that the BHB loves diving too. A surefire way to escape the others - Im forever blowing bubbles ........
There are 2 seats in row C for 16 November on eBay for £150 with Buy It Now should anyone have missed out and want to go. This is slightly more expensive than those bought direct from SEE but includes a donation to CiN. Item no 140161749959 - x2 JOSEPH TICKETS STALLS ROW C 16/11 VERY SPECIAL SHOW!
Morning all - if there's a choice between the excerises and the hug from the BHB for warmth (and I could work up an appetite for breakfast as well in the same way) I'll take the hug please, although the extra Irish Irish coffee sounds rather nice too.
Hope the eye's alright Carol. I think Dr Mead needs to give it a very close examination when you see him. No, you don't need to practise on the BHB even if he does look like Dr Mead!!
Morning. might not join in the run after the celebrating last night - but a big brekkie sounds great. Might help me wake up as slept brilliantly last night after very little sleep fro prev nights. Thanks fro all good wishes - and I am touched by loppies even going so far in joining me in raising a glass - true sisterhood!
Carol -hope your eye much better - you need to be able to see tonight.
Gillian and Jo4 - thanks for reviews. like Ali i wish i had gone last week but was sold our very early on.
Maggie - to reply to your qu from ages ago - yes I am going on Dec 10th - with ploppy. Having a great day to celebrate a special birthday (even tho that was birthday last year - dont say my ploppy doesnt keep up with the times!)
Geri - loved the Anguished english. Reminds me of paper i was given once of similar hilarious GCSE answers - the gin one was in there too I think.
Must dash - off to work. not sure I can concentrate again today - will start work properly tomorrow - maybe. Have a good day one and all.
Who didn't set her alarm last night then? That's what I get for writing reviews late at night. Woke up, got up, out of the house, in 15 minutes, but still caught all the traffic. Send that waiter over with some Irish cofee fast!
Coffee even:))
Double Irish coffee for Gillian coming up. Thanks for the reviews both Gillian and Jo4. It was very interesting. Gillian, ages back you asked whether you should see Craig or Lee in Joseph first, and we all said Craig - cause otherwide Craig would disappoint. Given that we were ll just surmising, and you ended up seeing them the other way round in any case - what would you advise a novice Jo attender now? Personally, not having seen the touring show, and having no intention of seeing it either, I think putting Keith in too is starting to look a bit sad. 3 loosing Josephs in one production? Maybe the Adelphi will lend them Lewis as well. He only seems to have work for 4 weeks in London!!!
Jo4 I am loving the stats. Going to incorporate some of that into my letter to ALW's PA when Diana gets back to us with her details. It can only add weight to our campaign for a new Lee Mead and cast recording
Can I be excused from excersise this morning? I tired myself out yesterday and think a cuddle from the BHB would be most benefical.
Fi - glad to hear you've got the all clear. Will raise a glass to you, even if it's only orange juice.
Carol - gunky eye sounds nasty - lots of TLC needed.
Thanks for the reviews JO4 and Gillian, I'm still trying to decide on whether to go to the touring production.
And Shirley, I'm glad you sent that post last night - I've been wondering what CO stood for!
Miss you guys!!!!!!!
having an office day today and not expected in the class room, hence I'm tapping away furtively whilst looking over my shoulder for the boss.
Thanks again for our new home, Scott, you star!
Haven't had a chance to read everything, but have seen the reviews for Craig (glad he's doing ok!)!!
Actually managed to start up the pc at home yesterday and it stayed on from about 8pm until midnight, but the server next door was down so no internet connection! far be it from me to ever think the elements are against me... However, don't want to jinx the works pc as well, so will stop here for now and hopefully catch up with you all later. Have I already said I miss you all???????
Shirley, I wasn't disappointed, but I think you have to treat them as two different shows. Besides I missed a lot in London, either I was a long way from the action, or I was watching Lee only, or Pharaoh, through binoculars, so I lost a lot of the spectacle, if I'd seen the London show from a similar vantage point as I had last night, there's no doubt the touring show would seem 'tame'. But that's a comparision of the shows - I'm not going to run Craig down, he fits in very well with the touring production, and within that production, he does just what's needed.
