Buxton Fringe/Anorak of Fire/George Don't Do That/Standby on Stage Please! (2009)

Sun 25th October
Mick was the driver for the day, taking the 'Nightwatch' cast; Fiona, Ian & myself, together with Claire & her twin sister Helen, to take part in the Daffodil Theatre Awards in aid of Marie Curie Cancer in Milton Keynes. We travelled down in style...in an eight seater people carrier with comfy, cream leather interior complete with many added features, (Fiona was most delighted to discover cup-holders!!) We arrived early afternoon and were given our 'slot' for a technical rehearsal (where budding technicians fiddled with their knobs)...although when we actually had the tech it was so rushed as the organisers were behind schedule, no sooner had we positioned ourselves on stage our time was up! So we gathered our belongings and headed for the nearest dressing room to verbally mark through the spacing together. The dressing room was so tiny...almost large enough for the proverbial cat to swing a mouse...but this did not deter us, after all we are professionals so we did the best we could with the little space we had. We all had a long wait to tread the boards as 'Nightwatch' was the last to perform, so at least we were able to watch the entire first half. Then, leaving Claire, Mick & Helen in the auditorium, Fiona, Ian & myself headed back to our dressing room to change into our costumes and compose ourselves. The time had come for us to go on...the audience laughed from the word go, which boosted morale for us all, and we cruised effortlessly through our piece with the grace of seasoned professionals. All twenty theatre companies that had performed were asked to come back to take a bow. The winners were announced and although Planet Rabbit was enthusiastically supported by our professional collegues backstage we seemingly forgot to bring our family & friends to cheer us on...but we did meet some really lovely people and more importantly raised money for a worthwhile cause! We headed back 'up North' with a comforting satisfaction that we did Claire proud! GAYLE

Sat 24th October
To be posted soon

Fri 23rd October
Set off for Hull this morning for 'Nightwatch'. Looking forward to this weekend and performing at Milton Keynes. It was lovely to catch up with Claire again after 'Bazaar & Rummage'. We had a nice long chat at her 'office' then went to Mr Chu's for food, (I think that's what it was called). Claire had just mentioned that John Prescott loved the restaurant and that he was always there and then low & behold as we walked in he was right in front of us with his wife. (I actually didn't see them, being in a world of my own, but I thought I'd have to mention it - too exciting not to. ha). It was a great night. I'm staying at Claire's tonight, (we're going to head to Micks near Manchester tomorrow for rehearsals), and as we arrived back to her street tonight it was chock-a-block with cars. I found this so funny because there were no parking spaces and people had tripled parked, which is exactly what 'Nightwatch' is about. Was nice to see the inspiration for the piece myself, ha ha. I'm thinking this is going to be a really fun couple of days. It must be - I even get to be a police officer. Very cool. FIONA

Sun 27th September
Well, that's it. 'Bazaar & Rummage' has come to a close, finishing in Pickering last night. The van was back in Hull & the contents in my living by midnight. Then, after half an hour of shuffling vehicles around, I was left facing a scene of devastation, (in the form of boxes of props & bags of costumes!). It wasn't until I piled all the costumes in front of the washing machine that I realised how much we had. And only one item needs hand washing...result! Mick & I went for a pub lunch & ended up falling asleep...in the pub...at about 2.30pm, which was a cue to get the PA & piano back to Manchester and say 'goodbye' to our trusty tour/hire van. It's a little strange to let a project be part of your life for months and months, then find a bunch of 'strangers' to join in for 3 weeks, then for everyone to return to the towns & cities they came from and end up having it all in boxes in your living room again...wondering which charity shop to give it to!! Next plan...get a props/costume store! The loft WILL cave in at some point I'm sure! Some props will be making their way to the next W.I jumble sale, (rather fittingly, will be interesting to see what DOESN'T sell, that awful Elvis picture I bet...not a fan of Elvis or his picture!). Some of it was sourced at the last W.I jumble and, to be realistic, I can't see using some bits as 'props' for anything else. (LOVE the standard lamp tho!). Interesting fact; a majority of the 'Groping for Words' set, (inc. Wendy House), ended up at a primary school in Hull & is well loved & used to this day! So, to reflect, as with all these productions, every play is a learning process and I discover more about this buisness they call 'show' every day...often things I wish I'd discovered 6 months earlier mind, but at least I'm armed for next time. And they'll keep on being 'next times' purely because of the support and encouragement from everyone who comes out to see these Planet Rabbit shows. The comments, feedback & emails we have recieved in the last 12 months have been wonderful. Thank you, every one, for coming out to see our plays & giving us such warm receptions, you make it a pleasure. Thank you, also, to everyone on & off stage who has anything to do with the productions. And thank you to the managers & technicians at the venues we visit who care about the shows & support what Planet Rabbit are doing. It is all truly appreciated, and we enjoy doing it and we want to keep doing. After saying "It's not 'Les Mis' love" to everyone involved, I would, one day, (as I kept telling the cast), run this again with gold glitter curtains flying down, glitter balls, big screens coming on at the back of the stage with images of the world cup...& Barry Manilow, 20 tap dancers in top hat & tails suddenly appearing from nowhere as showgirls emerge from fountains...well you can dream, (if you don't have a dream, how you gonna have a dream come true?). I look forward to seeing you at the next one, please keep coming back to see us won't you....(P.S. anyone want to buy an Elvis picture?!) CLAIRE x

Sat 26th September
I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to Claire for giving me this chance to perform again, and to find out if I still had it in me. So far it feels good, (the jury's still out as to whether others feel the same!). Claire is putting her heart and soul, (& everything she has, & I mean EVERYTHING), into this Production Company & in these times of uncertainty, with our politicians, banks, & the wars going on all over the world, I think she is not only brave, but positively courageous to do what she is attempting to do. So, (I hope she won't mind me doing this!), I would like to, on her behalf, (because I know she will not do it herself!), appeal to those of you out there who might be interested in being an investing 'Angel' for Claire, & her Planet Rabbit Productions Company? (Even Andrew Lloyd Webber had 'Angels' when he first started out with 'Cats'). Well she needs help with 'Rabbits' - & if you were an investing 'Angel' then you could be one of her 'Bunnies' in the future! It would mean that she would be able to really let her creativity flow - keeping actors in the light - & theatres out of the dark, without going under herself in the process! If you are a potential 'Angel' entrepeneur, with an interest in Planet Rabbit, then please contact Claire at info@planetrabbit.co.uk and maybe you will be able to make her a 'happy bunny' (excuse the puns!). Thanks for reading my 'Blogs', take care of yourselves, & (if you've stayed the course), I'll sign off with, our very own, 'top of the charts' again, Vera Lynn, who sings - "We'll Meet Again, Don't Know Where, Don't Know When!"...love JACKIExx
Lovely last night in Pickering. We've had fantastic audiences every night and tonight was no exception. We received some lovely comments after this last show from this audience...thank you Pickering! CLAIRE

