I’ve just said goodnight to Ellie. She booked an Airbnb on impulse this morning so she wasn’t taking up my headspace. She would be staying on the sofa. It was a generous gesture and one that speaks of understanding. I’ve loved having Mel but actually just having my own space for me is going to be great. Apparently I woke Mel up this morning at 8:30 when I began my morning ritual of howling like a beached whale. We didn’t even leave the house until after noon, when I paid the people at Arkle to cook us late breakfast and do the washing up too. They recognised me. Last time I was there I was sick as a dog. Hey ho.
Today was lovely eventually. I did have to go back to bed after breakfast but I kept it down. Then at half four there was a Zoom Q and A with some current students at Birmingham Uni. That’s where Minnie went. I was very happy to try and be insightful, in the company of Fin, Claire and Scott. Lovely people, lovely work. The ownership that Tim has given us over our creative process in this show reflects strongly in such things. We will always try and carry the torch for him and his process because it is to our taste. There are many other ways to work. But his way is such fun and it helps you unlock bravery and simplicity. In the end I’m a gun for hire, but I’m never happier than when someone like Tim has hired me. Some people can use tools gracefully. I’m really just a massive tool. So are you. And your mum.
Now I’m winding to bed. Kitcat came this evening too. It’s amazing what has been made possible by my being in one place. Thank you to all the people who have come up and shared this moment with me. Double points if you’ve said “about fucking time”.
I did my thing of playing music by friends again. Played Amazing Devil, their first album which was made up here when Maddy and Joey were in Wolf Hall. Now I’m back into Liz Lawrence and her new album Peanuts. Yeti is playing right now. Strong track. She’s not fucking around, Liz. Proud to know her.
It’s not 2am yet. I’ll be asleep very soon. That’s okay. I’m gradually building a recovery deficit and might have to sleep for a whole day on Sunday once I’ve driven home, but I’m gonna be alert and alive to the needs of the various wonderful humans who plug into this job as it comes to an end. I’m not so old yet that I have no party. I’m just wise enough to have learnt that there’s more than just party.
Still. That was a lovely glass of wine at home with Ellie and a turning of the cards. My life is glorious. Thanks you lot. You are responsible for so much joy. What are we without the people we love?
AlBarclay 