Hi people!

OK, as some (or most?) of you may know, Mr. X and I will be gracing the great country that is England from 12 October - 19 November. So how about a Voxgate? I'm not scary, I promise! I'm trying to organise this well in advance because I don't want me and Mr. X to be the only ones showing up! Anyway, so I was thinking 21 October...erm...somewhere. I had a few ideas of places to go (not necessarily pubs yet - that'll come later). How about...

Stevenage (where we'll be anyway)
St. Albans
Barking, Essex (we know a good pub there)

Any other suggestions? Please let me know your thoughts/feelings/suggestions/criticisms. Thanks!

Mrs. X

There's some nice pubs around Stevenage where we could all go - failing that a meet in central London might be the best thing to do. There's some great bars around Leicester Square / Covent Garden which might do the trick.

However, I'll go with the flow.

That sounds good, Paul. Maybe somewhere in Central London would be best, as I would like to be able to have us go somewhere past 11 p.m. if people are up for it!

Let's see what the public has to say...

Mrs. X

St Albans has some great real ale pubs and the last train into London leaves at gone midnight. Does that help? I've no idea, I just thought I'd add me three ha'p'orth.

P.S. I've just re-read the title of this thread: is it really that wise to bring a bear with you? It'll make airport customs awfully tricky, plus I'm led to believe that they have a habit of removing people's backs, which might get you thrown out of the pub.

Some where more central (ie London) might be more accessible for more people.

Nice pub in Barking ? When was the last time you were there ????

Ö2: Bears are reasonably harmless, unless you show fear. They will sense this and attack. Same if you try to attack them first. Or if they're hungry. But no, I wouldn't be bringing a real bear with me. Maybe a stuffed one? (And no, I'm not talking about taxidermy!!)

Thomas: We were in Barking the last time we were in the UK, four years ago. Mr. X used to work around there, and frequented a pub called The Barking Dog. Not a bad place, really...unless you want to count the big, scary looking guy who approached me asking if he looked like someone who'd been done for ABH...

Mrs. X

I remember The Spotted Dog in Barking (no joke); is that the same one - just down from the station ?

Thomas

Just thought I would mention London tends to shut down past 11.30pm! Unless its a club you are going too!

jc

They're next to each other - the Spotted Dog and the Barking Dog.

Mrs. X

Yes, I'm aware of that. If the party/meet-up/shindig/whatever goes later, we'll have to find a cool club to go to or someone's house...

Mrs. X

Just thought I would warn you in case you werent aware (went to a Styx gig in London a couple of months ago and met up with some very nice people from overseas who thought they could "go for a coffee" after the show at Hammersmith! My sister and I had to very politely tell them no chance!
Well if Iam able to go to one I would like to try.. It would be my first Voxgate though! So not sure how they go!

This is my first one too, and I'm organising it!! I'm really hoping I can pull this off! And, yes, I'm quite aware that practically the entire country shuts down at 11 p.m. Not something I'm used to, but I can adapt. I have before!

Mrs. X

Sorry didnt mean to just invite myself along like that. Good on ya for organising one though!

And apologies if you already knew that London goes to sleep rather earlier than most realise. Just thought I would mention it in case you werent aware. It's a shame really but hey that's us Londoners for ya!

You can come if you want! Anyone can! I don't mind! I never understood why that is, but it's the law, isn't it? Or something? I mean, if you could be out past 11, would you?

(Sorry, I'm going off-topic on my own thread! )

Mrs. X

It is kinda of the law, ie v soon pubs etc (that hav applied and got special licence) can stay open but I am more into music than boozing myself. Would really like to make the Monument gig but a)had made other arrangements before I knew about it b) would be bit reluctant to go to it on my own espcially outside of London anyway. But hope they plan a gig in the Capital at some point. Have mentioned it to a few people and they would be interested too. I'm not sure what kinda of Ultravox fan I am (see my explanation in the new bit of the forum) which may explain a bit better. All I do know is the songs I like I really like. And are basically v underated. And lets face it the boys looked rather cute in the vids too (Passing Strangers, Vienna and Hyme!!)

Hmmm...well, outside of pubs and clubbing, I wasn't sure what else to do for a Voxgate. I just thought something like that would be a good opportunity for everyone who shows up to chat, get to know each other, etc. etc., so on and so forth. I'm up for anything(!), anywhere, as long as it's not mega-expensive. (Yeah, I know the UK is expensive, but...you know...)