Fri 25th September
Our performance was in Whitby today, where I live, so it was a little surreal for me. I have performed there before but never in a tour so I was thinking it would be strange after being in so many different places. I was crazily excited for it though - I knew that a lot of Whitby residents would support the show...and they did. It was the biggest audience we've had so far! It was so well received. So many audience members commented on how much they enjoyed the show afterwards - some even quite upset that we didn't have a further curtain call so they could give us a standing ovation! Not bad at all! Not mentioning any names but there were a few grown men crying tonight (not for the first time on the tour...what are they like? They say women are emotional!) Anyway I thoroughly enjoyed this performance, I've loved them all to be honest because the play is so good, but there was something about being back home and doing it that made it even better. We were all aware that the audience were loving it from the outset and it was a fabulous feeling. It made everyone want to give it their all. Only one more performance to go now...I'll be gutted when it's over. It's sad when things like this have to come to an end but kind of nice that it was only a short tour because at least we all still loved the play and hadn't gone crazy! Ha. Bye for now. Love FIONA

Thu 24th September
Today was Glossop. I have a soft spot for this venue and this was Planet Rabbit's 3rd visit to the Partington Theatre, & Les and Chris always give us a warm welcome and do all they can to assist us with happy visit. We have brought both 'Groping for Words' & 'Anorak of Fire' to this theatre previously. Before we did the load-in we visited a fancy high street coffee shop...the type where 1 person sits on a table designed for 5, leaving 7 women squeezing around a table designed for 2, and watching them struggle with cups & saucers and plates of flapjack...you get the picture. What the other coffee shop patrons thought of this miss-mash of women, cackling over the world's smallest table, one can but wonder. Anyway, it was a joy to see Les & Chris again and to be back at a real hidden gem of a theatre. I don't even worry about the outside 'fire escape' get-in route anymore, it's unusual but not impossible! Glossop haven't got the largest stage in the world but you can easily choreograph the original blocking to work in the space. And it's well worth doing as it's a great intimate space to play, thus you are able to get an instant rapport with the audience, it's quite a special place & I love it there, the auditorium is truly lovely. We adapted the blocking to incorporate an auditorium curtain as the actors entrance/exit, which takes some negotiating with a lampshade on your head (...what?...it's comedy!), but it worked. And yet another venue when a member of the audience/grown man approached me at the end and said he had a lump in his throat & tears in his eyes at certain points...great! We've still got it and I'm delighted to see the cast aren't falling back on their laurels, but going from strength to strength & sustaining the conviction in their performances. And I had a friend in tears watching it in Bingley last night as well! I must point out this IS a comedy, and not really a weepy, however there are some sensitive, gentle moments, highlighted by our beautiful original songs, that bring these character's stories home. So the tears only come when you've travelled that emotional journey, (ups & downs), with these characters & see it all tied up neatly at the end with a total understanding of what the last 2 hours were all about...life. Accompanied by the feeling you get the first time you hear Nathan Dawe's song 'My Day'... (so, so good. It touches your soul. Poignant lyrics to a stunning melody). Good 'theatre' to be part of. CLAIRE

Wed 23rd September
Had a leisurely morning with a late breakfast watching Supermarket Sweep on Retro TV - what a blast from the past! Then had a stroll along the road to the shops and bought supplies for tea from the fabulous delicatessen in Ripponden, which sells freshly baked bread and quiches to die for! Well we need to keep up our energy for the show! We set off for Bingley mid-afternoon and the sat nav took us on a very picturesque country route, right over the tops of the hills. Although we were a bit concerned about the contents of the van on some of the steep narrow roads, everything arrived in one piece. We received a friendly welcome from Laura, the technician at Bingley Arts Centre, which had a lovely theatre with a big stage and easy access for all the props so we had a quick get-in before sound checks and make-up. We even had our own green room next to the dressing room. The performance seemed to go down well with a small but warm and appreciative audience. We drove back via the main roads this time and had a well earned snack before retiring to our beds. JULIE

Tue 22nd September
Tuesday saw us visit Oswaldtwistle, (try saying that after 5 pints!). We'd all had a great nights sleep and were ready for action. Plus a few of us had been 'ladies who lunch' at the local pub. So you can imagine out horror when we saw the stairs we had to mount to get to the theatre - and then our look of joy when we saw the lift! Even the piano fit in the lift so Jackie's knees were saved. Then to our delight Jill Spratt, (a friend of Planet Rabbit & Oswaldtwistle resident), brought us some amazing home cooked food, we can't thank her enough. AND AMAZING CHOCOLATE BROWNIES! Thank you, thank you, thank you. We had a small audience but they all seemed to have a good time. Thank you all who came. The show went well and we are growing in confidence every day. After the show we went home and scoffed lots of food around the kitchen table. Gannets spring to mind. Why does performing make you eat like a horse? SAMANTHA
We recieved a lovely email following the Oswaldtwistle show from a member of the audience wanted to express their enjoyment of the show. Thank you so much, it means such a lot. CLAIRE

Mon 21st September
We now have three performances under our belts & have enjoyed them all. All were fantastic audiences! Now the challenge is to match each performance to both its venue, (they are all different shapes & sizes), and its audience. Tadcaster tonight was a lovely venue - an easy stage to work on with plenty of room. But we had to watch our diction as the sounds can echo in that space. We wanted to ensure the audience could understand what we were saying & not miss any of the humour from the play. They laughed from start to finish & seemed to really enjoy themselves. Thank you Tadcaster, it makes us enjoy it all the more. ANNETTE
We were THRILLED with the reception in Tadcaster AND to receive a standing ovation...which left us with great feeling for our journey back after the show. Thanks to everyone for the support, everywhere we've visited. CLAIRE

