Angel Flight 2

April 1999


Or...Could we possibly pull it off again?

Kathryn || Margie || Lynne || Floriana || Cheryl || Gaddy || Doris || Mary || Gretty || Mez

Or Go to PHOTOS

Kathryn's account of AF2


4/22-23/99
I was still in bed when I got a call that my flight to Chicago had been delayed several hours, so they switched me to another flight through Los Angeles instead. I went to the airport and boarded the plane. I sat there for an hour before they decided that the plane had sustained structural damage during landing, so they cancelled the flight and sent me to yet another one. This one actually took off, but arrived in Los Angeles an hour after my connecting flight to London had left. I was booked on the next flight and had to sit in the LA airport for five hours. However, they did give me a first class seat to London - almost worth all the hassle.

The flight over was not bad. Mixed nuts in glass dishes, great food (I had monkfish with crayfish sauce) on real china, my own private TV with 10 channels, a very comfortable reclining seat with foot rest. I watched "Stepmom" then slept the rest of the way.

I arrived in London about 12:30 pm (I had now been traveling for 21 hours) and took the Heathrow Express to Paddington station and the tube to Bayswater. Public transportation in England is fantastic - the trip took about ˝ hour. I stopped by my hotel room and met Sid, my roomie. Then I went out to explore the neighborhood. I visited Kensington Gardens, Kensington Palace, Royal Albert Hall, and the Prince Albert Memorial (Queen Victoria really had it bad for that guy!) Then I headed downtown for my first viewing of "Good".

7:30 pm: I GOT MY VERY FIRST LOOK AT CD, LIVE, IN PERSON, THROUGH MY VERY OWN EYES! Sigh. He was wonderful, the play was wonderful, I was in heaven. After the performance, I did not talk to him, but I saw him leaving the theater with a young man who looked very much like him except he was about 2 inches taller and had dark hair. I went back to the hotel and in the lobby met all the other angels who were also staying at the New Linden - I felt like I had known them for years already.

4/24/99
We all had a good British breakfast at the hotel then took the tube downtown. I went to the British Museum where I signed up for a tour. The tour guide was an art historian by the name of Charlotte. She was extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic about everything - it was one of the best museum experiences I have ever had, and it's really hard to beat the British Museum as a venue for such a treat. Then I went over to Charing Cross road and looked for number 84, but all I found there was a Pizza Hut. I did find several other fantastic bookstores, however.

I headed back to the hotel to get all dolled up for the evening's events. Several of us shared a cab to Joe Allen's. There, I finally got my big chance to flirt with Winston. (Remember, Gretty said I could sit next to him, and she better watch out because I think he likes me!) We discussed the raising of teenage boys and made plans to go bungee jumping. For the piece de resistance, we shared a piece of PASSION FRUIT cake - oh my. Then, off to the theater.

We all found our seats along the front row of the stalls. There was so much squirming and giggling that I was sure we would end up embarrassing ourselves, Mez, and our boy, but fortunately, everybody finally settled down. Once again, the play was fantastic, and so powerful. I have read it at least a dozen times and now have seen it twice, and each time, it has had such an impact on me. The leading role was absolutely made for CD, and he did not let us down.

After several curtain calls, he made a gracious appeal to the audience for donations to the Kosovo refugees. As he left the stage, he walked right by those of us on the left side, looked right at us and flashed a huge smile. I almost died on the spot.

Afterwards, we waited for HIMSELF in the lobby. When he came down the stairs, a little boy about 10 or 11 asked him for his autograph. The boy asked CD what was the name of his character in "Alien 3". Charlie said "I can't remember. Ask these ladies." Do you think we knew the answers to all the kid's questions about CD's various roles?

He then came on down the stairs and looked around. He saw all of the guys standing at the back and asked "Are these the patient husbands?" then started signing autographs. Cheryl presented him with the mug which had the collage of his photos that adorns Mary's website, and we had all signed it. It was a great gift - thanks, Cheryl, for the great idea - and he loved it. He said "I'll have some strong coffee out of it tomorrow morning." He was presented with a few other gifts as well, and he said "What is this, my birthday?" to which I replied "No, that's October 10th" and he smiled.

I could not hear what he said to everyone else, but here is what transpired when my turn came. I asked him if it was true that he plays polo. He said he has not played since "White Mischief." I asked him if it was a hard game to learn and he said that no it wasn't. I asked him if he had ever been to Oregon and he said "No, but I've heard the Oregon coast is very beautiful" (and he's right about that!). Someone, Gretty I think, told him that I was a doctor. He said "Oh, really, what kind?" I asked " Would you like one of my cards?" He said "Why not, you never know when I might need a doctor." So I gave him a card and while he was looking at it, I kissed him on the cheek and whispered sweet morsels in his ear - a GIFT FROM THE HEART. After that, the rest is a total blur to me. I just remember how soft his cheek was. As he left the theater, he passed the guys and said "Thanks, chaps." WHAT A GUY!

We all went to a coffee shop to cool off and then headed back to our respective hotels.

4/25/99
After breakfast, we took a boat trip up the Thames to visit Hampton Court Palace (home of Henry VIII.) The trip took several hours and was very restful and scenic. The tour of the palace was very interesting - but it did not look like a very comfortable place to live. We all went through the maze in the garden and as far as I know, everyone found his/her way out OK. I had to test my theory about maze navigation, and it worked just fine thank you, in spite of everyone's skepticism.

We took the train back to London and met everyone for dinner at a pub (the name of which now escapes me) where we pondered the attributes of "spotted dick." By that time, I was so tired I started hallucinating and I don't remember much else about it.

4/26/99
We took the train to (I forget the name of the place) where Mez, Pez, and Scrappy picked us up in a van and drove us to Stratford-Upon-Avon. Cheryl, Pete, and I teamed up and walked all over town (in the rain), visiting all the historic sites. Shakespeare's birthday was on 4/23 (which was also the day he died) so there were flowers all over the church. It turned out that 4/26 was Pete's birthday and that he was 52 which is exactly the age Shakespeare was when he died. He was feeling pretty proud of himself that he had good prospects of living longer that S. had. We then had dinner at a local pub where I partook of fish, chip, and mushy peas - they are great! Before dessert, we all sang "Happy Birthday" to Pete.

We then attended a performance of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" by the RSC. It was hilarious and we were rolling in the aisles with laughter. Will really knew how to write them! Afterwards, Pez drove us to the Milton-Keynes station and we took the train back to London. I hit my hotel room about 2:00 am.

4/27/99
I had to go home. I took the Heathrow Express to the airport, my plane was right on time. I flew (economy class - how pedestrian!) to Chicago, then back to Portland - all very boring and without mishap. I had such a wonderful trip. I feel truly blessed to be a part of this wonderful group of friends.

Back to Top

Margie's account of AF2

Thursday 22 April
15.00 hrs and I'm getting nervous. I want to go home early but my 'ex-boss' is working on this years budget and had 'some work' for me that means hours of sorting out to do in Excel.

16.00 hrs: Bugger the boss, he has not shown up yet, I'm going. Locked everything, jumped on my bike and rushed home. Joey is ready for take-off, washed, shaven and with his bag packed. Did not have to worry about him not being in time. He is at home with a bruised hand and a very sore back. I just hope he does not look like Quasimodo during the weekend. The pills do help but make him groggy.

Showered, dressed and fed in no-time so I was in time as well.

Shot off with the car and had to return twice to pick up things we had forgotten. Finally left the car at my parents' house and mum was kind enough to drop us off at the little train-station.

Schiphol was not too busy and it seemed that our flight would be in time. J. has decided that he loves flying. I find it boring and my stomach does not like it at all. Did we really close all the windows, turned off the gas. Darn did I turn off my clock-radio after all? If not it will be waking the neighbours tomorrow-morning.

The flight was very bumpy. How on earth can J. eat a sandwich in a plane that goes like a roller-coaster. Close your eyes and relax Margie, only an hour to go.

Just after we landed on Heathrow the captain of the plane had a message for two passengers, Margie and Joey Green from Holland. All heads turned to see who they where and we blushed like two youngsters caught in doing something indecent. The message turned out to be a note from Pez and Mez. They would not pick us up at the airport. We could understand it, their schedule was pretty tight and overfull. We caught the Heathrow express and a taxi to our hotel.

Mez told me she managed to knock something of the price for our hotel-room. We were very grateful but according to J. the hotel-owner had his 'revenge'. Our room was on the third floor, no elevator, and by the time we reached it we were so out of breath that any romantic thoughts were discharged.

Friday 23rd April
A good nights sleep, a shower, breakfast. Over to the New Linden. Joey not knowing what to expect, me anxious to see the Angels again. Doris and Mary, David, Gaddy, and all the new Angels, like Lynne, Cheryl, Anne. How funny to recognise people whom you have never met before. The lady behind the reception had a bewildered look in her eyes, we must have sounded like a group of teenagers giggling and laughing. J. was introduced and immediately adopted by Doris. I could only hope he behaved like a gentleman. During the day I would find out he was teasing Mary about her silk and lace underwear.

In the early afternoon P&M dropped us off at Windsor castle. After a meal we split up in groups and did the castle or some shopping. This time J. and D., as chaperone, were on the move with Floriana, our Italian Angel. I must have a good chat with my husband…. We were expecting Kathryn but she had disappeared in thin air. Just hope everything is all right with her.

Friday-evening was spent in a restaurant (Angus?). When our group came in it was immediately filled.

Doris, at the other table, and I tried to listen in with a French conversation at another table and when we looked at each other burst out laughing 'cause we knew we both had big ears.

The waitresses must have had small roles in one of the James Bond movies. The ones that served us looked like stern Russian KGB officers.

Saturday 24th April
We had the day off and in the morning tried to help Lynne finding a bank that would accept her cheques. No luck at all and in the end we lent her some money and promised to help her sort out the problem.

We then went to the National Army Museum. Everyone thinks J. had to drag me to this place but no, I enjoyed bits and pieces as well. Must admit that I like history, especially the old times.

And it is weird to fight a battle by standing in two lines firing at each other, you aim at the soldier with the beard and probably kill a man two feet further because your musket is so unreliable. Crazy world.

We managed to get home in time. Dressed up for the evening we walked over the road to pick up the 'New Linden group'. How to get a taxi in the rush-hour? Kathryn tried her now famous whistle but the London cabbies would not respond. I think it was Doris who managed to wave one in and the cabby himself hailed number two. Everybody on board, where do we go? "Uh Exeter street or road or..." "Oh, you are going to Joe Allen's." Darn lost J. again while Doris is in my cab!