I'll have to re-read your welcome post, but this forum isn't just for die-hard Ultravox disciples! Casual fans are welcome...anyone...as long as you like them - that's the main thing! And...er...yeah...they did look good in their videos.

Mrs. X

Well good luck with the Voxgate. Only mentioned the vids coz I finally got them on dvd (had them on vhs but lent them to someone a couple of years ago - friend of the ex who I havent seen since our split. Not too bad though as I still have mutual friends Midge Ure compliation!

JC - Please try and come to the gig if you can - you'll find us Forum regulars a pretty nice bunch and we'll make you and any of your friends feel welcome. Cheshunt is very easy to get to from Liverpool Street Station.

Sorry, Mrs X, I've hi-jacked your thread!!

Paul. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Cool]" src="cool.gif" />

Hun, if you want to drink past 11 o'clock you had better come up to Scotland, it amazes me, during the festival I dont think the pubs shut at all, maybe for a couple of hours to restock but that is about it

Tara, try and arrange something for the end of october as me and ma wee boy are in sunny Cyprus from 14th to 25th of that month

The 21st was a suggested date. It may or may not change in the future. It just depends what the majority who want to come want. I know I can't please everybody, but if I can pick a date where a lot of people can make it, I'll be very happy. Anyone who can't make it...well, I'd be willing to go for a drink or two another day! We're there for five weeks!!

Mrs. X

Going past 11pm is not difficult it just requires some forethought.

Something you might be up for is the Electric Dreams 80s club night somewhere in Camden (Purple Turtle ?). It's usually on the last Friday of the month + apparently plays UV, Numan, Kraftwerk etc as well as current stuff.

Have been meaning to go along for a while + hear it's a reet good night.

Thomas

Then that would be the 28th. I'd be willing to move the date to go there, if other people are up for that, too! Sounds like fun!

Mrs. X

I will investigate further + report back. It may be worth pencilling a back up date in case it all goes Pete Tong - we wouldn't want your slaves across the pond to miss out on an audience with Mistress X <img border="0" title="" alt="[Cool]" src="cool.gif" />

Hi Guys,
I would dearly love to make the gig on the 26th Aug and the possible Voxgate on the 28th but I cant make that either. A friends Birthday bash this weekend then a Genesis tribute band on the 28th Oct! I am determind to make a show/voxgate at some point. You all seem nice people too!
But it may take me some time....and luck with the god of diary schedules! Hey ho.

But have fun ! But of course you all will

My brother-in-law was asked to manage a Genesis tribute band earlier this year.

I love the PG Genesis stuff - Foxtrot is just genius

Hmmmmmmm...now that you mention it, Thomas, might you know of any good S&M clubs that we could go to après pub? That might be more fun than an 80's night. <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" />

Mrs. X

Tara - that's just you + me and the venue is a secret

So secret you can't even tell me??? <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" />

Mrs. X

Tara

At this rate we're going to need our own thread

Oh dear! Heaven forbid! I don't think this forum could handle it. <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" />

Mrs. X

Anyway, I thought you liked being blindfolded ??

Who told you that? I like doing the blindfolding, honey...

Mrs. X

Have you got broadband ????

(ducks for cover ...)

*cracks whip* That was bad!!!

But...yes...yes I do... <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" />

Mrs. X

Hello Mistress X,

unfortunately, for me, it will be absolutely impossible to travel any more this year. Unless I win at the lottery and have some rest, of course... but until then, I will have to refill the gap in my bank account of the past 2 months...

However, I am sure that a great number of nice fellows from this forum will join you and Sea Of Sin and that you will have an excellent time - blindfolded/-ing or not.

And if Sleepy and Sassy can make it, you have entertainment galore...



Love
LAVA

So you don't deny it ?

Achtung, Mrs. X! This could be an attempt to sell you something... (oh come on, AK - you still get a commission from them, dontcha!?)

Lava

I was talking bandwidth

Deny what? That I have broadband? Nope! It's as broad as you want it to be, baby! (Wait a minute...you should be telling me that!!!)

Izzy: I was wondering how long it would take for you to get to this thread! Your timing couldn't be more perfect. Sorry to hear that you won't be able to make it though. I would have loved to meet you.

Mrs. X

Oooh, I just did a reply that got lost in the ether.

