Emily Cat 176

Here in Melbourne we have outbreaks of Covid19 in several different  areas. People are advised not to travel to or from these areas and the relaxing of more sanctions today are now on hold. So much of the world is grappling with this virus. My heart goes out to all those who are sick and it's a  tragedy that so many have been lost.  Whole sectors of business are on hold, and, me desperately missing the arts does not compare. I do miss it though. That got me thinking. I want to see ballet and will see ballet. For the next few weeks  l am going to be posting ballet from all around the world. And I'm going to put my money where my mouth is and donate to more companies. Not huge amounts, l can't afford that. What l can do is give small amounts with thanks. I would be paying to  see them in person and l want them to continue.  So this is what l will do.

Something different from the Australian Chamber Orchestra. Look aco Facebook page or www.aco.com.au

I've made another video.

Before the covid19 lockdown l had never heard of Twitch TV. I went looking for Michaela Burger and ended up finding so much more.  Twitch TV has a little bit of everything.  There's games, tv shows, chat shows and many musical artists. I found Michaela Burger's site and now follow her. While there l looked at other sites and was surprised to find all sort of things. Take a look at ' Be happy with Eigth Radio'. Google it and you will find a man playing a red piano accordion.  Do l like the piano accordion? In small doses, but, it got me thinking. Apps like this let people showcase their talent to the world. There are so many talented artists who we never hear from. Not everyone becomes a household name. The piano accordion player may be well known in his own country, and if anyone can tell me what language he's speaking please let me know, but something like Twitch TV allows him to reach a world wide audience. You can follow artists and support them through donations...

I was looking at a podcast on The Guardian this morning. Acclaimed children's author Andy Griffiths was answering questions from children about his books. It got me thinking; writing for children is a skill not all of us possess. How do you write, and not talk down to children? I love reading short stories and that is another specialized skill. It's very hard to encapsulate a whole story in the short form. So, l have a challenge for you all.  Try and write a short story with a 500 word limit. Have a think about it and have a go. It's harder than it sounds.

From the new Emily Cat YouTube channel. https://youtu.be/6MrOZgDywro

The lockdown continues. In Australia the arts, and book , industries are decimated. I feel so much for all the performers, singers, writers and everyone who is suffering because of this. I feel desperately sad for all those around the world who have died; it is too sad. I had so many plans to see so shows this year, but, it pales into consideration for all that has been lost. Singing musicals in my mind and hoping that this will abate soon.