Sun 20th September
I have repeatedly said in the last 24 hours "this feeling is what it's all about" and I want to be reminded of this feeling whenever it doesn't 'feel like this' anymore! Last night in Bridlington was such a great show and such a great vibe, a busy theatre with everyone laughing and crying in all the right moments! The right way to leave the week before a day off. The girls all deserve a big pat on the back for getting it to this stage and effortlessly playing it for all it was worth. A couple of highlights to note: spotting the tears in the eyes of grown men on hearing Nathan Dawe's 'My Day', (utter beauty), and hearing a chap in the audience refuse to believe that actress Jackie Grimwood played both Gwenda AND the WPC, (the gal pulled it off). This is kind of what it's all about. Oh and seeing the total emotion from actress Fiona Organ when her Mum turned up, unexpectedly, for opening night (from Whitby-Hull-Bridlington-Whitby. C'mon Mrs Organ! That's the spirit!). So, today found myself and Fi drop off various animal pens with my sis for next weeks 'rabbit sitting'; then drive my car (containing beds/bedding!) to Ripponden, (soon to be base camp until next Friday); sort out sleeping arrangements for 5 actors, a stage manager, a producer & a producer's boyfriend, (it's his house, so he's pretty much sorted!); find food; eat said food; then producer's boyfriend (& producer's boyfriends mum...who likes a ride out) kindly returns myself/producer & Fi to Hull (where van containing set, etc, is). Tomorrow will see me deposit my rabbit & guineapig with my sis for the week, then myself & Fi will drive the van to Tadcaster, company assemble, do show, everyone then goes to Ripponden, where Jen takes over driving of van until Friday and I transport cast in my car for the week. Are you still following? It is most cost effective way, honest. Please note; boyfriend is such a fab bloke to allow 7 women invade his home, bathroom & fridge, etc, for 4 nights...most of whom he doesn't know. Mad?...no, just a nice bloke. It is hard to believe that within 6 days this will all be over, time seems to be flying by. CLAIRE
P.S. Jackie has a little something to add...
Last night we performed at the Spotlight Theatre in Bridlington...and it was fantastic! From the moment we arrived in Brid & enjoyed the warm sunny seaside atmosphere, the squawking seagulls, the lunch in the cafe, (we even had ice-creams!), to when we were met by Bob at the stage door, it was sheer joy! The little theatre felt like a home from home - it's so lovely, both front and backstage, & we all felt really comfortable & eager to do the show! And do it we did to a HUGE crowd! Wow! It was great, & the audience made us feel so welcome & appreciated - it suddenly dawned on us WHY we do it. And Claire says Bob will 'fix it' for Planet Rabbit to go back...'Yes he will!' Thanks Bob. JACKIE

Sat 19th September
We had a performance in Bridlington today so obviously had to have a wander round and an ice-cream before going to the theatre - it had to be done! We happened to chance upon the curtain shop that doubled as a box office and discovered that we had very nearly sold out! We were elated. It was lovely feeling to think that so many people wanted to see our play/musical. (I had to quickly get my Mum a ticket while there were still some left). Already we were all in high spirits, and looking forward to playing to a packed house, before even getting to the theatre. On arriving at the Spotlight Theatre we were greeted Bob and shown into the wonderful theatre. It was fabulous. Even the empty building had a warm, inviting, atmosphere, it's apparent that a lot of love has gone into the creating of this theatre. It's a really well cared for, lovely, intimate venue. The play itself tonight was great! All of us felt that it had gone well and that the audience loved it. It really was a pleasure to perform tonight more than ever. Afterwards we were all grinning from ear to ear. My Mum came to see it last night and tonight - she's becoming a bit of a groupie, she loves it. Can't wait for the rest of the run now. FIONA

Fri 18th September
Hello 'Blog Readers'! I'm here again, the 'Novice Blogger' - 'out of the trap' for my second time! Sorry, I'm also a bit late - but there hasn't been a minute to put pen to paper, (or fingers on the computer keyboard either!) We have not stopped! From day one of rehearsals it's been all go!! As you know, we six girls have been staying at 'The Rudstone Walk' cottages, and the relay for the bathroom and kitchen was 'poetry in motion' by the time we ended our stay there! It's amazing how quickly strangers can become so comfortable & intimate with each other in such a short space of time! It's one of the best parts of being in this profession - "Hey-Diddley-Dee, an Actors life for me"! ha ha! We did our last dress rehearsal on Friday 18th Sept & at 12noon we were given a few hours to do some food shopping and have a short rest back at the cottage; at 3pm we all set off for our first venue -NAPA in Hull. Everyone was noticeably quieter than usual, 'first night' nerves were beginning to 'kick' in, & it's interesting how differently it affects us all in different ways - except one! The ladies toilets seemed to be the most popular place in the theatre before the performance! You should have seen the expressions on our faces when we were informed, by our stage manager Jen, just before the 'half' that there were no backstage toilet facilities, & we would not be able to venture outside as the audience were now in the foyer! 'Rabbits caught in headlights' is the only way I can describe it! Just as well that we are in a Planet Rabbit production really! Perfect casting! ha ha! And isn't it funny that as soon as you are told you can't do something, you want to URGENTLY?! Suffice to say, we were escorted to and from the loo's discreetly pre-performance, so worry not dear readers! Wise decision, or I think we'd have had to use one of our props, (my mop), for a different reason than we do in the play; (you'll have to come & see why it's used, twice, during the performance for yourselves won't you?) To say opening night was perfect would be untrue. There were the usual little 'blips' & 'trip ups' on the odd words or cues, but the audience gave us a real 'feel' for where the laughs were going to come, & as we neared the end of the piece we could all sense their enjoyment; & the warmth that was enimating from them. Oh! the roar of the greasepaint and the smell of the crowd! ha ha! The relief for us all when it was over was fabulous, we were all on a high with the excitement & adrenalin; which was just as well because then the 'get-out' had to be done. And believe me when I say it's a real 'team' effort! I now know what it's like to be an ant, we were like 'soldier ants' making a trail back and forth to the two Planet Rabbit vans with various props, costumes, sound equipment, & one very heavy piano which, (due to my great age and delicate constitution) my fellow performers prevented me from putting even one finger on, let alone help lift! Thank everyone! All this was done on the dark street, with sirens going off intermittently and a few revellers from the pub opposite the Arts Centre attempting to play a drunken game of football! (We have a bit of a football theme in this play, but you'll have to come & see for yourselves! Hint hint!) I can't stop making pictures in my head of how we all look - we've gone from 'Morecambe & Wise' to now 'The Keystone Cops', (we even have a truncheon! again, I repeat, come & see for yourselves what we do with it!) Well, as I'm late with my 'blog' I thought I'd make it a longer one, if that's alright with you? and you haven't lost the will yet? "I've started so I'll finish..." another reference to the play - again, come & see...love JACKIExx

Thu 17th September
Well we've just finished work for Thursday. 3 full dress rehearsals and the cast are on their way back to their digs. As for me, I'm going to have a last wander out into the lovely East Yorkshire countryside. I've been doing this every evening and have discovered some lovely picturesque villages and gorgeous views. Elloughton, where we've been rehearsing is really nice, and Welton, South Cave and Market Weighton have been lovely too. It's been an absolute pleasure having a wander and watching the sunset over the greatest county in England - Yorkshire (not that I'm biased!) And as for the play...it's ready!! The cast have taken everything we've thrown at them and made it work. I think it's a really lovely piece of theatre - come and see it, I hope you'll agree. HARRY