The group was really complete at Joe Allen's. Doris brought two friends who mingled in nicely and I finally met Gretty and Winston. A lovely couple. Winston looked as if they had dropped him in a madhouse. We should have warned him. After the dinner, with some wine and lots of water, we had to hurry to be in time. All good and well but how to get to the ladies-room when you are hemmed in behind the table. Go under the table? No, I got stuck before I was halfway off my chair. Go over the table? Nah, I am crazy enough to do it but please Margie try to behave like a lady once in your life. My bladder disagreed so in the end I went over the table and ruined my reputation, ah well.

In the theatre I realised that being almost on the stage sometimes is to be taken literal. I thought I would be as far as in B'ham if I had know this I would not have put on those light trousers and t-shirt!! I stand out like a snowman. CD noticed that as well, the first thing he said to me after the play was that I had a very good seat. I hope I did not cause any loss of concentration with the players. Learned my lesson?

J. and I were both deeply impressed by the play. I can hardly describe it. How could something like this happen in history. But then again it happens again in Yugoslavia. Not just CD but all the players were brilliant. Maurice (Ian Gelder) and Hitler. I was close to tears in the end and was glad that it stopped at that moment.

After the play we gathered in the hall. I was still on the stairs with Gaddy, Winston, Gretty, Sid and J. And before I realised it I saw that well-known face passing. J. clicked away with his camera, I don't think my brains were working because I wondered what he was doing. Next I hear someone say (Gaddy, Winston?), "Let's move downstairs." I go two or three steps down and turn round. Empty space, where did they all go? Winston stayed halfway the stairs, Gretty in the corner, J. disappeared completely and I could at first not find Gaddy and Sid. But there is me standing by the side of CD as if we are a married couple!! Think quickly: am I blunt and do I stay where I am or do I shoot off as well? In B'ham CD went over to give Mez a kiss why doesn't he move over to her? Okay, nut, just be blunt. So I was. At least I did Sid a favour with it and got her program signed for her. Got mine signed as well and made the same mistake as with the mug: Margie. Okay, Margie it was originally anyway.

In between the signing of programs and accepting presents and hugs (Lynne, I'm jealous!) CD asked if I enjoyed the play; I said yes, I did very much. Where did I come from: from Holland. The answer still makes me suspicious; he answered: "I thought so". Now was that supposed to sound positive or negative??? He then asked me what happened to that cold lady he met in November and I mumbled, "That was me". He looked at me very surprised and said that I looked so different: "Your hair is so much lighter." Oops, I could not admit that is was the combination of a spray and a lot of sunshine so I just admitted it was a lot of sunshine we had in a five week holiday. "Where have you been?" "South-Africa." "Where did you stay?" "We went from Capetown to Johannesburg, all over the place." In the meantime I felt my famous blush come up.

He looked tired; I think he was glad when he could leave us and get on his way home. We walked through a crowded London to a quiet place for a drink. Everybody seemed to be knackered but happy. Winston, Gretty, Cheryl, Pete, Pez, Mez and Lynne took a taxi home, a difficult moment to say goodbye to the first lot of the group. The rest of us had a go at the tube. A bunch of real loud tourists, we did not care, we had so much fun. We hugged Floriana, who was leaving early next morning, before we went back to our hotel and bed. J. slept in no-time, I could not sleep at all.

Sunday 25th April
J. and I decided to go for the boat-trip and give the other angels a surprise (or shock). We would not be able to make it to Hampton court but Kew Gardens was possible. How nice to see London from the water. Of course I had to take a photo of Battersea Powerstation. J. once said that whenever you see a film with a shot of London in it you also see Battersea Powerstation. And he is right I have noticed it many times. We arrived at Kew Gardens too soon. I was in tears and when J. and I were left standing on the quay his eyes were not exactly dry either. What a bunch of people! We had to hurry back to the hotel, slung our things in the bags and went to Bayswater tube- station. Boy those bags were heavy!

Once in the plane we both were very quiet and this got worse in the train. When we picked up the car my father asked us how the weekend was..should not have done that pa! J. started off like a waterfall, I never opened my mouth, just looked very tired. After an hour my mother 'ordered' us to go home and get some rest. I am certain that Joey is looking forward to AF3. He is even willing to do some cheffing. But we both hope AF3 is not too soon because we realise it puts a lot of pressure on Pez and Mez.

Tomorrow I am back at work and J. will see the doctor about his hand and back….gee, he did not walk or behave like Quasimodo during the weekend. Thanks husband for coming with me to see CD and for being so patient and not jealous at all.

Back to Top

Lynne's account of AF2

My first excursion out of the US started in the small confines of the Spencer, Iowa airport. I was scheduled to take off in the 4:29 flight to Minneapolis. I arrive at the airport at about 4:20, check my luggage and head out to the plane. Once on board I go through my purse and realize my credit cards and ATM card are at home. Too late now though. I agonize all the way to Fairmont, where I run inside to try and make a phone call. I don't even have time to get any change out though, and the woman running the terminal tells me the plane is ready to take off. I run back out, not to be left behind. We wind up waiting for take off, however, and the co-pilot offers to radio in a message to Spencer to have someone call my friend and tell her what happened.

Feeling a little better, I sit back and wait for Minneapolis, planning to call her myself once we get there.

We arrive in Minneapolis a half hour behind schedule, and I again receive the help of a stranger. I stare blankly at the departure screens, trying to find my flight. One of the women who was on the Spencer flight with me asks what I am trying to find, and she spots it first. I have to be all the way down to the other end of the terminal in less than 5 minutes. She offers to run down with me so I don't get lost (I must have really looked pathetic) and so we make a break for it. Half way there I flag down a cart of some sort to drive me to my gate. I thank her for getting me as far as she did and I arrive at the gate to find they had given away my seat. Fortunately they had been informed that my connection was late, and had waited for me. I do get a seat on the plane, and we take off for England.

I arrive at the Gatwick airport the next morning with cramped legs and a stiff neck, but excited none the less. I try to peer out of any available window. I manage to find my way to the luggage area, find my suitcase and head off to try and find a group of people I have never seen before. I walk right by Mez's "AFII" sign, but fortunately stop right in front of the other Angels who are already there. My blank stare gave me away and they ask me if I am Lynne. I finally meet Mary, Doris, Janice, Mez, Pez, Gaddy and Dave, and later we go get Anne.

As we drive into the city, I notice how much the countryside reminds me of Iowa...lots of green, lots of cows, lots of sheep....(I am in England right?) Mez and Pez navigate the way to the hotel, which proved to be no small task, especially when trying to maneuver the Pez-mobile through England's narrow streets. We do get there though, and we drop our stuff off in our rooms.

That afternoon some of the Angels go and see "Good" for a pre-official viewing. I am surprised at how small the Donmar is. I have trouble NOT putting my feet up on the stage, there is very little room in front of the front row seats (where I was fortunate enough to sit 3 out of the 4 times I went!) I am in the front center section. Mary S. is in the seat to my right and the house is full. I admire the stage, which is bare except for a table and 2 chairs, and a huge back wall painted to look like gray marble with four violins aligned at shoulder height in the center of it. I sit talking with Mary S, unsure of what to expect. I hear some footsteps coming down the ramp that is just to my left, but being from America where the actors always enter from behind the stage I don't pay much attention ...someone coming in late to sit down, one of the ticket guys showing someone where to sit....I glance over to see what's up. There's alot waaaaay up I found out, as CD walks by and glances down into our row. My first look at CD in person with my own eyes....I will never forget it, especially since I wasn't expecting it to be him. I slapped Mary S. on the leg, (I think I gave her a coronary) and the play starts. It was wonderful, and afterwards some of the attending Angels stop to chat with CD briefly. He looks very handsome (how else does he ever look?) in a full length coat and a scarf wrapped around his neck. Doris gets a great picture of him and he heads out the door to catch a quick meal before the evening performance.

The Angels hail down a cab and head back to the hotel, exchanging CD-isms and slightly indecent thoughts. Once back, we ask the cab driver if he wants to be our chauffeur for the week and joke around with him. He seemed to enjoy listening to our girl talk on the way back, and tells us "..I found out plenty listenin' to you lot back there." Oops. Oh well.

D. had stayed at the hotel while we were at the play, and later on he and Gaddy, Mary S., and I go out and D. gives us a run down on what restaurants are where.

Our next big excursion, Windsor Castle......
Mary S may need to correct me, but I think this is the day I woke her up at 5am thinking it was 9am?? I was unaware different countries have different voltage levels, and the level in England was much higher than in the US. I set my clock for 8am to get up in time for breakfast, and my clock went off, according to it, at 8am. I get up, wash my hair and take a bath, and get all ready to go. I didn't see any sun out, but I am in the basement after all....so I go out to get breakfast and the cafe is deserted...OK, well, I go and get Mary, ...she is asleep, so I wake her up and go upstairs to see what is going on. I get upstairs and the lobby is pitch black and the receptionist is sleeping in one of the chairs.

Me: "What TIME is it??"
Him: (groggy) "Five."
Me: "WHAT?"
Him: "Five a.m."
Me: (thinking to myself) "Uh - oh."

I run back downstairs...
Me: "Mary?" (I hear the shower on and knock on her door, hoping she hears me.)
Mary: "Yes?"
Me: "Go back to bed, it's 5 a.m."
Mary: "What?"
Me: "It's 5 a.m., my clock got ahead or something, I thought it was 9 a.m."
Mary: "Oh..well I wondered...I didn't see any light outside...."
Me: "I don't know what happened....sorry, go back to sleep."

Fortunately she went right back to sleep. I would have felt terrible if she had been up all morning.

At first I thought I had set my clock wrong, and then later I found out about the voltage being higher. My hair dryer had lit up like a bonfire that morning, but it is so old I thought it was dying of it's own accord. The curling iron had worked fine too, but when I tried it again later that day I found it wouldn't even turn on. Thus I spent the rest of my trip with no curling iron, but fortunately the room had a dryer in it, I just couldn't use my diffuser on it.

Later that day......
Into Pez's van once again and we head out to Windsor. We go in as a group, but once inside Mary and Anne head out to the Doll's House, Doris and Janice head...somewhere, never was quite sure of where, and I, not sure where to start, head down to the chapel. I marvel at how ornate everything is and when I come out I see J., D. and new arrival Florianna heading in my direction. She is very sweet! and she and the guys head to the chapel and I take off for the castle. I meet up with the three again later and we wander through the castle as a group, with educational bits being offered up by J. along the way. (our own private tour guide!)

We meet up with the rest of the group, who have been off at their own either at the castle itself, or off shopping, and we head back to the Linden. By now I am realizing I not only forgot my cards at home, but also that I have seriously underestimated how much money I am going to need to do all the trips and dinners out. Worry rears its ugly head, but I wonder if I will be able to cash a check somewhere, so don't get completely panicked yet. That evening we go down to the Angus for dinner.

Saturday, the big day!

