A few weeks ago, I was ill and in need of cheering up. I padded over to my DVD shelf and picked up a box set of Will & Grace. After watching one episode, I was hooked and ended up watching the entire box set.
What struck me as I watched and laughed is that I’d forgotten how funny Karen Walker is. So here are 17 of my favourite Karen quotes, on all the important things in life.
Whether it be: porn, sex, drugs, alcohol, cigs, food, exercise, violence, etc. the mechanism in the brain – the neurological reward pathway operates in the same way.
Just thought it might be of interest. They reckon about 10% of people experience addiction at some point in their lives. I myself have an addiction to nicotine – something I need to work on. Have a watch, go on, I’ll wait.
What’s interesting to me, is the transformation people undertake. They have to identify their addiction and make the choice to deal with it. This transformation process is a difficult one; with the individual having to work on deep rooted issues. And most people don’t get it right the first time; but when they finally do it’s an incredible sight to behold. It gives me real hope in the strength of the human spirit.
I recognise that people visiting this page/post might want to know where they can get support. If you require support around your mental health, addiction or physical health, see this Support page here.
I’ve recently been interviewed by Victoria Derbyshire on BBC Radio 5 Live Breakfast, around young people attending A&E with an alcohol-related attendance. Here’s the interview, edited down from the two hour programme which is available on the iPlayer:
Obligatory Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on this blog are solely my own and do not express the views or opinions of my employer or any other associated company/organisation.
A few months ago my good friend Steve and I booked tickets to watch The Rocky Horror Show. Poor Steve had never seen The Rocky Horror Picture Show DVD; so I encouraged him to watch it before we went. Well I say encouraged… it was more a forced watching.
This weekend with tickets in hand and costumes in man-bags, I dragged Steve to see the matinee performance of The Rocky Horror Show at Manchester Palace Theatre.
Before the performance Steve and I went for a delicious meal in the new Velvet Central Restaurant & Bar. As well as the tasty food, it hosts a luxurious, yet relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff.
Then Steve and I headed off to the theatre for The Rocky Horror Show. Here are some photos:
Manchester Palace Theatre.
In the bar, after Steve & I changed in the one toilet cubicle.
“Oh Rocky (Steve)!” Frank ‘N’ Furter (Me) says.
My fishnets & gold/black stilettos.
Steve & I took our seats ready for the start of the show. As the show began I pulled out my phone, turned off the flash and took the first photo (below). A Usher appeared at the end of the row and flashed her torch at me. I twisted my neck towards her direction to be met by her angry scowl and she indicated that no camera’s were allowed. This is not the first time I’ve experienced an appalling, militant and killjoy Usher at Manchester Palace Theatre.
The first photo taken, interrupted by the appalling Usher.
The Interval: If Steve won’t wear his Rocky wig, then I’ll wear both.
For the first part of the show I didn’t feel able to take anymore photos. This was a great shame as the set, costumes, lighting, choreography and directing were all brilliant.
However in the second part of the show I snapped a few more photos; despite a further warning from the killjoy Usher.
Part 2 – Draw the curtain.
Part 2 – They’re back.
The cast after before the encore of Time Warp & Sweet Transvestite.
The cast bow and enjoy the applause at the end of the show.
A Short Review
I’ve already mentioned that the set, costumes, lighting, choreography and directing were all brilliant. Brad & Janet did have dodgy accents that were slightly off-putting at first; along with Brad feeling one-dimensional throughout the show. Phillip Franks (The Narrator) was fantastic with real banter between the audience and himself.
Overall the show was beyond amazing with all the favourite songs performed including: Science Fiction/Double Feature, Time Warp, Sweet Transvestite, I Can Make You a Man, Don’t Dream It, Be It and I’m Going Home.
Oliver Thornton (Frank ‘N’ Furter) was truly outstandingly. He added his own unique diva-esque personality into the character which made the role his own and worked wonderfully. Oliver Thornton plays the Frank ‘N’ Furter of today; one who is aware of his fame and ready to celebrate his 40th Anniversary.
Here is video Oliver Thornton as Frank ‘N’ Furter singing Sweet Transvestite:
