RATS' TALES BY AMANDA ELIASCH

The Cook, The Thief, His Wife, and Her Lover Trailer 2

2012-01-28T11:08:00.000-08:00

Five Easy Pieces Diner Scene

2012-01-28T11:02:00.000-08:00

CASH IN COUTURE

2012-01-28T10:18:00.000-08:00

Couture week in Paris, I was in Los Angeles moving and shoving, however I did notice that again one of my favourite designers, Jean Paul Gaultier caused a fuss. His catwalk was filled with look a likes of Amy Winehouse who was perhaps one of the most iconic singers to hit the boards in the past few years. It is definitely preferable to Beth Ditto who he has also previously applauded. Both however were not healthy and definitely not wise. Is it stupid and a bad example to young impressionable people? No, just that these two woman have influenced his style that season. Fashion designers are doing so many collections a year that they need to grab at straws and attention seeking headlines to get noticed, and in turn for people, like me to write about them and put them onto our fashion pages. After all, fashion is a multi million dollar business.
I actually loved his take on Amy's look, corsets, multi coloured wigs matching the clothes, beautiful hats by one of the most talented hat makers, Victoria Grant, tight tight skirts. I certainly bought very little from the collection inspired by Beth. Sadly being very overweight, even if it is attractive, as it is in Beth's case, is not good for your health as we all know, and neither is taking drugs.

This collection was far more interesting than the rest. Jean Paul Gaultier is in Show business and without the masters, John Galliano and Alexander Mcqueen, we so need attractive flamboyance in this very repetitive business of clothes which is so meaningless yet so joyful too.

AM I THE ONLY PERSON IN THIS TOWN WITH REAL TEETH?

2012-01-27T18:01:00.000-08:00

I have just been assured by the famous still photographer, on Tinker Tailor, Jack English, that I am the only person in the town of Los Angeles, with real teeth. He does not like to leave me for a second, and has walked fifteen times into my room, as he thinks that I am not safe. "At least this new house has shutters and is secure" he has just claimed and walked out of my room again. In fact it is like living in a safety deposit box, nobody can get in, and I can't get out. He is very busy driving around his friends and my maids. "Los Angeles is like living in a perpetual David Lynch movie", he says smoking a cigarette and looking downwards.
I had thought about cutting back and not having my hair and make up done everyday but I have been told that you need to 'up your game in this town', with a new address and a new life in the Hollywood Hills. I am near enough to the Bird Streets, that I can visit my hipper friends, and whip down my hill to get my gels done at Nails by Design, in a swift no nonsense way. My pals seem to prefer it, I can tell as I have had a stream of people nodding with approval, as they walk through the house. Is it the street I am living in, the way I have done it, the easy access to Sunset or the glamorous men who live next door to me? I have no idea?. I will just say that I happily took red roses to both the men living on either side of me. one being the dishy Aaron Sorkin. His teeth looked natural, of course a few weeks ago I hadn't a clue who he was. I was told by my agents that that he was very famous. I was unable to have a proper conversation with him and felt like Princess Diana when she looked at Prince Charles, as he said "Sorry I have not shaved" and I felt embarrassed. Quite frankly I was only too happy to see such an attractive man so early in the morning, and so glad that he did not nag me for the awful noise and mess that I had made, bashing the house about over Christmas.
Now there is only the outside to be done most of the inside is finished thank goodness by my very efficient, handsome builder, David Tamayo. He is one of the few people in this town who has kept to his word and done his work on time
My neons are up and the lovely Michael Flechtner who created the neons I made, came and hung them today. I so love his cheery personality, He created a stamp last year and made my show "Peccadilloes" that I was given by Jonathan Brown at Leadapron.

Justine Glenton in "As I Like It"

2012-01-27T12:29:00.000-08:00

Marilyn Monroe - The Final Days - (1/6)

2012-01-26T13:25:00.001-08:00

Marilyn Monroe - The Final Days - (1/6)

2012-01-26T13:25:00.000-08:00

The Legend of Marilyn Monroe (1/6)

2012-01-26T13:24:00.000-08:00

A little Marilyn and I miss Justine Glenton

2012-01-25T23:27:00.000-08:00

Today Justine Glenton posted a small section of her work that she did for As I like it, I so miss her and the production, it made me homesick. I did not prefer the production, it was just different and it was the start of something I worked on long ago. I loved working with the team in Los Angeles too, I adore Elizabeth and Lisa, just I want to feel the rain on my face and my friends.

Today I went to see a documentary on Marilyn Monroe made shortly after her death directed by Terry Terry Sanders, with unseen footage and photographs taken from a new book by Susan Bernard which were taken by her father Bruno Bernard. It is fifty years since she died and every day she is in newspapers, on billboards and remembered. Marilyn had a hellish childhood not surprising she killed herself. The book and lecture gave another dimension that has never been shown with such sensitivity in "Intimate exposures". No other woman on this earth has been so remembered and immortalised. This evening tried to unravel and understand what lay behind this myth. Did it succeed? I am not sure anyone can understand why people love her so much. My guess is she is what every woman wishes secretly to be, and what every man wishes his woman was. Marilyn was just Norma Jean, and acting a persona which I feel she could not live up to or cope with, who cares, she still created it, thank you. A wonderful evening.

2012-01-23T17:25:00.000-08:00

It was pouring with rain today and Angela Kalinowski, my wonderful hairdresser who works in Melrose and I decided to escape my new house, leaving the builders to finish. We went to look for pretty dresses but could not find any, but I had fun in Betsy Johnson, and have bought one or two fairy numbers, little puff dresses of black fake organza, they look adorable. I shall chop them off of course and change their shape, I even do that to Alexander Mcqueen long dresses. I remember a horrified shop assistant in the Alexander Mcqueen shop watch me as I took some scissors and cut off 3ft of silk chiffon. I had to the dress looked too dull.

I am dreaming up ideas for my garden here in LA, I want something that can survive on its own. I found the photograph below, and something like this would be great. Over the top and surreal with a piano in the swimming pool. My fantasy for the day. I clearly have too much time on my hands.

A Separation trailer - in cinemas 1 July 2011

2012-01-23T16:48:00.000-08:00

Peter Medak photograph taken by Christopher Medak

2012-01-23T09:06:00.000-08:00

The Ruling Class (Peter Medak)

2012-01-21T21:09:00.000-08:00

The Changeling (1980)

2012-01-21T21:07:00.000-08:00

A REMARKABLE INTERVIEW WITH PETER MEDAK FOR BAFTA

2012-01-21T20:26:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate enough today to go to an interview of Peter Medak's at BAFTA, Los Angeles, given and hosted by John Alan Simon's [who recently directed my play "As I like it" starring his wife Elizabeth Karr,Lisa Zane and Charles Eliasch]. I say fortunate because to listen to old time movie people is always a pleasure. Medak is famous for making films such as The Ruling Class with Peter O' Toole, The Changeling, The Krays, Romeo is Bleeding and many other enticing and extraordinary works of art. He is a good looking man in tight jeans and a wonderful sense of old world charm, very alive with thrilling anecdotes. His friends all turned up in fast cars and the same attractive personalities although they must have been over seventy. Trendy and up to date they were not even middle aged, this lot make half the world look old and tired.
I met Peter in a noisy restaurant in London in the Summer through my friend Maya Fiennes. We instantly got on, he said he had known my grandfather Sidney Gilliat and the Boulting brothers. He told me about his first moments in England at Tidworth army camp in Wiltshire five miles from where I had lived as a child. He arrived uneducated and not able to speak anything but basic English having just escaped from the Hungarian Uprising in 1956.