But first, Joey and Margie help me try to find a place that will cash a check for me. No such luck though. They are very nice about everything, and lend me some money to help get me by. (thanks you guys!)

That evening we head out for dinner at Jo Allens. Having now been joined by Gretty, Win, Cheryl, Pete, Sid, and Kathryn (see her report about her airline disaster) we sit down for a pre-play dinner. Cheryl shows us her "Swimmin wid de Fishies" mug with the CD collage picture on it, and tells us we all get to sign it as a gift for CD that evening. We all give it careful inspection as we pass it around to sign. I regret to say I missed seeing Margie's table walk.

Time goes by quickly and before we know it we have to run off to the theater to avoid missing the start. I am wearing very high-heeled, skinny heeled boots, which I wasn't used to at all, and which were bad enough on regular pavement, and virtually impossible on cobblestone. I wonder to myself how many more stupid things I could possibly do on this trip, but too late now, so I hobble over to the theater, trying to keep up with everyone else. We finally arrive and hurry upstairs to the theater to get to our seats. Once we sit down there is much giggling and talking among the ladies. Margie is on one side of the ramp, and I am on the same side I was the first time, nearly the same seat! We prop our legs out across the ramp, prepared to trip up CD upon his exit and catch him in our laps. (we soon decide maybe we shouldn't do that) Finally the lights dim, signaling the start of the play. It was just as wonderful the second time through, and CD was very good about making eye contact with all of us during the performance. One of his lines during the play, "...and they recognize me for the BRILLIANT man I am..." slightly sarcastic, but friendly, look over his shoulder in our direction.

Ian Gelder did a marvelous job as Maurice, Halder's Jewish friend, and added a bit of levity to the tragic subject of the play. John Ramm also added some humor with his Hitler portrayal. Actually, all the actors and actresses did a first rate job. There were no mediocre performances in this play. My one regret about that evening, I didn't get Ian Gelder to sign my program too. I have since decided I will have to keep an eye out for him on the next AF's.

Afterwards there is a collection for the Kosovo refugees, and we head downstairs to wait for CD. We all gather around the stairs while the choir boys head off to wait in the wings. Eventually CD makes his appearance, signing for a young boy on the way down. He seems to recognize Mary S. , Margie and Doris, and Cheryl presents her mug, which he seems to like very much and says he will be drinking coffee out of in the morning. He signs a flurry of programs (and a glossy for Mary S.) and receives all the presents the Angels had brought him, as well as some that were sent along by Angels unable to attend the trip. By this time he is looking to hand off the pen he has been signing with, and I figure I had better get a signature while I can. I was determined I am not going home without one. I had promised myself I wouldn't be shy when he came down, but found it hard not to be.

I wander over and ask him if he would sign my program for me. He asks me what my name is and I tell him, too quietly apparently, and he has to crane his head over and ask me again. I finally get my voice to an audible level, and I see Margie mouthing something to the effect of "that's when you should have kissed him." (I had been plotting this for months.) As he is signing my program for me, I ask "Can I give you a kiss?" and he says "Of course, if you like." I remember I walked over expecting to give him a peck on the cheek, but much to my delight I got an official all out kiss and a small hug after. I still swear I saw a flash of light, but I think that was just my brain short circuiting. (Like when there's a power surge before the electricity goes out.) I somehow managed to get myself back over against the wall without fainting and waited for the rest of the Angels to get autographs.

He graciously signs everything, and after some brief conversation is out the door. Afterwards the Angels head off to a little coffee shop and reminisce about the show and the trip in general. I opt to go in sock feet, tired of fighting with my shoes. Margie dons Pez's hat making for some great pictures, and after the coffee we split up, half of us catching a cab back, the other half taking the tube.

Sunday
This is when I start missing the trips, unfortunately. A trip down the Thames is planned for the day, but nothing is free in England, so I wander around Covent Garden for the day instead. I did get to go through the Theater Museum though, which was inexpensive to do, and during the course of my wanderings I stumbled upon a bridge over the Thames, where I got some nice pictures of the river and a distant picture of Big Ben. I walk through a small park by the river side and stop at a little cafe where I pick up a pastry and admire the view. All the gardens in England are so beautiful, no matter how small. The Thames is the one trip I really would have liked to have gone on, but unfortunately my money wire didn't come through until the next day. I also found out I missed saying good-bye to Margie and Joey, and had missed Florianna the night before. Not doing too good so far.

Monday....
Didn't do so much this day either. My money wire didn't come through until late that afternoon, so I missed the trip for that day as well. I sat in my hotel room feeling fairly depressed until it finally dawned on me that I may be able to get tickets for the performance of "Good" that evening. I called all morning and did manage to secure two seats in the center front row (YES! - Can't be a bad evening if you go see Charles.) I called up a pen pal from Wisbech and we went to see the play that night. He had a ways to go to get home that night, so we walk around for only a few minutes before he needs to get down to the train station and head back. As we arrive at the Bayswater station, I see Mary S, Gaddy, and D. coming out after arriving back from the days journey. I holler a hello to Mary and bid my penpal good-bye at the station. When I arrive back at the hotel Mary, Gaddy and Dave are in the lobby talking, and I join them when I get back. Mary and I give D. and Gaddy hugs good-bye in case we don't get another chance, and we head off to bed.

The next morning I meet Mary downstairs for breakfast and we spend the morning wandering around window shopping and browsing. Mary goes to see a Richard Dreyfuss play and I, not feeling the best at this point, amuse myself by sitting at a mall coffee stand and watching MTV videos on the screens mounted under the mall walkway. Not the best viewing, but at least it was something to do. After the play I meet Mary in the square just up the street from the Donmar, and we go to a little French- run bistro for something that looked suspiciously like a fancy grilled cheese and ham sandwich. I find out Mary isn't feeling very well either, but we go see the evening performance of "Good" anyway. Mary has a seat in the circle and I am standing room. There is an interpreter for the deaf that night, and the performers pace their dialogue accordingly. CD seems to have trouble getting down to sit on the stage that night, and I later found out he had hurt his back a day or two before and was in a good deal of pain that performance. I managed to tear up my lower back the week after returning, and only then did I appreciate what he must have been going through. (how does that go...walk a mile in someone else's shoes?...) Anyway, I soon forgot about feeling sick once the play started and I knew it was my last chance to see CD. It was a bittersweet experience, but well worth it. Mary and I hung around out front to get one last look at him before we had to go, but didn't stay long enough for him to see us. None the less, we did meet up with him later as he was looking for a cab, but I'll let Mary S. give you the details on that.

The next morning I am upstairs at 8:30 to catch my airport shuttle. It's all over and time to head home. The experience of leaving was not as traumatic as I had thought it would be, mainly because Mary and I were the only Angels left, and I knew Mary would follow me home to Iowa the next day. I stared out the window at the airport to get one last look at the English sky, and sadly got on board the plane. The flight went smooth as silk though, and this time I sat next to a very friendly couple coming home from traveling Greece, and a Brit. fellow who was on his first ever trip to America to go to a Montana ranch with no electricity, running water, nothing. He was "..going to be a cowboy for a week." I had fun talking to all of them, and so had some good company to cheer me up on the way home.

I arrived home on time, again in a thunderstorm, and drove home in rain. I saw the lights on at work when I drove by and knew I would be back in only 3 short days. I got everything into the apartment and signed onto the Fishies board to see what was brewing. Later that night my friend who had done so much to help me stopped by to visit. I showed her all my programs and gushed about all the Angels and the play, and found out what all she had been up to.

I miss all the Angels terribly, especially with my job being so solitary, but in all honesty I am glad to be back. Being in England with no money was very frightening. At least now I know better what to expect and what to do (and NOT to do!) next time. Thanks to all the Angels who were kind enough to help me out and pay for some things for me while I was there. You guys were all so nice to me the whole time. Definitely learned about generosity and the kindness of others this trip. The world is a much harsher place outside Nowhere, Iowa. Don't worry, next time I'll be ready! (Promise.)

Back to Top

Floriana's account of AF2

Taking part to Angel Flight 2 has been a great, wonderful experience; it was only a week-end trip for me, I arrived at London on Friday April 23rd and flew back home the following Sunday morning, but these two days left feelings in my heart and memories in my mind I will bring with me for long and never forget.

I have to confess that during the last days preceding my departure I was really excited and happy but at the same time anxious and worried; I was looking forward to meeting in person Mez and all the Angels I'd had the great pleasure to know and chat with through Internet, but on the other hand the idea of flying to London completely alone was beginning to frighten me.

My younger and very protective brother, who must have considered this brief trip to England nothing more than a crazy adventure, offered to come with me in my five-hour journey by train from Manfredonia, the town I live in, to Rome's airport. At the check-in desk, on the point of greeting each other, being a very apprehensive boy, he started to pester me with questions like "Are you sure you won't be alone in London and that anybody is really coming to pick you up at the airport ?". And yet "If no-one is waiting for you, will you be able to find your own way to the hotel without getting lost ?", just that kind of words I needed to feel secure before departing.

Anyway, once I put my feet on the plane I left those questions behind me determined to enjoy my flight. When I landed at Heathrow I had the enormous joy to meet Mez, her husband Paul and, later on, all the other Angels who revealed to be marvellous persons, much sweeter and more friendly than I could ever expect and all my worries suddenly vanished.

Along with David (Gaddy's husband), Lynne and Joey (Margie's husband) I went for a tour at Windsor Castle where I had a first and very quick taste of those wonders that make England a fascinating country; I say quick because, since it was getting late we had to visit about twenty rooms of the castle in less than thirty minutes (a real record!) and as we came out of each room we heard the doors being closed behind us. I was very impressed, I had never seen such a huge and spectacular building.

The following morning I joined Doris, Janice, Gaddy and Sid for a visit at the Theatre Museum in Covent Garden, a very lively place especially on Saturdays. It was a really enchanting museum; the lights were soft and created a special magical atmosphere you could clearly feel while admiring those wonderful witnesses of English theatre history.

The moment we all were waiting for, when we would see Charles Dance performing on stage, eventually came. That same day, in the afternoon we gathered all together at Joe Allen's, where I met Gretty, the only Angel of the group I hadn't seen yet, and her husband Winston. We had a light dinner and then took our way to the Donmar Warehouse.

Our seats were all in front of the stage, so close to it that Margie even laid her hand on it and people could cross it to reach their own places. I noticed there weren't curtains opening and closing at the beginning and at the end of the play; those typical curtains which create a separation between the actors and the world they depict on one side and people attending the performance on the other side. You could really feel part of the play and have the impression to live the story in first person along with the entire cast.

