Final Sharing, First Play Of The Year & Seeing What Talent Britain Had To Offer

Hello world! Welcome back to another blog, and not only will it be the last full week of February, but it'll also be my last full week of being 24 years old, as next week I turn a quarter of a century aka 25. But I managed to finish this full week of being 24 on a high, so without further ado, here is what I got up to on the week commencing 17th February 2025!

Acting Class:

This week we continued to look at the rest of the scenes as part of the mock auditions. I was lucky enough to play casting director (where I knew what I wanted the direction to be), and was also a reader for someone else. And with the aim of getting the scenes filmed again one last time in the next session, I think I know what I would want to change/improve on.

Passion Show:

This week I managed to get one more person to come to my passion show. Yes there is still a lot to do, but that was an achievement for me so far. I’ve also managed to spread the word further and with the task to post it onto a sporting group chat I’m a part of, I think I’m doing well to promote it.

NYT Collective:

This week was the final week of working with an amazing group of collectives! The day before the session we had one final group call to discuss the plan for the next day. I’d be lying if we said we’d be ready, as there was still alot to do. But thankfully we managed to get at least the key points of what we are going to talk about, so as long as we mention at least one sentence of each of the topics then that’s all that matters. But all in all, I’m proud of what we have created so far, and I can’t wait to see what will become of it in the final sharing! Finally, the final session itself was brilliant, and not because the journey there and back gave me loads of leg room as seen below.

I learnt about inclusivity within the industry and have seen everyone else's amazing pitches. I felt like ours went really well, but they could tell I was nervous, and the tips and tricks they gave us really helped with what I need to do for next time. And with my passion show coming up, I need to take on board those notes now more than ever.

Play:

This week I went to support a fellow actors workshop member at The Lace Market theatre in Nottingham. I’m not normally one for straight acting plays. But if it’s got someone I know in it then I can’t not support them. Overall I thought they did a really good job, and the story of it as a whole was amazing.

Act On This Podcast:

This week I managed to finish the rest of an Act On This podcast with showreel producer Chris Stone, in the quarterly showreel surgeries. Once again this has been really helpful, learning and refreshing my memory with the 8 key points to showreel success, and I've even learnt just by the postures how you can tell the difference between a comedy scene and a drama scene (which for those reading this who are members and have seen this podcast, you'll know what they are). But all in all it was a really good and valuable session, ending with an appearance from Chris' dog Nugget!

I then also caught up on a podcast with an agent in the form of Natalie Payne from Payne management. Yes even though I have an agent it’s good to get some tips and tricks from a fresh pair of eyes. And what I’ve learnt is something that I’ve learnt this week as a whole. So make sure you read until the end to see what that lesson is.

Shows I've Watched:

Coronation Street:

This week I managed to catch up on what was happening down at the cobbles from 12th and 14th February. After being let go by the police, Leanne only just pushes she loves away, and after a rant at Alya and Adam, who are just wanting to have a nice drink, Yasmeen was there to make her see that a change is in order. Let's just hope that she can prove to Sam that she has changed. I also loved Bernie's understanding for Dev having to see his family, and vice versa when whilst he said he wishes she could come, he also respects the value of family. And speaking of Gemma, she made a new friend in new neighbour Lou, who had a very interesting personality. But lets just hope Chesney will be cool, calm and collected when Lou's husband Mick has a strong link to a van that Chesney was being followed by. Kevin was also hit with some devastating news. That, along with Abi still having flashbacks had taken a real toll on her. But thanks to the help of Debbie, in the form of art therapy (which Abi drew quite a funny picture of Kev) and having a Valentine's Day meal, she will know that she and Kevin will get through it together. It was also the big day when Rob got the news that he's a match for Carla. But not before threatening Lisa to do her side of the deal for getting his sentenced reduced, and after seeing spoilers of what happened following the operation (which was a success), I am preparing myself for whats to come. Steve and Cassie also felt the spark on this special day, and I thought they hated each other. But never the less, maybe Steve likes abit of danger in his life. Finally, the police were eventually going to find out that Max started the fire, but after a long hard conversation with Lauren, and after handing himself in, Harvey still manages somehow to still threaten the whole family. And after not doing a job for Andy, it looks like things are about to get tricky.