THE GREAT PETER MEDAK

ANTHONY RICHMOND, Director of Photography

Judd Bernard, Producer

The Conference room at BAFTA

He also told me an incredible story when he was seven, which I wish he had mentioned today. It was during the war, his housekeeper had served soup for lunch, which they were about to eat, when she noticed the Nazis were loading Jews onto trucks. His Father made the family leave immediately and told them to look down when they left their building. Peter told me that as he came out of his building a Nazis shot a man in front of him, Peter kept moving, looking down, they walked until they found a hiding place and eventually moved to the country where he was kept hidden in a village next to the Gestapo. It felt like several years but it was actually only a few months. The war ended and he and his family were able to return to their flat in Budapest. On entering it he could see into the next door apartment block, walls were broken, all was war damaged except the plates which were in the exact position as when they had left the flat several months earlier, with the soup still in it. The passion he told this story is such that it has stayed with me.
He had always wanted to make films from an early age, his Aunt, an Opera singer, had given him a camera and some film when he was young and he got the bug immediately.

Today was the same, some of the images shown will stay with me a long time, The House of Lords in the Ruling Class which was filmed full of skeletons and cobwebs, with flashbacks to people talking and then another fascinating sequence from The Changeling, where a ball bounced down a flight of stairs will definitely haunt me too.

Peter has claimed that he has walked out of more movies than he has made. he claimed that he made the Ruling Class for 1.2 million dollars with 16 weeks shooting too. It was also a brilliant play which took several years to make into a film. He claims that he worked at a time in films when two people got together and talked about an idea, and then later made the it happen. This is not so easy now.

Peter likes to work with actors from the inside so that they feel safe and do not know that they are being directed. He says that he has made lots of friends and definitely he is well respected in the fickle world of Hollywood. An old timer he may be, but he still has a lot of powerful images to show us, and fire still in his engine.

A wonderful morning escaping from the task of finding my computer charger and putting my dresses away.

ENGLISH ECCENTRICS BY LISA BORGNES

2012-01-20T19:38:00.001-08:00

ENGLISH ECCENTRICS BY LISA BORGNES

WE WANT AND NEED FREEDOM OF SPEECH

2012-01-18T20:27:00.000-08:00

How can we allow this bill to pass in the US about freedom of speech. It could lead to disaster?. Last year I had a maniac who is now in prison write vile things about me on a blog, some were true some were untrue and just his opinion, which by the way was not his truth. He had enjoyed eating and sharing Christmas with me, but he felt he could write it because it is freedom of speech.

I could therefore agree with this bill that would stop opinion but this is not good. The only good thing was that it would stop people from illegally downloading their interests. However, it is against democracy or what I think means democracy. It infringes freedom of expression and artistic sharing of ideas. It could be seriously bad news, even if it meant that I would legally be able to shut up some nutter?.

We must understand what is happening and then truly act. It sounds like a dictatorship to me.. Let's have it truly discussed and explained?.

I am not political, I just like having a nice time and a good time with friends sharing things.

ON THE MOVE

2012-01-18T19:32:00.000-08:00

Last night I gave an intimate dinner at the Beverly Hills Hotel for the wrapping of my play As I like it, it is always a weird feeling to end things, but good to move on. It was not easy to do anything in this town. Underneath the smiling faces of fake teeth and fake tans this is a thinking city. I am grateful for the team I had, it was very tricky to translate something very English and very me, it was either loathed or loved. If one more person asks me to act I shall vomit, I hate it. I was only too happy to hand it over to Elizabeth Karr, Charles Eliasch and Lisa Zane to act out my ideas under the direction of John Alan Simon. We all had a funny time last night and were singing along to a rather bolshy pianist in The Beverly Hills Hotel who forbid us from singing.. Good news though, the BHH has wonderful concierges who make up for pianists who lack my musical appreciation.

In any case I am now moving yet again so I have a lot to think about. This morning I was packing up yet again and will not not allow anybody to put anything into drawers that is not meaningful. There is always so much rubbish, receipts and old letters, change and odd bits of jewellery.

The house that was owned by Penelope Cruz is now transformed by David Tamayo who kept to his word, I loved it before and I love it now. I walked into the house and knew it was for me, and with my numerology adds up to 11. Anywone who knows about numbers knows that is good luck so let's pray.

ADVISE FROM AL DUBIN IN THE 1933 HIT

2012-01-18T17:01:00.001-08:00

Verse 1)
What’s cute about a little cutie
It’s her beauty not brain
Old father time will never harm you
If your charm still remains
After you grow old baby
You don’t have to be a cold baby

(Chorus 1)
Keep young and beautiful
It’s your duty to be beautiful
Keep young and beautiful
If you want to be loved
Don’t fail to do your stuff
With a little powder and a puff
Keep young and beautiful
If you want to be loved.
If you’re wise, exercise all the fat off
Take it off, off-a here, off-a there,
When you’re seen anywhere with your hat off
Have a marcel wave in your hair
Take care of all those charms
And you’ll always be in someone’s arms
Keep young and beautiful
If you want to be loved.

(Verse 2 - from British sheet music version)
What makes a girl’s acquaintance bigger
It’s her figure and poise
Her duty should be to retain it
To maintain it for boys
Old age isn’t real baby
You are as old as you feel baby

GLOBE WINNERS LIST

2012-01-16T15:57:00.000-08:00

Best Actor, Musical or Comedy: Jean Dujardin, “The Artist”

Best Director: Martin Scorsese, “Hugo.”

Best Actress, Musical or Comedy: Michelle Williams, “My Week With Marilyn.”

Best Supporting Actor: Christopher Plummer, “Beginners.”

Best Supporting Actress: Octavia Spencer, “The Help.”

Best Foreign Language Film: “A Separation.”

Best Animated Film: “The Adventures of Tintin.”

Best Screenplay: Woody Allen, “Midnight in Paris.”

Best Original Score: Ludovic Bource, “The Artist.”

Best Original Song: “Masterpiece” (music and lyrics by Madonna, Julie Frost, Jimmy Harry), “W.E.”

TELEVISION

Best Series, Drama: “Homeland,” Showtime.

Best Series, Musical or Comedy: “Modern Family,” ABC.

Best Actor, Drama: Kelsey Grammer, “Boss.”

Best Actress, Drama: Claire Danes, “Homeland.”

Best Actress, Musical or Comedy: Laura Dern, “Enlightened.”

Best Actor, Musical or Comedy: Matt LeBlanc, “Episodes.”

Best Miniseries or Movie: “Downton Abbey (Masterpiece),” PBS.

Best Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Kate Winslet, “Mildred Pierce.”

Best Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Idris Elba, “Luther.”

Best Supporting Actress, Series, Miniseries or Movie: Jessica Lange, “American Horror Story.”

Best Supporting Actor, Series, Miniseries or Movie: Peter Dinklage, “Game of Thrones.”

