Previous Events
With the exception of 2010 which can be viewed from the Calender of Events page previous years meetings can be seen by clicking on the appropriate year below.
Wednesday 7th January – Meeting number 1099
Chair: Frank Leader:Tim E
New Year's Resolution
Replete from Christmas, rather than shriven, demonstrate your goodwill towards mankind by proposing, with reasons, a New Year’s Resolution for a well-known person or entity.
This evening may be video-recorded.
Includes an optional speaker review and assessment.
Thursday 22nd January – Meeting number 1100
Chair: Leslie J Leader: Frank
An evening of protests!
Whether or not you are a “grumpy old man” prepare to protest for 3 - 4 minutes politely but very effectively about something that does or might annoy you. Indifferent food or service in a restaurant? Landlord or tenant trying it on? Persistent tele-sales person interrupting delicate stage of your model aircraft construction? 24-hour minicab firm opening up next door? Plans for motorway through your front garden? Leave no doubt as to your views as well as the action you request and require… Each protest will be followed by an impromptu speech by the person (nominated by the Leader) whose actions you are protesting about.
This evening may be video-recorded.
Includes an optional speaker review and assessment.
Tuesday 3rd February – Meeting number 1101
Chair: EliseLeader:Bill
Words and proverbs that don't exist but ought to!
In a deeply controversial decision at its recent biennial AGM the Condominium for the Propagation of Real English (“CPRE”) announced that, subject to receiving funding, it would accept and promote one new word and one new proverb every month Prepare a 4-minute speech in which you propose one, with compelling reasons for its acceptance. At the conclusion of the speeches the audience will vote which of each to accept. Two affordable but estimable prizes may be awarded (but not out of CPRE funds!).
Includes an optional speaker assessment.
Wednesday 18th February (TBC) Beer debate with Kingston Debating Society – Meeting 1102
Chair: Tim E Leader:Richard
In support of CAMRA's Community Pubs Week and fuelled by the traditional donation by Fuller's of a firkin of its London Pride.
For details of the KDS, founded in 1886, and its programme of Thursday evening meetings see its website.
Thursday 5th March – Meeting number 1103
Chair: Bill Leader: Ian
Now you see it, now you don't
Prepare to describe in four minutes an ingenious fraud. Impromptu speakers will be invited to advise how to detect and combat it..
Tuesday 17th March – Meeting number 1104
Chair: Ian Tutor: Mel
Mel Shaffer tutored Master Class
Mel makes a welcome return as Tutor. The subject matter of our speeches may be impeccable, but without dramatic structure and delivery they lack impact. In a series of impromptu exercises Mel will help us to achieve those elusive tours de force.
This evening may be video-recorded.
Includes an optional speaker review and assessment.
Wednesday 1st April – Meeting number 1105
Chair:Tim E Leader:Jim
Balloon race
You and your companions are speeding in a balloon over the Roaring Forties in a well-meaning attempt to raise sponsorship for the protection of a small venomous scaly creature that is justly in danger of extinction. Unfortunately the hydrogen in your balloon is escaping with an ominous hiss, cigars have been extinguished, the last empty cylinder thrown overboard and the final ballast sandbag jettisoned into the angry sea below. However the balloon is continuing its relentless descent. It has been decided with surprisingly little dissent to start jettisoning people, commencing with the least essential. Deliver a 4-minute speech, audible over the blast of the storm, to persuade your companions that you should not be the person jettisoned. Prepare to argue your usefulness to the ballooning party and/or society; the Leader will assign you as your profession or calling one of the following – cabbie, coalman, council tax collector, caller (bingo), consultant, calligrapher, compost-turner, cordwainer, crumpet cook, cartographer, conductor, chair-maker, or some other valued profession. After a vote at the conclusion of each round one person will be cast overboard, until only the winner remains. This evening may be video-recorded Includes an optional speaker review and assessment Wednesday 15th April Not me guv, honest! Meeting 1106 Leader: t.b.a. Chair: Tim K After nervously having submitted yourself to being fingerprinted and iris-scanned as part of the standard welcome to the foreign country you are visiting you are surprised, after only a couple of hours in the quarantine holding area, to be hustled into a VIP lounge. There you are addressed apologetically and obsequiously by all as “your Excellency”, besieged by the media and receive a speech of welcome, lengthy & cordial, albeit incomprehensible, from the leading dignitary of the locally elected homeland security council. Share with us your 4-minute speech of reply, bearing in mind that many of your hosts are armed to the teeth and are likely, despite your vain attempts to correct their mistake over your identity, to be very angry when the discover who you really are.This evening may be video-recorded.