There were four different points the actors could use to get in, situated at the four angles of the stage: two of these entrances allowed them to walk very close to the audience. I was seated next to Lynne, feeling truly excited and wondering when and where Charles Dance would come out of. We heard a music, meaning the play was beginning, and suddenly a tall, sandy- haired man appeared on my left side and walked with firm steps towards the table in the middle of the stage, it was the only element of the scene along with two chairs and three violins hung at the back wall. He turned and began telling his story as John Halder, his character. It was him!

I couldn't believe I was there, seeing him performing live at a so short distance. And what a marvellous voice he had! Since I live in Italy, all the movies with Charles Dance starring in have been dubbed in Italian; I knew the great talent of this extraordinary actor, his beautiful, very expressive blue eyes, but I wondered what his original voice was like. I have been really impressed by such a profound and very deep voice and it seemed to me even more wonderful when I heard him singing, in fact during the performance he also has the chance to sing with Jessica Turner, who plays Helen's role, John Halder's wife.

Because of my weak English, I was afraid I would find it difficult to follow the whole story; I have to admit I missed part of the dialogues but all the actors were so totally immersed into their roles and their interpretation was so perfect that the only gestures, the expression of their faces and the intensity of their eyes helped me to understand much more than words themselves. The story struck me deeply; it really forces you to reflect on a horrible piece of our history which seems to be repeating nowadays in Kosovo.

At the end, a burst of applause thanked the actors for their really touching and involving performance while they were disappearing behind the scenes. Few seconds later Charles Dance came out again and along with him, at a sign of his hands, all the rest of the cast. There was another applause for them, bigger than the first one; at this point Mr. Dance asked kindly to the audience to stop applauding and announced the theatre was collecting offers for Kosovo's refugees and our contribution would have been appreciated.

We all left the auditorium and went to the lobby of the theatre. Few minutes later Charles Dance came down stairs. He must have stayed with us for about half an hour signing programmes to everyone. I remember I was standing next to Lynne excited and incapable of making any movement, waiting to have enough courage to ask for his autograph.

At a certain point I saw him taking his bag and thought he was going away; I was afraid I would lose my only chance to have his autograph, so I took a step forward and said "Excuse me…". When I realized his marvellous eyes were looking at me the only three words I was able to pronounced have been "Could you kindly…", while my hands were holding out my pen and programme to him. He smiled and answered "Sure". Nothing else came out of my mouth.

Doris, who must have noticed I was too shy and embarassed to say anything, helped me and told him I was from Italy and that I would fly back home the following morning. I remember him replying he would come to Italy in July.

He received several gifts from the Angels, then explained it was time for him to go and, after thanking Mez for everything with an embrace and a kiss on her cheeks, he left the theatre escorted by our applause.

We concluded the memorable evening in a nearby coffee-shop, then I had to greet everyone. It was hard for me to leave that fantastic group of friends I had the great joy to meet only two days before and felt so happy and proud to belong to. Mez embraced me warmly, words didn't come out of my mouth easily and I could just say "good-bye" to all the Angels.

The following day I got up very early, it was a beautiful Sunday and when I left the hotel the streets were still desert and quiet, at least until I started pulling along my noisy trolley-suitcase giving to the city the first sign of life. I reached the airport, took my flight and during the whole journey back home I lived again in my mind all those marvellous moments spent there in London.

Back to Top

Cheryl's account of AF2

Friday, April 23
Pete and I had already been in London for a week before we were due for our first angel encounter. We'd been having a ball and had covered a lot of ground. Little did we know the best was still to come!

As we entered the lobby of the New Linden, I have to admit I was a little apprehensive about having a rendezvous with people I had never met. I needn't have been – what a wonderful group! The first angel I met was Anne, although I mistook her for someone else from the angel gallery. (Sorry, Anne!) Next I overheard two people talking about having seen the play the previous evening; that's how I met Lynne and Mary. Then we were introduced in quick succession to Doris (who pinned me, making me an official angel!) and her friend Janice, Gaddy and David, and Margie and Joey. Margie asked me what MN_angel meant; being from Holland she didn't know MN is the abbreviation for Minnesota (my home).

Mez and Pez arrived from the airport with Sid shortly after noon but they were concerned because they hadn't been able to find Kathryn. They delivered those who were interested to Windsor then returned to Heathrow to pick up Floriana and continue their search for Kathryn. (Turned out her flight had been delayed and she had missed her connection.)

The first order of business for the rest of us was lunch, with Joey leading the way. Meal done, we headed for Windsor Castle. We split up to tour the state apartments, the chapel and Queen Mary's dollhouse, then reassembled for the ride back to London. Pete and I declined a dinner invitation to head back to our hotel to rest up for the next day.

Saturday, April 24
Pete is training for his second marathon, so Saturday morning found him putting in a 17-mile run while I sent postcards home and explored the Covent Garden area, complete with a flower lady – shades of Eliza Doolittle – who gave me a nosegay and a "shiny pebble for good luck".

Pete and I met up again at noon to tour St. Paul's Cathedral - even climbed all 530+ steps to the top, which was all my acrophobia could handle! By the time we got down there was just time to get back to our hotel, freshen up, and arrive at Joe Allen's for dinner.

The whole group together at last! Mez and Pez, Margie and Joey, Gaddy and David, Gretty and Win, Doris, Janice, Marion and Bob (friends of Doris), Mary, Lynne, Anne, Floriana, Sid, Kathryn. It was so much fun to get to talk to everyone, even briefly, and to discover so many other interests in common. We spent surprisingly little time talking about Charles Dance, but it was so nice to be able to allude to a scene or to a line without having to explain the reference!

Before leaving home, I had tried to think of something we could do to commemorate this Angel Flight. I have a very talented friend who was able to take the montage of pictures of Charles Dance in various roles (the first images you see when pulling up the website) and put them on a white ceramic mug. The back side of the mug read "Sippin' wid de fishies, Angel Flight II, April, 1999." I now asked everyone to sign it, with the idea of presenting it to CD after the play.

Theatre time at last, with seats in the front row. (Be still, my heart!)

[For those who don't know the play, Charles Dance plays a professor named Halder who, in his mind, sets the significant events in his life to music: Wagnerian opera when dealing with his wife, "The Drinking Song" from The Student Prince when he joins the Nazi party, Bavarian yodeling when meeting Hitler. He has written a book favoring euthanasia; Hitler has read his book and wants him to write a paper on the subject. Halder's wife wants him to join the Nazi party, which he does. He falls in love with one of his students and leaves his wife . He agrees to oversee the book-burning at the university ("as long as I can keep my copies"). He neglects to help his Jewish friend Maurice escape to Switzerland. He rationalizes his actions -- each step is reasonable, defensible – until the end when he finds himself in a Nazi uniform at the entrance to Auschwitz listening to the prisoners' band, and in horror realizes this band is real.]

Charles Dance was marvelous! He has a powerful voice and a powerful presence – riveting. He is on stage for the entire show as the other characters come and go. The play itself seemed very fast-paced, especially the first act when lines came with machine-gun-like rapidity. I was most impressed with his ability to shift emotional gears as he moved from an encounter with one character to an encounter with another. The other cast members were also strong, especially the women playing his mother and his wife and Ian Gelder as Maurice.

The play lasted just under 2 hours – the fastest 2 hours I've ever spent!

At the curtain call, he announced that they would be taking a collection at the exits for the Kosovo refugees. He also announced that they (along with other West End theatres) were adding a benefit performance for Kosovo on May 18. As he left the stage for the last time, he glanced our direction and smiled.

We didn't have long to wait after the play before he came downstairs. A young boy got his autograph and (I think) said that he liked him in "Last Action Hero" but couldn't remember the character's name. As he signed, Charles said he didn't remember the character's name either; then indicating us with a tilt of his head and a grin, said, "As that lot over there." We responded with the character's name (Benedict), then one of us (Gaddy?) added, "Do you want to know the lines? Or the order of the eyeballs?" That drew another grin and a shake of his head.

I thought he looked wonderful –much better looking in person than I expected. He seemed relaxed and at ease, chewing gum and leaning against the wall behind him as he graciously spent time with each of us.

He remembered Margie and kept looking back over his left shoulder at her; he thought there was something different about her from the last time – her hair? She said it was blonder now because she had recently been to South Africa. He remembered or was reminded that Margie is from Holland. He told her he had been to Holland twice, then with a grin to the rest of us challenged, "Bet you don't know what years." Kathryn responded with the date range He looked a little surprised, then confirmed that those were the years he was with RSC, and that he had been to Holland in 1975 and again in 1979 (I think).

He also remembered Doris from the last angel flight; she gave him a kiss from someone who was unable to make the trip. Lynne's turn for an autograph and kiss. Then Floriana's turn; he asked her what part of Italy she was from, because he said he might be filming there in July, in Rome and in Budapest.

My turn. I gave him my program to autograph first. When he finished I gave him the small white box, saying that it was for him from all of us, but that I wanted him to open it now as it might require a bit of explanation. I started to say, "We don't know if you've ever pulled up our website, but…", and that's all the further I got. He saw the pictures of himself on the mug and exclaimed with genuine surprise something like, "Oh my God!" He never took the mug completely out of its protective plastic wrap but pressed the plastic down so he could see the pictures and signatures through it. As he turned the mug over I explained to him that our message board is called "Swimmin' wid de fishies", but the mug was for "Sippin' wid de fishies". I think he was touched and pleased, and said it would have "some very strong coffee in it tomorrow. " Someone (Doris?) told him the mug had been my idea. He looked directly at me with those eyes and I melted. I know he thanked me with a kiss on both cheeks, but for the life of me I can't remember it. (Sensory overload?! Oh, my!)

Next Mary gave him a present from another angel who couldn't make the trip. He put it with his other packages and said, "It feels like my birthday!", to which Kathryn piped up, "October 10!" More laughter; he seemed to be enjoying himself. Mary then pulled out a photo of him and asked if he would sign it. Laughing, he said, "Where did you get this? I've never seen this one before!" She told him she had bought it on the Internet.

Doris then introduced Doctor Kathryn. He asked her specialty (oncology) and she gave him her card. Then she whispered something in his ear – I assume it was a plea to stop smoking. He rolled his eyes, sighed deeply, and said, "Oh, I know, I know." She added, "Because we love you." Amen.

Someone connected with the theatre (house manager, perhaps?) appeared from the direction of the ticket office. Charles said something about them not liking it if things went on too long. He acknowledged the patient husbands waiting by the door, then gathered up his things and said it was time for him to "disappear." He said good night to both Mez and Pez, then as he passed the husbands said, "Thanks, chaps." We applauded him as he went out the door, and he was gone.

Time to decompress – a little coffee / cocoa with the angels, and then back to the hotel. Couldn't sleep, though. What a night!