Wed 16th September
Well here we are half way through the second week of rehearsals. The morning started with the smoke alarm going off in our digs (due to burning of toast). I set off before the cast to help with the setting up of our rehearsal room ready for the run through. The cast arrived and once all settled, and cup of tea in hand, we started (notes first). Act 1 went well with all the song & dancers numbers fitted in it flowed well. Act 2 started...how moving is the second half. This show has been produced really well, it's going to be so good when we open on Friday. Well the evening calls for a night out, leaving the digs for the evening to join Claire & Mick to sort the show sound disc out, it's really coming together, and tea in a hotel, what more could I ask for. Oh well, that's about it, can't wait to get a dress run tomorrow to see the final picture. JEN

Tue 15th September
I arrived on Sunday night and stayed with Claire. We haven't seen each other for years so there was a lot of catching up to do. We talked for hours! On Monday morning I met with Harry - another long lost friend - and the cast. It was lovely to see Jackie as well as I didn't know she was in the play! The whole cast are lovely to work with and we cracked on with choreography straight away. I had a plan to do the four up-tempo numbers on the first day - and we did! Everyone worked really hard and picked the steps and moves up really quickly. We had a lot of fun with the numbers and there was quite a lot of giggling - that's how I like it! This morning - Tuesday - we went over yesterdays work. Everyone remembered what we had done - bonus! - and we quickly made the necessary tweeks and changes. Then we moved on to the two ballads. One was easy to do but it took a while to get the second one right. This is the big emotional song at the heart of the show. We knew we'd got it right when everyone was crying. Job done! SUE

Mon 14th September
I can hardly believe the first week of rehearsals has come & gone, it's all happened so fast & now we are already in to week two. Still trying to remember song lyrics & with the help of our brilliant choreographer, Sue Brackenbury, we've been adding movement to the songs today which has actually made it easier to remember the lyrics. Back at the digs I had to evict an eight legged visitor - kindly though - I trapped him under a glass & set him free. Maybe he was attracted by the sound of us practising our songs - well one can live in hope! And now we've all settled in again nicely - it's as though we've known each other for years & not just a week. ANNETTE

Sun 13th September
About to start on week 2 after finishing week 1 on a real high. The songs sound amazing, I can't emphasize this enough! It's not a musical...it's a play with songs, but boy, they are cracking songs. The script mentions 6 songs, however, as these are no longer available I enlisted a composer to put the original song suggestions in to musical reality. Nathan has worked so hard on both the music and lyrics and I have nothing but admiration and gratitude for him. He has found a real depth to the characters but kept the comedy balanced perfectly. Not only are the lyrics spot on but the music he's composed is wonderful. Of the 6 songs 2 are ballads, both are beautiful but one reduces me to tears EVERYTIME I hear it. It's stunning, and I know it affects the others in the same way. So being the proud producer I have put a burst of it on our Facebook page today, along with some rehearsal pics. Sorry to you non-facebook users, but I am looking at enabling to load similar images on this website in the near future. I then awaited the arrival of choreographer, Sue, and actor, Fi, who arrived back tonight in preparation for tomorrows rehearsal. So after much gossiping over a drink at the station, and much, much more nattering over a meal, and then yet more chattering over a brew at my place, we have finally run out of energy to talk any more. For tonight at least. Both Sue and Fi have now turned in, one in a bed and one in a sort of bed...did I mention I was on a budget?! So I will proof-read the programme before bed and then await what will be a very busy week. Staging the musical numbers, rehearsing and more rehearsing, then opening in Hull on Friday and on to Bridlington on Saturday. So all we can do is wait for the crowds, big or small! CLAIRE

Sat 12th September
Back in Whitby for the weekend and have been listening to the CD of our songs all day. They're so good and catchy. Even find myself singing a long to ones I'm not even involved in. Seem to know the lyrics to those ones better than the ones I need to learn! Ha. Really excited to combine the songs with the play now and see how it all fits together, separately they're amazing so...and then with choreography on top of that...should be wonderful! I've felt like this weeks rehearsals have been both enjoyable and productive and hope it will be the same next week. I'm sure it will. Although I'm sure it will be pretty exhausting too - it's all good though. We all know it's worth it and want to make it as fabulous as possible. FIONA

Fri 11th September
Nathan's blog to be posted soon

Thu 10th September
Today was a day filled with music, literally. Nathan, our Musical Director, came into our rehearsal rooms bearing sheet music & sunglasses & we heard our songs in full for the first time and proceeded to learn them. West End watch out, 'Bazaar & Rummage' is about to explode on to the scene. All we need are a few big dance numbers and some jazz hands & tap dancing...let's see what our dance choreographer can bring to the equation on Monday. We all left rehearsals really pleased with all the music, a new air of excitement and all a little bit more exhausted. Loads to learn, loads to do but a real feeling that we're in this together and really are are about to do something great. SAMANTHA

Wed 9th September
Awoke to a beautiful sunny morning. Arrived at the Scout Hut and listened to a CD of the music for the first time. It sounded great and the lyrics have been very carefully & cleverly written. We can't wait to meet Nathan, (the composer of the lyrics & music), tomorrow and learn the songs. Then we all tried our costumes which helped with getting a feel for our characters - everyone looked perfect for their parts. The main task for the day was organising how to get all the props on stage. We start off with an almost empty set, but have to gradually carry on all the bags & boxes of "Rummage" and set it out. This is far more complicated than remembering the script! After tea we decided to stretch our legs & get a bit of fresh air. Walking up the hill from the digs gave lovely views over the Humber estuary & surrounding area. Following a footpath across the fields we heard owls hooting in the woods, found a rabbit's skull and encountered a lost dog, which we reunited with its owner. We arrived back just as the sun disappeared over the horizon and looked forward to a good nights sleep. zzzz JULIE