Includes an optional speaker review and assessment.
Wednesday 15th April – Meeting number 1106
Chair: Tim K Leader: Tim E.
Not me guv, honest!
After nervously having submitted yourself to being fingerprinted and iris-scanned as part of the standard welcome to the foreign country you are visiting you are surprised, after only a couple of hours in the quarantine holding area, to be hustled into a VIP lounge. There you are addressed apologetically and obsequiously by all as “your Excellency”, besieged by the media and receive a speech of welcome, lengthy & cordial, albeit incomprehensible, from the leading dignitary of the locally elected homeland security council. Share with us your 4-minute speech of reply, bearing in mind that many of your hosts are armed to the teeth and are likely, despite your vain attempts to correct their mistake over your identity, to be very angry when the discover who you really are.
This evening may be video-recorded.
Includes an optional speaker review and assessment.
Thursday 30th April – Meeting number 1107
Chair: Jim Leader:Elise
Acting Up!
All the world's a stage,
And all the men and women merely players:
They have their exits and their entrances;
And one man in his time plays many parts.”William Shakespeare - As You Like It 2/7
Tuesday 12th May – Meeting number 1108
Chairman:Tim E Tutor: Mel Shaffer
Mel Shaffer tutored Master Class
Mel makes a welcome return as Tutor. The subject matter of our speeches may be impeccable, but without dramatic structure and delivery they lack impact. In a series of impromptu exercises Mel will help us to achieve those elusive tours de force.
Wednesday 27th May - Meeting number 1109
Chairman: Paul Leader: BillLumbered!
A fabulously wealthy but distant relative has just decided to enter a monastery, bequeathing you all their worldly goods in trust for your lifetime, provided you take over and run successfully the project which they have devoted years to developing. Tell us, in 4 minutes, what you would do with it. The project you choose must be one of the following – menagerie, theatre company, barber-shop singing group, an angling competition, a music festival, racecourse, reformatory, public school, airport, leech ranch, community water taxi, hotel in Bangkok, bankrupt football club, or traditional Romanian circus
Thursday 4th June - Meeting number 1110
Chair: Dorothea Leader: Leslie
What am I trying to say and is anyone going to be interested anyway?
If you don’t know you what your message is, what chance does your audience have? If you don’t know how it connects to their needs or what they want to hear why would they bother listening to you? Find out why having clear messages is so important in public speaking and how you can create them. Explore how your audience’s needs impacts on your messages and how you can make your messages meet them. Through a series of exercises we will learn how to create clear concise messages which match audience needs … even a sudden unexpected audience!
Tuesday 16th June - Meeting number 1111
Chair: Ian Leader: Jim
Making new friends
Feeling compelled to ‘give something back’ after years of working in ‘the rat race’, you have moved to a small and remote village in the rainforests of Papua New Guinea. The locals are wary of outsiders, but usually welcome help and assistance when offered. You neither understand nor talk one word of their language. Tell us how you establish good relations with your new neighbours, culminating in your being invited onto the Council of Elders.
Thursday 25th June - Meeting number 1112
Chair: Tim E Guide & Mentor: Patty Singleton
City Walk - Is London Bridge still falling down?
The Simpletons go walkabout once again on one of Patty’s very popular London walks. This time, to confirm whether or not London Bridge has fallen down! Whatever we find its state to be, I’m sure we’ll all be singing to our ‘Fair Lady’! A full route plan and details will be provided in advance to all members.
Wednesday 1st July - Meeting number 1113
Chair: Bill Leader: Frank
Impromptu!
Exactly as the title suggests! However, why are developing and honing impromptu speaking skills important? In brief, it empowers the speaker to deal successfully with the unexpected. Picture yourself in a couple of typical situations that one of our fellow Simpletons has found himself in, firstly proposing a detailed vote of thanks for a comprehensive and erudite presentation by the veterinary school of an University to its Convocation members and secondly delivering an eulogy at an Hindu funeral. On both occasions he was invited to do so after proceedings had commenced. He avows that he would have declined (or fled!), but for experience gained at the Simpletons.