Sunday, April 25
The plan for the day was to meet those interested at 10:30 a.m. for the Thames cruise to Hampton Court. We left our hotel a bit early and took our time getting to Westminster pier, where Pete and I bought our tickets and waited. And waited. 10:20…10:25…10:30…No angels! Uncertain what to do, I left a note at the ticket window saying we'd gone ahead and if nothing else we would meet up with everyone for dinner. That done, we took off.

The cruise took over three hours and by the time we got to Hampton Court I was frozen in spite of a heavy sweater and jacket. Once off the water it was quite comfortable, though rainy. We'd almost finished our sightseeing before we ran into Kathryn, Mary and Doris. (They, along with Sid, Gaddy and David, had been late getting to the pier and hadn't gotten my note, but assumed that we'd gone on ahead.) There was just time for Pete and me to check out the formal gardens and the Hedge Maze before taking the train back to London.

Dinner this evening was at Porters – great food, excellent desserts, and wonderful company. I think we stayed past closing time, talking and laughing. What an amazing group of friends!

Monday, April 26
Pete's birthday!

To spare Pez the ordeal of driving into London on a Monday morning, we had made plans to take the train from Euston Station to meet them at Watford Junction (just outside London). Everything went without a hitch, and we connected as planned. Even made friends with Scrappy (but don't tell my pup, Shamus the wire fox terrier!) Doris, Janice and Kathryn arrived shortly after we did, and we set off for Stratford Upon Avon.

We were able to get tickets for that evening's performance of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at RSC. Then we bought tickets for admission to the buildings that make up the Stratford experience. Doris and Janice decided to see only the two or three nearest houses; Mez, Pez and Scrappy took a well-deserved nap in the van, and, Kathryn, Pete and I set out to see all we could in the time available, in spite of fairly heavy rain. We started by hiking to Anne Hathaway's cottage about a mile away, then returned to tour Shakespeare's birthplace, the Nash house (his daughter's), the Hall house (his granddaughter's) and Trinity Church, which was filled with flowers because of Shakespeare's birthday.

Tired and soggy (but happy!) we all met for a quick bite before the show. We learned about the nutritional benefits of mushy peas, and we sang "Happy Birthday" to Pete (drawing some strange looks from the other patrons in the process).

On to the theatre. We had heard that the production was kind of "raunchy" and hadn't gotten very good reviews, possibly because it was rather non-traditional. We thought it was great – the energy of the young cast made it all work. The play is a long one, though, and we were just able to catch the last train from Milton Keynes back to London.

It was so hard to say goodbye to everyone, but especially to Mez and Pez, two very special people. Thank you, thank you, thank you for making it all possible!

Postscript

I hadn't intended to see "Good" more than once, but when it came right down to it I found I had to go back one last time. I was able to get a ticket at the last minute for Tuesday evening, so while Pete stayed at the hotel to pack up for our morning departure, I headed for the Dunmore.

The performance was wonderful again, and as I made my way downstairs afterward I thought about waiting to ask Charles to autograph one of the photos from Saturday evening. HOWEVER, was a school group of about thirty very noisy teenager girls waiting for him after the show, so I took off. He clearly was going to have his hands full and didn't need one more person imposing on his time!

Back to Top

Gaddy's account of AF2

Thurs., April 22:
We arrived at Gatwick very early in the AM. A big change we notice from Nov. is that it is already light, instead of landing in the dark. We get our bags quickly and are out to the terminal in record time. Find a central spot to wait for Mez and Pez to come from South Terminal, where they were meeting Doris and Janice, to North Terminal. We six have time for coffee and conversation while waiting for Mary and her suitcase of lingerie to arrive, then go back to South Terminal to find Lynne - which is a bit of a challenge, since none of us know what she looks like. Janice finally spots a lonely looking soul wandering about and intercepts her. We all head to the car-park to load into the van....if only Pez can remember where its parked. After the 25-p tour of the Gatwick parking garage, he finds the way, and we all go trooping off. Thankfully the Brits let us keep the luggage trolleys until we come to a stairway, so we don't have to lug the suitcases too far.

From Gatwick to Heathrow, to collect Anne; David, Scrappy, and Pez get to rub elbows with the coach drivers in far left field while we gals get more visiting done inside. Then on into London, to find the hotel, and get to the Donmar, where Mary, Lynne, Doris and I are off for our first viewing of "Good". I was a bit afraid that with jet lag, I wouldn't be able to do justice to my front row seat, and might even embarrass myself and fall asleep, but as soon as the play started, I was wide awake. Even if CD hadn't been on-stage the entire play, I don't think it would be possible to fall asleep in this one. I had read the play, and wondered how it would be staged, but found it quite easy to follow despite the dialog shifts between time, place and characters. During the interval, I spoke with the woman sitting next to me, who was also American, living in London for a few months while her husband was on assignment for work - lucky gal! She said she had come to the play partly because it was getting such good reviews, but also because she liked CD. I asked if she had Internet access, which she said she did 'at home' but not in England, so told her about the Angels and invited her to come out and visit when she got home.

After the play, we decided to hang around the lobby for a bit, although Mez had said the actors typically didn't come out between shows on matinee days. I went over to the ticket counter to ask where they came out if they did, and just as the fellow pointed to the circular stairs, there came CD down, with one of the younger male cast members and a young blonde woman. Mary found her voice first, and following him to the door, called out "Mr. Dance...". He stopped and turned to face us, and she introduced the four of us as the "advance guard" of the Angels. CD very graciously talked to us for a few minutes, reached out to touch the angel pin on my jacket, and said something about it, to which I replied that it meant a lot to us to learn he keeps his angel with him. About this time he spotted Doris, and seemed to put us and Birmingham together. I remember he asked how we were and the only thing I could think to say was "jet lagged"; and where we were staying: when I said "Bayswater" he said something about a big improvement over Milton-Keynes. As more people came out of the theatre and stopped to talk to him, or ask for an autograph, he gently took me by the shoulders and moved me to his side, to get out of the line of traffic....I was oblivious. We soon went on our way, after reminding him about Sat. night, since he was obviously on his way out to get something to eat between shows.

The fabricholic in me couldn't help but notice how he was dressed, in a mossy green corduroy jacket and slacks, gray flannel-y shirt and soft brown boots. Around his neck, he had a gorgeous wool scarf, tied up to protect his vocal cords, I'm sure. Perfect costuming - sure hope that picture turns out, Janice!

We walked around the corner, and flagged down a cab, rather than try to figure out the Underground on a collective sleep deprivation of many hours. The cabbie told us he knew where Leinster Square was, but wasn't familiar with the New Linden - I told him in a fit of bravado that if he could find the Square, I could find the hotel. All the way back, we chatted about the play, CD, London, CD, etc. When we were deposited at our doorstep, I made a comment to the cabbie about his having learned his new thing for the day, meaning the location of the hotel. He shot back, "I've learned lots of new things with you ladies in the back seat!" We collected David and went off down the street to a Greek restaurant for a delicious dinner, then back for an early night. I had no trouble falling asleep, but discovered around midnight that a quiet London street is far noisier than our country hillside, so was awake for much of the night.

Friday, 23 April.
After breakfast, we discover an Angel convention in the making in the hotel lobby. Margy and Joey, Cheryl and Pete, and Anne had gathered, along with Doris, Janice, Mary, and Lynne, so we have the desk clerk in a tizzy with more people than the lobby was meant to hold. A message came in from Mez that they were running late picking up Kathryn and Sid, so we went out in search of coffee. Joey finally mentions that even though the coffee shops are not open, the pub on the corner is, so the guys go off for a brew. Of course, that brings Mez and Pez around the corner, dropping off Sid and telling us that Kathryn is among the missing. We pile into the van, and crawl thru London Friday traffic to Windsor, and head off to a long, wonderful lunch and visit. After lunch, most of the group go off to the Castle, Margy and I wander around the shops in the drizzle, and David and Joey go back to collect Floriana, who has arrived by this time. Margy's report covers the rest....except that Joey was flabbergasted that I'd order fish (wonderful Dover Sole) in a steak restaurant!

Sat., 24 April
Send David off to the gardens of Hyde Park and Kensington Park while Doris, Mary, Janice, Floriana and I head off to find the Theatre Museum, which Doris told me about on AFI. After the walking tour of Covent Garden, we discover it, and find inside a wall of actors' handprints and autographs....spend quite a bit of time looking for CD's, but to no avail.

David and I meet up for what was planned as an afternoon of cruising craft shops....only to find after an hour or more of increasingly frustrating wandering that all have changed addresses since my last tour book was published. By now, we are tired, hungry, and wasted. Find one shop, then go hang out at the British Museum with the restorative cuppa tea, until time to go to Joe Allen's. David went to one end of the looooong table, while I settled in at my pre-claimed spot on Winston's left side. I think we had fun...I do remember feeling like I was stuck in no-man's land when Gretty wanted to know what was going on between Kathryn and Win over the Passion Fruit dessert. My lips are sealed until a really, really, good bribe is offered!

When we set off for the Donmar, Pez and I started leading the pack, only to be called back because we hadn't collected the entire group. But we got there, into our seats, and reasonably quieted down before the lights went down and CD was on stage. The play still seemed to whiz by, and all too soon, it was over. We collected in the foyer and on the stairs waiting for the man, and soon he was among us. I asked him to sign a program for Kit, and explained that she hadn't been able to make this trip but was planning to make the next one. He asked me when that was, and I asked back "When's the next play?" - which seemed to perplex him.... does he not realize the timing of the two AFs have been to see him on stage? I watched from the sidelines as others took their turn.....only to put foot in mouth when he asked a question of the group (we were being well quizzed that night!) about appearing in RSC - Margy, was the question when he had toured Holland? I started to answer, only to be chastised by CD himself that I was answering the wrong question....how to make a foolish impression!

Sunday, 25 April
I am not surprised that we are moving a bit slowly this morning. Cool, damp English morning, and we are off to ride down the Thames. We all welcomed the chance to ride, reflect, and talk a bit more one on one.....until we were at Kew Gardens, and Joey and Margy had to leave us. We waved as long as we could see them, .....then on to Hampton Court, lunch, and a quick tour of the gardens and Palace. Dinner at Porters, back to the hotel to discover they have taken care of moving us to a quieter room, so I get a good night's sleep for the first time in 4 nights!

Monday, 26 April
Sid and I have promised ourselves a day of fabric shopping, so David takes himself off to Kew Gardens - 20 years of marriage teach us that some things are best not shared! He did bring back some spectacular photos of the plants, and I brought back some spectacular fabric; but not as nice as what Sid found. Mary came along for company, and we three treated ourselves to lunch at Liberty's - quite posh! Later in the afternoon, Sid and Mary returned to the hotel, but I continued shopping and had tea about a block from where, later in the week, a nail bomb went off. Too close for comfort.

