She next introduced her return to the Musical Theatre stage by a new production of Sondheim’s ‘Follies’ in Washington (that’s one happy Erica!) and the audience applauded this, shouting ‘Come back to the West End Elaine!’ –“If there are any producers out there in the theatre...” joked La Paige. She introduced ‘I’m Still Here’ which is Carlotta’s song in the show, and EP drew parallels between the character and herself. A very good song which I’d never heard before, and I really enjoyed it. It certainly would’ve persuaded be to go see Follies if funds permitted!!

‘I’ve not just been associated with one EP during my career, there’s been another EP hanging around my neck for some time.” ‘Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien’, the Little Sparrow’s post 1960 signature song. Elaine hitched her skirt up a little and hunched over like Piaf, and gave a stonking performance here, to which a great applause was given. There’s something about the music and the persona of Piaf which an audience loves, and Elaine knows this as she followed it up with the heart-rendering and emotional English translation of ‘L’Hymne a’l’Amour’ –known as ‘If You Love Me (Really Love Me)’. Elaine always succeeds in nailing this song, and tonight was no exception.

Back to the group, and we made our elated way to the foyer of the theatre. Some group shots were taken before the lovely Maria left us as she was absolutely shattered due to her long day. A few others disbanded, leaving Mum, myself, Mandy, Sam, Clair, Erica, Christine (Erica’s friend), and Theresa. Petra had said for us to stay put whilst she went off to the stage door to retrieve some programmes she had sent inside earlier. 10 minutes of standing around, we decided to sit down!

It was during the next hour or so we were sat down in the theatre bar when I (at least would like to think so anyway) consolidated a friendship between Theresa and Erica, as I had only had a quick chance to speak to them earlier. I also chatted at length with Mandy and Clair, but I already classed them as friends anyway, so they can’t be added to the NBF list, alas! Theresa got the drinks in (I’m not saying anything!) and we all sat and chatted until Petra called and said that EP would be leaving the after-show party at 11ish. During this time though, Theresa and I discussed the forum as a whole and agreed on strategies to make it a great place again. We both think that it is easily possible, and we both want to make it great again.

We headed down to the stage door and it was bitterly cold. Nothing compared to Eastbourne, but this Northerner was pretty perished!

I thanked her for the photo and autograph, and she simply stated “My absolute pleasure” which I thought was just delightful.

She then moved to the ‘forum lot’ who I had rejoined, and we serenaded her in a chorus of ‘Happy Birthday’ which she jokingly conducted at the front of the group, and stated “Well, that was the best chorus I’ve ever heard!” Giggling away.

She chatted with the group before heading off to her car. Everyone had to quickly disband at this point, as it was twenty to twelve ish and Mandy, Petra, Sam and Theresa’s train last available train was at Midnight, so they hurried off to the theatre after goodbyes to all, and Mum and I said goodbye to Christine, Erica, Clair and Charlene before we got into the taxi –destination the Hotel Bar, after a day well spent!!

–Not to mention the piece of Gracie memorabilia bought for me by a certain forum member which is one of my rarest and most treasured pieces of Gracie-ana. I can’t thank you –you know who you are...

Things learnt: We’re all worth it! Erica can’t handle one glass of wine!! Theresa can make up for all of us . American’s are always ready for a drink, and seafood. (People not there, don't take offence at this!) Somewhere, there’s someone who’s three! Tight ends are often comical, but good.

But, most importantly, friends will always be friends. Never let a friend fool you twice! I know I've made some great friends this weekend.

Accept no imitations!

Seb

Will you upload the pictures on the EP Blog?

Seb..thanks so much! Can't wait!

Great review Seb and was fab to see you again, hope it's not so long til we next get together 

I'd just like to add I've gotten a song title wrong!!

'All of Me' should in fact be the duet she does with Johnny Mathis on the album. My apologies!!

Just got in from London, turned the radio on and she's dedicated me a Gracie tune on EPOS. Perfect end to a brilliant weekend!!

Isn't he great, Birdie?! I almost felt as if I was there. I imagine as I get older, I will probably remember that night and think I was really there!!!!