Touched by Noel Coward?!

If you've read any previous postings you'll be starting to get the idea that I LOVE Brief Encounter- the film and the theatre production. Can't wait to see it again tonight.

You could, therefore, make the assumption that I'm a BIG fan of the true genius (and I don't use that term lightly) that is Noel Coward. You'd be right.

The book reading today was by the wonderful Mr Barry Day, who has written 20 books, six about Coward, from his new book 'the letters of Noel Coward'. Of course there are many such publications in existence, but this one is a bit different.

These are letters to and from some of THE most famous and talented names in our history - George Bernard Shaw, Virginia Woolf, Winston Churchill, Greta Garbo (she wrote asking him to marry him, well it was a leap year), Marlene Dietrich, Ian Fleming, Graham Greene, Alec Guiness, Gertie Lawrence, David Niven, Lawrence Olivier, Charlie Chaplin, FD Roosevelt, the Queen Mother and many many more.

Absolutely, completely and utterly mind-blowing - and bloody funny to boot.

It's out on Monday, I shall say no more!

It wasn't just Barry reading though, oh no, this was a real treat. Two of the actors from Brief Encounter took their parts, as did a very good friend of Barry's. This friend was Coward's representative in New York, and was there with Coward when he left this mortal plane.

So, when, just after sharing this insight, Barry asked if there were any questions, I'm afraid mine was directed at his friend and "Can I touch you?" popped out. Sorry, Leah, it's a good job she's a strong girl with a sense of humour isn't it?!

I did touch him, and take photos and have my booked signed by Barry too. I may well be in touch with Barry's PR person - Susie - to sort out an interview with Barry too. He lives in New York, so what's a girl to do?!

More on this tomorrow, I need to tell you more (and write it down for my own personal therapy - I'm sure it comes as no surprise to learn that too) - as the family Walker has just arrived - well three of 'em anyway. The other two will be here soon.

I've created 'Clancy's Cantina' this evening - lights, music, nachos and Corona. Plus I've picked up some Clancy's red wine at Costco - I've not seen it in a shop for a while, so a case just had to bought really.

Buonas noches

Clancy xxxx