I liked him on ADWD, Lee was head and shoulders above the rest, but Craig was the one I next most 'interested' in, as a combination of person and performer, Daniel, good as he was, just didn't tick any boxes for me, and with the exception of Seamus, about whom the less said the better probably, the rest were just boys, however much latent talent might be lurking in them. Craig is doing justice to the touring show, and I'm glad I went to see and 'support' him, but the narrator is such an important element that I have really serious doubts about the show when Keith joins next week.
Of course you are excused JaneE. Hard work healing, so you are doing your work out in a different way for the next week or so.
The CO tag for JD comes from his obvious straining during the Diana concert. Such an attractive performance - in every sense.
Fi, so glad the news was good. The waiting can be horrible. No wonder you weren't sleeping.
Hi Sonja, good to hear from you. Hope the boss stays in his office so you can chat today.
Thanks for the response Gillian. Very interesting. It would be such a shame if Keith spoils it for them. I guess there is just as much need in the business for the Craigs as the Lees - and or more of them of course. Lots of support actors needed for each star.
Strangely the other Joseph who impressed me, but very late on, was Lewis. When he duetted with Lee in Oh What a Circus he really was a revelation. I suspect that having had all this extra time now to work with Lee and that fabulous cast at the Adelphi he will do a jolly good job. But he won't be Lee, and I dont envy him having to try and satisfy all the Auds of this world who booked expecting to see Lee and end up seeing Lewis. I think Craig got the better deal. As you say he plays the touring Jo well and is filling the theatres but if Lewis does not fill the Adelphi I wonder where his next job will come from.
Shirley, I agree about Lewis, he was my second favourite, but perhaps that was because my mum was a fan of his.
Sonja - glad to see you can get some Loppying done!
Good morning,
Thanks so much for the reviews of the production, I confess I was curious about Craig's performance. Sounds as if he does well but not a patch on Go which isn't surprising as he is the quintessential West End leading man.
Geri- hits on You tube for Lee are amazing but well deserved, lets hope even more folks get to see him and realise how great he is.
How did those appalling lines from books get past an editor? My editor, Adam, is really strict about stuff like that and rather cute as well as it happens. Not a patch on GO however.
Vic- loved Camelot it is due for a revival. He'd be great as Lancelot, but is the part big enough? If he played Arthur could we honestly believe the Guinevere would prefer Lancelot to him?
Re Tickets for CIN. I still have one spare to sell at basic ticket price of £58 of course. STALLS Row L seat 16. E'mail me at deanna@deannaashford.com if you are interested.
While writing this morning I found myself typing something which might interest beach bunnies. I'll send it in my next e-mail.
Deanna
I agree Lewis should have come second, his is the latent talent, and no doubt it is being brought out now in rehearsals. But I was talking about my all round interest in the ADWD contestants, and I just have a soft spot for Craig, I'd much rather go see him in the tour, than Lewis in London, even if Lee was not doing either.
Good morning all... Now Carol (really sorry to hear your eye is not improving), whilst I think you are due cuddles and hugs from the GO, as do Fi and JaneE (what a difference an 'all clear' and an op can make), this 'boot camp' malarkey on the beach so early in the morning is beyond the pale without HIM. The BHB needs to be chased, its good for him - whether on the beach or in the sea. If we keep molly coddling him he will soon have muffin tops in his loin cloth. That will NOT do.
Maggi, in spite of impending divorce, your computer skills are improving tremendously. I am very impressed.
Having made comment last night about checking statistics, I did in fact think of doing exactly what Jo4 did re the blogs (didn't do it of course, cos that's the kind of person I am). Who's going to start writing the book on "Loppies : The Fascinating Facts";
Sonja, be extra special nice to the works computer now.. and see what you can do to keep that boss away so you can spend more time with us.
