Ostrich's in Hampshire

I grew up in Hampshire, near the River Itchen, which links the Solent to Winchester. It was used in Saxon times to transport timber. Towards the village of Shawford are some pretty houses, and this is what is in the garden of one of them. I love Romany Gypsy caravans, there is a whole exhibition of them nearby at Paulton's Park. Along my river walk I also discovered three Ostrich's and about ten Llama's grazing in adjacent fields.

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During my stay at home, my mum and I went to see 'Anna Karenina'. The film concentrated on the love stories, and the role of women in the 19th century, but I suspect the book is a whole lot more political, as it was an interesting period for Russia. I know a little bit about this from studying Chekhov and Stanislavski, but am now curious to read the book. The film constantly references the theatre, framing many scenes in a prosenium arch, and the movement is very stylised and choreographed. However, the main draw for me was the costumes, and I found myself staring at Keira Knightley's hats, rather than concentrating on what she was saying for a great deal of the film! I make pillbox hats quite similar (though a lot less lavish - that is about to change since seeing this film!) and you can view them here.

This is the calm before the madness, as this weekend and all of next week I'm performing with Original Army, see details here. This Saturday we are doing a street performance in Wood Street Market, where I'll be mingling with the shoppers as Florence from the Magic Roundabout.

Lots more news of other arts events next week, but for now here's me as Florence, photo courtesy of the lovely Tigz Rice, styling Miss Honey Bare.

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