Thursday 16th July - Meeting number 1114
Chair: Frank Leader: Tim E
Simpletons Summer Party
A change of venue to the ever popular Theatre Bar heralds the summer event of the year, the Simpletons Summer Party! A hot buffet with warm friends mixed with just enough ‘hot air’ all contributes to this ever popular ‘must attend’ event. Pricing details are yet to be confirmed but as we are amidst a global recession there could well be some special deals* for those who book early. Please note: The maximum capacity of the Theatre Bar is about 24 people, so it is advisable to book asap! Please feel free to bring paying guests, a few words on the subject of partying during a recession, and of course some priceless objet d’art for the customary raffle (great prizes to be won!). *Buy 12 for the price of a dozen. When prices are confirmed, tickets will be available from Bill Baillie, Frank Legroux, or Tim Ellis
Tuesday 28th July - Meeting number 1115
Chair: Dorothea Tutor: Mel Schaffer
Mel Shaffer tutored Master Class
Mel makes a welcome return as Tutor. The subject matter of our speeches may be impeccable, but without dramatic structure and delivery they lack impact. In a series of impromptu exercises Mel will help us to achieve those elusive tours de force.
Wednesday 5th August - Meeting number 1116
Chair: Jim Leader: Richard
Evening of Limericks
Bring some to share or create them on the hoof!Thursday 20th August - Meeting number 1117
Chair: Richard Leader: Ian
Lodgers in debt!
Your formerly friendly lodgers have just had a most almighty fight, resulting in substantial damage to each other and to your property. Both are your good friends, but unfortunately both owe you significant sums of back rent money which you need to pay your next month’s mortgage. Prepare a four to six minute speech to deal with the situation so as to achieve the best outcome for you.
Tuesday 1st September - Meeting number 1118
Chair: Nigel Tutor: Mellisa Whitehead
Make poetry fun again!
Rediscover the living, breathing side of poetry. Learn to see old favourites from a new angle, and discover something new.
We warmly welcome Melissa back ashore, as well as from her most successful world tour in “Bob the Builder” and other starring roles, a superb tutor from the Profession who has combined with it a British championship in Olympic weightlifting!
Wednesday 16th September - Meeting number 1119
Chair: Michael Leader: Leslie P
Power!
You have just inherited absolute power in succession to a very distant relative in a primitive far-away land with a small population, but absolutely loaded with unexploited mineral resources. You will be obliged to live there. Tell us in 4 minutes what you would do.
(NB: Abdication is only achievable by dying)
Thursday 1st October - Meeting number 1120
Chair: Viji Leader: Bill
Something Cooking
Notice has been served on you by the authorities that the barbecue you are about to host would involve a gathering of two or more persons and that steps are to be taken to ban it under discretionary provisions of an Order about to be made under anti-terrorism legislation. You have arranged a meeting at the local branch of the Ministry of the Interior to put minds at rest to enable you lawfully to hold it. Put your case for three minutes to two inquisitors appointed by the Assistant Deputy Comptroller, who will then ask you questions for a further three minutes. The audience will decide who has best succeeded in both calming the authorities whilst at the same time creating them maximum embarrassment.
Tuesday 13th October - Meeting 1121
Initial Chair: Frank
Simpletons AGM
Review & renew the Club and Committee. Motions are invited, as well as nominations for the entire Committee and all Officers (except the President, who is ex-officio the retiring Chairman), and should be received by the Honorary Secretary as soon as possible.
Wednesday 28th October - Meeting number 1122
Chair: Alina Leader: John
Time Control
Secretly you know that your calendar, diary and clocks all run fast. Tell us in 4 minutes why this is so and the ingenious way(s) in which you overcome the problem without anyone ever guessing that you have it.
Tuesday 10th November - Meeting number 1123
Chair: Tim E Leader: Richard
Call My Bluff
Back by popular demand, following in the same genre as the famous BBC TV game, Richard again introduces us to new and exotic, if unlikely, words and the ‘definitions’ thereof!
Thursday 26th November – Meeting 1124
Simpletons 48th Anniversary & Christmas DinnerTheatre Bar – The Simpletons’ 48th Anniversary & Christmas Dinner
Another traditional, convivial evening of excellent company, food, beers, wines & speeches. Continuing in its great success since moving here in 2006, this annual extravaganza is again being held in the charismatic ambiance of the Theatre Bar of our regular meeting place, the Victoria. Meet from 18.30hrs for dinner at 19.00hrs. Dress informal; do please bring a small prize for the raffle. Secure your ticket without delay for this glittering pinnacle of the Simpletons’ annual social calendar!
The maximum dining capacity of the Theatre Bar is 24 people; for the last three years the Dinners have been sold out well in advance; we foresee the same happening again this year. At this time, we been able to slightly reduce the previous prices for tickets, they are now available from Bill Bailie (tel: 01923 236 316, e-mail: willbailie@aol.com) for the modest sum of only £26 for all 3 courses or £20 if you’d like just two.
