Meistersinger

Tuesday to Clapham picturehouse for 11 a.m. relay from the Met thrillingly conducted by James Levine in a wheelchair. The intensity of playing was amazing considering the opera last 6 hours with intermissions. The cast were excellent. Johann Botha has a fine tenor voice but is unfortunately rather large so his acting is minimal. There are many touching moments but I found the Wach auf chorus in the last act very moving having sung it in the Chorus (in the foyer of the Festival Hall). and so soon after Jean Taylor so sadly died. The glorious ending and I think the whole cast should hace had a curtain call. It's not just about the principals wonderful as they are! To Acton and Tom cooked a lovely meal. Watched The Apprenitce final 5. Wednesday we all went to school to see Ciaran as Joseph in the nativity. He was so charming and cute and said his lines very clearly and joined in the singing. Seán was on good form and enjoying having Mummy home although she had some calls. I set off to the Hinsley Room early as there was the remains of the lunch for Guild of St John Southworth. Anne-Marie left us the food and Alan Rainer arrived early with the whirling dervish. He was marvellous and explained the connection to the crucifixion. We also had a Krishna and a tribute to Rumi whose special anniversary day it was. 24 came which is great. I nipped off to get milk and sugar for teas. Alan spoke well but tended to drift off the subject! Went over to the cathedral to take photos but it was locked for the Christmas celebration. Finally left at 6 a took rest of food to the Passage. Got home and put on Christmas jumper to go to St John's. Played Wills lullaby for a royal prince and Willan Fugal trilogy complete with tuba on the organ - what a treat. It was an excellent meal in the vicarage. The conversation was a little stilted at times - some people say nothing! But we enjoyed it! Watched Apprentice and we have the final 2. So sorry Roisin is out. An excellent programme of Gareth Malone preparing for the Prom with the Military Wives choir.