All I was going to say was 'never mind the quality, feel the width'

Mmmm...oh yes, the width of your band is very impressive indeed!! <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" /> If you shared it, though, would it slow down?

Mrs. X

If Mr X is reading this then my width is banned

Don't worry... He's not.

Mrs. X

LOL

Well... surprise, surprise: I have not been too much in the mood for " <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" /> " topics...

Yes, it would have been great to meet you, too. Work goes first now...

Hope you recovered OK from hospital.

OH! I thought you'd left that all behind...?

I had a friend who - temporarily - had to work in... telesales here... And they were selling brooooaaaaadband for BT ( ), hence the allusion...

Actually, come to think of it I did temp for BT back in '88 - dealing with complaints addressed to the Chairman. Bloody hard work !!!

So this is what happens when I go for supper. The thread goes off-topic!! *cracks whip* I thought we were talking about...er..."clubs" to go to...or something... <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" />

Mrs. X

And certainly very interesting, too... you learn a lot there... Well, I learnt that it is always better to address complaints directly to the CEO or Chairman. I hate to waste time with an incompetent sales or service department, especially when you have paid for something...

Back on topic: Mrs. X is asking about dirty clubs in London. Do you know any? Cos that would be revealing, wouldn't it?

Oh Thomas knows one, alright...but it's a secret, apparently. <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" />

Mrs. X

There's discreet members club called 'Chez Moi' and apparently it's by invitation only ....

So good you had to say it twice, eh?? So Thomas...are you...a member of this club?? <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" />

Mrs. X

Oh wait...I get it... <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" /> So, would I get a special V.I.P. pass to this club??

Mrs. X

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by Mrs. X:
<strong>Oh wait...I get it... Or simply a big house...? <img border="0" title="" alt="[Cool]" src="cool.gif" />

Tara, that was a double entendre it's by invitation only I'm afraid ......

Anyway, I'm off to Chez ZZZ's to rest on my laurels

Ciao

thomas

If he hasn't already got a dungeon, I'm sure I could easily set one up, after some "shopping." <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" />

Mrs. X

Yes, I got the double entendre. Now, about that V.I.P. pass....

Night night!

Mrs. X

Well... it's always a question of budget, innit... Or a lot of imagination...

Off to bed, too, I'm afraid...

Love
LAVA

What do you call a dungeon on the 2nd floor ???

A playroom. But if it's dark and discreet enough, it can be a dungeon, even if it's not in the basement!

I'll supply the toys...

Mistress X

OK, OK...sorry everyone! Back to the original topic at hand...a Voxgate!

Mrs. X

Was a PG fan first then have slowly got into the back cat including "The Lamb" some great stuff Gabriel as well as Collins era.

jc

So...uh...anyone fancy a Voxgate?

Mrs. X

Apologies for getting off topic.

Yep if I can make it.

Hi folks.. Looks like I might be able to make a Voxgate in London the weekend of 28 - 30 October, though the previous weekend would prove to be more difficult. I would need to check things through with hubby, but that looks the better of the weekends for me.

Great! So would the 28th be a better day then? It seems like such a long, long way away...even from when we get there! But that would give me and Mr. X time to do our own stuff beforehand, I think.

Mrs. X

That would be great.. as I said earlier I will check things through with hubby, but hopefully things should be ok.. I will keep you posted and let you know sooner rather than later!!

Of course, London is the place to go (cough). If only this were happening when the 24 boozing law gets on the statute book.

Still, there are PLENTY of places to drink after the pubs shut. I haven't been up there boozing for a while thanks to my medication but the 'Electric Dreams' place used to be fantastic. I went there after a David Sylvian gig once and there was a Depeche Mode night on! Talk about a superb evening (just what I needed after the beard-stroking of the Sylvian concert!). There was also a massive 80s night called 'Atomic' at a place on Tottenham Court Road. That used to be a great laugh.

London's the way to go surely. Nowhere else compares...

Details of the August bash ...

Club Electric @ the Purple Turtle

Hi,Everyone
Friday 26th August
Club Electric
at the Purple Turtle
61-65 crowndale rd
Camden N1
{near Mornington crescent tube station)
open10:30-2pm
price £6/£5 with flyer
playing our usual electric dreams mix of 80s/new
wave/electro/goth/industrial and punk
this will be the last one in this venue!
come and join us!
cheers-Paul
www.electricdreamsclub.com
www.myspace.com/djstixed

OK...how about I do this: Organise a Voxgate for the 21st somewhere (I'm sure we can find somewhere to go after the pub shuts if necessary), and one for the 28th for those who couldn't make the first one, and for anyone else who is a glutton for punishment...er..for those who want to meet up again?

