Dr Zimbalist

Dr Zimbalist is a genius. I don't often say that but in his case it's true. He called all the students together into the main hall and reminded them that being an actor was probably the greatest gift to mankind there is. He said that, while they studied Staniskovsky and Ibson there were "tinted people literally dying from their wounds in Darfur" and that it was "beholden to us all to honour them by applying our craft diligently and without mercy." He then read a piece of Staniskovsky to the hushed students:

"When you enter a space, that space becomes full. Not because you have entered, but because it is now less empty."

This is something I plan to have printed on a T-shirt and sent to Darfur. Such wisdom!!! It's a privilege to be under his tutelage. In fact, I shouted as much at him later - but he completely ignored me.

There are literally millions of people queuing round Winsor Castle to see the bodies of HRH Prince Charles & HRH Lady Camilla Parker-Knowles: all the heads of state from the world are worshipping and they've closed the nearby cake shop in respect. Colin and I are hoping to go ourselves, but I have to check with Vernon (obviously)...

Vernon actually left me a message to say that - because of pressure of time - I will be starting my 2nd year theatre assistantship next week!!! And guess which theatre?? That's right!!! The Royal Shrug in North London!!! Which I've always rated as perhaps the finest pub theatre space in the universe!!! It has never been decorated or improved since it opened in 1894, and has launched the careers of everyone from Lionel Blair to Nicol Williamson!!! I'm so excited!!! This could be the launchpad I so deserve!!! And one year early!!! I hope Prat doesn't mind if I miss his 'The Merry Wives of Windsor - a Menstrual Guide' workshop!!! Watch this space!!!