Monday 7th January – Meeting number 1076
Chairman: Bill Leader: Frank
An evening of protests!
Forget that comfortable, contented feeling of post-Festive well-being! Whether or not you are a “grumpy old man” prepare to protest for 3 - 4 minutes politely but very passionately & effectively about something that does or might annoy you. Indifferent food or service in a restaurant? Landlord or tenant trying it on? Persistent tele-sales person interrupting delicate stage of your model aircraft construction? 24-hour minicab firm opening up next door? Plans for a motorway through your front garden? Leave us in no doubt as to your views as well as the immediate action you request and require… Each protest will be followed by an impromptu speech by the person (nominated by the Leader) whose actions you are protesting about
Tuesday 22nd January – Meeting number 1077
Chairman:Tim Leader: Jim
Extreme Sports
Including, of course, the sports of 'Witchcraft' and 'Blowing up the Houses of Parliament'.(® G Fawkes & others). Describe your involvement in either of these or any other extreme sport, real or imagined. Please prepare something in advance - there will be prizes for well prepared speeches and PENALTIES for those ill-prepared!
Wednesday 6th February – Meeting number 1078
Chairman: Richard Tutor: Melissa
Melissa on voice production
In a most welcome return Melissa, actress and LAMDA teacher of Performance & Speech skills, will tutor us in how to use our voices to great or greater effect, both in order to be heard clearly by our entire audience, and to re-enforce the message we wish to convey.
This promises to be another brilliant evening absolutely not to be missed!
Tuesday 19th February ** In the Theatre Bar ** – Meeting 1079
Chairman: TBC
An open evening to celebrate our support of CAMRA’s Community Pubs Week, and to enjoy theSimpletons Club’s Annual Debate with the Kingston Debating Society.
The motion is –
“That the dictum "you cannot buck the
market" should apply to community pubs”
Proposing: Peter Drysdale, Honorary President of
the Kingston Debating Society
Opposing: Richard English, Honorary Secretary of the Simpletons
Club and CAMRA Parliamentary
lobbyist, supported by other believers in Real Pubs and Real Ale who
enjoy these essentials of the British Way of Life, fortified by the firkin
of London Pride very kindly donated by Fuller’s and served in this
welcoming community pub as most hospitable & convincing evidence!
A light hot buffet will be available; a voluntary contribution
not exceeding £3 per head is requested
Monday 3rd March – Meeting number 1080
Chairman: Nigel Leader: Ian
Persuasion - another aspect
Persuasion is a science - anyone can become good or better at it. For this evening we will explore what makes a message more persuasive by looking at some of the key characteristics which although small can make a big difference. The format will be one of involvement whereby attendees will have the chance to develop their own persuasive message(s) and be given feedback on how they might be improved.
Tuesday 18th March – Meeting number 1081
Chairman: John Leader: Richard
Call My Bluff!
Enjoy an evening in which our own polymath Richard English has us exploring
and extending the English language. Another superb evening, not to
be missed!
Wednesday 2nd April – Meeting number 1082
Chairman: Jim Leader: Tim
An evening of High Passion!
Simpletons are rightly celebrated as a passionate bunch! Their challenge this evening is tospeak for a minute belittling (most politely of course) the passion of the previous speaker, immediately following this by a minute extolling the real passion in their own life, and how it has to be everyone else's too!
Thursday 17th April – Meeting number 1083
Chairman: Tim Tutor: Mel Shaffer
Mel's Masterclass in Making a Dramatic Impact
Again, by popular demand!
The subject matter of our speeches may be impeccable, but without dramatic structure and delivery they lack impact. In a series of impromptu exercises Mel will help us to achieve those elusive tours de force. Please also prepare to deliver a poem or item of prose, about three minutes in length, for Mel’s welcome return.Friday 2nd May – Meeting number 1084
Chairman: Leslie Leader: Patty
City Walk – Monument to Millennium *Starts at 6.30pm, just north of the Monument!ity Walk
* Patty, City of London Guide and fellow member of the Simpletons Club, will again very kindly take us on a most fascinating & enjoyable City Walk - an exploration of Southwark, starting at London Bridge. Discover hospital origins, Bible connections, Borough Market, stews, Winchester geese, prisons, bear-baiting and theatres. We will visit an ancient Inn - it's up to you if you wish to stop for a drink!
Begins at the North side of the Monument (currently covered in decorative wraps), by Monument Station. You will be unable to change from Bank to Monument, so take Exits 5 or 6 from Bank and walk down King William Street, just a few minutes walk....Enter the subway and exit at Fish Street Hill and you will be right at the Monument. The walk is step-free once you have exited the station.