Genlux Magazine :: Luxury Fashion & Beauty

2012-01-16T10:00:00.000-08:00

Genlux Magazine :: Luxury Fashion & Beauty

THE RAVISHING OLDER WOMAN

2012-01-16T09:44:00.001-08:00

The beautiful older women today look incredible and have the look of "Do not fuck with me" etched on their faces.

Slim, ravishing, well dressed, rich and witty their bodies look like age has not touched them. Madonna, Elle Macpherson, Cindy Crawford and Crystal Brinkley.

It shows you should do everything if you wish to stay in the game, exercise, the knife, up keep to keep you still looking viable and sexual.

A man likes women to look viable like Raquel Welch coming out of a cave. Of course everything has to look easy. Beauty has to look effortless. Of course it is not. Work hard on the body and the soul, make both as perfect as possible, compassionate, sexy and still easily excited. Watch your eyes, disappointment easily shows in them.

THE GLOBES AND A LAST PERFORMANCE

2012-01-15T23:23:00.000-08:00

My play, As I like it, closed today at the Macha Theatre in Hollywood directed by the successful critic, director and film lover, John Alan Simon. The play has been full almost every night and the reviews interesting, both positive and negative, altogether a successful run and great exposure for Elizabeth Karr, Charlie Eliasch and Lisa Zane.
People came up to me loving it, but of course it is not a play for men really unless they are a total fan of "Amanda". They tend misunderstand it. One nice couple came from San Diego, I was so happy to meet them, the wife was a reader of my blog. The designer from Balmain arrived with Rushka Bergman, she looked magnificent with huge black glasses and a huge entourage of ten people.
I am changing the play so that the boy's part becomes the main part and the women support him. I think it will be more interesting for my son, in any case I do this for him, and if I could I would buy the other son a football team.

I watched the globes with great eagerness as usual with a film producer and film director Peter Medak, much more fun than watching it uncomfortably in some hotel.
Of course I won a globe, I should have known that Michelle Williams was going to win by the mix up yesterday at the BAFTA tea party, when the paparazzi became excited and either mistook me for her or for Marilyn. Anyway it was very funny and it is often done. I go down the street in Paris, and men often sing Boop boop di boop.
Angelina Jolie looked beautifully best dressed in a white satin dress with a slash of red round her shoulders. Most women wore Zac Posen, Elle Macpherson and Kelly Osbourne, wow they looked good and I totally approve of almost everything he designs.

The Globes were more interesting tonight than normal and felt very international. The Artist, my favourite film this year won three awards, paving way for more creativity. Ludovic Bource, french composer won the globe for best score, he was witty and amusing as he spoke, no sign of Alexandre Desplat which was a pity, this town is quick to love the new. Jean Dujardin was named best actor for his performance as a silent movie actor, whose work dried up with the arrival of the talkies. Oh I do love the French.
The Descendants did well with best film and actor going to the charismatic and elegant George Clooney who has just hit 50.

My word the 50 year olds are looking good these days.

With Meryl Streep winning for her performance in the Iron Lady. Octavia Spencer was best supporting actress in the Help.
Madonna looked incredible, and I so loved her film, WE even though nobody else seemed to.
However the Globes don't give an accurate picture of what may happen in Oscar night, after all Social Network won the Globes and Kings Speech did best on Oscar Night.

Harvey Weinstein seemed brilliant as usual, he had a very successful night, with A week with Marilyn, The Artist, The Iron Lady, and he was called a God.

Film Director, Peter Medak and Amanda Eliasch at the Art of Elysium

My house sale has been very successful full to the brim with people, ypee.

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NOMINATIONS... A walk on the BAFTA tea party red carpet.

2012-01-14T17:05:00.000-08:00

I love Hollywood, I walked down the red carpet at the BAFTA tea party to flashing cameras and boys saying "Congratulations on your nominations and your brilliant performance" Needless to say it has taken me at least two hours to realise that the photographers thought I was Michelle Williams. Actually I have been assured that I would make a brilliant Marilyn on several occasions, once with the stylist Rushka Bergman who transformed me into her, and another time with Isabella Blow for Tatler Magazine, and now it has been proved, signed and seeled.. This is all nonsense but happy nonsense. Michelle Williams is 30ish and I am 49ish ish. So I am very thrilled. The award week end has been fun so far and I shall be clearly collecting my Globe on Sunday.

MERRY BULLSHIT

2012-01-14T13:41:00.001-08:00

making love and sharing your body

with someone

else is the real truth

living lies is not for me..

real love is the only thing.

ambition for rubbish

is merry bullshit..

HOUSE CONTENTS FOR SALE

2012-01-14T11:22:00.000-08:00

1625 HOUSE SALE LOS ANGELES, 1625 Summitridge drive, 90210 open today, Sunday, Monday, 9am - 6pm Tricia Beanum +1323 309 3838

HOUSE SALE 1625 Summitridge Drive 90210

2012-01-13T16:06:00.000-08:00

Tricia Beanum has entered my house like a whirlwind. I am moving and tomorrow and Sunday I am doing an Estate sale with all the pieces I cannot use in the next house so if any of you wish some interesting furniture do come to the above address between 10am - 6pm on Saturday and Sunday 323-309-3838.

The Matthew Aaron Show Jan. 6th 2012 - Amanda Eliasch 01/06 by The Matthew Aaron Show | Blog Talk Radio

2012-01-10T19:42:00.000-08:00

The Matthew Aaron Show Jan. 6th 2012 - Amanda Eliasch 01/06 by The Matthew Aaron Show | Blog Talk Radio

zina s.sparling jewellery

2012-01-10T18:45:00.000-08:00

The Wonderful World of Zina's Jewellery: -"Do open the shutter of the bedroom so that more ...

2012-01-10T18:43:00.000-08:00

The Wonderful World of Zina's Jewellery: -"Do open the shutter of the bedroom so that more ...: I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live by the light that I have. I must st...

A LITTLE LIKE MARILYN

2012-01-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

Last night I went to a Week with Marilyn, after a day in the sun with my friend, the film director Peter Medak. I was a bit disappointed with the film and I hate to say it. All you readers know that I love Marilyn with a passion and therefore would normally wish it well. We know that Michelle Williams is not Marilyn but at some angles I was fooled at least. The styling was correct, in fact everything looked correct but where was the cheeky wit and smile?. I am sure the problem is weight?. Marilyn was rounder and her breasts were larger, she was hugely sexy and she is a very hard act to follow. Marilyn has been in the papers every day of her life and death, and her persona known to everyone. I don't know what it was, I just did not believe either Kenneth Branagh as Sir Laurence Olivier, who is an incredible actor, or Michelle. Something was lacking and perhaps these people are too hard to follow, after all the real persona Norma Jean and her studio made her into Marilyn Monroe?.
Alexandre Desplat composed the music, the composer of the moment.. he is just about everywhere, but he is unlikely to win an Oscar this year for Harry Potter, Ides of March or A week with Marilyn. Unlikely I think because he has done so many better scores for film. My favourites being for Lust Caution and Girl with a Pearl Earring.

I admire everything that Harvey Weinstein produces, he has incredible taste. Am I was the only person who thoroughly enjoyed WE?. The costumes were incredible but then I am also a fan of Wallis Simpson. I like strong ballsy women and Madonna did a great job..