Tuesday, 27 April
After wishing Kathryn, Doris and Janice farewell at breakfast, Mary, David and I catch a train to meet up with Mez and Pez for the long-awaited tour of the Cotswolds. Perfect day, wonderful views, and I fulfill the shopping commission a friend gave me, to buy her a sweater at a particular shop in Burford. A nice lazy day for all, with the possible exception of Pez, who put in a lot of hours driving that van.

Wed., 28th April - Sat. 1 May
David and I are more than ready to bid farewell to the crowds of London, and get on the train to Bristol, for our first ever excursion to the West Country. The next three days are a refreshing antidote to the city bustle, and we enjoy day trips to Bath, and to Wells, which has a spectacular cathedral that shouldn't be missed. Lots of sheep and hills along the way to both, and picture perfect weather. We find a delightful French restaurant very near our hotel in Bristol, and eat there two nights in a row.

Sunday, 2 May
Home! Flight home is uneventful; BA crews are so friendly! The movie is "Patch Adams" - part of which was filmed here in Asheville, so the sight of the mountains makes me feel glad to be going home. But it takes me a week to return to reality. What a great trip!

Back to Top

Doris' account of AF2

Like the last trip in Nov. I was not sure I wanted to go again; I had such good memories of the other trip that I was not sure, if I wanted to do it again. Then..... my friend wanted to go to London to visit her niece who is studying at the University and I had just received a letter from some friends who were in London for work, so.......I decided to go.

Our flight was uneventfull ( both ways ) - It was marvelous to see Mez and Pez again in that Airport; they were so wonderful to do all this Van thing again. We were kind of in a daze that AM going from Airport to Airport to pick up Angels, but the coffee kept us awake.

As soon as we got to the hotel (around 2PM, ) I had to get ready to go to the theatre, as Mary, Gaddy, Lynne and I had tickets for the matinee. I am so glad that I had a chance to go twice, that afternoon I was sitting by myself and concentrating on you know who.

After the play, we were in the lobby, meeting Janice who had joined after her rambling around London, when CD came out and started to sign autographs and talk to people around. Janice was very impressed with his appearance and judged him very handsome. (What do you think?) He was standing by the door almost outside and when I came close to him, he said: "Oh, you're the one" . I was a bit taken aback, but he gave me his hand and I put on my cheek and said: Thank you. He noticed Gaddy's angel on her coat and smiled; then he asked where the others were. I said; "Don't worry, we are all coming back on Saturday," and he then asked how I had enjoyed the play and of couse, I said: Very much and told I did not know how he did it , all this time on stage and all those lines and I said: You have lost a lot of weight since Nov. and he said: Are you surprised? After all this.

Janice then asked if she could take a picture and he said: Of course and I think it is the nicest one of the trip, you'll see. He looked absolutly gorgeous with his corduroy jacket and a scarf around his neck. I stood beside him, as people came and talked to him; there was this older couple who came and shook his hand and the lady said: The Play was wonderful, Mr. Dance, we have been following you since White Mischief, and he had a great smile and said: Thank you. After a while, he made his charming exit, smiling all the while and we went back to the hotel (I was in a daze).

For dinner, we went to a charming Greek Restaurant just down the street from our hotle with: David & Gaddy , Janice, Mary , Lynne and myself. Then, for a Goodnight sleep, where all I could see was that beautiful face looking at me and smiling.

Friday was Windsor Castle, which I enjoyed very much. I had never been there before and I also loved the town of Windsor; it is such a lovely place, with beautiful stores, very charming; Joey found us a good Pub for lunch and admonished Janice and me not to drink the Ale he was having, but luckily it did not seem to affect us too badly; a great time was had by all; by then, of course, we had met the other angels: Cheryl and Peter, Ann, Margie and her husband. Friday night, was dinner at the Steak House, with the same group (it seems we are always eating) But, we always get very rambunctious and it is great fun.

Then, Saturday was a quiet day for me; I went with Janice and Floriana and Gaddy and Mary to Covent Garden and the Theatre Museum. Very interesting museum with costumes from the Greek Tragedies to more modern times, we had a very good guide who told us about the British Theatre; we tried to find in the special section of Shakespeare' plays a video of Coriolanus but they did not have it. There is two sides of a corridor with handprints of actors, I had my picture taken beside the one of Timothy Dalton, did not find CD's hand. After that, we had a nice lunch in a Restaurant at Covent Garden with Janice, Floriana, Cheryl. I went back to the hotel and some of them went on their excursion, be it: Museum, material for Gaddy, etc.

I was so looking forward to meeting my friends Marion and Bob, but I did not have their phone number and I was hoping that they would just show up for the dinner at Joe Allen and they did. It was great to see them after a few years and we had a good time talking about old times and their family and mine. It was great to meet Gretty and her dear W. We did not get enough time together. Rushed to the theatre and was sitting on one side of the stage, but wanted to be on the other side (the good side to see the disrobing) and dear Joey was kind enough to give me his seat. (What an Angel) After the play, we rushed to the lobby and waited for a while when HE appeared; here is my version: No, he did not say: It's you, I just watched while he signed autographs and took it all in; helped Mary go forward to give him her present and Lynn's; I don't remember talking to him very much, but I asked if I could give him a kiss for Karen, our Nottingham Angel and he bent forward and I did it.

After that, I happened to recognized one of the actor in the play: Benedict Taylor and I said: Oh, the cute Officer, and CD said to me: "You never quit, do you," and I said: Why not! and he laughed. Janice was there snapping pictures and enjoying it all; my friends M & B were very surprised at all this brouhaha. I thought he did look very tired that night, but, who would not be.

Sunday was the cruise on the Thames and our visit to Hampton Court and everything went very smoothly, but we had to say Goodby to Margie and Joey and also Floriana.

Monday, we took the train to meet Mez and Pez and go to Stratford-upon-Avon; Janice and I had a super day in spite of the rain; again, good lunch in a pub and a great Theatre experience. Janice and I want to see the Movie: Midsummer Night's Dream to compare with the play.

Again, thanks to Mez and Pez for al they have done for all of us. After Janice's testimony, my friends don't think that I am so crazy to go and meet these people that I have met through the Internet.

My love to all of you and hope to see you again.

Back to Top

Mary' account of AF2

A year ago I could not have imagined that I would find myself in England, meeting a group of people that I knew only from printed messages on the Internet. A group whose only certain common interest was a shared admiration for an incredibly talented British actor with more than a little sex appeal. Our goal was to see him in a stage performance and hopefully, to have the opportunity to meet with him in person. Mission accomplished on AFI.

Less than six months later, I found myself making plans to return. Once again our goal was to attend a live performance and hope for the opportunity to see Mr. Dance once again. Equally enticing was the opportunity to meet again with those who were now old friends and to make some new ones. Both possibilities were enough to make me ignore my fear of flying and pack my bags.

The minute I landed and spotted the familiar faces of Paul and Mary and the others, I felt right at home. Dear old Mez and Pez were the ever-patient tour guides and always-gracious hosts. Everyone traveling to England should have the opportunity to meet these two ambassadors for Britain.

After hectic pick-ups at the airport, (and traffic I cannot imagine navigating) we made our way to the hotel just in time to drop our suitcases and head for the Donmar for the matinee performance. From the moments the lights dimmed, all the fatigue of a 9-hour flight and little sleep, slipped away. It was wonderful. The play was deeply moving, witty, and humorous. The Donmar was the perfect vehicle for the play. The audience felt an instant connection to the action on stage. It was an excellent cast and we were not disappointed for a second by Mr. Dance. The play was over far too soon. As we made our way through the lobby, Doris said, "There he is." CD passed through the lobby and stood at the door accompanied by a young man. (Thank you Janice for that fantastic picture) As he stood there, I gently touched him on the arm and said, "Mr. Dance, we just wanted to say hello and to let you know that we are the first arrivals of the group coming to see you on Saturday." He was very gracious and seemed genuinely pleased to see us. Of course he recognized Doris immediately. And he obviously has an eye for detail as he spotted Gaddy's angel pin as well. After a few moments of conversation, he passed on down the street to find food or rest or both in the short time before his evening performance.

Saturday came and we all prepared for our group descent on the Donmar. Dinner at Joe Allen's was great. Full of old friends, new friends, good food, good wine and nervous anticipation. The energy of the people at our table could have lit a small city. I know it lit up that corner of London, especially when the ever-photogenic Margie went table walking. Floriana was a delight to meet and visit with. I had the opportunity to visit with Kathryn about a common interest and concern: male teenagers. Janice had fascinating stories to share of her travels, especially to Japan. Lynne was taking it all in and all of us were turning left and right for numerous photos. Mez dispensed the tickets to each of us as we left the restaurant and then...

We were at the Donmar and seated. Remember the old Beach Boys song, Good Vibrations? The cast didn't need it but there were certainly good vibrations coming from all those Angels surrounding the stage. And CD did not let us down. Once again, it was over too soon; the consolation being that within a few moments we would have an opportunity to say hello to him. As he entered the lobby and saw us, he sat his backpack on the floor and graciously began to sign programs, give kisses and chat for a moment or two with each person. And then, with a wave, he was out the door and on his way.

Our week was fantastic. I was staying longer on this visit and my only disappointment was that some people had to leave so quickly. I treasure the memories of the river cruise, our shopping expedition to the fabric shops and tea at Liberty's (Sid, Gaddy and I), our evening dinners full of as much laughter and conversation as good food, our visits to Windsor Castle and Hampton Court. There were teary eyes all around as each Angel departed for home.

Lynne and I were among the last to leave the city and on her last night, we saw another performance of Good. We were both tired and not feeling very well and decided not to wait to watch CD leave the theater. We walked up the street to catch a cab and were not being very successful when CD came walking past. We said hello and he recognized us. He sat his things down, gave us each a hug and kisses and moved us out of the street. He was as gracious as always despite the fact that he was experiencing a very painful problem with his back. We thanked him for being so generous with his time with all of us and he told us the attention was very flattering. Once again, the time passed all too quickly and he said good-by. Needless to say, there were sweet dreams that night.

I spent my last day in London on my own and had a ticket for the matinee performance of Good . When I picked up my ticket at the box office, I discovered it was for the evening performance. Not wanting to travel all the way back to the hotel, I did some shopping and bought a ticket for the matinee. I know how tired I was by the end of that day. It's hard to imagine the physical and emotional stamina of the actors, who made every performance as fresh as the first.

Would I go again? In a heartbeat. Will I go again? Someone name the location. I heartily recommend it to those who have not been able to make the first two trips.

