Christina Bianco's Blog: Before I Sit On My Suitcase...

The dust has settled after my Hippodrome shows and I can finally write a proper blog entry!

I'm happy to report that my seven performances of 'Party of One' were fun filled and went beautifully. More than ever, I'm overwhelmed by the support of my UK friends and fans who turned up and partied with me. You're all like a fabulous drug and I am still on an adrenaline high! I aim to keep it up and will definitely be back to perform in London again soon!

When I wasn't performing, I made the most of my time here and did some deeply cool things. I couldn't resist taking a day trip to Edinburgh to see the incomparable Derren Brown in his latest show, 'Miracle.' Of course, it was one. How he continues to both entertain and educate his audience with new amazements and concepts year after year is truly inspiring. If you have the chance to attend, do yourself a huge favour and get a ticket immediately. The man is a national treasure and I'm jealous for my people that you can claim him.

I also appeared on ITV's This Morning! It was such a thrill to finally meet Phillip Schofield and Amanda Holden. (My husband was extra excited about my being in such close proximity to her. Sadly, neither her height or beauty rubbed off on me.) In addition to performing a diva mashup of 'Natural Woman', I had some super silly fun singing a version of their theme song as Julie Andrews, Shirley Bassey and Celine Dion. I really can't believe I did that on national television but, as I'm learning, I'm an extraordinary ham and will pretty much do anything for a laugh. It was very reminiscent of the YouTube videos I made for Graham Norton in which I sang his television theme song as Liza Minnelli, Lady Gaga and, of course, Celine Dion. I really do think he should follow This Morning's lead and have me to perform them live on his show, don't you? Let's make that happen, people! Start tweeting and trending!

Oh. Actually, I think that sort of behaviour has got me into a bit of trouble. You see, some of my fabulous fans here have been giving me a very specific sort of gift. I am now the proud owner of just about every piece of Benedict Cumberbatch merchandise available. And more! Some of my fans even made their own for me! Seriously, I could be a walking Sherlock pop-up shop. I think this may have something to do with the fact that I told my audiences to start a trending tweet that reads as follows:

#BiancoAsFunnyGirlWithCumberbatch.

Hmmm...I clearly need to stop talking about my admiration for him. But we all know I won't!

What else? Well, the super talented cast of War Horse came to see my late night show, then invited me to come see their show. I was completely and utterly overwhelmed by the show. The actors are incredible. How the Joey and Topthorn teams work together as one magnificent animal was breathtaking, heartbreaking...all the feelings! Then, I got to meet Joey. I may have cried. There may be photo proof. I'm OK with it. It was a unique experience that will remain unmatched for some time.

Yesterday, I went to Cambridge for the first time to hold masterclasses for Bodyworks performing arts school. The students were all so fun, talented and hardworking. It was very inspiring! it also made me feel old. But I'm OK with that too!

As I pack my bags to go back to NYC, I think two things. First, that this month has been so special: I'm so grateful to have had another fabulous UK experience. Second, that I should have bought a lot less at John Lewis because now I'll have to check two bags...and sit on at least one, in order to close it.

The comforting thought is that I will be back again in August to perform at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival and of course to see Hamlet starring Benedic....Doh!

Until next time, this is Christina signing off!

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