Still not sure where to go. I don't really want it to be too expensive...

Mrs. X

Hopefully some of our London-based buddies can come up with some ideas..

Tragic I know, but it's been so long since I've been clubbing, the places we used to go have either been closed down by the police or taken over by Wetherspoons <img border="0" alt="[Shake head]" title="" src="graemlins/shakehead.gif" /> but hopefully someone with a better social life than me will be able to help

OK, I know this all sounds terribly disorganised, but I should get something sorted soon! Would a Saturday be better? I could make it for the 22nd of October, with a back-up date of the 29th if the 22nd is no good for most people. Still need to figure out where though... Nothing too pricey.

Mrs. X

Hey hun, you know the 28th is better for us, but if more people can make it on the 22nd I hope you have a great night out. Saturday is probably a better night. If we can make it we wouldnt have to take Friday off to travel down. Although we could likely take the day off, benefits of working for yourself and not having the monotony of a 9-5 Monday to Friday job. Keep us posted hun, would be a shame not to meet up after all this time

I can do either 28 or 29 October, but will be in Scotland the weekend before...

Hi I can make 28 or 29 October too, but the previous weekend may be more difficult. Thanks in advance for organising all this, (and I hope it's not getting to complicated!!)

Sounds good to me, should be ok for that on

Just to let people know that I have got my accommodation sorted at the Travelodge in Morden from 28 - 30 October.. a bargain on line for £26 per night for a family room...!! (Will be limited availability, but a good option for anyone thinking of travelling to London that weekend!!)

Well...er...I guess it's settled then! The 29th it is! All we need now is a place to go.

(By the way, if there's anyone who can't make it, but still want to meet up somewhere, I'm sure something can be arranged for before or after.)

Mrs. X

Good for you Shirl...nothing like taking the bull by the horns. That is what was needed, no more waffling Oct. 29th it is

That seems so far away though!!

Oh well, it should be enough time to debate over where to have it, etc. But at least one thing got sorted!!!

VOXGATE - 29/10/2005...er...somewhere...

Mrs. X

It will go by all to quickly I am sure, but at least a date has been set. So you have something to look forward to...or worry about, whichever is more natural

Both, sort of. I'm looking forward to it now, but I'll be more neurotic closer to the date!

Mrs. X

I had to go for that weekend as I was away the weekend before.. I will leave it to those who know London better than me to arrange a suitable venue!! (Good to see the assertiveness course wasn't a waste of time!! )

I'm not entirely sure weither i'll be able to make it or not, hope so though

I am hoping that I will be free on the 29th. Will have a think about possible places in London. Though I find non Londoners are better at find places to go that those who live here. Strange that!

Well, here's what I had in mind:

For the initial meet-up... A nice Weatherspoon pub somewhere. That way, no-one has to shout to be heard, and you can hold a decent conversation while having a meal and a few drinks.

Whatever happens after the pub closes remains to be seen. <img border="0" alt="[Suave]" title="" src="graemlins/suave.gif" />

Mrs. X

Sounds cool.

Hi
Sounds a great idea, Whetherspoons first for a social chat then if we anyone chooses a night club afterwards all well and good.
Regards
Peter

I don't know if it's worth my looking into, but I was taken to a place called (I think) The Phoenix Bar near Chinatown last night. It's frequented by ac-tors, luvvie, very ecclectic decor within and serves 'til . . .well, breakfast, I guess. I might find out about joining and seeing just how many guests one can get in on one ticket. Watch this space . . .

Ooh! Sounds classy! Find out what you can! Thank you! It's reasonably priced, I hope?

Mrs. X

I can hear the pips but no-one's talking . . .

Meanwhile, on the london drinking dens front, I've discovered that club membership costs £120 per year, or £60 if you've an Equity card, which I do. All I need to find out now is how many guests one can drag in at any one time - more than 20 might look like taking the piss, but then, if they will encourage actors to join . . . . Prices are . . . well, I don't really remember, it was late. I shall find out. It's looking like less of a runner, though. I'll try and find out other likely spots from my night-owl friends and report back.