Jo4/Gill, it was good to read your reviews.. Glad that Craig is doing a good job.. What comes to mind from the ADWD show is that ALW said he was looking for a West End leading man - which clearly he got in bucket fulls in the GO - not just a 'Joseph'. The role in the WE could be 'challenging' for the runners up, but for our boy it's a walk in the park - it's HIM that makes the show the success it is (not that I'm biased of course) and gets the seats filled in droves. This has of course, all been said before, but it can't be said enough of the GO as far as I'm concerned.
Boss is away today, so you may see much more of me today - unless of course I decide to double check Geri's statiscs on YouTube.
Deanna I nearly spat my coffee all over my laptop. Now who could you possibly have in mind. So what is this wonderful guy going to be called? And is his nickname going to be the Gorgeous One?
Deanna - you've been in my dreams!!!!!!!! more more more
just to clarify - I did not mean YOU have been in my dreams, but rather you've been 'watching' my dreams...
We know what you mean Auds!! Deanna, amazing, can't imagine where you got the inspiration for the male character in that piece! Now I want to know more...
Gillian, Jo4 - it was very interesting to read your reviews of the touring Jo as I saw the touring version at Easter with Jonathan Parkin as the lead. I thought he was really good and am sad for him that he has lost out to Craig, although I am pleased for Craig as I thought he was a very hard worker and had something about him (even Ploppy agreed). The children just sat on steps on either side of the stage for the whole show and didn't feel part of the story at all, more like backing singers so I'm looking forward to seeing the greater interaction when I see th show on CiN night. It was a thoroughly good show though and the whole family enjoyed it, but I suspect the London show will be on another level again (apart from the presence of the GO in it!).
I thought Lewis came good at the end Shirley and didn't think he deserved to get booted off before McTeeth. He finally pulled out all the stops with the show tunes, although singing with Lee tended to bring out the best in all the other performers, think Craig in "Rain on My Parade" and Lewis in "Oh what a Circus". The exception to that being McT in Jesus Christ Superstar. Lewis's voice also sounds more like Lee's on the infamous CED, so suspect he will be able to fit in ok when he covers for Lee.
Sonja, great to have you back even if only in short bursts! The CO hex is pretty lethal I fear. Although thankfully the garage have managed to find out the problem with my car alarm. Think it focussed their minds when the alarm went off on the forecourt and they couldn't stop it. Had to disconnect the battery! I did smirk when they told me on the phone waht had happened. Now have faulty sensor disconnected whilst new one on order.
Sorry, typo. Should read - couldn't say no.
Must get back to the book now,
Love
Deanna
Deanna, you certainly know how to brighten up a girl's morning!!!
Morning Loppies - now have penicillin for the eye - hopefully that will clear things up, but of course NO ALCOHOL for a week!! Will I survive?? Will a small gibbering heap be found in a dark corner of the underground system? Ah well c'est la vie! I shall expect all Lushloppies to do their bit on my behalf! Pleased to say have negotiated with Ploppy for the Stratfordfest drive, and he say "yes".
As I mentioned ages back I thought Lewis should have come second rather than KtT. Liked Craig but didn't think he quite had "it" - however, I thought he improved termendously during ADWD (as did Lewis). I will give full report upon my return!
No-one yet rushed to buy the CO (Constipated One) version of the show yet then????? Do we consider it "a bit rubbish"?? Wonder what Zoe's verdict would have been on his performance. Better stop as a thought occurred - perhaps my eye is a result of one of the hexes (arrggh!!!)
Frisson. What a nice word Deanna. She sounds like me on meeting him. "You what?" Just the sort of thing I'd say. It isn't me is it? I give you permission, no copyright suit or anything. Debbie is a name of the moment of course. Don't think I'd have snogged him quite so soon. Like to him 'em waiting.
After 3 days at work it's good to get back to the real world. I've many responses to things that have been said but feel they're a bit too late now. Oh well, here goes.
Jane E - you've certainly thrown yourself back into Loppydom! Glad all is well. Same for you Carol. Are you sure you can't take alcohol. I always take a sharp intake of breath when the doc prescribes antibiotics and then swiftly ask "Is alcohol allowed with these ones?" They often are.
