Seguidillas de La verbena de la Paloma- Grupo Talía


The lisping Choir at their very best, that final note from the sopranos lifted the auditorium’s roof as I recall
This “new” view of part of the Zarzuela ( a typically Spanish staged drama, comprising of popular songs, Opera, and dancing) features the happy anticipation of the townsfolk to an 1894 towns fair- The Fair Of The Dove
I can’t believe I will see them again in just two weeks time.

Those that know Madrid, any suggestions to visit?

I’m trying to be frugal until then, but I have splashed out for a 5£ ticket to go to the ceramic Fayre at the nearby Bodryddan Hall on Sunday. It’s beautiful ..have a look below


Watch the video, you can see Gop Hill in the distance to the right 


34 comments:

  1. Barbara Anne5:06 pm

    WOW and WOW, for the choir (2 weeks!!!!!!!) and for North Wales' best kept secret, the home of Lord Langford and family.
    Wonder what you might find to buy at the Ceramic Fayre??!

    Hugs!

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    1. It looks really interesting and 5£ is a cheap day out

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  2. Exciting that you will see your beloved choir perform again in two short weeks!

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  3. Bodryddan Hall looks absolutely beautiful, and a ceramic fair, and plants, and a beautiful garden? Sigh. Lucky man.

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    1. A nice treat m and I’ll take Roger too

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  4. Oh, Madrid. I envy you. I shall be going back in September so will drool over your trip report until then.

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    1. I want to know what you do, any suggestions

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    2. Top of my list is the Prado but I also just love walking through the Retiro Park and around the city streets.

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    3. PS if you do want to visit the Prado you'll probably need to book your ticket in advance before you go.

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    4. Any restaurant suggestions

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    5. Anonymous8:54 pm

      Just about this time of year we got wonderful tiny strawberries from a street vendor stall in Madrid - they were the size of my fingernail and sweet as candy. We didn't know how big a kilo was (and were a bit confused about the money) and ended up with a LOT of them which we shared with people in a near by park. Great memory which I don't expect you to replicate.
      Ceci

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    6. Oh my, there are so many to choose from! We don't have a favourite but just wander around and pick one that looks interesting wherever we happen to be, which is usually in the Retiro area, but you can generally find a great place full of locals in most areas of the city...if you don't mind eating really late!
      .

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  5. Anonymous6:29 pm

    What a beautiful home. I am so happy that you are going back to see your beloved Spanish group. Gigi

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    Replies
    1. I wonder why I love them so much?
      I’m not sure I can answer that
      The passion, the fun, the fact the orchestra and choir work as one under a fierce leader
      I’m not at all sure

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    2. The fact that you are part of a choir probably adds something to your enjoyment too.

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  6. Only two weeks? Woe, that's gone quickly! Your choir will be pleased to see you again.
    I see a piece of beautiful studio pottery in your near future. Didn't know I was psychic, did you?🔮😂 xx

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  7. You lucky duck! I'll be awaiting the report. X

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    1. And as if I won’t give a comprehensive one lol

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  8. Anonymous7:02 pm

    That made me tear up……….the dancers flinging their arms up to heaven as the conductor finished with a grin

    Magic

    Lee

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    1. I’m glad you see what I always have

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  9. Anonymous7:41 pm

    Life is about making the most of where you live and in your case that’s access to historical building, art and a quick dash to anywhere in Europe. Being stuck on a rather large arid island on the other side of the world, I’m sometimes envious. Ive been lucky enough to travel and when I marvel at the architecture and gardens of a stately home, I think at least the landed gentry were good for something. Employing talented people to build and grow beautiful things. It is a wonderful thing when people can express their talents through their work. Enjoy your well deserved treats in whatever form they take. £5 bargain. Xx Jane

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    1. Nicely put Jane
      And I am so humbled

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  10. I have no suggestions of where to visit, but I do recommend that you find an early morning Churos seller on a street corner. The best breakfast in the whole of Spain.

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  11. The Prado is too big to see in one go. The Reina Sofia has a wonderful collection of Spanish art. Loved it.
    Retiro park is lovely to stroll around. The big plazas are wonderful.
    Also, the Rastro is an open air flea market where you might find all sorts of treasures!
    Have fun!

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  12. the choir/opera sounds very lively and infectiously joyous. Never been to Madrid so can not advise, but i can wish you a good journey!!

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  13. Anonymous4:42 am

    Prado and Reina Sofia. Hire a commentary box at so that you get a full description of Guernica.
    which I know I needed to understand it. Terrific galleries .
    We saw 10 dachshunds in the park nearby.. their legs seemed longer than our Aggies…useless info for you really . Just walking are out the streets was interesting people are very friendly . Great food

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  14. Bodrhyddan Hall looks amazing - the topiary is incredible.

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  15. Some of my favorite memories of Madrid are wandering the narrow pedestrian streets across from the Prado after the evening meal. A couple of blocks of the main street, it becomes very-very local.

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  16. Anonymous11:05 am

    I live in southern Spain and love visiting Madrid. Whenever I go with family or friends, I suggest the Thyssen gallery which is very close to the Prado. Lots of stuff and much less frenetic than the Prado. If you visit the Prado, I would suggest you are selective in what you see. There's far too much to see on one visit so restrict yourself to the room with the dark Goyas, the Garden of Earthly Delights and the Meninas. Seems to work with my visitors. Maria

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  17. Anonymous12:58 pm

    The Reina Sofia, the Thyssen. Agree with Maria to be selective at the Prado. (There is a LOT of religious artwork at the Prado). If you are able to use it, the 001 bus is free transport and a way to sightsee. It starts ant the Atocha train station, has stops for the Reina Sofia, Prado and Thyssen, and ends past the Plaza Espana . Enjoy the sun! Olivia

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