Hollyoaks:

this weeks trip to the village in Chester was filled with arrests, accusations and secrets being exposed. Mondays episode saw Darren being in the hot seat by Frankie after Kat made the accusations, and she made it clear that whether she tells her or him, Nancy will find out the truth one way or another. But I know it was all Rex's doing, but he is doing a good job to get Frankie's spell on Kat, and I know it'll only grow much more. And Dillon may also be put his relationship under strain, as after lying about 5k going missing, Rex instructs Dillon to do something which may ruin his relationship with Lucas again. And Dillon was also right about Vicky liking the drama, as even though she's engaged to Robbie, she and Freddie can't resist each other. Finally, after standing up to Ro, I have a feeling the chance for the truth to be revealed may be put in jeopardy after Oscar gets caught in the crossfire. Tuesdays episode saw the aftermath of what happened to Oscar. Whilst I praise Ro for admitting that it was his knife used (as lying about it would cause even more trouble), I'm gutted that whilst it was used as self defense, it got to the point where Arlo technically put him in there for it. So I'm hoping that Ro will muster up some courage to reveal all on why he really had the knife. And Darren and Nancy are bound to worry, but Frankie is still seething following her being brainwashed by Kat, and her way of coping thanks to the vape from Dillon (originally from Rex) may have scuppered things up for Darren and Nancy in the next episode. Robbie also made a big decision with regards to Freddie, and with Freddie and Vicky having their secret fling, it seems its about to make things more complicated. But a blackmail from someone who knows her secret may change everything. Finally, Dillons attempt to steal from Lucas didn't go to plan, and Rex was left seething, knowing he needed to get Dillon off of his back. But I have a feeling he may behind the blackmail Vicky is getting after starting a secret affair with Freddie. Finally Wednesdays episode saw me being proven right, as Dillon managed to get Rex’s job done, but I know it’s only the start of what’s to come. And with Dillon’s actions, following a wonderful gesture from Robbie and another lie from Vicky (which grace helped with), Freddie finally told the truth, which I know is not going to go down well with Robbie. Ste is also having some trouble finding his stray cat Fernando, but I think Jeremy may have something to do with it. And even though Ro got lucky with his bail, Diane is using her motherly instincts to try and get him to tell the whole truth. Even more so when Ant revealed his involvement in the bullying before the time jump. Finally, I think Frankie may regret her actions in trying to expose Darren, and after trying to convince Nancy it was linking to a board game, Nancy finally managed to get “the truth” out, little knowing it was Rex’s idea the whole time. 

Eastenders:

The 40th anniversary of this soap brought everything and more, and well done to the whole cast and crew for the live episode as well, as going live and picking up where the pre recorded stuff was from is no easy feet. Mondays episode saw Billy and Honeys wedding ceremony have success (although I did wonder if the Celebrant liked the joke everyone made lol). But that didn’t stop Cindy from ruining it by causing a scene on who attacked her. With Ian now knowing hers and Priya's little pact, and her children having enough of her, she is definitely on the lookout for justice. But when she does find the person with the locket, I wouldn’t want to mess with her after she gains Phil’s gun. And speaking of Phil, even though grant is adamant Phil is fine following the flashback episode to 1985, he is definitely beginning to show that he’s reaching rock bottom. Taking it out on Lexi, starting to drink again and with his gun now missing, it’s only a matter of time until Sharon, Nigel, Grant and Linda (who is doing very well following rehab), find him in a vulnerable position. But I also can’t wait to see the bike up of Denise’s decision and the love triangle between Martin, Stacey and Ruby following honey throwing her bouquet. I also don’t know the full drama between Bianca and grant, but I hope it’ll be a good distraction from Reiss and help her and Sonia start fresh. Tuesdays episode saw Linda hunt for Phil, but after noticing one of the letters she reads out, it’s proof that she grant and Nigel need to stop him from doing something he’ll regret. We also saw more drama from Reiss’ return and Bianca trying to stop him, Denise once again confused on who she should be with, and Stacey finally confessing her feelings for Martin (even though she technically did at Christmas but the timing wasn’t great). I do feel her pain when he rejects her, and Jean going into protective mother mode is something I do not want to see. Finally, confirmed that it wasn’t Ian who did it but in fact Kathy, which honestly does and doesn’t surprise me. But after a tense argument, a gun shot and Cindy attempting to end Ian herself, it only makes things worse when Reiss swerves him and causes an explosion in the Vic. Not exactly the best way to end a wedding day. Wednesdays episode saw an hour long special (which I didn’t know at the time), and the follow on from the explosion in the Vic. I won’t say all in fear of spoilers and because there was so much to unpack, so I’ll keep it syncs. Despite Kathy’s adamant that she’d be glad to see Cindy dead, she still helped her get out, but something tells me Cindy is out for revenge still. Sonia, Bianca and Lauren were also in danger following a frightening encounter with Reiss before his dramatic dismiss, all while Sonia was going into labour. And after a tense chat whilst trying to escape, Martin and Stacey finally confess their love for each other, but I hope it doesn’t end when Martin finds himself in a sticky situation. Sharon also got a blast from the past, but thankfully grant got to her in time. But he is also in hot water with Nigel, who after both of them and Linda discovered Phil in a dangerous situation, they both have different views on the situation. But well down Phil for being open about his feelings to Linda and finally getting the help he needs. Finally, the time has almost come for Denise to make her decision, which is down to the public. But I’m glad that Chelsea managed to call a truce with her mum, and allowing her to do what makes her happy. Finally, the live episode had it all! Denise finally made her choice, but I could tell that one of them was not happy (which was understandable), and Jean and Ruby felt the tension following the result of the fire. After a abit of a scare, Sonia finally managed to give birth to her daughter. But whilst one new life was born, another one was lost, and the impact it’ll have not only on Stacy and Ruby, but for the whole community of Walford will have an impounding effect. 