Well done Auds on the new job. I'll raise a belated glass now. (maybe I'd better wait until this afternoon - only 10mins to go). BTW, you mentioned nasturtiums decades ago. Aren't they some type of flower?! Didn't you mean aspertions? (pick pick).
Welcome back Fiona.
Glad the roof is good Sue. Did you get Rob in to do it. If I'd 'got hold of a builder' don't think things would have been 'under control', quite the opposite.
Stop nodding off Shirley...
Seeing as I prob won't be seeing the show at the CINfest, can someone wear chocolate for me (ta for the list of colours). You're welcome to eat a flake and dribble it down your top. That's me all over.
Re words/phrases - does anyone ever notice Parky always say "In a sense" at least once every interview? I like telling my ploppy he's uncouth and I am couth.
Kathleen, have you ever read Miles Kingston's books from yonks ago - 'Parlez-vous Franglais?' They were very funny. He set a different scene for each page eg. chez le restaurant etc and it was a mixture of french and english.
Deanna, I loved Al Murrays prog on a Sat night as the pub landlord. Better than his live show as the f**********g swearing gets on my nerves. Call me old fashioned.
Thought of a new question to ask Lee this morning on the walk home from the school run. "Are you a Jeremy Kyle fan and have you ever head butted anyone on his show?" (may omit the last bit).
Thinking of getting eyebrows reshaped before our holiday. Apparently it gives you an instant facelift. Then again, should I keep the bushy look for the CINfestpredrinksmeet as Lee obviously likes them (and with any luck the Shirley/Sonja gang will introduce us before the show being bosom buddies - hey, less of the bosoms ladies).
And relax!! I've finished. Wakey wakey.
Debbie ..... I am about to check the pills website to see what it is says - have scoured the little piece of paper but it doesn't mention it........also enjoyed the Miles Kingston books - in fact I loaned mine to someone and they never came back! Deanna - that made me feel a lot better than any pills!! At least I don't have to wear a patch so will see Craig with both eyes this evening - I will of course do my Loppy duty and post my review later tonight (on the basis the show finishes the same time as the London one, and I can get out of the car park and find my way home, stop and speak with Ploppy, I should be posting at about 10.30ish.
Sonja - good to have you back on line ....we've missed you! Sun shining here - must be a Wednesday thing!
Debbie, my use of the word nasturtiums was deliberate. It's a 'family' thing. Why use the correct word when you can use a similar sounding one and throw the whole context or sense of the sentence out.. daft, I know.. but that's me and my family for you. It started out when we were kids of course, you know how you always want to impress someone with your knowledge and then get it completely a***e about face? Like getting the words to a song all wrong.. And then we would do it mostly just to wind up Dad who would go apoplectic (we'd dyslexic). Great wheeze... I guess it just doesn't translate so well on a blog - and everyone just gets to think I'm totally illiterate.
Deanna - phew - not to be read whilst supposed to be working!! Where do I buy the book??
Debbie - you took the words out of my mouth - that's exactly what I would have said too except up here (North) it would have been "yer wot"?
Carol - never fear, if you are required to be on the wagon for a week (I feel for you I really, really do!!) I will stoically have your share of the alcohol!! What are friends for??
I was wondering about going to the touring Joseph as well (Jane E is your local theatre for the touring version the Alhambra?? Maybe another Loppy meet in the offing??) but as it comes after my Lee visit I thought it might be a bit of a let down, (apart from the fact that I know Ploppy will def not want to go). Any advice from those who did it that way round??
Phew Deanna, had to go and stand out in the rain after reading that, then got a funny look from one of the workman brickpaving the path outside the house! You could get a girl in trouble you know!
Sun out now and even more workmen, very nice!!
Debbie good to have you back.
Maggie eldest scollop not happy with footie score, mainly because middle scollop supports Wolves! Will explain in email, watch your inbox!
Deanna more please. I wish I could write like you. Could you give us weekly instalments? Wild stab in the dark here but will they end happy ever after, married with 2 perfect children and a cottage with roses round the door? Or on Jeremy Kyle?