A BLOOMSBURY BLOG

2012-01-09T09:56:00.000-08:00

A BLOOMSBURY BLOG

The Matthew Aaron Show Jan. 6th 2012 - Amanda Eliasch 01/06 by The Matthew Aaron Show | Blog Talk Radio

2012-01-07T14:33:00.000-08:00

The Matthew Aaron Show Jan. 6th 2012 - Amanda Eliasch 01/06 by The Matthew Aaron Show | Blog Talk Radio

AS I LIKE REVIEW..

2012-01-05T11:46:00.000-08:00

AS I LIKE IT is I have to say, one of the strangest things I've seen, yet completely compelling. It's like nothing I've seen before. Sort of absurdist, sort of confessional, sort of mysterious. And what a bravura performance. I can imagine how challenging it is to be on stage, virtually by yourself,Elizabeth, and responsible for driving the entire thing. Anyway, very avant garde, European, will be very interested to see what others make of it, as well. One of those works that needs to be discussed.

A C,

WEIGH YOURSELF AND DON['T FORGET THE OLD WARHORSE

2012-01-05T06:59:00.000-08:00

My play has started at the Macha Theatre and we are onto our second week with two good reviews under our belt. I have been so busy that to write this blog I have to be awake in the middle of the night. The theatre is rented out when we are not using it, to an acting class, and the teacher wants to cut the strings of the picture frame which was delicately placed by Trip Haenisch whose ideas are followed throughout Los Angeles. Some people have no idea how treat other peoples property.
It is a new year so new promises. Tango lessons have started along with new vows.
I am starting a cleanse. Will it work and will I be able to stick to it.? I am not as good at dieting as I used to be. This time I am trying out a new company. Pressedjuicery. They do the same as Izo cleanze and deliver to the door at 7am in iced bags. I hope it tastes a bit better. Usually I want to break it about 3pm, but need to do this immediately. Last week my gallstones hurt so much I thought I would pass out. I have to recover from the delicious food I consumed.
I shall attempt to jump on the scales, be horrified and yell at myself, "You must be thin".
Sometimes I look in the mirror and think "Why is thin meant to look good"? I like my roundness.
I have a nice layer of fat, it looks pretty in the mirror and feels good in the dark, then I say rubbish it looks terrible. These are fights I shall have with myself.

Last night I went to see Spielberg's Warhorse. Critics need to really think before they write. I was ready to hate it because of their vile words. It is a moving tale and should be seen by everybody. Beautiful acting and Joey the horse should be nominated for an Oscar, he gave a majestic performance. The two and half hours passed so quickly and the photography took me into another world. Another nomination should go to the dog in the Artist. Those two are in my opinion. this years best actors.

LA SOCIETY

2012-01-03T22:22:00.000-08:00

LA SOCIETY

PURPLE IN MY ARMS

2012-01-03T22:19:00.001-08:00

I miss you

darling

just suddenly

I dreamt of you

purple in my arms

purple with fury

of souls touching

I missed you

just a little.

I wasted my thoughts

and time

yet I did not

I want to cry

but

cannot

I cannot because

I was given

time

that

was

foolishly forbidden

yet not

yet

I miss you darling

purple in my

arms

I miss you

OVER YET NOT

2012-01-03T22:10:00.000-08:00

When he left I tried to be brave

he said he needed to

re group

and go home

I thought I would die

I was calm

but I was not

I cried

I was told he would

be back

I saw him

again

and

he asked me if I

I had a good holiday

of course I did not

I could not

for years he had been a silent

post

in my life

silent yet there

hidden

but not excluded

I decided to change

my life

to change my body

I had enjoyed

sex too much

with

him

I had to

cut my body up

improve it

make it virginal

locked up

keep other men

away

I love this man

it is over

yet I know it is not.

DRESS REHEARSAL NERVES

2011-12-29T10:22:00.000-08:00

The play starts tonight with two nights of previews and the first night on Saturday. All of us worked late last night to find its hidden depths. It was emotional and inspirational. Lisa sang Casta Diva as she cried and Elizabeth spoke her words with deeper thought. There is something about rehearsal that is exhausting and exposing. We then went for a delicious dinner at La Boheme, a pretty restaurant with delicious food just around the corner from the restaurant.

The girls looked stunning in Trip Haenisch's set sitting on Mark Brazier Jones's chair against my neon that I made with Kay Saatchi. Make up and hair was done by Tonya Crooks and Gia Sinatra. Their puff ball dresses looked adorable. Charles Eliasch, my son wore his favourite Alexander Macqueen coat of gold brocade.
Cross fingers and break a leg to all of the cast and crew.

Much ado about Amanda Eliasch | Life & Style

2011-12-28T14:40:00.000-08:00

Much ado about Amanda Eliasch | Life & Style

John Alan Simon Bio: Writer/Director/Producer

2011-12-27T14:28:00.000-08:00

John Alan Simon Bio: Writer/Director/Producer

MY TEN TOP BEAUTY SECRETS

2011-12-27T12:57:00.000-08:00

1. Eyebrows frame your face and hold the secrets to your soul. The best eyebrow artist in the world is in my opinion, Tonya Crooks, The brow gal, she makes you look ravishing immediately

2. There are many hairdressers around the world but I usually use two, Angela Kalinowski in Los Angeles and Snowden Hill in London. You know that your hair is going to both styled in an imaginative way and well taken care of.

3. Eating green food totally changes the way I feel. I like cucumbers, lettuce, brocali, apple and celery. I also like orange and lemon mixed together with some ginger to make me feel totally alive.

4. Looking after your teeth is essential for looking your best, many girls look good but when they open their mouth it looks terrible. You should visit the Dentist at least once every three months for a check up and a thorough cleanze. Always use a whitener and some floss before going to bed, otherwise you will look like you could grow a garden. In Los Angeles I use a French dentist called Dr Fusier.

5. Keep happy and cheerful with regular yoga classes, I use Eka in Los Angeles and Justine Glenton in London. Classes are very good too. I enjoyed Gumurkh's last night at the Golden Bridge in LA, it was singing yoga. An hour and half of total bliss.

6. Nails are always noticed do not forget. I have been doing Gels recently which last forever and I will probably always use them in future. In London I use Sophy Robson and Zaida, and in Los Angeles I use a small shop off Sunset Boulevard.

7. Keep educating yourself. Do not assume you know everything. Keep alive, try new things out. Read a book. Have good sex, you can always tell when women do not, they have dead eyes.

8. Plenty of sleep. Although we spend a long time in the coffin, I sleep better with an eye mask. The best ones I have ever used were from Myla, they are soft, pretty and manageable. Otherwise try sleeping with a silk scarf.

9. Do not eat after 6pm if you can help it. I find this has kept my weight down. It is not perfect but also it is not bad either.

10.

Before you go to sleep think of something that makes you happy and you find that you wake up in a better mood.

IF I EAT AGAIN I SHALL BURST

2011-12-27T04:28:00.000-08:00

It is the day after Christmas and my gallstones are playing up. Terrible pains are shooting through my body and I must remember to keep liking green. They feel worse than having a baby, although I truly cannot remember what that felt like. However, I remember pretending to a have my eldest son Charles, faking giving birth and suddenly I was. I also cleaned my entire house over and over again in the last moments before he came into this world. Now he is acting in my play in Los Angeles, playing the part of the Boy and I feel I never want to eat again.
It seems all so quick, there he was lying on my stomach and now he is on the stage playing Chopin.

