Developing My Writing Skills, Recording Of My Show & Facing An Emotional Anniversary

Hello world! Welcome back to another blog! It’s safe to day that the final full week of March 2025 has not been the best. But within that negative, there’s been a positive as I managed to get a lot of stuff done within that week! So here is what I got up to on the week commencing 24th March 2025:

Professional:

NYT Writing Workshop:

This week I attended a writing workshop with the national youth theatre online. This was a really great session, and it’s helped me get my creative head on whilst also getting tips from a past NYT member who is now making her own work. But it was a really great workshop and I’ve definitely got some new skills and ways to create new material in the near future.

Acting Class:

This week we looked at more improvisation. These included an exercise called one word stories and also looking at status, with some brilliant scenes from it. We then looked at some of the other scripts that people sent in, and I can’t wait to see what everyone else has in store before we start to work on them properly.

Passion Show:

This week I finally filmed all of the content needed for my passion show. It was a lot but I got there in the end. And I’ve even started the editing process by just simply adding the videos to the file so then all I need to do next week is trim it down and get it ready to upload by next Saturday (my cousins wedding).

Actors Pro Expo Clip:

This week I watched a seminar from Actors Pro Expo by Paushali Banik who replaced Dan Hubbard. I’ve learnt so much, and what she expects from actors when they come into the room. And whilst I can’t say what specifically I’ve learnt, I’ll take it into consideration when I next get that audition.

First TV Role Fast Track:

This week I completed the guest speaker session of Peter Hunt. As always he gave some useful information on auditioning for him, and the ratio of people who self tape vs in the room. But overall I’ve learnt so much, and I can’t wait to take on board the notes I made to take into the course.

Coronation Street:

This week I watched the show from 12th and 14th March. After talking with both Shona and Daisy, Kit has managed to get the truth from David and hit him where it hurts (literally), although some comments from David himself didn’t help. But eventually they managed to come to an understanding and even though things are still tense between the two, it’s a start. It was also the last appearance of max turner, but well done Paddy Bever for taking over the role of Max and seeing all sides to him. Maybe he’ll return maybe he won’t, but whatever Paddy does next, I know he’ll smash it! Alya also gave Leanne a taste of her own medicine after a disagreement on the menu and changes, which even Sam sided with Alya on. But eventually Leanne could see always point of view and managed to come to a mutual agreement. Carla was also dreading the body identification, and Betsy is understandably still scared of what happened, so her reason on why she skipped college was understandable. But after officially confirming that it wasn’t rob who’s body Carla was asked to look at, both Lisa and kit made a startling and confusing discovery. Daisy was also trying to block out her grief with a distraction, pushing Jenny and Daniel away. But I’m glad that Daisy managed to stay clear of mick, who made it obvious he was trying it on with her despite being married to Lou. And auger not believing daisy, Lou is of course going to have words with him. And Jenny could tell that Daisy was only trying to escape from what’s going on, and after a pep talk, has also managed to get Daniel back too. Cassie was also in hot water, and after overhearing Tracy and Tommy Orpington break up (and it’ll be sad to see Matt milburn leave once again), she had no time making a hasty comment. And even though Steve is trying to be civil, Tracy’s plan to get Cassie back on the gear worked (although Debbie forgetting who Tracy was with either was a genuine or maybe leading to the upcoming storyline which will be a hard watch). And even though Evelyn tried to help, it may backfire. Finally, Ed is of course shaken by Dee Dee’s decision on giving her baby for adoption. I also loved her chat with Bernie about her decision to put kit up for adoption. But Ed’s phone call links to a character coming back which may solve both of their problems. I also watched the show from 17th, 18th and 19th march. Daisys suggestion to hold a mini memorial for her baby was lovely. But micks presence didn’t help, and it was a good job Lou told him to back off as maybe she has had a similar experience. And Daisy was also right to say that however kit grieves, he can’t bottle it all up. Dee Dee was also in a pickle after Lauren announced that Frankie has got a donor that’s definitely a match, the return of James has got something to distract her. Although hearing of Ed calling James about adopting her baby is understandable as to why Ed suggested it and why James confided in Sarah on why he wants to adopt the baby, but understandably Dee Dee is not best pleased. And her reasons why are also justified. But I hope Sarah will convince her to let at least one of her family members go with her to the adoption meeting. Betsy worries also get too much when she suffers a panic attack after Carla leaves her on her own longer than expected. Yes Lisa is understandably annoyed but Carla also has a point about Betsy's independence. But we all need a Nina and Glenda in our lives which puts things into perspective for Betsy. But hearing that rob has a weapon after Lisa and Carla spot Mandy didn’t help. And rob himself is about to cause trouble after begging Tracy to help him hide until he leaves the country. But after Tracy has done everything, his only hope is to see Carla. And after seeing a section on Gogglebox (which I’ll get onto later during this blog), something tells me it’ll be intense. Debbie is also loosing it after mick charges her what I think is daylight robbery. But Ronnie is also suspicious of her well-being, especially with the upcoming storyline that’s sure to break hearts. Dylan has also realised that Brody isn’t the mate he makes out to be, and after Brody threatens Sean on the burner phone and not going through with it, Dylan realises he can’t grass on him, after they trashed his room, so the only option is to owe Brody. Oh dear… and after Roy spots Cassie, she’s convinced that it wasn’t his business. But Evelyn was right to say that he did it out of kindness, and after revealing to Tyrone and fox Tracy’s involvement, she’ll do what it takes to help her (hopefully for the last time) get clean again. Let’s just hope it doesn’t affect her studies. And after accidentally revealing Julie’s secret to Debbie and a shocked Brian, both the sisters are admitting their fears for the future. But I’m glad they were able to make a compromise on how things go.

