I met Paul Merton tonight.
Isn't that something? I think I may have been the only patron in Belfast who can say that, since I pretty much ran him down in the back corridor of the theatre as he tried to make a quick getaway. I talked to him for a nanosecond and gushed, wild-eyed. He was very nice and said, "I hope you enjoyed it tonight." But he was probably thinking, "We have got to start getting better security at these things."
This event was "Silent Clowns," at which Paul introduced some silent films clips and explained some of the silent era's history and importance. Neil Brand, whom I'd just heard on Radio 4 this afternoon, provided piano accompaniment for the films.
He was amazing. Paul Merton mentioned that he hears Neil play many nights, and he often brings something new to his accompaniment that changes the flavour of the film.
Paul may not be speaking to Neil because the musician helped me get access to him. I feel a bit ashamed that I didn't gush all over Neil because honestly, he did the heavy lifting for the show. He played for all the clips and in the second half provided full soundtrack for the Buster Keaton full-length classic "Steamboat Bill Jr." Amazing.
All I can say by way of thanks is, check out Neil Brand's excellent film-music commentary on "The Film Programme." And buy Paul Merton's book, "Silent Comedy." If you ever get a chance to meet him, tell him that crazy lady from Belfast says hi.
Comments