Glad Craig was good. If the GO had gone out he was my next best although I probably wouldn't have voted for him because I'd have not bothered watching the show without the GO.
Carol I'll have a drink for you tonight if you can't. Such sacrifice for my fellow loppy.
Carol - should we start the Lushloppies not allowed alcohol club? Blast these antibiotics!
Auds - it's funny, I'm so used to certain of my friends saying 'casting nasturtiums' that I didn't even clock that it was the wrong word! So it isn't just your family then!
Karen - Oh yes, the Alhambra is my local theatre, well one of them. Have you any idea when it's coming?
Deanna! Deanna! Good grief girl - I'm going to have to have a little lie down after that. Excellent!
just a little thing I noticed in Deanna's story - Lee takes the lead yet again...
Auds - we too use that expression - so you are not alone!!
Jane E - 26 Nov to 1 Dec
Cheers Karen. Did you get my e-mail address?
Re the C in N performance and seats, I can't say for certain what is happening in all of rows A and B, but there's a Lovelee on the .org site has a Row A ticket, and I have one in row B. The lady I spoke to said that row C and back 'had gone to an agency' presumably SEE, and I was talking to the theatre. The Lovelee rang up as well, according to the thread I read - afterwards - (and can't now find). I didn't say anything before as I wanted to actually see my ticket just in case I'd misheard! As I'd left it two days before I made my mind up, and the weblink was offering me row N, it seemed too good to be true.
There's some more info re booking/returns on this .org thread, how much is fact, how much educated guesswork I don't know. It can be a bit contradictory. http://www.leemead.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=872
Auds- loved your nasturtiums/aspersions comment! Took it as was meant (sorry Debbie) and am now wondering if we're moving into a new phase of a Loppy version of Just a Minute or Call my Bluff. I'm now worrying about all the repetition of a certain person's name, although I doubt there's any problem with hesitation on here. Let me think, one minute to talk on the subject of Lee Mead.... no takers, surely not! Perhaps we need the help of the erudite Stephen Fry, or as I heard his pal Hugh Laurie describes him, the 'human Google'!!
I can see a theme here, your starter for 10 is "Who stars in the well known West End musical "Jospeh and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat"? That's the Loppies on the buzzer....
Book starring Lee- or his near perfect facsimile will be a while coming I'd guess. I see stuff in my head when I write and I think I may well get so carried away I'll drift off into a dream world and forget what I'm supposed to be doing.
These few words just popped into my head when I woke up this morning so I just jotted them down. Next episodes might end up getting a little too hot and steamy for The Stage, depends how carried away the heroine gets. Goodness, would you say no to him if he pulled you into his arms and kissed you like that?
It's back to the pirates now. Recently I've been in historical mode.
Jane E - Am at work at the mo so I'll check in when I get home and let you know. And on the subject of that four letter word better get back to it.
Oh dear, the piece is overly harsh on Craig, but there's little point in expressing that here unfortunately. Craig's performances in the Tour have been amazing and he remains a fine performer, whatever anyone else may think. Go see him if you're unconvinced.
Hey folks, just seen that the RUG site has eventually caught up with Scott!!
http://www.reallyuseful.com/rug/shows/sounds/newsDetail.htm?id=493
OK Scott are you telepathic or what?
Nope, just have a good eye for global news ;-)
Auds, are you trying to say I'm a dumbcough?
Crikey no 1 - I haven't heard that word since I was at school (thankyou Miss McMellan)
Crikey no2 - you're right.
Jane E, maybe you should call it the Slushloppies Club - but don't ask me to join.
I did like Craig but couldn't take him too seriously because of his smiling. Presumably he's got that under control when he sings CED else he may as well sing "Shut that door" in the manner of Larry Grayson.
Scott - you are so so on the ball!!!
