Mother's Day guilt after Durham

And so Durham comes to an end. Durham went smoothly and was incredibly good to us and so, inevitably, it has gone by in a flash. We had some fantastic audiences and some great nights out but now we move back down south to Southend and then on to Yeovil later next week.

We had had a few days off after Buxton which helped us and made the get in and first show at Durham a little bit easier. It's always nice to catch your breath whilst on tour even if it is only for a few days. You learn to cherish the breaks you have however small they are- the touring lifestyle can be hectic and never ending especially when tiredness sets in. Thankfully, the Gala Theatre in Durham could not have been more helpful and welcoming to us all- in particular Craig and Longy (spelling is perhaps wrong with the latter) who came out for a drink with us on Friday night as well. They were particularly good at winding Meg up which is why I enjoyed their company so much but they were also incredibly efficient and professional. It made our time in Durham very enjoyable. on the Friday afternoon Alastair gave some long overdue notes which I think really gave everyone something to work on. After our long stint on the road it gave everyone a massive boost and turned the show into something quite different. Mairead came off stage towards the end of the first act buzzing and muttering something positive about 'pace' and 'fire'. She seemed over the moon with how things were going on stage and I think that can be said for everyone. It's nice to know that although we've had a long and at times stressful tour, what's happening on stage is still fresh and exciting.

Yet again, I write this from Zac's home where his family seemed to have taken me under their wing. I feel particularly guilty that I am here on Mother's Day especially when the gifts and cards that Tracey received today from Zac and the boys massively eclipsed my feeble card that I sent to my Mum. Sam seems to have given his Mum THE biggest card and teddy bear in the world. So I feel like a bad son right now...

So tonight Zac and myself venture down south now our time up North has come to a close. Of course, Scotland is fast approaching but for the north of England, it's goodbye from Dancing at Lughnasa. The audiences up here are second to none. They are responsive, loud and love a good laugh. We hope they have enjoyed the show.