Hollyoaks:

This week in Chester, there was health scares, planning revenge and realising that people aren’t what they seem to be. Mondays episode saw Frankie and Dillon look back at the aftermath of what happened at the party. Even though they’re still traumatised by it, they’ve definitely been brainwashed by Rex and Grace. And red managed to “reassure” Lucas that Dillon is fine, but after seeing spoilers, Rex may reconsider his work with grace. But the retune of Freddie may cause more drama in the process. In a more lighter news, Myra is finally relieved that the treatment for Mercedes cancer is working, and Cleo is excited for Bali with Sienna. But there’s still some backlash from both Martha and Myra. But after liberty gave her a proper talking to whisky watching Our Dementia Choir (who gave a wonderful performance of a Nat King Cole classic), she knows she wants to see her loved ones happy before her condition worsens. But Sienna may have to put the trip on hold when a health scare leaves her in danger. Whilst peri is understandably mad, Tony and Marie have more problems when they get notified of Abe's body. And even though he was a baddie, I also get why Marie was still grieving, and after a proper talking to, Marie suggested the next step in their relationship, but after seeing spoilers it’s not going to go down well. Tuesdays episode saw Sienna go to hospital after suffering her collapse. While the doctors say it’s just temporary paralysis, Sienna fears it may be worse after mentioning the family history. I hope that’s not the case as well, but Cleo abandoning her flight to Bali only for Sienna to push her away May have made things worse. It also looks like that Freddie may be playing grace, as he secretly will help Mercedes get her revenge. And I’m glad that Diane has accepted the marriage proposal between Marie and Tony, she’ll be in for more of a sock when she finally discovers that Arlo is the bully. Finally, Wednesdays episode saw Freddie plan to discover what Rex is hiding, and a phone call ste took May make him realise that Rez is hiding a dark secret. And after failing to go to Bali, Cleo and peri rebooked a trip to wales. But with siennas health the main topic, Jeremy revealing her potential MND diagnosis may have made her rethink on why she didn’t answer the phone. But as you can imagine sienna was not happy when Jez blurted it out. Finally, after initially hiding the truth to Tony, Ro finally told Diane what has happened, and at tony and Marie’s engagement party, at first not believing Diane, Tony could see the terror in Ro’s eyes when Arlo gave a speech. But his actions may have mixed opinions with Marie and Diane.

Eastenders:

This week in Walford we saw friends helping friends, a traumatic experience and one resident getting back in the dating scene. Mondays episode saw Phil settle back into Walford, with everyone including Sharon pleased to see him. But even though the support group went well, he has more problems when Nigel won’t go to his appointment. And a slip of the tongue in the cafe about Phil’s real reason to leave Walford for abit come to light. Linda is also feeling abit of loss in purpose after the great news about the pub getting refurbished but not her being involved as much. And whilst Kim’s dating apps may not be of much help, it looks like she could be playing matchmaker herself when Felix mentions the type of boy he goes for… and whilst trying to help lily after someone vandalised martins store, she, avani and Amy get into trouble with the police, and it looks like a dangerous one at that too. Tuesdays episode saw Avani go through the tense strip search. I get that in some cases a strip swatch is needed, but I’d agree with Avani that because she’s 15 you would’ve needed to be abit more sensitive knowing how scary it is. But things got more tense when she came back and tested Priyas parenting skills and why she didn’t answer the phone in the first place. But when the truth came to light, Priya, thinking it’s revenge for Denise having a fling with Ravi before going to him, Jack got a right grilling which only made things worse for Avani. All I can say is there may be a way between Priya and jack. I can feel it. Wednesdays episode saw the aftermath of Avani's strip search, and with some advice from Suki and some tense exchanges, Priya decided to make a formal complaint. However it only made Avani worse. And if she’s not careful, she could put herself in even more danger. Gina and Anna are also in a fight to both get a job before the Vic fully reopens, and Phil is also concerned for Nigel but also abit on edge still after the secret was revealed to everyone. But George knows he wants to help him somehow. And after confiding in Linda, she’s also experiencing a lack of purpose after trying to hook up Johnny with Felix (which didn’t go down well). But I do hope like 29.99 a month on her dating agency will be worth it for Linda, but Kim actually made a heartfelt exchange linking to her own experience in finding love again after loss. Thursdays episode saw George helping Phil out after a failed attempt at the cafe. And after some advice from Linda, some boxing and a chat gave him the idea to set up a support group where they’d have a safe space to get fit and also open up. That is an idea well thought out. And Harry was not the best person to take Anna and Gina through a trial shift, but at least he admitted to his lack of knowledge of running a bar, let’s hope that he’ll stick to his words of not interfering as much. Linda also went back into the dating scene, and after a failed date followed by Johnny and Felix getting abit frisky (which was funny to see), she decided that even though mick was her soulmate, it won’t hurt to put herself out there again. And Avani's drama continued as Ravi searched for answers, and reassured Priya she was doing a good job. And we’ll done Ravi for mentioning what happened to him in his past, and that you would think it would help Avani if she needed it, but things seemed to have helped less when she buys more stuff from her dealer. Oh dear…

Big Boys:

The last two episodes of the final series were both funny and hard to watch. Episode 5 “Goodbye U-N-I”, we saw the end of university slowly coming. Corinne's decision to redo her dissertation was a bold move, and her reasons why were very powerful as well. And her mentor who at first was hesitant May have been the person she needed, as she has helped her get the place to do her masters degree, with her being more closer to home in aid of support. Jack also had a shock when he found out that his mentor Tim was also into men (and his daydream of jack was brilliant), and also jacks former bully’s coming forward after revealing they were gay too. Although him filming it for his vlog is not the best way to go about it. I also got a surprise from nana bingo, which Jack also kinda filmed it. But even though he has family who loves them both, he can’t help but still feel lonely, given what’s happened to Danny in the previous episode. And speaking of Danny, his time back in Margate was left with uncertainty after his nan passed away, and his dad not being the person he needed during this dreadful time. But the biggest surprise came from when a neighbour revealed of what happened to his cousin mark in a previous episode, and even though it wasn’t shown specifically, him shutting the door was a sign to say that he may have done something he knows he can’t take back. Finally, the final episode “The Sea” saw the appearance of present jack comfort Danny and have a catch up. We also got an insight into how Danny’s life could’ve been different if he hadn’t have done what he did. I won’t reveal all as there was no synopsis, but I’ll give you a few hints on what to expect. Jules taking care of Danny, her revealing a special skill linking to what she studied at Brent uni, and why she decided to stay on, revealing an emotional side to her. We also got to see Shannon’s big career move and Danny finally getting the calling he needed. And there was a few comedy moments along the way, particularly at the graduation ceremony and moments when Danny was at his lowest when jules came to help him. But overall a perfect way to end the 3 series showing that help is out there.

Waterloo Road:

The last three episodes of this most recent series saw secrets revealed, fresh starts and possible new feuds. Episode 6 saw Schuey gain romance advice from Noel. And whilst it didn’t exactly go to plan, a chat from Joe and Mike managed to get things back on track for him and Agnes. And joe and Mike have got their work cut out when after speaking with social services, they decide to foster him. Lois is also having a tough time when her nan was battling the last stages of dementia. But thankfully despite not being able to say goodbye, she was able to use her emotion into her presentation. A fine example of turning a negative into a positive. Tonya was also at the centre of attention when due to her ongoing and uncontrollable pains, a science experiment goes wrong, and some tablets from Ashton may have made things worse. But now that she has finally got some answers they can work to manage the pain better. But I hope Donte will back him up when asked not to mention it to anyone. And Neil may be starting to believe Amy’s theories about Jared when Libby tells them about moving in with him. And even desperately grabbing onto Libby is a sign that it’s not healthy. Episode 7 aka the penultimate episode saw Noel and Stace trying to find a place “to themselves” (if anyone gets what I mean) after previously her bailing on him to practice his music. And with Coral soon to be on maternity leave, she was in full swing of doing her hand over to Nisha, who after some initial doubt, realised she is ready to take over from her. But she had bigger problems when the baby decides to come early, and it worked in her favour that Stace and Noel were there in time. But Neil had other problems, forcing Libby to not go on the trip after Val revealed she’s behind on coursework. He also enlisted cat to keep an eye on her and try to get her to open up, but that didn’t stop Jared from finding her thanks to a cruel way. What really didn’t help was using the disabled card to get sympathy from a stranger. But after skipping some segments due to it being hard to watch, I’m glad that Libby finally had the courage to run away, knowing what sort of a person he really is. But it wasn’t the only thing that got tongues wagging. Stella may think that joe and Mike fostering Schuey is a bad idea, but Joe is adamant that especially with parents evening, he needs some stability in his life, and after mentioning his history with social workers, he’s practically begged Stella to show that he’s most likely his last chance. But Stella is also at a crisis when she meets former teacher Jack Rimmer at a therapy session. And well done to her for opening up on how she really felt when she was attacked by Stace's mum. And it looks like the therapist himself has some unresolved trauma when he explained why he became a therapist. And Donte may have had found the solution to Ashtons problems as Celine kicked him out. Whilst I don’t excuse his behaviour, no child should be out homeless (as even though some children need to take responsibility, being homeless will most likely make things worse), and Donte really gave her a piece of his mind. But with Izzy’s return and several miss calls from Aunty Mika, I wonder if she’s got some sort of hidden agenda? And finally, the final episode saw Jared’s downfall. But not before an initial meeting with his dad, who I have a feeling I see why Jared is behaving the way he is. And after turning him down, he went to extreme lengths. I won’t say what as i had to skip it due to it being a hard to watch, but with the help of Amy (who has now got herself a new job after speaking about her own experience), managed to expose Jared to everyone in school. But that wasn’t the only mad thing going on. Schuey had been very secretive from Joe, and after joe initially thought he stole some money, it wasn’t the case at all. But the real thing he was hiding may have thought it would be embarrassing to Joe, but in fact shows how much he has changed. And let’s hope that if there is a new series (which may be a hint which I’ll get onto in a moment), his good streak continues. Ashton also had it hard from Donte after Tommy behaved poorly in school, and a rejection from Tonya didn’t help (but she was also having her own problems trying to process her diagnosis which is understandable why she turned him down). But Izzy’s convincing mama he’d to repair the father and son, and when they came across his old head Jack Rimmer, the moment he called Ashton son made me well up abit. But after the real culprit behind Tommy's behaviour was revealed, it may be the start of a new feud between Izzy and Ashton. And speaking of jack, Stella finally came to her senses of her actions in the first episode, and she managed to own her mistakes the hope of learning from them. And with Jack now returning, it may be the start of a new era at Waterloo Road.

Boarders:

The last two episodes of this series saw secrets revealed, rekindling moments and a left that the students will never forget. The penultimate episode saw the gang support Leah in the algebra championships. And there was drama both in and out of the game. Beatrice’s news about the sports scholarship left Abby in bits, and with Toby to confide and rekindle their relationship in, their reunion is bound to have challenges (but more on that later). Leah also tried to warn Mabel of Devonye, but after revealing the truth behind her laptop, Mabel gave her an ultimatum. Rupert also seems to be causing trouble, telling Omar about Dilton possibly taking his book, and Jaheim's love life is getting more complicated after hooking up with Florence and after the championship, confessed he wanted to give things another go can only end in disaster, and Femi’s “posh friends” give him tips on when he goes to Jude’s house to look at some books. But again disaster is bound to follow. And this all came in the form of Omar’s sketch book, when Rupert actually took it (no surprise there), and everyone revealed each of their secret. And Carol is also on edge and may use this as an opportunity to get rid of the borders for good. And the consequences of Jaheim's secret provoked Rupert and his clothes. The final episode saw the aftermath of Omar’s secrets, and even though i would feel the same as Omar, I also get why everyone is mad. But there was also drama outside of those secrets. Not only has Jaheim screwed thongs over with both Florence and Bea, but his relationship with his mum has also reached tension. But after settling down, he may have considered letting Caleb stay whilst attending the spring ball. So at least it’s a start. Leah also had some making up to do, and also reveal the reason as to why she got jealous of Devonye. But I’m just glad that both of them and Mabel are on good terms, and Xiang's proposal to take her out was really sweet, and if I had to choose between him and Koku, I would choose Xiang any day. Even though Abby was worried about how it would go, knowing the venue wouldn’t be great, Toby really saved the day after his screw up. And things have started to look up again for him and Abby, even if Unknown T didn’t end up performing. I’m also gutted that Omar decided to end things with Dilton, but his reasons were understandable, but it may appear he got plenty of action during the party itself. And Rupert was being a bully as always, and after a failed attempt to get Jude back, Femi’s discovery from Graham was used to his advantage and put Carol back in her place, meaning the boarders are all safe. But with Jaheim getting an offer of a lifetime, I wonder if there will be a new series of the show?