Tue 8th September
Hello everyone, this is my first ever 'Blog'! Claire has asked every member of the company to write one, & as I'm the eldest out of the five girls, I'm the first one "out of the trap" as it were! (I think it's a case of 'Age before beauty'!) Actually, this is also my first time working for Claire Butler & her company, "Planet Rabbit", & I have to say so far it's been a very enjoyable experience! This is only our second day & already we are behaving as though we have known each other for years! We are all sharing a lovely cottage in 'Rudstone Walk' & to see how we manouver around each other on the mornings while making our individual breakfasts, without once knocking each other over or spilling a drop of tea or coffee, well, it's a sight to behold! It reminds me of an old 'Morecambe & Wise' T.V sketch, set to the 'stripper' music, when Ern 'caught' the toast & Eric 'chopped' the grapefruit! (only blog readers of a certain age will know what I'm on about!) As this is also my first 'tour' in YEARS, I'm afraid I brought everything 'bar the kitchen sink' with me! (a mistake I will NOT be making again!) As on my first night in the cottage the weight of my clothes brought the hanging rail down! The look of disbelief from my roomate & fellow cast member, Julie Guard, made me realise I had definitely broken even my own 'record' for excess baggage! Our director, Harry Gallagher, is not only one of the nicest people I have met in a long time; very gentle, funny & encouraging, but he is also one of the bravest! There's not many men out there who would take on a job, where they would have to tell FIVE women what they should & should not do, or what they could or could not say, & be listened to! (But he does, & we do!......& it's great!) Before this turns in to a biog instead of a blog I will take my leave & say bye bye for now. And as the late George Burns used to say, "Goodnight Gracie"! Love JACKIExx

Mon 7th September
Well here we are at the end of day 1 of rehearsals. Early days yet, but I'm really pleased at our progress. We have a lovely cast - talented, dedicated and professional. I couldn't believe it when they turned up on day 1 and knew their scripts - almost unheard of!! We're having a good time putting the play together and I'm confident that when it goes on tour it will make people laugh a lot and may even bring a tear to the eye. Special mention must also go to Claire, our Artistic Director, who has got more props and costumes together than you can shake a stick at! High hopes then! Two more weeks of hard work, then 'Bazaar & Rummage' is going out there. Miss it or miss out! HARRY

Sun 6th September
Rehearsals are starting tomorrow for our next production 'Bazaar & Rummage.' The cast assembled this evening at their self-catering accommodation in the rural setting of South Cave in East Yorkshire. We've got yet another great team on this production and there was a lovely air of excitement tonight as everyone gathered & we said hello. Everyone is a fan of the play, & Sue Townsend, and can't wait to get cracking. The lovely actress, Jackie Grimwood, came bearing gifts...homemade neck cushions for all, the ideal touring accessory. Thank you Jackie, (she can come again!) At 9pm myself & Harry (director) left them to it & retired 'home'...Harry promptly headed for a local pub, not sure if it was the prospect of spending the next 2 weeks in a scout hut/rehearsal room with half a dozen women that prompted this! It will be nice to see it come to life at last, after spending months of hunting out props, costumes, actors & working on promotion, and so on, I'm ready to see it now! The rehearsal room started to look like a jumble sale this week (intentionally...it's set at a jumble sale!), which was exciting & I'm looking forward to revealing it all to Harry & the girls tomorrow. Nathan has done a truly wonderful job with the songs, I can't wait to hear the girls sing them. So all in all, after months of preparation...we're ready to go. CLAIRE

Fri 21st August
Well, what a busy week. Monday found myself, & my brilliantly supportive fella Mick, travel to Pickering to distribute posters to the shops and cafes throughout the town. As well as 'postering' that day I also found myself meeting with a 'new' actress as, sadly, Jayne Ashley - who was due to play Margaret - has had to bow out of the line up for personal reasons. I have worked with Jayne before and she's a great performer and is genuinely upset she can't join us for this production. However, step forward Annette Marriette who will now take the role of Margaret. We also managed to grab a brew and a natter on Monday with a lovely friend of mine, wardrobe mistress, Michelle Bartram. Michelle is always very busy so you're lucky to grab her & it's always nice to see her. My folks reported back from a break in Whitby to say the theatre have done a cracking job of the distribution of posters there too. One of our actresses, Fiona Organ, is Whitby based and is very thorough with the plugging of shows! The residents of Buxton didn't stand a chance when Fi took to the streets armed with fliers for our fringe shows in July - she was fab! The rest of the week was devoted to sourcing costumes and props, often the hardest part of the process, especially with this show as we have 6 characters to clothe and many props to lay our hands on...on a tiny budget. Our main item of furniture for this tour is a piano. We have had to be very specific with this for both performance and touring reasons. Seeing the actor(s) over the piano is a concern, travelling the piano is another concern, but our main concern is physically getting it in to each venue, (especially Glossop, for anyone who has worked that venue! Those of you unfamiliar with this theatre - the 'get-in' route is an outside fire escape!). As luck would have it we found the ideal piano for our requirements at the beginning of the week and it arrived yesterday. It's perfect! I then finished the week off today with yet more 'postering' with Mick. This was our last stint of postering and we covered Bingley and Oswaldtwistle. The retailers here were, once again, very supportive and seemed happy to display our posters and fliers. (Although after a later poster count I fear I put a Glossop poster in Oswaldtwistle! Whoops). I dread this part of the job and feel quite cheeky asking butchers and bakers, etc, to put our posters up. It's also quite time consuming, especially deciding which areas to target. Anyway, it's all done for now and we were received warmly in all the towns we visited. We also managed to pop in to both Bingley Arts Centre and Oswaldtwistle Civic Theatre as both venues were empty. These are both great theatres with brilliant stages and have a perfect atmosphere. In fact all 8 venues are fantastic spaces to work in, although different in many ways. One thing's for sure, I am very confident that we have a recipe for a wonderful production, and as the phone rang many times this week for ticket sales for several venues it looks like the plan is coming together nicely! I am still uploading previous production/rehearsal pics to both this website and our Facebook page so do keep popping by to take a look. CLAIRE

Thu 13th August
The pre-production for 'Bazaar & Rummage' is really taking shape. I spent yesterday in Tadcaster with my twin sis, Helen, distributing posters and fliers for our September tour. (As it was our birthday this was very kind of her!) We had a lot of encouraging support within the town, which came as no surprise as the audience were very encouraging on our last visit to Tadcaster with 'Groping for Words'. We will be playing Tadcaster on Mon 21st September. I also met with the director Harry Gallagher to do a bit of 'team-talking' in a nice friendly pub called the Falcon! Nathan Dawe is working hard on writing/composing the six songs for the play and I've had lots of chats with him recently. Nathan is a great musician and all at Planet Rabbit are thrilled he's agreed to be on board. Especially as it requires so much time and hard work & sacrificing bigger jobs! For more info on Nathan please CLICK HERE. We have recently acquired the choreography talents of Sue Brackenbury who will will be around for the staging of Nathan's songs. I'm glad to see more & more people are joining our Facebook & Twitter pages and I'm so grateful to everyone for helping to spread the word. I've read a lot of great plays in recent weeks with a view to 2010 but the future of Planet Rabbit relies heavily on bums on seats at the moment, so thanks to everyone who is supporting the company. Our friend, & lighting supplier, Wavey and his partner Gwen have now celebrated the arrival of their second daughter Gabriella, so congrats to the Simpson family. Back to press releases and sourcing costumes for me. Keep an eye on the Gallery page as the cast of 'Bazaar & Rummage' will be appearing soon. Our friend Selina, who does our artwork, is a little poorly at the moment so "get well soon Slinky!" CLAIRE