You know, it might be just as cheap to book a cheap (but tasteful) hotel room and stock it from the cash-and-carry, given the prices that London bars charge, create the "For One Night Only Club EV"!

I have to say I'm not a big fan of Weatherspoon's pubs or their bedfellows Lloyds, but I can go with the flow. There's plenty of pubs/bars in Soho that don't charge the earth (in London money that is).

There are clubs that cater for the tastes of people on here too. They may not be that cheap for beer but this is London and it's great!

(Actually, I can't drink anyway so I don't really care how much it's costing you!).

Whilst not the greatest fan of Wetherspoons, they are cheap + cheerful and tend to be large premises + in accessible locations, so I guess they would be an easy place for lots of people to find.

If people are travelling to London then I think's it's worth avoiding perhaps unnecessary additional costs etc by hiring somewhere, if there's a suitable no-cost alternative.

There are several Wetherspoons around Soho / Leicester Square / Charing Cross Road along with Pitcher & Piano + All Bar One, so it should be easy enough to nail a gathering point.

Thanks, Thomas!

I really appreciate everyone's help with this. Your input is greatly valued. I almost felt like I was trying to do the impossible here, but it looks like it might be slowly coming together! I really hope this works out. Thanks again!

Mrs. X

AK, fair point.

There's a Weatherspoon's on Wardour Street that's not a bad start. There are plenty of other bars in the area too of course. I would tend to give any Pitcher and Piano a miss because (1) they're very expensive and (2) they attract the worst kind of after-work crowd (IMO of course). All Bar One is a good option if a bit pricey. They're a decent adult environment (over 21s only) and pretty relaxed.

Personally I would avoid any bar around Leicester Square (tourist hell). The Weatherspoons on Charing Cross is gigantic but can get a bit 'boozy' if you see what I mean.

(AK, I appreciate you probably know this stuff - it's aimed at a general audience).

Tara you must be getting excited, only a month now and you will finally be over the pond. Went to send you a pm on yahoo but realised you are still not on my list for some reason. Hope all your plans are coming together. It doesnt look like Sleepy and I will be able to make it down at the end of October, but we will keep you posted. Maybe we can make some other arrangements with you and Mr. X

The Weatherspoon's just down from Holborn tube is pretty good - I think it's called "The Shakespeare's Head". It's just on the edge of theatreland and serves three types of Weston's cider, including the dangerous "Old Rosie", reason enough on its own to cross the Atlantic.

Not a fan of that place I'm afraid - a bit dark, dingy + cluttered for my taste. I would pitch for the Wetherspoons (I think) that is the old Marquee - entrance on Charing Cross Road, very open, bright, lots of space and hard not to find people in there. And an historic venue to boot.

But of course, happy to go avec le flow ...

Oh wow - I am deeply impressed about how quickly you guys have been able to set up something! Also am I very pleased to see how Voxgates are now developping.

You will certainly have a lot of fun. I will do my best to oppress my envy, of course... :p

Sassy babe - watch you comments on 9-5 jobs! Personally, I am SO GLAD to be back in one again soon... We will have to see what influence it will have on my private life and the travelling. After all... once my stability is restored, who knows... some week end in the UK will not be impossible... We'll see...

Shirl - Compliments, my dear! Can't believe you've got your hotel room already. You another Powerfrau?

Tara - You will have so much fun! Make sure AK brings you a bottle of Bailey's... <img border="0" title="" alt="[Cool]" src="cool.gif" />

wasnt knocking 9-5 silly girl and it wasnt directed at anyone in particular just happy that sleepy and I have more flexiblity. Yes I think your quickie weekends over here are going to have to be put on hold, however there is still one weekend I wish you could make it for, but as you know I can not mention on here, or cat will be out of the bag

'tis now, I'm afraid... You'd better re-edit this. You wanna shut up FOR ONCE. :rolleyes:

What you know I am talking about that girls weekend didnt you (mouth shut now) not going to give anymore away mwaaaahahahahahaha

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by sassy:
<strong> not going to give anymore away mwaaaahahahahahaha

Not sure about being a Powerfrau.. Just keen to pick up a bargain!!

Thomas: Pardon my ignorance, but...The Marquee is gone?!?! I thought I'd heard something about this, but wasn't sure. (No snooty remarks, please.) If that's the case, and it's a Weatherspoon pub...then it gets my vote!! Oh, to go and have a few drinks and maybe some food at The Marquee where Ultravox! and so many other bands played...