Christmas was spent with Ayako and Michel Comte at their beautiful house in Beverly Hills with views over the city. It is probably one of the most stunning mansions, traditional yet exciting. Ayako has enormous talent and creates stunning Kimonos amongst other things, made out of plastic and hand painted cloth. She also is a delicious cook and I ate far too much. Michel is the world famous photographer who has captured many a celebrity with his camera. Together with Kay Saatchi I ate the most yummy fondue.

It is a long way a way from watching Wim Wenders documentary called Pina. It still sticks in my brain. Pina Bausch and her brilliant dance troupe have been turned into a dream to honour her work. The film matches her surreal talent. It is in 3D which adds to the films earth reality.

Elizabeth Karr is on her way to perform in my play and Lisa Zane makes her debut doing Folk version of opera. Dan Rucks has kindly offered to film the show, as my friend Joseph Pusateri has agreed to do the music. It has been all go, filming, recording and now I need to go on a diet, I do not want to eat ever again.

Pina | Trailer D (2011) 3D Berlinale 2011 Wim Wenders

2011-12-21T23:53:00.000-08:00

2011-12-21T12:40:00.000-08:00

The play is rehearsing downstairs on a very sunny day in Los Angeles. Lisa's dulcet tones are hitting my bedroom and I feel at home with opera and the passion of Elizabeth Karr's inflections as she speaks the play I wrote. I miss my English cast of course, I even miss Lyall Watson too. What can I say? The set goes in tomorrow designed by the brilliant Trip Haenisch, he was a neighbour of mine in Eden Place my favourite house that I briefly owned in Los Angeles. Of course I like many interior designers and used Nicky Haslam for the previous production and Martyn Lawrence Bullard for my latest house in Los Angeles. Trip has panache.

My body is coming together after the plastic surgery. People in this city can look like they don't belong to their body. I did a thigh lift and tummy tuck and nearly six weeks later I have very tiny scars thanks to the good nursing from my friend Julia Laverne who nursed me through some rather painful moments. My son Jack says they look incredible and he is a tough judge.

I went to Carnage, Polanki's new film which is brilliantly directed, I laughed all the way through it. Jodi Foster was incredibly funny.

I writing a list of clothes I would like to wear in the Spring edition for Genlux. The magazine splashes with colour now Chriselle Lim has taken over as director. Of course I still love black and will probably always only wear it. However this Spring there are lovely block colours being used by Louis Vuitton and Prada. Softer than normal. Chriselle is a talented new edition and has a brilliant blog describing what she wears each day.

I love my Alexander Mcqueen coat I bought at the beginning of the season, I live in it.

Countdown To “As I Like It” Premiere!

2011-12-21T12:19:00.000-08:00

Countdown To “As I Like It” Premiere!

As I Like It, A Teaser

2011-12-20T23:21:00.000-08:00

AS I LIKE IT a PLAY Directed by John Alan Simons

2011-12-20T17:53:00.000-08:00

AS I LIKE IT A PLAY BY AMANDA ELIASCH AND LYALL WATSON

Sophie Barker EPK

2011-12-19T15:47:00.000-08:00

STARS, PREMIERES and the importance of being ernest

2011-12-16T18:53:00.000-08:00

"There is no recession where beauty is concerned in Los Angeles" I was told tonight by Svetlana Feller, who swears "If you can't lose it, tan it" She owns the company Spray di Sole and arrives weekly with her tent which she created to turn women into the perfect brown creatures. I have become addicted. It is now five weeks since I had surgery with Dr Perlman who has given me a much prettier figure. My son Jack cannot believe the difference from last year. He said that I look thirty five.. I do love him. Flattery gets him everywhere..
The Brow Gal, Tanya Crooks is another person I can highly recommend. She arrives like a whirlwind everyday and we laugh together putting our lives right. She is a clever girl and manages to make everywoman look the bomb they should be. To finish everything off, hair by the beautiful Angela Kalinowski guarantees true Hollywood contemporary glamour.
This week I bought a new house thank goodness . It has wonderful views and I know I will be happy there.
I went to the Charlize Theron premiere, a story about a messy bitch who tries to find love with an ex who has just had a baby. She re-visits her past, and like all of us regrets it. I totally understood her, and Charlize gave a brilliant performance.
I am pleased that the Globes have given hope to my favourite film The Artist.
Finally my play As I like it, is taking shape, Lisa Zane is becoming brilliant, and my hat is off to Elizabeth Karr who really manages to take a bunny out of a hat.

I also have donated a neon light to the charity Art of Elysium. It is truly worthwhile, helping children who have terminal illnesses live life to the full, through art.

THE GENLUX TEAM

2011-12-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

AS I LIKE IT BY AMANDA ELIASCH AND LYALL WATSON, TICKETS

2011-12-12T07:06:00.000-08:00

A fast play with Lisa Zane, Charles Eliasch and Elizabeth Karr directed by John Alan Simon.
Set by Trip Haenisch
Public relations by Andrew Freedman and Eileen Koch
At the MACHA THEATRE
from the
29th December until the 15th JanuaryAS I LIKE IT

MY PLAY LOS ANGELES, MACHA THEATRE

2011-12-11T15:18:00.001-08:00

AND BY LYALL WATSON.

With Elizabeth Karr
Lisa Zane
Charles Eliasch

Trip Haenisch designed the set.

Directed by John Alan Simon

AS I LIKE IT

IN THE LAND OF BLOOD AND HONEY a film by Angelina Jolie

2011-12-10T12:16:00.001-08:00

This film has truly moved me. Of course I knew all about the atrocities of the Bosnian war, but it was the dates that disturbed. Whilst I was comfortable with my children, bringing them up, a war was happening. Bosnia is beautiful, yet where is it? Who are the people that lived there? What is a Serb?. Of course I know all know the answers yet they are somehow removed. Angelina's movie removed the plaster, and woke us all up. I spent the whole night half watching the film through my fingers and grabbing my friends arm. There were oscar winning performances everywhere. Mrs Brad Pitt deserves huge applaud for this raw film.
Had another busy day, working on the play with Lisa Zane blindfolded, dramatic singing. There are moments of great excitement.

I am driving again a little thank goodness. I can just about sit down after the operation. All was well worth it, my legs are looking so much better.

What is this thing in Los Angeles that my girlfriends don't want to wash with soap. They hate the soaps here and they are all organic. The problem is we are bit too far from Paris and London. Yesterday I solved the problem with a visit to Santa Maria Novella from Florence in Melrose Place. Thank goodness, it is alright to be an organic health freak but why not wash your hair every two days instead of once a week?

A LOT TO SAY

2011-12-08T15:03:00.001-08:00

A LOT TO SAY

Magnificent shop within Fred Segals, Santa Monica.