Highlights:
  • Seeing CD
  • Seeing all Angels
  • Cheryl and her coffee mug
  • Gretty's stories of driving in England
  • Doris and her composure. She always thinks of something to say when the rest of us are speechless.
  • Gaddy and Kathryn as seatmates at the theater, acting like Jr. High girls
  • Lynne and those long, tall legs tucked into those very tall but painful boots
  • Pez and that very tall cowboy hat
  • Joey and his stories and his ability to locate pubs
  • Getting lost at Windsor with Ann

Back to Top

Gretty' account of AF2

The Ninny Who Stood in the Stairwell

Half my kingdom for a photo of myself at the Donmar. It's a blank. Except for the play: I remember that play like I can recall the time I was struck by lightning. There's enough left in my memory banks to know I was present physically, but at the time my mind was still on a Boeing 777 in a holding pattern somewhere over the Atlantic.

On Friday we visited Parliament. After hearing part of a debate in Commons, we stood outside and heard Big Ben strike noon. We floated through Westminster Abbey in a haze of time and grandeur, dazzled by English history and magnificence, clutching one another and whispering "Look here! Look there!" I thought I'd need a tow truck to get Winston away from Poet's Corner.

By Saturday night I was back in a fog. Earlier that day, walking around Berkeley Square in a wild wind, I was hit in the eye by something. Winston said it was a pigeon. By dinner time I had spent three hours putting in contact lenses and deciding whether I needed spackle, more paint, or a buccaneer's patch. I settled for an inch of Pan Stick and five shades of eye shadow.

Dinner at Joe Allen's: a roar of friends I'd never seen before, but knew at once. After all, we are congenial; we are Thinking Women. We first "met" at Mary's online Coffeehouse and Swoon Saloon, so we know we have at least ONE thing in common: we think alike on specific topics. I can prove I was at that dinner because I took photos there of my husband. He is being fed passion fruit and whipped cream by a very happy lady physician from Oregon. After I decided to have both of them Eighty-sixed, we went to the Donmar for that bonfire of a play followed by The Encounter.

And there I stood like a ninny, hovering in the stairwell watching everyone else run joyous riot. Doris, bold as brass, angled for another kiss. Oh, thou bodacious Doris! 'Wish I had your kind of grit. Mezzer was here, there, everywhere taking pictures. Yes, I realized that Mr. Dance was standing almost in front of me, cornered by a happy Band of Angels. But I was in a daze. I can't remember much of anything, including speaking to or seeing Charles Dance.

The rest of that wonderful vacation - the journey of a lifetime - is equally blurred - except, of course, trying to find the Cotswolds, trying to find the M4, and trying to find Wales. Oh, and God Damn Them All, the roundabouts. Why did we rent a car to go to Wales and Bath? Trains go there! After being stranded for 3 hours at Budget Rent-A-Car we knew we had missed Paul and the Gang in the Cotswolds. When Budget finally found a Ford Mondeo for us, we flipped a coin and I lost, so I drove and Winston navigated.

If I must say, I drove very well. We got out of London without incident except for that one flub in the Gloucester Road when I turned the corner and hit a piano van. Oh, no damage to either vehicle, just a bump, really. I simply backed up to wait while the driver maneuvered his van up a driveway. I recall the motto on the van: "We never fail." As I waited, a tour bus backed away from the curb - kerb - suddenly and hit our outside left mirror, folding it back. How fortunate that Ford designed the Mondeo's exterior mirrors to fold back and also fold forward again.

And the Thames Valley Police couldn't be nicer. The one who pulled me over on the M40 might have cited me or even given me a stern rebuke. Instead, when he noticed that I was American, he merely turned purple and said, "For God's sake stay out of Lane Three or go over 40 miles per hour!" Okay. Gee! Back home I usually have my foot to the firewall.

At some point I realized we were awfully long in finding Oxford. This was an ominous sign, because Win was reading the map for me and Winston never navigates. He has what he describes as a "masterful sense of absolute non-direction." So when I passed the sign that gave mileage to Coventry I was sure that we had been absolutely non-directed.

There was a short outburst of family discussion, then I got off the Motorway. I stopped in the car park of a nice pub somewhere short of Banbury, and remarked to Winston, "YOU are driving the (anathematized) car and I'M reading the (orgiastic) maps!" He said that would be hunky-dory.

A lovely couple in the pub lounge loaned me their company cel phone so I could call Pez and tell him there was no way in Gehenna that we could meet them, even in Burton-on-Water. Winston and I ate cheese & pickle sandwiches with salad, then went back out to the Mondeo with the enthusiasm of the Damned entering Hades.

In the car park two more stalwart members of the TVP were parking their motorcycles, so I asked them the best route through the Cotswolds and on to the M4, M5, Severn Bridge and Tintern Parva. Thereupon, the two good-natured lawmen (then) took our maps and conferred with one another, marking this and that, and finally mapping a special route so that we could see maximum scenery. As we pulled out they cheered us on our way calling, "Keep to the left!"

I want to pause here and say that the English are the kindest, most cordial and civilized people we have met anywhere. I believe we should re-think that Revolution thing back in 1776. Perhaps if we reunite our countries, English Sensibilities will rub off on us. Especially their politesse and the sublime absence of billboards and trash on their roads.

If I were merciful I would skip the details of our trip through the Cotswolds. But I don't feel merciful. Win kept driving onto the berm and occasionally into potholes and up kerbs. Suddenly, I discovered that I was using an Anglo-Saxon word we had not heard since Son Ian gave up football. Winston finally ordered me to stop using that word. He said it was bloodcurdling to hear it repeated in a small, genteel voice; sort of like a rerun of "The Exorcist" except that he was trapped in the car with it. So I substituted prayer and called upon Jesus frequently, as in "JESUS will you keep LEFT?!" The roundabouts needed a lot of orisons, too.

O Lord: Roundabouts! I believe we now hold the American record for fetching up back in Cirencester. Was it four times or five? I hope never to see Cirencester again.

Around six p.m. we located Wales. Those signs along that tiny road up from Chepstow - "Oncoming Vehicles in Middle of Road" - are masterpieces of laconic understatement. As we rounded a turn a white truck - lorry - was Oncoming and occupying All of Road. Since there is no Side of Road I climbed the kerb, lost a wheel cover and flipped that (fornicating) mirror back once more, cracking the glass. Well?! It was either hit the cliff face or hit the lorry! After all - what are a few pieces of Ford Mondeo here and there on the vacation of a lifetime?

Wales was gorgeous. We highly recommend the Parva Farmhouse Hotel & Restaurant. Vickie and Derrick have lovely rooms ensuite, handmade furnishings, 3 stars, two blue rosettes and people coming for miles just to eat their award-winning dinners. The ruins of Tintern Abbey were spectacular and ancient beyond raw American comprehension. Bath was even more ancient and full of flowers. And at long last we had our cream tea at the Pump Room. We want to go back - to all of it. But first I'll learn how to get the spoon out of the clotted cream without using two forks.

NOW I remember speaking to Charles Dance. It was to introduce Kathryn. I worried that she might not have a chance to present her card and I wanted her to deliver THE Message. I had been practicing "Mr. Dance, this lady is a physician - -." One should not stutter when meeting a deity, but it takes a lot more wine than was on the table at Joe Allen's to stop my celebrated nervous stammer. If I'd burbled "Mr. D-D-D-Dance, this lllllady is a phzzzz - " it wouldn't have established Doc's credentials, and after a blurt like that, sepukku would have been too merciful.

Writing is a solitary preoccupation. It's seldom that I get together with anyone, much less so many congenial people. Since returning home from AF2 I've been over-talking, over-writing and overwrought. Winston says the trip must have ignited my booster rocket.

Oh, but I want a rematch! I'd love to meet Mr. Dance, of course. But please, I really want to sit down somewhere quiet, and calmly, peacefully have tea and converse with all of you. Angels, I scarcely met you.

Back to Top

Mez's account of AF2

What you get when you mix a dozen Angels, several assorted supremely patient husbands and a few friends/potential Dance convertees is anything but the no holds barred melee that could keep you up nights worrying about fallout ever after. And trust me, I did worry just a tetch -- but for nought, because that fine blending of personalities on the message board carried through in person tenfold!

For Pez and me, the gathering began on Thursday morning at Gatwick airport, at an hour we aren't usually conscious, where we met Doris & Janice, Gaddy & David, Mary and Lynne. Then it was off to Heathrow to meet Anne, where all us girls enjoyed more coffee and chat while the boys rubbed elbows with the coach drivers in some far-flung parking lot, and then into London to drop everyone at their hotel. First, of course, we had to find the hotel. Typically I'm a good navigator, but it's astonishing what only three hours of sleep (my fault) will do to one's mental acuity. My brain and eyes refused to make the connection between what I saw on our London A-Z and the street names Pez was calling out, but we got there eventually! After checking everyone in, we nipped off back up the M1 for some much-needed sleep.

On waking at 7.30 that evening, it began to dawn on us that the massive undertaking of picking everyone up from their airports was perhaps slightly suicidal on our part. Margy and Joey were coming in from Amsterdam that night...Thankfully after roaming South Africa for a few weeks, they felt more than up to the task of finding their own way into London from Heathrow.

Friday morning began even earlier than Thursday, with a first stop at Heathrow to meet Kathryn's flight. I waited. I waved my 'AF2' sign at anyone who cared to look. I had her paged.

Kathryn wasn't there.

Pez and I felt certain she must have gone into London on her own...at least, this was what we kept assuring each other as we went off to Gatwick to pick up Sid, who got a big hug of relief when we found each other! We then went into London to pick up everyone who wanted to see Windsor Castle, hoping Kathryn would be at the hotel by then. No one had seen her. Now Pez and I were getting worried.

After dropping everyone at Windsor, Pez and I went to Heathrow to meet Floriana's flight from Rome. I think poor Floriana must have thought me a little crazy because I immediately led her off to Kathryn's terminal to start making enquiries. According to United, there was no one by Kathryn's name on that morning's flight. Now thoroughly perplexed, Pez and I decided there wasn't much we could do other than take Floriana to join everyone else at Windsor Castle, where we meandered the sights for a couple of hours before returning to London. And voila! -- the mysterious Kathryn had arrived! No one but Sid had seen her, however, as she had since departed for 'Good'. I began to wonder if Doc Kathryn wasn't a figment of our imaginations, but all became clear when we later learned that the first leg of Kathryn's flight had been delayed, resulting in a missed connection. She flew 1st Class across the pond in compensation for her five hour wait. Can't beat that!

Gretty and Winston also arrived on Friday, but we wouldn't see them until the following night when we met at their hotel, the sumptuous Mayfair, before cabbing it to Joe Allen's for the pre- 'Good' Angel Dinner. I believe we were 20 for dinner (you all know how bad my math is), including Doris' friends Bob and Marion, a lovely American couple living in London for the foreseeable future for Bob's work. We were seated at what I think were two extra long tables stuck end to end, so it was a bit difficult to converse across the entire distance...but I do know there was a lot of raucous laughter going on where Gretty, Gaddy, Kathryn and Win were sitting!! Hopefully they will explain for the readers' benefit? There also came a point when Margy was forced to escape her seat between the table and back wall by table-walking for us. We gave her a round of applause for her agility and avoiding knocking anything or anyone to the floor!