Oh yes, and as Isabel has so kindly reminded me, don't forget the Bailey's! Mmmmmmmm...Bailey's...

Isabel: I keep forgetting to get a lotto ticket you know. I could have missed out on several million already!!

Mrs. X

Tara - its not the Marquee where Ultravox played - that was the original Marquee in Wardour Street. The one Thomas refers to was where the Marquee moved to.

If it helps, I'm sure saw Billy's Humania there.

...which is now a Weatherspoon? Maybe I'm just tired or maybe I'm stupid, but I'm still confused. Is the Marquee that Ultravox! played in still there, or which is now a Weatherspoon, or... ??

Mrs. X

Along time ago - there was The Marquee, in Wardour St, Soho. Loads of historic bands played there, including The Who in the 60s and Ultravox in the 70s.

Then it closed (in the early 80s I think)...

And reopened in Charing Cross Road - where it used to host smaller bands. It was there Humania played (pretty sure it was there I saw them).

But then years later, THAT closed - and is now a Wetherspoons.

See?

Oh! Right, I get it now. I kind of thought that was it. Thanks. That's kind of sad, actually...

Anyway, I'm going back to sleep now...

Mrs. X

Sorry, but I don't know how to get the quote thingies to work, (can someone tell me?), but Flip is right about the history of the Marquee(s), and Tara is right that it is kind of sad it's now a Wetherspoons!

It's not all bad news though, because (apparently) the Marquee lives again somewhere in Camden, although I'm not sure exactly where - perhaps someone with a better social life than me will know where!

I thought it was now in Leicester Square? It used to be not far from me in Angel but I think that's now a Carling Academy or something. I could be completely wrong though.

The Billiard Hall in my home town got turned into the rankest Weatherspoons in the country. Now that's a shame!

Be fair, though, Wetherspoon's do save a number of buildings from otherwise total redevelopment. Had they not got it, it might have been pulled down completely or used in a far less "sensitive" way. Of course, this might not have been the case here, in which case I'm happy to be corrected! At least they give their pubs names related to the area or some previous use rather than summat daft like "Rat and Carrot" or whatever. They serve half decent beer, too, not just fizzy-piss industri-brewed swill. I ought to add that I do not own shares in the company.

In my home town Weatherspoons just means a place for drunken old women to fight.

I just want to go somewhere where I won't have to sacrifice my first born (if I had any kids) for a drink! And Weatherspoons, I thought, were reasonably "cheap."

Isabel: I got it the first time... :p

Mrs. X

Check my lastest post for an answer to this...

They are, indeed, cheap, and the food is not as bad as in many pubs for the money. They can attract a certain type - poor, bellicose and confused - but that comes with both the lower prices and the complexion of the locale. The one in Tooting is like the geriatric wing of the UN crossed with a rehab centre, the one in Newark has the feel of a fight about to start, even at midday, whilst some of the London ones aren't that bad but can get crowded. I do know that, on tour, they provided many a much-needed pint and cheap and reasonably reliable food for performers watching the pennies. Ach, there are worse places to drink, crunchier carpets to walk on and meals even more obviously microwaved which'll charge you half as much again. I still don't own shares in them, honest.

Hello Everyone
I am glad we are doing a Voxgate in London and not far from where I am working so I can just shoot off and earn some money.
I am glad that people from overseas are coming along too like Mrs X but I am very unhappy that Cerise or Rob have not said if they are attending. And without Cerise and Rob there would be no Voxgate so I am thinking of wrapping those two up in a yeti net and getting them over here... now is this cruel?... it would just be for one day... Or we should all get our butts over to Bristol but that would be quite complicated again for people from overseas... I go and have a headache pill!...
XX

Me? Coming along? I'm trying to plan this thing!! I'm not sure how much luck I'm having. It's hard to plan something that's taking place in a country you're not totally familiar with. But the help I've received, however confusing it's been for me, has been greatly welcomed.

I'm still not sure about holding it right in London because of the expense, however if we can find a reasonably priced place to go somewhere there, I'm all for it. So far, I'm liking the idea of holding it in that Weatherspoon pub that used to be the Marquee.

Mrs. X

Trouble - I'm hoping to come along! I can't speak for Rob, but I'm sure he'll want to come if he can, too.

Flip - was this in 1989 by any chance?

