Unexpected frolics

The picture is of the Penny Gaff in Whitechapel, London. Penny Gaffs were the forerunners of the Music Hall, and often began life as a room at the pub which had been converted into a makeshift theatre. They were frequented by the poorer classes, as well as by some very wealthy folk who came to 'slum it'. The outrageous behaviour of the coster boys and girls, and the shocking nature of some of the entertainments, gave notoriety to such establishments. Some of the popular songs that I play at the pub are old enough to have been performed in these theatres.

I went to the pub as usual yesterday. I felt awkward because it was full of people that I didn't know. I was completely floored by the various, simultaneous conversations that were taking place. I felt like I was drowning in a sea of noise, so I went to the keyboard and belted out some of the old songs. I thought that the people nearest me were taking the mickey, so stopped playing. Two of my local family had just arrived, so I went and stood with them. Then my brother and his partner turned up, which made me feel even better.
Then came in some very familiar and very friendly faces. Lovely.

The next thing I remember is that the group of people said they felt like a song, and asked me to play. I duly handed out the hymn-sheets and began. What a surprise! They nearly brought the roof down with their joyful singing. I hadn't understood that they had liked my earlier playing. Anyway we carried on for an hour or more, and then we started to natter. This group of people were apparently the proprietors of all the local 'retro' shops, and they asked me if I would play for their retro festival in May. Wow!!! Of course I will!

I went to bed at 2.30am and woke up at 5.40am, so I do feel tired. Later on this morning, I will be going to see the doctor about my fits. I hope the doctor believes me this time. Fits are a horrible thing to suffer from, and it saddens me to think of the distress they cause to anyone who witnesses them. However, I'm still feeling very happy, although tired. I'll try and sleep for a bit, later on.