Lushloppies - I am a fallen Loppie! Checked the website for the penicillin I am on and there seemed to be differing opinions as to whether it was ok or the alcohol would flush the penicillin through the system and thereby render it useless. Then Boss said would I like to go to lunch. Explained I was non drinking (be impressed everyone!!!) and he said a little alcohol would not hurt. Now on the basis I had only taken one pill so far, I agreed. Now one cold dry sherry, half a bottle of Pinot Grigiot and Amaretto and ice later, I am feeling fine! However I will endeavour to be good from here on in, so will rely on you all to have my share until I have finished the tablets!! Oh please don't smile tonight Craig.....that was my worry, plus the fact that although he was personable he didn't have the voice of the GO (but then who does??? -- why the CO you all reply which is why we will buy the CD (not))!. As I shall be rushing home, changing and rushing out again I will not be posting until my return, when I will of course give a balanced, erudite review!
Auds - sorry to tell you that Ploppy and I cast nasturians too!!!
Well Debbie, I don't think anyone would voluntarily join. (Still sulking here)
Jackie - how about Mastermind - can I guess what your specialist subject would be?
Carol - have a great time tonight, remember we want all the details.(You naughty boozy Loppy you)
Moi? I'm a good girl, I am!!!
My mum-in-law has just done all the i*****g in the house. Have I mentioned what a wonderful woman she is?
I'm off now - Ploppy is due home soon - catch ya later
Just thought. We could play the Generation Game, starting with Granny Shirley, Aunty Eva, cousin Sonja, Mum Carol, lots of little loppies and finally the BHB. Ok ok, I'll be the BHB's sister.
I'm very behind on the blog so sorry if this has already appeared. There's a new game on the RUG Joseph site - Joseph's Dungeon Adventure Game. I just had a go and collapsed in giggles - poor poor Joseph kept hitting his head when he jumped.
Now then!! No sudden movements like breathing or blinking please - i'm currently at home and online with my poor pc, still awaiting hard drive transplant!!! Long may this little effort last....
Ah deep joy, home from work and back into Loppyland.
Carol - all that alcohol at lunchtime - you do me proud!!
Jane E - can you loan me your Mum-in law please. I hate i*****g (btw have sent an email but I do have a tendency to type in the wrong address so please let me know if you don't get it). I have sent emails to two other people on here and in both cases the first one I sent I sent to the wrong address. In one case though I did get a very nice email back from a lady of the same name saying that she had no idea who I was, or what the blog was, but yes she was fine thanks very much for asking and it was nice to hear from me too!!! Oops! I nearly emailed her back and explained who I was, what the blog was and tell her all about Lee but decided I better not inflict myself on the poor woman!!!
Debbie - his sister?? No shenanigans (I believe that's what they call it these days) with the BHB for you then!!
Just posted my two penn'oth on POV. I had to go to p13 to read the original so I hope it will go back to page 1 now.
Dinner's ready so see you later.
Ah yes Karen. Didn't think of that. Maybe a new theme for Deanna's novel..... or not.
Off to look at what Diana's on about.
I had a go at the game earlier this afternoon, ended up with a score of minus 1200 because Joseph kept landing on the heiroglyph's head when I tried to jump over him! Maybe I should leave that sort of thing to the scollops?
I did the unmentionable I.....g this morning in record time because I promised myself an hour on the blog etc as a reward! Good incentive for those who dislike it.
I got the 3 pots of gold Diana but couldn't get Joseph to jump any higher! Where's a cherry picker when you need one. I was never any good at pacman either.
Just think, Carol will be sitting there at this very minute, praying that Craig doesn't come on stage left in all his finery and break into "Copacabana" by mistake complete with gleaming smile.
Seeing as a glass of Zinfandel awaits, think I'll call it a night (well, it's not morning is it?).
Hope you all enjoy the beach in the morning. I may have an Irish coffee at the end of the pier. I hear the BHB likes to try and get a quiet moment there before being half strangled and mutilated by a herd of heffers let loose from a nearby field. I may even invite him onto the helter skelter with me. He'd have to sit on my lap of course. We don't want the Rear of the Year at risk of injury. Those mats can be rather rough.
Goodnight lush and slush loppies!
Herd of heifers???? Cheeky mare!!