OEII - Wetherspoons Tooting like the geriatric wing of the UN crossed with a rehab centre?? You must have visited on a very good night indeed. It is however fair to say that this particular establishment has removed the nuisance of drunks hanging about outside the local tube station, which must be a point in it's favour.

Tara - please don't be offput by these postings, the ex-Marquee one in Charing X Road will be fine, and as it's a Saturday, won't be over-run by lary (?sp) suits either!

C

I think that was around the time they were going...not sure! I imagine so! ¿Por qué?

Are we going with the Wetherspoons at Wardour Street or the one at Charing Cross Road?? Either one suits me. What time have you got in mind??

They're both Weatherspoons?? OK, now I'm really confused! Erm...I don't know which one! The initial talk was going to the one at Charing Cross Road, but if the original Marquee on Waldour Street is a Weatherspoon too, then I'd go for that one! But either will do. Whichever one is better, really. I wouldn't know. :p

Mrs. X

I'm not sure how expensive you think London is. London is not as expensive as NYC for drinks, for example, and is much much cheaper than Scandanavia (might not sound too relevant but it is Europe!). In Canada I've only been to Toronto and whilst cheaper maybe it wasn't a completely different ball game.

Holding it outside of London wouldn't make that much difference plus you vastly reduce your options. You could spend the whole night in the same pub of course but as soon as you leave.... well.

Hmmm. You're right. I guess it doesn't matter. Holding it in London will be fine. I think we've almost pretty much finalised a venue as well anyway! (It's just a matter of deciding which one...)

Going for drinks even here has got expensive, come to think of it. The government in this province has really cracked down on liquor laws and raised the taxes on it (all because of one specific incident). So it probably won't make much of a difference anyway. I'm just a bit stingy these days... Ask Mr. X!

Mrs. X

Nowt wrong with being parsimonious. I just wish I was.

When I was in Toronto I was amazed by the attitude to alcohol. Basically it was really difficult to buy any! We went down to the reception at our hotel at about 8pm and asked where we could buy some booze for the room. "You can't" was the answer - the outlet had closed and you can't buy it anywhere else (apart from in a bar that is)! This system must have its advantages. I didn't see any rank drunkenness on the streets - a common site in the UK.

I think the venue appears to be pretty much decided. Opinion seems to be converging on the Weatherspoons on Charing Cross Road.

Haha, I'm starting to become green with envy...

...despite of the horrendous alcohol prices in the UK...

<img border="0" title="" alt="[Cool]" src="cool.gif" />

You get live entertainment too !!!

The Knights Templar (Wetherspoons) by Chancery Lane is a fab building.

The Wetherspoons in Charing Cross Road is prob easier for Tubes - Leceister Square + tottenham Court Road and it's on a main road so difficult to miss.

So it's settled then? 29 October at the old Marquee which is a Weatherspoons on Charing Cross Road. (What's the place called anyway?)

What time would be good? Late afternoon? Early evening?

Mrs. X

Actually, OK... How's this:

29 October, the Weatherspoons at Charing Cross Road, arrive somewhere around 2 - 3 p.m. Sound good? If this is OK, I shall make the official announcement in a separate thread, and that way...hopefully...people will notice and let me know if they want to go or not.

Mrs. X

I believe it's called the Moon Under Water, but the name may have changed.

I think the Wetherspoons on Charing X road is called 'The Moon Under Water' (or something like that).

I'm happy to meet at whatever time suits everyone, although if we're planning to stay out from mid afternoon until the clubs open, will definitely need to pace myself

That sounds great.. I look forward to catching up with you all there. Maybe we could meet up at Morden, Caroline, and go down to the Voxgate together??

Well, Mr. X, being from there, suggested I don't make it too late, and also at a time to avoid rush hour traffic. So we agreed on somewhere between 2 - 3 p.m. for people to start converging. If you want to show up later, that's fine! Just show up! OK, so it's called The Moon Under The Water. (Interesting name.)

Official announcement shall be made in a separate thread...

Mrs. X

Shirl - good plan! Will send email nearer the time to organise properly.

Mrs X - I wasn't complaining cos it gives me a good excuse to leave my other half in charge of the kids for the afternoon and evening, so I'll be there nice & early

Hopefully I will be able to make it. 2 ish is OK for me. Due to my circumstances I won't be able to stay late anyway but there again alcohol doesn't bother me too much.