MY TWENTY ONE TOP ARTISTS

2011-12-08T09:53:00.001-08:00

1. TRACEY EMIN
2. TIM NOBLE AND SUE WEBSTER
3. POLLY MORGAN
4. MAT COLLISHAW
5. DAMIAN HIRST
6. DUGGIE FIELDS
7. YASSI MAZANDI
8. CHRIS LEVINE
9. MICHAEL CRAIG MARTIN

A portion in Black and White of Duggie Field's painting in Los Angeles

10 VICENZO
11 BABA ANAND
12 PETER BLAKE
13. TIERNEY GEARON
14 MARC QUINN
15 WOLFE VON LENKIEWICZ
16 RUSSELL YOUNG
17 MARK BRAZIER JONES
18 DAPHNE GUINNESS
19 ADAM FUSS
20 BARRY REIGATE
21 LISA BORGNES

What is an artist for me? Firstly I have to admire their work, then I like to see them multi task, and then I can fall in love. If they can multi task they are in my opinion a true artist. Anybody can draw with a light box directed at a piece of paper so what is really interesting is when people think of different ideas. For example Daphne Guinness is a style icon but more importantly an artist too, she makes jewellery, scent and encourages people to go further with their ideas. Damian too does this. Everybody on my list has created a piece of work that I have loved and in most cases I luckily own a piece. My most favourite piece is my elephant made by Marc Quinn.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy - Official US Trailer

2011-12-08T09:22:00.000-08:00

O SRBIMA-Rade Serbedzija i Bogdan Diklic,scena iz filma 72 dana

2011-12-08T09:21:00.000-08:00

TINKER TAILORED ON 72 DAYS

2011-12-08T08:08:00.001-08:00

Los Angeles has a premiere every night it seems. From Tinker Tailor which on my second viewing seemed to be so much more interesting than the first time. I was awake instead of hot and tired from Venice. Although wonderfully romantic, Venice is tricky to get around and so perhaps it showed better here in Los Angeles. In any case there was a really fun party at the Chateau Montmartre afterwards with delicious food. Gary Oldman is a favourite of mine as is Colin Firth.
A comedy from Croatia which kept me on the edge of my seat was 72 Days. Granny has to be kept pretty, she receives her pension from America once a month, and when she dies another Granny is stolen to replace her, this one is more alive and violent. It has received so many awards from around the world and justifiably so. From dark to light it has some funny and delightful moments. I personally loved Granny playing with a rubber duck in the bath. With the actor Rade Serbedzija and Mira Banjac it has a winning cast.

My flat fell through in Paris, I am more than thrilled. Why would I want to immediately sell something that I fell in love with and I have had so much fun in?. Tamara de Lempicka obviously loves me there more than the new owner. I am happy to keep it for the time being.

PHOTOGRAPHS "AS I LIKE IT" STYLED BY AMANDA ELIASCH

2011-12-06T10:39:00.001-08:00

AMANDA ELIASCH AT BRITANNIA AWARDS

2011-12-04T18:05:00.001-08:00

AMANDA ELIASCH AT THE BRITANNIA AWARDS

Michael Lustig's brilliant TV Television

2011-12-04T16:26:00.001-08:00

THE LIP TV

2011-12-04T10:56:00.001-08:00

PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE AS I LIKE IT TEAM

BRITANNIA AWARDS

2011-12-03T18:53:00.001-08:00

AMANDA ELIASCH BRITANNIA AWARDS

AS I LIKE IT TEAM

2011-12-03T18:06:00.001-08:00

Costumes by Amanda Eliasch, Hair by Angela Kalinowski

BRITANNIA AWARDS

2011-12-01T22:36:00.001-08:00

Some good things are happening. Last night I went to the Britannia Awards which honored Warren Beatty, Helena Bonham Carter, John Lasseter, Ben Siller and David Yates. I actually found the evening very interesting and am a huge fan of Helena's and Ben Siller's. Harry Potter too. A room with a View was an incredible film and I loved Alice in Wonderland, so anything said about Helena is correct. I sat with the very wonderful Nigel Daly and Amanda Nevill. Amanda and I had lots of fun getting ready on her very tight schedule. I walked the red carpet which was fun and an insight to how things are done in this town. Wearing my dress by Marc Jacobs got a lot of attention or was it the creation by Phillip Treacy?. I was treated like a film star and congratulated for my glamour. How the world is changing.

I found a house that will make me happy forever. A number 11, I shall be pleased to see a new world. It has great views and is the right period.

2011-12-01T10:41:00.001-08:00

Britannia Awards

2011-12-01T08:28:00.001-08:00

Britannia Awards

A LITTLE MIRACLE WITH SURGERY

2011-11-30T10:38:00.001-08:00

It is now seventeen days since my surgery and do you know I think that Dr Perlman in Beverly Hills is a master?. He has done a miracle. My knees are beginning to change shape and my tummy looks flatter than it has ever been, as for a waist?. I think I am starting to see one for the first time in my life. He has gently changed my shape without losing my teddy bear character or making me look ridiculous. As for the scars, I have so little that I shall be a fan of his forever. Originally I went to him as I was being chatted up by men who were so good looking that I thought if I removed my clothes I would feel totally miserable. Middle age creeps up on you so quickly, and although I feel only fifteen, the reality is that the figures are the other way round. Also at least I do not look distorted. I hate huge bosoms, ridiculous lips, I just wanted to remove skin from weight loss and as neatly as possible.

With good make up and hair you can look ravishing. Do not know over do anything. Too big breast implants make you look fat, and the lips make you look like a fool. Keep everything to a realistic minimum and you can be a very happy Bunny. Keep the eyebrows thicker, thin ones age you drastically and make sure that if you like red lipstick that it does not go over your whole face. I love ruby woo by Mac.

It is the end of November here in Los Angeles, where I am living a sunny bright life, with no hint of winter. My play, As I like it, is starting and looks promising with so many talented people involved, Elizabeth Karr and Lisa Zane, Trip Haenisch, John Alan Simons and Ed Bennett Coles. I am sure that it will be a success at the Macha Theatre. Patty Freedman and Eileen Koch are doing a great job with publicity.

AS I LIKE IT, LOS ANGELES: AS I LIKE IT, A PLAY BY AMANDA ELIASCH AND ADAPTED...

2011-11-27T20:19:00.000-08:00

AS I LIKE IT, LOS ANGELES: AS I LIKE IT, A PLAY BY AMANDA ELIASCH AND ADAPTED...: THE ACTRESS ELIZABETH KARR THE SINGER LISA ZANE THE BOY CH...

Marnie (1964) pt.13/13

2011-11-27T14:19:00.000-08:00

AS I LIKE IT girls LISA ZANE, ELIZABETH KARR AND AMANDA ELIASCH

2011-11-24T16:02:00.001-08:00

As I like it a play written by AMANDA ELIASCH adapted for stage by Lyall Watson, with Elizabeth Karr as The Actress, Lisa Zane as The Opera Singer, Charles Eliasch as The boy. Directed by John Alan Simon. Produced by Amanda Eliasch and Elizabeth Karr. The Macha Theatre 29th December - 15 January 2012. The Set is designed by Trip Haenisch, Interior Designer.

"I wrote this play for my father Anthony Cave Brown some years ago at his request. He said I should be able to write. As I left school at 16 with a cheeky grin and a lot of ambition, I decided that I would try my hand at his craft. I loved it. He read the script and said he loved it but that I could not print it until my family were dead, they are sadly. My son is playing the boy.

I loved my team in London with Justine Glenton and Susan Parkes. This will be something different and new".