Personal:

Exercise:

Due to a personal setback (which I’ll mention in the hard times), I had to cut back on certain exercises. But I did what I could and I managed to get at least my body moving which is a massive bonus. I also managed to do 12 minutes on the bike this week but knowing I had to give 100% into what I had, I’m glad I made this achievement.

Survey:

This week I managed to get at least 3 surveys done this week. It was but it was better than 1 surgery last week. And with the hectic week I had filming wise it was good to focus on something else.

Darts:

This week I may have had two practice, but it was a practice well needed. I even managed to hit some doubles and trebles on my second practice, but I also managed to at least let off some steam. Which is always good at the end of the day.

Premier league:

As always I managed to catch up on my favourite sport to watch. Even though I didn’t watch it, Luke littler once again finished the job in 10 minutes, and I loved Nathan Aspinal’s concentration face when he’s in the zone! But overall it was a good way to end the day after a busy but productive day that day.

Gladiators:

The first semi final of this iconic game show really was on tonight. Cyclone really wanted to play ball during gauntlet, Joe F was disqualified in one of the games (which personally I disagreed with), and there was a lovely moment once again between Apollo and Sabre (showing that Apollo had a soft side). Legend as always was being full of himself, which Apollo kind of disagreed with, and I’m surprised that viper hasn’t made any kids cry when he ripped up a fans poster. But speaking of tears, I nearly welled up when one of the contenders gave an emotional speech as to why they applied in the first place and it’s moments like this where it doesn’t take me much to cry. Already its looking like it’s going to be an epic final, but I do hope hammer will be okay after pulling a muscle on collision.

Britain's Got Talent:

This variety show once again featured anything and everything. These included a father writing a hilarious song, a sword swallower involving scissors, little minions, a backseat ball team, an inspiring drummer and a magician who yes did slight of hand, but it was some that I haven’t seen before. But the golden buzzer got me in tears, as after hearing her day job, it made the audition even more emotional. But I’m glad she got it as she so deserves it.

Gogglebox:

As always, the tv critics managed to react to a variety of shows! Adam and Ryan Thomas have got the watchers on edge with someone games I. “99 To Beat”, and the news on some shocking secrets reached their peak. I also need to slowly catch up on “Adolescence” knowing it’s a talked about show, and in “David Blaine: Do Not Attempt”, he is literally putting himself in danger when trying some new magic tricks. I also loved their reaction to the Chinese acrobat in “Britain's Got Talent”, and if I were to have my home done in “Britain Building Superhomes”, I wouldn’t want to be welcomed with a broken window. Finally, I need to catch up on “Coronation Street” ASAP, and I know that when I do watch “Big Night of Musicals”, it’ll get me in tears like the section the Goggleboxers watched already. I also loved Giles and Mary’s idea of their musical lol!

Hard times:

This weeks hard times included my knee taking a toll on my day job. It also meant I had to cut back on the cardio whilst I focused on healing it, but thankfully whilst I did my strength training, I had this knee support to help.

And because it was also the week of Mother’s Day, this was also having an impact on my mental mindset, meaning I had to cancel an archery session because if it. But the last thing I wanted to do was overwhelm myself, but at least I had this delicious Chinese for my dinner and my dog Margo being all cute.

And speaking of Margo, she had to go through the animal version of a hysterectomy. Yes it made her abit sad for a few days which was heartbreaking to watch, but in the long term we know that it’s the best thing for her, as it will avoid some health complications doing so.