Tara, you,ve put a lot of work into arranging this I hope it is a success for you.
Regards
Peter

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by METAL BEAT:
<strong>Hopefully I will be able to make it. 2 ish is OK for me. Due to my circumstances I won't be able to stay late anyway but there again alcohol doesn't bother me too much.

Tara, you,ve put a lot of work into arranging this I hope it is a success for you.

Mrs. X

Hey guys, is this the correct Moon Under Water that used to be The Marquee? It's just off of Charing Cross Road...

Moon Under Water
28, Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7LE
Tel: 020 7839 2837

I don't think I can make i to this...

But well done on gettting it to happen and I hope it is a good event. Sounds that of course it will be.

Perhaps during your time in the UK we can meet up nearer to our "common ground"? We'll chat in PM again.. No doubt.

Good luck!

NO! I'm sure that's a different one, albeit very close by.

Ah. Does anyone know the proper one, then? That's the only one that I can find near Charing Cross Road.

I can have a wander over there in my lunch break next Monday if needs be - find out what its called?

The one you are thinking of is 105-107 Charing Cross Road I think - this one...

Old Marquee Club

If you follow the links on the page, there is map and some interesting (mixed) comments. It might make you want to think again about the choice of venue.

The club has moved and re-appeared several times. I remember seeing BCs U-Vox here, although it looks like this was just after it had moved there from Wardour Street. There is more information on the changes here...

The Marquee plays it again

EG

EG - ta muchly!

OK, bit confuzzed now. So BOTH places the Marquee used to be are now Moon Under Water pubs..? The one in Charing Cross Road (the original, where Ultravox! played) and the new one in Leicester Square (where U-Vox played)..? Is that right? No hang on, wasn't that Wardour Street in Soho?

Thanks Flip!

I'm confused too! Not sure what to make of the "wonderful" comments made about the pub, not sure if this is the right one, etc. Have I gone wrong? And wasn't the original Marquee where Ultravox! played on Wardour Street? Is that one a Weatherspoons too??

Mrs. X

I don't think you've gone wrong. I've been in that pub several times. Because it is relatively cheap it attracts people that some may not wish to spend too much time around, hence maybe the comments from the more delicate reviewers.

It's very large and seems quite rowdy but I don't think it is really. It also seems to attract lots of overseas students and international travellers trying to keep it cheap. Nowt wrong with that.

The centre of London is not rough. There's less trouble in central London than there is in my crappy little hometown on a Saturday night. Anyway, if people don't like it everyone can easily move on. There's millions of places. It's as good a place as any to start off/meet up.

Thanks 1.Outside! Is that the Charing Cross Road Moon Under Water you're talking about, or Leicester Square? I'm assuming Charing X...

Have you perfected the art?

Mrs X
It sounded very much as if you would attend!
What is the point in organizing something you are not coming along to?! Ha! Ha! Ha!

Hey Cerise and Rob, please do come along or I will have to dig out the yeti net.
XX

The Moon Under Water is on Charing Cross Road it used to be the Marquee until 1999.
The Marquee was bought by Dave Steward and moved then to the venue which is now called the Islington Academy.
Now the Marquee is in Leicester Square across from where I am working.
So which one ever we are going to just let me know and I will be there...
Cerise I hope this solved the confusion about the Marquee.
XX

Of course I'm going! I'm organising this thing, so why wouldn't I be going? "Ha! Ha! Ha!" indeed... :p It's just that I'd read some none-too-shining reviews of the place, and wondered if I'd made a mistake in picking the venue. But people have different opinions.

It is the Moon Under (the?) Water on Charing Cross Road that we will be meeting up. See you there!!

Mrs. X

See you there, Mrs X
XX

I did a recce on the pub yesterday. Just to make things even simpler than they already are, it's definitely not called The Moon Under Water. It's called The Montague Pike . It's also not a Weatherspoons but a 'Lloyds' (same company though). It is, however, still enormous. The clientele looked slightly different to me but it stills seems an OK place.

OK... I guess the meeting's at the Montague Pike then! Thanks 1. Outside.

Mrs. X

Do we still need to bring a bear?

I thought I was the one who was supposed to bring a bear with me!

Mrs. X

I thought it was how we were going to recognise each other? Problem is, being in London, I'm going to have to steal one from a zoo.

That shouldn't be too much of a problem, given that London has a nicely convenient zoo, but you might have a bit of a problem getting Winnie through the barriers onto the tube