Ali - nope doesn't work for me - nice idea but I'd rather spend the i*****g time doing Lee things and then reward myself with an hour Loppy time!! Works for me!!
Hi all
About the touring show. We were advised to see Craig first so it wouldn't be a disappointment after the GO. As I implied in my review it was a different show, I agree with Gillian it should not be compared. I really enjoyed the show last night and Craig did well. His voice was fine. It did crack once, but to dwell on that would be over critical. I don't think it matters which one you see first. I'd never seen any production of Joseph before the beginning of Sept, to see all of it last night tidied up some of my memories from the London show. As I've said many times although I saw Joseph in London, I can't really say I saw it. The touring show, was a good happy show, as they say 'fun for all the family'. That is a pre 1st Oct comment, who knows after that. Who is going to see it post 1st Oct. I'd be interested in finding out what they think.
Deanna-Phew, glad I didn't read it at work. I don't normally read that sort of thing, but in this case will make an exception.
Off to check links and then I have some work to do. I'll keep an eye out for Carol's review later.
Deanna, I am sorry, but I am going to have to be pretty direct here. I have to say that the second episode today made me and many others feel very very uncomfortable. That you named Lee specifically is not acceptable to us. He is a real and charming young man, with a loving partner and we would feel deeply embarassed to imagine either of them reading such inappropriate fantasies on this Blogg. I do understand that you are used to more graphic writing in your professional life, and agree that there is a place for everything, but this is not the place for it.
The first and most important tenent in the Loppy constitution is respect. Both respect of Lee and of each other. I am afraid I regard your second instalment as respectful to neither.
Have to say I agree with Shirley on this one. This site has always been one of fun and fantasies but a line has always been drawn at a certain point out of respect. I'm no prude either but this has made me feel a bit uneasy as I cannot condone such graphic imagery of someone in Lee's position.
I would have to agree with Shirley and Sonja. I know we've had our own silly fantasies, but there is a line and I think it's been crossed. Sorry Deanna, I'm afraid I am rather uncomfortable with your writing, at least insofar as it concerns Lee.
Hello again you are back!
Every time there is a new blog (thanks Scott) i can post for a little while until the comments get to around the 500 mark and then i can't anymore- very frustrating and not sure why but at least you are back for the moment.
My Mom & Dad have come to stay for the week and are working very hard decorating, cleaning & gardening for us bless them. I can't sit and read here for hours with them staying so this is just a quick hello and i will have to catch up next week but hope everyone is well.
Take care evryone.
Thank you Shirley and Sonja for voicing my very deep concern about the earlier entries. We are the guests of The Stage here on a publicly viewed site visited by artistes of the present and future who look to this site as a valuable resource. Although loppies have a zany sense of humour I hope we never forget that artistes like Lee are real people with feelings and are entitled to our respect. Lee has a sense of duty to his younger fans and we should try to bear in mind that they are likely to be viewing anything about him online.
I'm afraid Deanna that I have to agree absolutely with Shirley et al
in their feelings re your 'story' and the naming of Lee.
I've nothing against Black Lace for those that want it but this is not the place .
Just been to the Lee Mead is Joseph forum and there's a rumour, by Graham, that they are thinking of extending Lee's contract until Christmas 2008!!!
Sorry, here's the link
http://www.leemead.org.uk/viewtopic.php?t=1104&highlight=
Thanks for that link Kathleen - I have to say I agree with some of the comments posted there - that I would like to see him move on to something different by then. As has been said previously he is now a West End leading man not just Joseph!!
I quite agree. He is capable of so much more, he doesn't want to be known for just one role. Mind you i was glad when his contract was extended to June so that I could get tickets for January to see him. Perhaps they could put Lewis in the role then, or perhaps ALW wants to keep him as Joseph until the role of Phantom is ready.
I mean Phantom 2 of course.
Oh dear, I do hope that rumour is wrong. So much want to see Lee in something much more worthy of his talents. Joseph is great fun Lee plays it brilliantly, but I for one want to see him stretched and he is capable of so much more. What do we think about emailing his official site?