Sun 26th July
Well that's all our shows done for a while. The three July shows were good fun and it looks likely we'll return to the Buxton Fringe next year. Chris was consistent with his superb performance every show and last night was no different. I look forward to working with Chris again in the future. A photographer from the Heywood Advertiser came before the show started to snap a pic of Chris in costume for the local paper. The Heywood audience were wonderful, what a great way to end the run. Thank you to all at the Church; Doreen, Pat & Chris for preparing the space and Mary, Irene & Jayne for the catering. For those that missed it - beautiful home baking was provided to all with their compliments. A lovely gesture enjoyed by all. Sunday left us with the 'Planet-Rabbit-Mobile', (actually a Vauxhall Agila with its seats down), full of lighting and sound equipment, costumes and props, etc. So myself, Mick and Helen headed off to unload at our suppliers in Heywood. First stop Wigwam Acoustics with the PA then Lightastic, (David 'Wavey' Simpson), with the lights. Thanks to both suppliers for all their support and technical assistance. Wavey and his partner Gwen are expecting their second child on August 5th so we had a brew with them and discussed baby names. I am now left with a fair bit of paperwork to tie up this July season and then I'll crack on with the pre-production for our September tour of Sue Townsend's comedy 'Bazaar & Rummage'. Rehearsals start on Monday 7th September so do pop back to this page then for daily updates from the cast and director. The occassional update may be posted prior to then. Thank you for tuning in to this website, your support is truly appreciated. CLAIRE

Sat 25th July
A great final show at the Heywood Baptist Church, the biggest audience so far. Everyone enjoyed themselves and it was one of the best audience reactions of the whole run. So thank you to everyone who came out to watch. We had genuine trainspotters in the audience again! They do still exist! I was told that the Flying Scotsman would be at Heywood station the next day. Some people must think I am an actual rail enthusiast! There is an article in the Heywood Advertiser this week about Anorak of Fire and Planet Rabbit Productions so keep your eyes peeled for that. CHRIS

Fri 24th July
Today we were in Hebden Bridge. We got there early so we could have a walk around the town and have tea. We then went back to the theatre to start setting up. It's a nice theatre, a great space to work in. I got to do my 'teckie' bit and ended up programming the lighting desk which was a bit of a challenge as that desk was new to me, but managed it in the end. 8 o'clock came and the show started. It was great, Chris was full of energy and the audience seemed to really enjoy themselves. From my side it went well too. Oh well, only one left, in Heywood. I think it's going to be a really good last show. JEN

Thu 23rd July
No shows today. Only 2 more Anorak shows to go; tomorrow & Saturday (Hebden Bridge & Heywood). Mike & Mary from Heywood came to see the George show yesterday, Mary said herself & Irene (at the church) will be laying on refreshments on Saturday, with compliments. This includes home baking!!! Mmmm! A wonderful gesture, thank you ladies, lucky Saturday night audience. Not too late to get your tickets for either show. All seats £6.00 for both shows, tickets available on the door. Did a little 'poster organising' for our September tour today, had more ticket enquiries for Anorak, became perplexed that a newspaper had said they would run a piece on Anorak - and have a pic - but nothing in print as yet, emptied the company vehicle of all that was Buxton (George & Anorak props, lights, PA, etc), and then went for lunch in Holmfirth with my sis, Helen. Sun, rain, sun, rain, wish it would do one or the other, sunglasses, brolly, sunglasses, brolly...so annoying. Had nice lunch and called in at the fab Ashley Jackson Gallery and bought a lovely pic. Brilliant artist, to see click here: 'ASHLEY JACKSON'. Holmfirth is in a lovely area, however, one word of warning...DO NOT, under any circumstance, use the public toilet which has an automatic door by Holmfirth bus station. It is a giant 'drip tray' with a cattle grid floor, is quite easily the filthiest environment I have encountered, has unpredictable automatic doors which have a mind of their own, and an automated self cleaning system which could injure an unwitting citizen. Kirklees Council will be sent my findings. For such a popular tourist attraction, (heart of Last of the Summer Wine Country), I'm shocked that's the best they have to offer. That aside, had nice couple of hours with sis. If you haven't seen Helen's pics on this site yet check them out on our 'Posters' page and click on H.P.Butler Photography. A selection of Helen's pics have been on sale at some venues on this tour. On behalf of H, thanks for the comments and purchases thus far. Midnight snack next for me and Nancy (rabbit) and Fluffy (cat), then bed. Guineapigs and other humans already in bed. CLAIRE

Wed 22nd July
We travelled down to Buxton in drizzly rain but we were all in high spirits. Anorak of Fire tonight - such a funny play and Chris is such a good actor - he has the audience hanging on to every word. Today was the final show of George - Don't Do That. We had a full house last week and we were hoping today's performance would be the same. It certainly was. Again we had to supply extra seating - a lot more in fact - how brilliant! I thoroughly enjoyed 'being Joyce' once more and the audience received her with warmth, gratitude and affection. Thank you to you all who came to see 'Joyce'. I'm very honoured to play a lady who has touched millions of people and is still popular today. A special thank you to Claire for asking me to take on the role. Even though Neville was a handful, Hazel stuck her finger in the keyhole and Sidney - amongst the whistling, punching, the paint brush escapade, oh and the hamster hidden in his jersey...the list goes on, it was an absolute pleasure! Just a few final words; "George - Don't Do That!" GAYLE

Tue 21st July
Just the one show today for myself and Planet Rabbit. 14 people, which isn't a bad turn out for a wet Tuesday afternoon, so thank you to those of you who came along to watch Anorak of Fire. Another show tomorrow and then I bid farewell to Buxton, although I am sure I will return in the future. CHRIS

Mon 20th July
Gayle came over to the 'company digs' today and we had a good old natter, really put the world to rights, (feel a play about lazy local councils and wheelie bins coming on). You know those old people that moan about everything? What age did they start moaning? Is 35 too young to start? Who am I kidding, I've been moaning since I first started paying council tax many moons ago. Anyway, went through the 'George' text, still love everything that is Joyce Grenfell. Not one toasted teacake passed our lips today. In fact when Gayle left at 4.45 I realised I hadn't offered her a crumb all day...(sorry Gayle). Had a few work related emails to sort, had some more ticket resrvations for both productions, talked 'speaker cables' with my sound man boyfriend, then had a curry in front of Corrie. Now contemplating what I need to pack for tomorrow, just one show - Anorak in Buxton at 3pm. Then I'll run an iron over Chris' freshly laundered costume before I hit the hay. Showbiz eh! CLAIRE