It was a mad rush to the Donmar Warehouse when we realized it was 7.10 and we had twenty minutes to the curtain. So mad, in fact, that Gretty, Win and I, who were bringing up the rear, soon lost sight of the rest of the parade through Covent Garden and realized we were lost. Now really, just because I was a radar specialist in the Navy doesn't mean I have any sense of direction. And I was panic-stricken thinking that Gretty and Win might miss the show. No one in the local shops could tell us where the Donmar was. Finally, knowing that London cabbies have to memorize every nook and cranny of their terrain, I flagged one down and asked where Earlham and Neal Streets were. Turns out we were just across from Neal ("It's not worth me taking you!" the cabbie said, and drove off), so we found the Donmar and the rest of the group quickly. I sputtered and fumed at Pez for not waiting up, until the start of the performance forced me to quiet myself. And then I forgot to be angry. ;)

Saturday night was Pez's and my third viewing of 'Good', and it was the best. And not just because we had seats in the stalls this time. Charles and the rest of the cast were in top form despite it being the second show of a matinee day; there was a real charge to the performance, and the audience was so responsive it seemed to inspire the actors to give it that much more. Charles, Ian Gelder (Maurice) and Emilia Fox (Anne) were particularly fiery -- sparks flew between these characters, really highlighting the lethal wedge forced between the Jews and Gentiles under the Third Reich, and making it all too clear how a redux of the same horror can easily occur -- as it is now in the Balkans.

No doubt compelled by this parallel, as well as their own hearts, an announcement was made by Charles after the final curtain call regarding a collection the theatre is undertaking on behalf of the Kosovo refugees. He also said they will be giving a charity performance of 'Good' on May 18th, which Pez and I hope to attend. As we exited the auditorium, I spotted Ian Gelder and Jessica Turner (who played John Halder's wife, Helen) standing in the crowd, still in their shabby concentration camp uniforms -- all the actors but Charles portray anonymous Jewish prisoners at the end -- holding buckets out to the departing crowd. I came up to Ian Gelder, touched him on his ragged sleeve, deposited a note in his bucket, and said, "You get yourself a new suit with that." Ian burst into laughter.

Pez and I wandered downstairs and out through the lobby for a quick cigarette. Plenty of time, I thought, considering the crowds still trying to make their way out. Mistake. Next thing I knew, as I disengaged from a chat with Pez and David to glance inside the lobby doors, I noticed all the Angels gathered around a familiar tall gentleman. "Holy...!" Some marshal I'd turned out to be! The smoking lamp had been lit and I'd let the troops run amok.

The heck with that -- I was missing Charles!

I gathered the boys and made a hasty re-entry to the Donmar. Actually, no special skills as a commandant are needed with the Angels. My concerns are based on past experience I've had with fan-types, those who once demonstrated to me why the word 'fan' comes from 'fanatical'. The Angels, on the other hand, never exhibit such behaviour: as a rule they're polite to a fault, charming, generous people who also manage to be exceedingly well-mannered when faced with the object of their...devotion. I was more than comfortable taking up a rear position to watch the proceedings.

Charles showed interest in each Angel who approached him, even recognizing a few from AFI, and didn't hesitate to sign scores of autographs. I looked for signs of weariness in him -- it had been a two-performance day -- but throughout he evinced nothing short of boundless good cheer. I'd love to know where he finds the energy!

It was difficult for me to hear everything that was said from where I was standing, so the nicest memory for me was when Cheryl handed him the AFII mug we had all signed at dinner. It was impossible to miss the look of delighted surprise on his face.

My moment came when he noticed me on his way out. He came right over and gave me a kiss on the cheek and asked how I was. I hardly ever know what to say to this man. If I've practiced a few lines beforehand my brain dutifully goes numb when he's near. When I manage to speak it's most often with all the common sense of your basic five-year-old. Call me star-struck!

After Charles made his exit we descended on a fairly local coffee house, minus Angel Anne, whom sadly we wouldn't see again on this trip. The proprietors seemed pleased to have our business, and we made good use of the sprawling downstairs lounge for a convivial post-Dance gathering and photo shoot.

Pez and I didn't join those who opted for the Thames River cruise to Hampton Court Palace on Sunday -- we took the opportunity to sleep in instead! But we heard all about it from several Angels we met at Porters that night for dinner. Any excuse for a party.

On Monday Pez and I arranged to meet interested Angels at Watford Junction for a day-trip to Stratford. What an amazing place! We really enjoyed touring Shakespeare's hometown, and after roasting Pete at a local pub for his birthday we took in an evening with the RSC, performing 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. I had no idea what I was in for -- what a bawdy, romping good play! I felt completely rejuvenated for the long drive home afterwards. Doris should have as well....When I glanced over at her during the interval, she was fast asleep in her seat!

Our last visit with the Angels was Tuesday, when we took Mary, Gaddy and David on a tour of the Cotswolds. I love this trek, and was hoping Gretty and Winston would turn up in their rental car to join us in Burford. Unfortunately, due to difficulties beyond anyone's control, the roundabouts got the better of our daring duo. I still laugh when I remember Gretty saying they'd been through Circencester three times from three different directions...and it was just as bad each time.

Pez and I did manage to link up later on with Gretty and Win for a gorgeous meal in London, but by then AFII had concluded and the rest of the Angels were home again. Like last time I went through withdrawal missing everyone. I didn't have near enough time to visit, busy as Pez and I were, but next time WILL be different -- do we have any volunteers for AFIII tour guide duty? :)

Back to Top


"And now for something completely different...." -- Photos, baby!

This first lot graciously donated by Cheryl (MN_Angel) and Pete

At Joe Allen's for dinner before 'Good'

Kathryn and Gaddy make Win feel welcome
Where's the grub? (L to R: Pete, Lynne, Mez, Floriana, Marion, Doris, Bob, Pez, David, Anne, Joey, Margy)
Angel talk (clockwise: Mary, Kathryn, Win, Gaddy, Sid, Gretty (hiding), Cherl, Lynne, Floriana, Marion, Doris)
"Dang, this is fun!" -- smiling David flanked by Bob and Pez (L) and Anne and Joey (R)
AF2 poster kids, Mez & Pez
"Pudding, my pet?" -- Kathryn and Win share a little dessert

With CD after the show:
"Where's the woman from Holland?" -- Charles interrogates Margy
Charles signs for Cheryl
Cheryl presents Charles with his very own autographed AF2 mug!
I'll let you all interpret this one!
"Did I mention I'm on call 24/7?" -- Doc Kathryn introduces herself to Charles
"Thanks, chaps..." -- Charles gives a sympathetic nod to the husbands in attendance


Our following sojourn to the coffee shop:
"I need another double espresso..." -- Mez
1...2...3...SIP! (L to R: Joey, Kathryn, Win & Gretty)
Angel coffee klatsch (clockwise from top: Gretty, Lynne, Sid, Doris, Janice, Margy, Pez, Mez)
Cloggy Cowgirl (clockwise from top: Sid, Doris, Janice, Cheryl, Margy as Garth Brooks, Pez)
Another Joe Allen's dinner shot
'Crazy Joey' and 'Weird Margy' -- nicknames provided as an aid to those who have yet to meet them!!
Probationary Angel Janice (wings to follow after she passes her test), with Mary and Kathryn
What a lovely bunch of coconuts!
Another dinner shot
Mary pours for Lynne
Was this at Porters?
Joey and Kathryn ponder the pros and cons of decaffinated
Joey and Kathryn obviously prefer the high octane brand
It's a Windsor waterfowl greeting for Pete and Kathryn
This Angel doesn't have a bad side
We are amused

From Gaddy and David:

David and a friend
Margie dons the Stetson
Charles amid his flock of Angels
Signing autographs
He's STILL signing!
Dinner at Joe Allen's
Another dinner photo

Lynne's offering:

At Joe Allen's
Same dinner, different angle
Pez seems to have spied something he wants??
Nice shot of Charles
One more autograph

From Margie & Joey:

I've seen these coconuts before....
I must have missed this meal!
Windsor Castle
More from Joe Allen's
Ditto
Ditto II
Marion, Doris and Bob. Doris looks like she's got it in for the waiter!
A nice smile from Charles!
Great close-up of the man hisself!
Charles and Margie are both sleeping on their feet
Another close shot of Charles
Charles expresses delight over his mug
Margie's got a bird's eye view of the autograph scene
In fact, she seems to find it all somewhat amusing!
Why does this look like it could be from 'Taming of the Shrew'??? (ggg)
A BRILL close up shot of Charles smiling
At the coffee house after the play
Mez likes the floor
That hat sure 'nuff looks good on you, Sis!
Joey and Kathryn goofing for the camera
Win and Gretty enjoying some high test
Lynne and Sid -- dontcha hate to be caught in mid-blink?
Doris and Janice, the bopsy twins!
David and Gaddy -- Hey, David, look THIS way!!
Mez and Pez
Floriana and Mary sitting pretty
On the route to Hampton Court Palace: The Houses of Parliament....
....and Battersea Power Station

From Floriana:

A gorgeous postcard view of her home in Italy: Manfredonia!

From Win and Gretty:

Taking a bath. No, sorry, that's at Bath.
Visiting Tintern Abbey
Ah, the British Museum. I'm going to put Pez there one day.
Win against the backdrop of the River Wye. Doesn't he look like royalty?
Now those are Pepsodent smiles if I've ever seen any!
Kathryn, Win, and the now (in)famous dessert incident.
Note the graceful symmetry, the delicate balance of feature. The statues are nice too.

From the Mez & Pez digital camera:

The left side of the Angel table at Joe Allen's....
....and the right side.
Margy & Joey again. The lens loves these two!
Charles graciously wades through autograph requests
He's signing something for Doris here, I think. Doesn't look sheer...Oh, that's right, the lingerie was Mary's!
Another autograph....
And another. The man desperately needs a rubber stamp!
Hey, who took this???
Pez on 3 hours of sleep. Hmm...he looks the same after 8!!

Thanks to Doris and Janice!:

I love these faces....
And this face...what a smile!
For once we're all sitting down
Didn't see this one coming
Everyone's schmoozing
Mez proves her photographic prowess by losing a shot
Charles chats with Kathryn. That's Ian Gelder ('Maurice') in the foreground


My gratitude to all the AF2 Angels who contributed to this page! -- Mez

Back to Top


Back to the Homepage | Message Board