Les Enfants du Siècle - Love letters

2011-11-24T09:20:00.000-08:00

evgeny kissin plays beethoven moonlight sonata 3rd movement

2011-11-23T18:43:00.000-08:00

LIFE IN HOLLYWOOD

2011-11-22T22:38:00.001-08:00

Today I spent some wonderful hours with Julieanne Rhodes in Soho House. Cook and blogger to the stars in Hollywood, she conjures up dreams in the kitchen that few can realise. After cooking all week end, nd studying it when I was young at Cordon Bleu school, I am aware of all the hard work this artistry takes. Julieanne creates dishes that surprise and keep your loved ones very happy. I know, because two years ago she gave me the most delicious birthday surprise, a lunch for all my friends. We discussed the famine in Africa, fighting merrily as to whether she should raise funds for children or for contraception for women. I have firm views that might not be entirely popular. I am however fighting for the fish in the sea, without them we are dead. I think we should all stop eating and fishing the seas as we do.
I was also sitting with Lisa Borgnes, artist and blogger, well educated and talented that she puts the world to shame.
My house that I moved to belonging to Janet Leigh, sold today. I shall miss it. I did not want to move here, but have loved every minute of it. Time goes quickly and I never know what it brings. I am also about to sell my Tamara de Lempicka house and so I shall enter the next stage of my life. What excitement.
Last night I spent the evening with George Blodwell, Editor at Large for Genlux Magazine. We went to the light spectacular on Rodeo Drive for Swarovoski with Jessica Alba and Jennifer Hudson.

Glenda Jackson in "A Touch Of Class"

2011-11-21T08:21:00.000-08:00

The Way We Were - Trailer

2011-11-21T08:17:00.000-08:00

The Way We Were - Ending

2011-11-21T08:15:00.000-08:00

Robert Redford & Meryl Streep, Out of Africa, marking the 125th anniversary

2011-11-21T08:14:00.000-08:00

LOVE AFFAIRS ARE NOT AN INSURANCE POLICY

2011-11-20T22:05:00.001-08:00

A love affair is not

a man seeing your
Tampax
or

corn plaster,

and

a love affair is something

you always have

the chance of looking

like a
movie star in.

The love is not
meant to make you happy
it is meant to
thrill
you.

In a love affair you
arch your back

you look good asleep,

a love affair does not
last and yet it
lasts forever,

it is a love affair,

and you want to be an
exquisite
creature

not an
insurance policy.

A relationship or marriage
is being

a house frau
bent over

potatoes, slouched in a

sofa farting

like a big compost heap
with escaping

gasses,

hiding shit behind cushions

In a love affair

you must not to
cry your eyes out

or feel sorry for yourself,

that you are not

enough for your love

affair
you must not be

suspicious as to
whether your lover
has many other lovers

In love affairs
you are like
a sexy French spy

in a rain coat.
The most important thing is
that

love affairs are essential
otherwise we

are dead.

TIPs FROM THE YOGI JUSTINE GLENTON

2011-11-20T15:33:00.001-08:00

Christmas health tips
'Christmas' often brings withit an abundance of stress and expense. As a society, we can be very much out oftouch with the inherent beauty and simple magnificence of this time of year. Aconscious step back will help alleviate some, if not all, of this stress.
Essentially, in Yoga and Buddhism, one seeks the truth without being removedfrom the world. It is similar to Jesus' teaching to 'be in the world, but notof it'. When practicing yoga asana (postures), one stays connected to the peaceand ease of being with the breath, while still experiencing all physical,mental and emotional sensations that arise in each pose. The key element isthat the practicing individual feels these things fully, without being consumedby them.
Likewise, in Buddhism it is taught that in order to minimize and eliminatesuffering, we should practice detachment. It is recommended to continue livingin the world with all the experiences it offers, but recognizing these thingsas transient and unpredictable, thus letting go of any desires or expectationsaround them.
Having the understanding that the season is simply about opening our heartsto those around us is the Truth, while all the other actions surrounding it aremerely extra. They are the sensations of the yoga pose; aspects to be noted andexplored for what they are, while staying rooted in the unwavering truth thatthey are not the essence of it.
Similarly, from a Buddhist perspective, recognize the transient andunpredictable nature of the actions surrounding the holiday: the dinner may notturn out perfect, the tree might not be as big as last years, the gifts may notbe what we wished for...yet none of these things are the cause of the joy ofthe season anyway, and are therefore ultimately irrelevant.
You don't need to abandon whatever customs you normally take part in, butinstead of getting caught up in them, seek to stay connected to the puremeaning of the holiday, and allow your actions to stem effortlessly from here.
Breathe, notice, and allow yourself to enjoy the experience.
Here are some active physical yoga tips to incorporate into your ‘loving’Christmas:

1. AloeVera is a great cleanser and aids the liver. (The liver is our first line ofdefense against toxins so look after it!)

2. StMary’s Thistle is a good liver support – good if you plan to be drinking,eating meats and sweets with refined sugar ;)

3. Keephydrated – drink plenty of water – Dandelion tea helps detox the liver.

4. Yogaincreases the alpha waves in the brain which are responsible for relaxation, italso reduces the amount of Cortisol in the body – a hormone responsible forstress and can keep us holding onto weight.

5. Inthis time of giving it’s important to give to yourself too, so take time outfor yourself: A peaceful walk, meditation, or deep relaxation. Replenish andrejuvenate ;0

6. HelpfulYoga poses: Hero pose is fabulous for the digestive meridian in the body. Legsup against the wall or on a chair or shoulderstand for fifteen minutes – for tired legs from shopping orcooking! Helps to eliminate the fluid retention from your legs. A Headstandwill change your perspective on things and give your heart a rest. Plough poseis good for relieving tension in the upper back and shoulders. Cobra pose toneand strengthen the superficial and deep muscles of the back and abdominalregions, it helps to increase back bending flexibility, relieves tension in thelower back – excellent if you have been shovelling snow! Spinal twist helpsvertebrae mobility, the roots of the nervous system and spinal nerves get tonedand provided with increased blood supply – something helpful after all thatdrinking! Locust pose – Shalambasana, massages the internal organs and makesthem frisky – good for combating the big meal doldrums!

7. Yogic Detox Tea: 1/4tsp coriander seeds,1/4tsp cumin seeds, 1/4stp fennel seeds mix with 1.5 litres of hot water. Sipthroughout the day.

8. Cleansingnegativity from your aura: 1cup of salt, 1lb baking soda into warm bath – soakfor 20 minutes repeat for 7 days . Removes chemicals from your physical body.

9. Laughter– buy in a great comedy movie or your favourite stand up comedians dvd andraise the endorphins.

Happy Holidays!

2011-11-20T12:18:00.001-08:00

PRESS FOR AS I LIKE IT

Wrong Verdict for Amanda Knox?

2011-11-19T06:24:00.000-08:00

Toby Mott, Billy Idol and Vivien Goldman at Honor Fraser Gallery

2011-11-19T06:19:00.000-08:00

Hedi Slimane- Interview

2011-11-19T06:13:00.000-08:00

Neon next! Why Amanda Eliasch keeps creating

2011-11-19T06:02:00.000-08:00

Neon next! Why Amanda Eliasch keeps creating

World: Fukushima Struggles to Rescue its Land

2011-11-18T19:57:00.000-08:00

Noel Coward - I went to a marvelous party (check out lyrics below!)