Sun 19th July
I spent some of today reflecting on the last 2 weeks and thinking of how much ground the company has covered in such a short amount of time with these 3 projects. Especially after a warm reception at Glossop last night. Our contact at the theatre, Les Hewitt, is a lovely man and if you get the opportunity to visit this venue, please do. It's always nice to visit there. The rest of today was spent topping up Anorak flyers in Hebden Bridge, as a final push for this Fridays show at the Little Theatre. Myself, my sister Helen, (who is lending a hand this week), and my boyfriend Mick, braved the rain and dotted a few more posters up and distributed hand bills. Thank you to all the shops, libraries, tourist information centres, taxi ranks, pubs and chippies, etc, that kindly display our posters and flyers in all the towns we visit. Also, today, Gayle was interviewed on Nottingham Hospital Radio and talked at length about the Joyce Grenfell piece and other Planet Rabbit projects. We also had news today that more Heywood tickets had been snapped up. This will be an exciting show for us as we have not performed at Heywood Baptist Church before and the feedback so far has been very positive. It is also exciting as it sounds like our last show of this tour will be a busy night, which is always a nice way to end. A special thanks to our good friend and supporter, Mary Huck, who has helped promote the show within this church and sell tickets on our behalf. I hope this will be a good night for the church as well. I also emailed our friend and ex-colleague, Laura Spratt, (Thelma in 'Groping for Words'), today and filled her in on all the Planet Rabbit news and sent pics of Chris in costume (who was also in 'GFW'). Laura has missed seeing these productions due to her Wardrobe committments on a world tour with PINK and is currently in Australia. (As excuses go, that's quite a good one!). Tomorrow will see a little more work on casting the September tour and a 2 hour 'meeting' with Gayle. Essentially to run the text of her show, as she has big gaps between performances it's nice to keep it fresh. However, these 'meetings' tend to end up with a plate of toasted teacakes and pots of tea...and why not! CLAIRE

Sat 18th July
Today we took Anorak of Fire to Glossop which I was quite excited about as I've never been there before. So after an hours journey in the company vehicle we arrived and I thought to myself what a beautiful little town with the sun shining and the wonderful views. Upon arrival we parked the car and started to unload it of sound equipment, props and costumes. Up the fire escape we go and into a beautiful little theatre that is just the perfect size for our show. As we are using the theatre's lighting equipment their technician and I start arranging the lights to our needs, and they look great. Next on the agenda was a sound check with Chris and then before we knew it it was 8 o'clock and the show was about to begin. It was a great show with lots of energy. From my position at the prompt desk in the wings I could hear the audience thoroughly enjoying themselves. So with only 4 shows left and tickets selling well if you haven't seen it yet it's time to grab your anorak and get yourself down here to see this fantastic show! JEN

Fri 17th July
This week has been very busy putting the finishing touches to Anorak of Fire. I performed on Tuesday and Wednesday in Buxton as part of the Fringe. Very good houses both days so thank you to everyone for making the journey up the steepest hill in Derbyshire to get to the United Reformed Church! I performed at the Carriageworks in Leeds tonight, again another good house and there were obviously some real life rail enthusiasts as there were plenty of knowing laughs. Tomorrow we are in Glossop at 8pm so come along and check it out if you haven't done so already, or even if you have come again! CHRIS

Thu 16th July
No shows today, however Planet Rabbit work doesn't stop. I auditioned some great actresses for various roles for our September tour of Sue Townsend's wonderful play 'Bazaar & Rummage' today. Fiona returned to her home town of Whitby this evening...the 'company digs' are suddenly becoming empty and quieter as people leave day by day! We had 2 great days in Buxton on Tuesday and Wednesday. There is no greater sight for a producer than seeing a queue of expectant 'punters' waiting to see their show(s)! And no greater sound for a writer/director than the sound of the audience rippling/laughing at the exact right bit! We were all pleasantly surprised with the size of the 'Anorak' audience on Tuesday, (and the same number again on Wednesday), but we were overwhelmed by the turn out for 'George - Don't Do That', it exceeded all expectations, although we did have encouraging advance sales for this show. We had to put extra chairs out for this show! All 3 shows were very well received and congratulations must go to all 4 performers for these shows. All 3 shows had great reviews for their first performances, to see please click here: 'Buxton Fringe Reviews'. It is challenging for any actor to hold a show on their own and both Chris and Gayle do a wonderful job of carrying their monolgues, each for 45 minutes. Tomorrow Anorak goes on to Leeds Carriageworks, followed by Glossop on Saturday. Then it's back to Buxton on Tuesday and Wednesday, with 'George' playing on the Wednesday as well...so it's all go! CLAIRE

Wed 15th July
So sad that today was Standby's final performance, but wishing Teams George & Anorak lots of broken legs for the remainder of their performances. I've thoroughly enjoyed this last week and a half, everyone has been absolutely lovely. Both George & Anorak got great audiences today and both shows were really fabulous. Standby has a few less people than the other two but I think they enjoyed it so happy days. Both Em & I said after the show that there was a great vibe from the audience. Hopefully we did Claire's play justice cos it's so good! I wish now that we had more performances of it so more people can see it, but that's the way it goes. Looking forward to Bazaar & Rummage now, oh yeah! FIONA

Tue 14th July
Fortune definitely shone down on us today. We arrived at our fringe venue and found it was a beautiful space with raised stage area defined with gorgeous stained glass windows, absolutely stunning. With excitement we embarked on our opening matinee hoping, as actors, we would do justice to a remarkably funny script and great director. The audience received us with great gusto! We look forward to our next show and a glowing review with any luck! EMILY

