WOYWW

 Well, this week has flown by.

I finished a little bolero style cardi for my friends granddaughter. Here it is with my birthday cards above - I love the hand made beauties.

Below is my sewing room activity that I began yesterday.

My dear daughter filled that little box with forty little bookmarks for me to edge. She said there was no rush but I like to get going on them when I have a bit of spare time.

I love the poppy ones

 I edged some in green and some in red. Which do you prefer? I thought the green might appeal to a masculine book reader but either colour looks good, I think.

We had a great night out at the theatre last week.

We saw a Meat Loaf sound a likey-  Steve Steinman and a nine person band.

Actually, we like any live music - especially when I can share it with my little sis.

Well that's me for this week.

Keep cosy  all 

x x Jo 🌈 

Theatre Severn guided tour

On Saturday we went on the "Friends of the theatre" - Theatre Severn guided tour.
It was supposed to happen before our first theatre trip but was over-subscribed so we had to wait until this week.
Nevertheless, it was really interesting to be shown around by one of the theatre managers who could explain how it had been planned and developed.
Its a bit like the tardis. Not very attractive from the outside, appearing to be squeezed into a small space beside the river. However, once inside, you can appreciate just how much has been fitted into the building.
The place has a very spacious, open feel to it with lovely views of the town and the river from its balconies and windows. It still needs artwork and more furniture, in the open public areas, to detract from the bareness of the new architecture. The inclusion of the old chapel/tyre shop, brick building certainly makes a feature of the main bar area.
The theatre itself is very comfortable and inviting - holding about 650 seats. It certainly looked cosy from the stage looking out towards the auditorium. I can imagine that the performers will feel really close and in touch with their audience.
We also popped back-stage to the green room and the dressing rooms, although quite basic, are a vast improvement on those facilities at the old Music Hall.
Apart from the main theatre, there is also the Walker theatre holding 250 pull-out seats. I think this can be used by local theatre groups, schools etc as well as for performances put on by the theatre itself.
There is also a large dance studio which will surely be an asset to the locality. Dance exams can now be held here instead of pupils having to travel to Birmingham.
The restaurant has apparently got over its first night teething troubles (see previous blog!).
Its a bright, airy cafe bar overlooking the river.
I am sure we will be back soon for another performance. Its great to have such good facilities on the doorstep and I am sure the good folk of Shrewsbury have waited long enough.
Apparently, many of the acts visiting the Music Hall put up with the poor facilities because they loved Shrewsbury and the warm reception they received from the audiences here.
So, best of luck Theatre Severn!

Ode to Theatre Severn and Pam Ayres

Our long awaited theatre opened its doors last week
Standing beside the River Severn, imposing, bold and sleek.
Its shiny, smart exterior has beckoned for a while
We thought we would see Pam Ayres as we knew she'd make us smile.

We booked a meal in its restaurant as we thought that they could cater
For a hungry threesome keen to eat then slip into the theatre later.
We gave ourselves time enough for starter, main and sweet
All sparkling new and trendy - it should have been a treat.

I'm sure with lots of practice their confidence will grow
But that night they were struggling and the service was so slow.
We were beginning to get anxious and we thought we'd have to dash.
The chicken dish sat cooling as we awaited veg and mash.
Eventually we finished, sadly no time for a sweet
As we moved through to the theatre to settle in our seat.

We scanned the Pam Ayres programme noting facts, photos and favourite rhyme,
Then the said lady stood before us and we listened live for the first time.

Well, we chuckled and we giggled as she told a tale or two.
Her lines timed to perfection and we joined in with a few.
We learned about her hamily and her hubby Mr Russell.
We could agree with all her thoughts about her aging body tussle.

We were entertained for hours by her clever rhymes and wit
And left for home uplifted and we didnt mind a bit
That our dinner wasn't perfect and the service had been slow.
Pam left us feeling rosy and our cheeks were all aglow!

Don't worry Pam - I am no competition!!!!!