This post is overdue by a few days, but the sentiment is still the same.
The other day (June 2nd), the Queen celebrated the 60th anniversary of her coronation. 60 years. An impressive feat. She took on this public position at the ripe old age of 25. Seriously? 25? I was an idiot at 25. Nobody, and I mean nobody, would have wanted me representing them at that time. I think I got mono at 25. Very regal.
Anyway, I think being in any position for 60 years is impressive. Being in one so public is extraordinarily impressive....and sad.
The other day, I went to see "The Audience" with Helen Mirren. (On a side note, she was *AMAZING*! Really pretty in real-life. Even with all that makeup. Nadine, does that count as a celebrity siting?)
For 60 years, Queen Elizabeth has met with her Prime Ministers on a weekly basis at Buckingham Palace. The meetings are only between the Queen and the Prime Minister. Unlike other meetings, no notes are taken. Nothing is disclosed about those meetings, not even to their respective spouses.
The concept of the play was an imaginative interpretation of what was discussed during those meetings. Of course, since no records are kept, there is no way to determine the validity of those interactions, but the end result of the play was phenomenal.
With 12 different Prime Ministers rolling through the doors over the years (from Churchill to Thatcher to Blair to Cameron), the personalities were diverse and so were the imagined discussions.
One thing that came through, particularly at the end, was what a lonely existence it is. Her whole life has been examined through a magnify glass. She wasn't allowed to screw up and act like an idiot when she was in her 20s (OK, and 30s). Yes, she has received a lot in return, but was it a fair trade.
Mom and I had this conversation when she was here while walking along by the Thames. Mom said, "The Queen never gets to really experience her own country." She's spot on. The Queen doesn't just to get to walk along the side of the Thames and make a game-time call about grabbing a drink and people watching. That's not an option.
People argue about the role/value of the Royal Family in modern culture. Many revere her and think she is representative icon of British culture. Others think it is an idea that has passed its prime and it is a luxury that can't be afforded any longer. Whatever the feeling, you have to give her credit. She's maintained an air of dignity (and humor) for over 60 years. I can't do that for even 1 year!
The other day (June 2nd), the Queen celebrated the 60th anniversary of her coronation. 60 years. An impressive feat. She took on this public position at the ripe old age of 25. Seriously? 25? I was an idiot at 25. Nobody, and I mean nobody, would have wanted me representing them at that time. I think I got mono at 25. Very regal.
Anyway, I think being in any position for 60 years is impressive. Being in one so public is extraordinarily impressive....and sad.
The other day, I went to see "The Audience" with Helen Mirren. (On a side note, she was *AMAZING*! Really pretty in real-life. Even with all that makeup. Nadine, does that count as a celebrity siting?)
Sorry...no pictures in the theatre, so you only get the program
For 60 years, Queen Elizabeth has met with her Prime Ministers on a weekly basis at Buckingham Palace. The meetings are only between the Queen and the Prime Minister. Unlike other meetings, no notes are taken. Nothing is disclosed about those meetings, not even to their respective spouses.
The concept of the play was an imaginative interpretation of what was discussed during those meetings. Of course, since no records are kept, there is no way to determine the validity of those interactions, but the end result of the play was phenomenal.
With 12 different Prime Ministers rolling through the doors over the years (from Churchill to Thatcher to Blair to Cameron), the personalities were diverse and so were the imagined discussions.
One thing that came through, particularly at the end, was what a lonely existence it is. Her whole life has been examined through a magnify glass. She wasn't allowed to screw up and act like an idiot when she was in her 20s (OK, and 30s). Yes, she has received a lot in return, but was it a fair trade.
Mom and I had this conversation when she was here while walking along by the Thames. Mom said, "The Queen never gets to really experience her own country." She's spot on. The Queen doesn't just to get to walk along the side of the Thames and make a game-time call about grabbing a drink and people watching. That's not an option.
People argue about the role/value of the Royal Family in modern culture. Many revere her and think she is representative icon of British culture. Others think it is an idea that has passed its prime and it is a luxury that can't be afforded any longer. Whatever the feeling, you have to give her credit. She's maintained an air of dignity (and humor) for over 60 years. I can't do that for even 1 year!
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