2011-11-18T15:02:00.000-08:00

PINK PIANO PARADISE

2011-11-18T11:05:00.001-08:00

Changes happen in one week, it is a miracle.
I have decided to paint my pink piano with a portrait of me lying on it as if I am an old time Hollywood movie star. It will look perfect on the stage this Christmas at the Macha Theatre, Kings Road, Los Angeles for my play that I wrote called As I like it, which was adapted for stage by Lyall Watson.
The charming Trip Haenisch is to design the set. He was my neighbour in Eden Place. There are so many talented interior designers that are fun to work with. They have theatrical brains, and Trip is ideally intellectual for this play in so many ways, just as Nicky Haslam was in London. It will include my skull that I bought from Phillips the auctioneers, and a neon sign I made with Kay Saatchi and Michael Flechtner. There are many opportunities in this talented city, Elizabeth Karr will play the Woman, Lisa Zane the opera singer and Charles Eliasch, my son will play again the boy. Directed by the interesting JOHN ALAN SIMON's. Edward Bennett Coles is now Associate Producer. He is busy making a film and so will help with the production...
I am happy, I like a family to work with.

Lisa Zane is in New York studying with Charles at Mannes, the music school, to become the opera singer. She looks as near to Callas as you can get and the lovely Elizabeth Karr is working to take over the role of The Actress. I can't wait to start real work all over again.. I shall miss Justine Glenton and Susan Parkes and the team at The Chelsea Theatre...

Neon next! Why Amanda Eliasch keeps creating

2011-11-17T21:55:00.000-08:00

Neon next! Why Amanda Eliasch keeps creating

I WILL WEAR A NORMA KAMALI RED SWIMSUIT SOON

2011-11-16T09:35:00.001-08:00

I was collected by two seriously attractive ambulance men today, full of muscles,hair, youth and virility, what a change. They picked me up as if I weighed three stone and took me gently to the charming Dr Perlman, to remove all messages from his knife. If I wink I could be a "ten". At least ,I look as if I have only had tiny amounts done. My good girlfriends are saying remove the information from the blog, but as everybody gossips, it is better I have first say. The truth is that I look so much better.
Los Angeles is getting ready for Thanksgiving and I have many invitations. To me, being English it sounds like the Harvest Festival which I used to love. There are parties everywhere from Dolce and Gabbana, Alexander Mcqueen,(who, if you bought things, a percentage was given to LACMA), and Stephen Webster which was without the Webster's, my favourite people.
It is funny being in bed in LA. Friends are telling me to stay in and get well, but of course I wish to get up and run about. There is so much to do. With my play going up at the end of December and moving at roughly the same time. I want to buy something discreet.
There are people supporting the arts on every corner, so why anybody would think this place is uncultured, seems to be just rantings of a lunatic, I love it in many ways, the sunshine, the mindless chatter, and my good old friends that have little or nothing to do with Hollywood, although it adds lots of glamour to my life.
So many interesting things go on here besides films, which nowadays seem to be made in New Orleans anyway due to slashed budgets.
Come on legs get better soon, I want to put on my red swimsuit.

I HAVE BECOME a BIONIC WOMAN

2011-11-13T20:02:00.001-08:00

Is it vanity to do nothing about repairing your body and going natural, or is it vanity to assume that people want to look at old skin. Of course people love beauty but also they love to say "Oh god have you seen the state of her" There is no way you can win, and so you might as well please yourself, and I am telling you if you have the money, repair it. In 72 hours my body looks twenty times better than it did with the swelling and markings still present. Dr Perlman in my opinion is a genius. The improvement I would say makes the menopause so much easier to deal with. Who wants middle age spread and physical devastation?. Should I talk about this, yes. I am fed up with models and actresses having enormous amounts of surgery and not admitting to it. I am telling you they are very rarely if ever natural. Women need to know that there is an alternative and you have an option. Obviously it takes money and in this financial environment, it might be difficult.
In any case I would show off my my scars with pride, but I can hardly see them. For years I hated my knees, I had lost 300 pounds and had to put up with sagging skin. It was neither attractive to my boyfriends or myself.
For me this is a win win situation. I have done it for myself. I could say nothing, but if Hollywood advertises it, why should I not admit to it?.

THE PRICE OF VANITY, GET RID OF THE OLD

2011-11-12T18:37:00.001-08:00

I have decided to get rid of my old body. Fed up of old skin that looked twenty years older than my face. It was time to spruce it all up. Is it vanity to assume that people want to look at old wrinkled skin, or is it vanity to change this and have a lift or two.? I have never had a beautiful body, I was not a ten that walked out of the sea and everybody turned with open mouths. No I was a little round English girl with quite a pretty face.

For a few years I have tried to imagine what it would be like to have the perfect body. I studied and found Mr Perlman in Beverly Hills. The photographs he shows on his website look realistic and his video looks welcoming. So I booked myself in. It was time to modernise everything. The men after me are becoming younger and younger so I need to feel good about myself. How could I whip my clothes off when I have had two children and had lost about 300 pounds of weight?.

I needed the confidence that a body lift would bring. Confidence in turn brings out happiness and love for other people. Well it does on me. I love other people so like to be merry sunshine, instead of feeling jealousy towards other women. So off I went yesterday to Perlman's office in North Camden Drive. In the same building as Dr Raj Kanodia and Dr Alfred Cohen, both famous for their faces, I knew I would be in good hands. I did not ask around as I knew what everybody would say. In any case I had put on 7 pounds in the last four years and I was not interested in dieting and I felt like giving up. This is not me so I have shaken myself into action.

Of course I have pain, of course I feel a little sick, but already I can see my knees look twenty years younger. So I would rather look at that than the opposite. Life is for living and not getting ready for the coffin just yet. I am happy with the results and my tummy in one day looks 100 percent better. Thank you Dr Perlman.

Renee Fleming - Eugene Onegin - Letter Scene (part 2)

2011-11-09T22:22:00.000-08:00

2011-11-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

Back in Los Angeles, I am again making life changes. Decided to do some body upkeep, had a total check up, which thank goodness was done in the same building, very efficiently. I await for the results. I saw my heart was normal, bruised emotionally of course.

I have made changes in the cast and director of my play too. Artistic differences. My director now is the great John Simons and the actress is Elizabeth Karr. They are like family. If feels right. If there are problems they would bother to ring me up. I like John's artistic brilliance and sense of humour. You feel they have the integrity and honesty needed for a partnership.

Last night I went to see the premiere of the silent movie The Artist , which easily is the best film I have seen this year. Obviously I am a lover of black and white film, and the story line is romantic andwatchable, with brilliant performances all round.

Maria Casarès & J.-L. Barrault-Les enfants du paradis

2011-11-09T10:58:00.000-08:00

HIGH 50 LIFE IS SWEET

2011-11-04T22:39:00.001-07:00

HIGH 50 Life is Sweet

MACHA THEATRE AS I LIKE IT

2011-11-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

MACHA THEATRE

Nancy Dell'Olio and Anton Du Beke - Rumba - Strictly Come Dancing 2011

2011-11-02T09:55:00.000-07:00

50-plus, single, and tipped by Tatler

2011-11-02T04:42:00.000-07:00

50-plus, single, and tipped by Tatler