Missing You:

Episode 3 of this amazing show saw more revelations for Kat. I can imagine how she must’ve been feeling when Aqua reveals some shocking information about Josh, and after Stagger reveals some shocking truths to her which then revealed some dirty secrets about her dad (which stagger suspiciously deletes an email which could solve her problems), it’s made her question if she really knew Josh at all. Will Barnett's character (who also played Tyler Jefferies in Coronation Street), also suffered a sad fate from Titus after a clue linked to a Mercedes Bentz. I’m also not sure if Brendan’s uncle arty is twisting the knife or if he’s being genuine about it, given Brendan’s close relationship with his mother Dana. But aqua has some explaining to do when Kat finds out it was her who attacked him. I also hope Dana manages to get out in time, and I wonder who the man following her is?

Playing Nice:

The penultimate episode saw a tense police interview, Pete getting fired from his job and his and Maddie's relationship slowly cracking. But Jen was right to get Pete to think outside the box, as a trip to Scotland after a few phone calls may give him the evidence he needs, if the witness is willing to speak up. And Theo ending in hospital following miles seeing Pete’s dad is suspicious enough, and sadly this worked in the lamberts favour. But with one final episode to go, and after Maddie gets threatened by miles himself, I hope some miracle happens for both of them. Although after the beginning of the series it may not be all as expected.

G’Wed:

Episode 2 of this show saw Connor realising that Frankenstein was a doctor not a monster, Aimee and Mia-Louise grilling Mr Meecher on his sex life, and Mia-Louise joking about with the guy she connected with on a video game in episode 1. Aimee and her dad were also struggling with their money after being rejected by PIP. Aimee had to resort to drastic measures, and whilst it took a serious turn, I’m glad she and her dad saw the funny side and that Christopher managed to understand. But Lindsay from rare Was right in saying that it’ll be on there forever once it’s out. Finally I can imagine Reece feeling heartbroken after his dad rejects him twice and the annual mischief night nearly got ruined. As Connor got abit distracted romantically speaking. Episode 3 saw the gang go to the hottest event in town in the form of Scousechella. But it did have its fair share of drama. Christopher went to the place his deceased mum wanted to show him, and after being cold with Aimee, it only made their relationship deeper and stronger. But Dylan’s troubles with his dad turned into anger to Connor, who like his dad fears he’ll abandon him, but I’m glad Aimee was there to help. And I did not expect Ella grace in one scenario. But the really tension came after Scousechella when Lewis filmed the whole thing. Connor is accused of a serious crime, and after going to the next level, Christopher’s and Aimee’s relationship may be tested further after a video of her and Dylan in the moment was caught. 