Mon 13th July
Today was dress rehearsal today and our first 'show and tell' to one another. We had a morning of rehearsals in the living room (Standby) and dining room (Anorak) at the 'company digs', which was different but do-able! We then headed off to the rehearsal room to begin the 3 dresses at 12noon. First 'George', then 'Standby' then 'Anorak'. We invited 6 guests, (plus one cocker spaniel...he's only a puppy!), who provided us with the laughter marks. It was also good to do these runs in front of the other performers as it feels we've been closeted away in our separate rooms and fresh eyes help. There has also been a real sense of comradeship this week and the support of one another today was a real morale boost. It was also useful day for Gayle, (from 'George'), even though she has performed this piece in front of an audience already (in May) it was a nice refresher for her. After the 3 rehearsals everyone headed straight back to the digs for tea and sandwiches, (very rock n roll I know), followed by a few notes and early nights for all. It feels like the calm before the storm, although suspiciously tranquil, no signs of panic at all. Andy went for a nap early evening and is sleeping like a log...it was his turn to do the blog today but I know from experience you should never wake a snoring man! It would appear he only had one hour of sleep last night. No, not due to director worries, but due to watching a DVD box set of something or another through the night! We leave for Buxton at 8am tomorrow...let the games begin. CLAIRE

Sun 12th July
We are dressing all 3 shows tomorrow, before opening in Buxton on Tuesday. I'll admit I have slight apprehensions about the 'viewing' of 'Standby On Stage Please!' purely because I wrote it. Personally I think it is hilarious, (is that wrong?!). One thing I have enjoyed about the last 7 days, (& anyone who knows me will be shocked by this...), is the sharing of a house with the company, (as a rule I don't 'do' people). Every evening we have shared a meal together around a big dining table and as a result have found out a lot about each other, which has been a great experience. (For example, Jen lives on a sort of farm with sheep and donkey's you know!). I love watching Andy and Jen's director/stage manager relationship, it is borderline comical as they research train numbers tirelessly night after night. They are both ultimate professionals, as well as calm and reflective, good to have about when chaos is in sight. Andy said an interesting thing yesterday; "Directing is like a parachute jump Claire, don't worry about whether the chute will open, just enjoy the ride." Surprisingly, falling in to a farmer's field at high speed, facing certain death, doesn't appeal to me much. I shall miss Andy when he leaves us. (He is not terminally ill you understand, merely returning to Tunbridge Wells). Mick, (boyfriend-cum-sound expert), has compiled the show sound discs with a young chap called Wesley. I shall name check Wesley as he must be sick of seeing my discs return, daily, asking for it to be 17.2 seconds shorter and for Andy to have more 'rail track noise' in his train effects! So thank you Mick & Wesley for 'sound' and patience. Fiona, Mick & I returned to Buxton this afternoon for 'Fringe Sunday'. Various snippets of forthcoming Fringe shows could be seen as a promotional exercise. We handed out more leaflets, it was dog eat dog at times as we weren't the only company doing this. I've enjoyed working with Fiona, she's the only company member I haven't worked with before and it's been good getting to know her....and she washes the pots immediately after using them! CLAIRE

Sat 11th July
Looked on the BBC weather report for Buxton - forcasted for very light rain, hoped the heavens would hold as we went down to promote the shows. We were all in good spirits. As we arrived we were greeted by a town bustling with people of all generations awaiting the start of the Carnival procession. We hurried towards the crowds just in time to see the start of loads of colourful floats each depicting different themes & local businesses. We handed out leaflets for each of the 3 productions (Standby On Stage Please, Anorak of Fire and, of course, George Don't Do That). I'm looking forward to Wednesday and will hopefully do Joyce Grenfell proud. I'm lucky enough to just remember her on T.V. My Mum & Dad thought she was very amusing. I've read quite a few poems of Joyce's when I was in my early teens and she appealed to me back then. We all, (Claire, Mick, Fiona & myself), had a spot of lunch at the Theatre Bar; tuna with lettuce & chive mayo sarni washed down with iced lemonade. (How can an establishment not have salad cream - Britains number 1 condement, along with tomato sauce?!) We handed out some more leaflets, (the people in Buxton are so friendly), and eventually headed back to the car. Before we journeyed back we stopped at the United Reformed Church - pity it was locked, I would've liked to have seen inside where I will be performing on Wednesday. I do like to have some idea of the space and area of the stage. I did see the stain glass windows - beautiful. Buxton here I come. GAYLE

Fri 10th July
Well here we are, last day of rehearsals. We have had a great day on Anorak. Chris is doing so well, there is so much for him to learn, not only loads of lines but all the actions that go with it. Director Andy has done a great job, this show is going to be so good. I hear that the Standby On Stage Please! rehearsals are going well too, they are in the room next to us, it's sounding good, can't wait to see it. Oh well, that's the end of rehearsal week. Next to pack the cars with all our props, sound equipment and costumes, it's just like loading a trailer for me. Well back at the house now, the weekend is calling...a couple of days to chill out and relax ready for dress rehearsals on Monday. Bye for now. JEN

Thu 9th July
Day 3 of rehearsals and we are progressing nicely. I am very lucky to be working with a director who has lots of vision, experience and patience. I am also very lucky to be working with a stage manager who doesn't mind having "line?" shouted at her 100 times a day! I have to commute by train everday to Ripponden and then spend 7 hours talking about trains, I am slowly losing my mind! However the process thus far has been enjoyable and I'm sure it will continue. CHRIS

Wed 8th July
Having a wonderful time on "Planet Rabbit". Claire likened us all feasting & living together as a sixties hippy commune earlier, which I just love! It's got such a lovely vibe. Today has been really productive for us (when we all shut up, ha). Standby On Stage Please seems to be coming together nicely. I hear Anorak of Fire rehearsals are going well too although they had a bit of bad luck today having been stuck in traffic for hours because a lorry was on fire - craziness. Bless 'em. Looking forward to the rest of rehearsals and another beautiful meal back at the house. Bit nervous about the LIVE radio interview with Andy tomorrow though, scary stuff. Off to look at my script now. By the way I am listening to a mad man impersonating a train as I write this - hilarious. FIONA

Tue 7th July
I must say that none of my childhood memories of growing up in West Yorkshire involved dealing with monsoon weather. I'm in one of the most beautiful parts of the country but I can't go out doors & experience it for fear I might drown. Anyhoo, today work began properly on 'Anorak of Fire', except it didn't. First I had to do a voiceover as a cheesy DJ for the other production Planet Rabbit is producing at Buxton, 'Standby on Stage Please!'. This is a new play about a stage manager having to deal with a has been SitCom actress from hell. I will say this only once, it is not based on anyone you may have heard of. You may think, if you know nothing about it, that this would just involve reciting the lines into a tape recorder. You would be wrong, very wrong. Getting someones living room to sound like a radio studio actually involved constructing a hut out of exhibition stands with a rug thrown over them & placing me & the delightful actress Emily Trebicki inside. I like Emily (she was the good fairy in panto when I was company manager a few years back) and I think she likes me but I really don't think she envisaged, in her wildest nightmares, ever knowing me that closely. After this I finally got to meet Chris who is playing Gus in 'Anorak of Fire'. It may sound pretentious but one of