Personal:

Exercise:

This week I slacked off my normal exercise routine, since I've been having alot of stuff going on. But I managed to keep active in my own way by doing some more yoga and also making sure I get plenty of rest. And I even managed to get a good time in on the exercise bike as seen below, so that is always great as well.

Darts Practice:

This week I managed to get at least 2 goes of throwing my darts. As always, I managed to hit some doubles and trebles, so I can at least end the week with a smile on my face, knowing I am gradually getting a routine of practicing again.

Premier league:

Even though as always I missed the start, that doesn’t mean that there wasn’t any drama (particularly when Luke littler was upset on one of his rare defeats). But all in all it was a really good night of darts. And Gerwyn Price really made his mark in Dublin. 

Gladiators:

This week on this iconic game show, we saw an inspiring woman, coming back from injuries, and a new record in the eliminator. And boy it had it all, and Joe was definitely my favourite contender so far. Although I do admire Sabre's attitude during Gauntlet and Hang tough! 

Britain's Got Talent:

I am so glad that this series was back on! I won't say all, as mostly it's in Instagram, but it definitely had everything, and it was only the first episode. From cheeky children, to the most bonkers, and to acts where you definitely couldn't watch, it had it all. That along with a brilliant appearance from KSI was mega. And I can see why Simon Cowell and Ant and Dec pressed their Golden Buzzers when they did (as one sung a beautiful rendition of a popular song, and the other was an impressionist which made me laugh my head off). But something tells me that it may not be the only time they press their buzzers.

Gogglebox:

I’m so glad that this series came back, as I’m a huge fan. in the first episode, Tony Bellew had a goal in “Who Wants To be a millionaire” and Bear Grylls was just too good for one celeb in “celebrity bear hunt”. There was also alot of tension in “The Apprentice” and “Go Back To Where you came from” showed that there’s always a reason as to why some people have different views on immigrants coming to the uk. After also seeing a sneak peak of series 2 of “Boarders”, I can’t wait to catch up on it properly, and I loved their reactions when they reacted to a programme all about getting a good bargain. Finally, I wonder if the asteroid on channel 5 news was true, and Justin Hawkins was a good sport in “Michael McIntyre’s big show”. Episode 2 of the show brought more epic drama. I loved how they encouraged Junior in "Gladiators" to keep going after his injury, and in "The Apprentice", Nadia's idea for Bangers and Mash was not the best one, and that she would be to blame if it all went wrong. I also bet the Goggleboxers felt bad for Laurence in "Celebrity Bear Hunt", who after mocking him for a challenge, later suffered a panic attack (and to be honest, I would be in that exact situation). I also wonder if in "Batch from Scratch: Cooking for Less", there are some more autistic friendly meals (as I like the idea, but I'm not sure if the meals are too overpowering for me), and in "Alan Titchmarsh's Underdog to Superdog", Drogo the dog from Ukraine was abit of a slow burner when it came to his training as a rescue water dog (but I think Alan in a shirt over his wetsuit didn't help). Finally, there was a heartfelt reason in why a clown became a clown in "The Phobia Clinic", and I did hear alot of talk on "The White Lotus", but just not in the way I was expecting.

Hard times:

This week I would say that the hard times included the sharing at NYT. Yes I enjoyed it but I’m not going to lie, I was nervous, and the mentors could tell as well. But at the same time I’m glad I did it, as then the notes they gave me can help me for the next time especially for my event for autism acceptance week. And as always Margo looking ever so cute as seen below definitely helped calm my nerves. Although she didn't look too happy I was out for that day lol!

I would also say that another hard time for me was to leave slightly earlier before the play finished. This was partly due to some of the big sporting games happening, and after an overwhelming experience back at Christmas 2023, I vowed to myself that I would never put myself in that situation again. But thankfully the staff were so supportive of my decision, and having met one of them before, she knew through my blogs how I saw the world, which was a massive help. So yes I was gutted I had to leave early, but the fact that they didn’t judge my access needs was something I wanted to hear.

What have I learnt this week? Do less better. I know it’s easier said than done, and given the fact that I’m hyper fixating on all my tasks to do. But as it’s my birthday next week I think I’m allowed to have some time off. So that is something I’ll take into next week.

See you soon for another blog. Until next time…

This is The Autistic Actress signing off :)