Finishes at the Tate Modern, by the Millennium Bridge. Meals are available at the nearby Founder's Arms (Youngs), with river views, or across the bridge at the Centre Page. Blackfriars, Southwark and St Paul's tube stations are all within easy walking distance.
A voluntary contribution not exceeding £2 per head is requested towards expenses.
Tuesday 13th May – Meeting number 1085
Chairman: Tim Leader: Nigel White
Great British Cheese-tasting!
Another major event in the Club's burgeoning gastronomic calendar!
Nigel White, cheese expert and fellow Simpleton, is very kindly giving us his time & expertise to reveal the fascination, mysteries & delights of a small selection of the 700 plus named cheeses now being made in Britain, as well as to donate the cheeses for this journey of exploration.
To quote Nigel: “Our own taste buds are unique - so we all like different flavours and different textures. There is a cheese for every purpose, every occasion and everyone - whether you want a soft gooey brie, a crumbly milky Cheshire, a ferocious tasty Lancashire, a truly wise Sage Derby, a challenging Farmhouse Cheddar or an amazing Stilton. Then there are the newcomers - Wensleydale with Cranberries, Cornish Yarg, Northumberland Nettle, Malvern and Blacksticks Blue. If you want a cheese to melt when cooking, or you want one that won’t melt, one that crumbles or spreads or grates, cubes or slices - there is truly a cheese for all occasions.”
The price of this voyage of discovery of British cheeses old and new? Including an average of about 1/2 bottle per head of accompanying wine, we are running this event at a ticket cost of only £9 each. However if you don’t wish to have wine (for instance because you’re driving) the cost falls to just £2.
It is intended to bring rather more of the excellent cheeses than will be consumed and to raffle the surplus. The very maximum seated capacity of the Theatre Bar is about 24 people, so please book asap with Tim Ellis.
Thursday 22nd May – Meeting number 1086
Chairman: John Leader: Bill
Improvisation
Benefit from the wealth of experience deployed by the Simpletons in treating even the most serious speech as an impromptu, and by and large getting away with it! Learn to confound any critic who claims that you have not slaved for hours honing your speech. Further develop the sort of guile deployed by adherents of the late, great Stephen Potter’s Yeovil School of One-Upmanship..
Monday 2nd June – Meeting number 1087
Chairman: Frank Tutor:Judith Paris
# Presentation workshop (This is a provisional topic & description of the evening)
Tonight we welcome Judith to the distinguished band of Simpletons tutors. We look forward to new angles on a time-honoured need – how to command the attention of our audience to our speeches, thus helping us to convey our message effectively.
Tuesday 17th June – Meeting number 1088
Chairman: Richard Leader: Stewart
Simpleton Earth; still travelling hopefully, and further
Take us with you, enthralled, in your traveller’s tales.. You may see places on Google Earth, but now you can live them in words. Tonight there is a new aspect to this much-enjoyed topic; in separate speeches describe respectively your best travel experience - and your worst! The time limit is about 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the number of speakers.
Wednesday 2nd July – Meeting number 1089
Chairman: Bill Leader: John
Nostalgia - isn’t what it used to be!
In a stunning series of exercises, disprove this by moving your audience with descriptions of people, places and/or events, real or imagined, that leave hearers desperately wishing that they had been there…
Thursday 17th July – Meeting number 1090 (Summer Party in the Theatre Bar)
Chairman: Frank President : Leslie
** SUMMER
PARTY **
# in the Theatre Bar #
# plenty of headroom for tall stories!
#
Hot buffet, incredible yarns, cool company, An absolute MUST for estivant Simpletons and friends. Tickets, great value at only £15, available now from Bill Bailie or Frank Legroux. Please bring a guest, a Limerick – and optimism for the raffle (great prizes to be won!) Please note: The maximum capacity of the Theatre Bar is about 24 people, so it is advisable to book asap!
Monday 4th August – Meeting number 1091
Chairman: Ian Leader: Irene
Irene on voice production
By popular demand, a most welcome workshop on how to use our voices to great or greater effect, both in order to be heard clearly by our entire audience, and to re-enforce the message we wish to convey. You could be called upon to improvise. Each participant will be given a vocal evaluation and suggestions for working on areas which need improvement.
Irene, seasoned actress and trainer of actors, will share with us some secrets of the Profession. This promises to be another brilliant evening absolutely not to be missed!
Tuesday 19th August – CANCELLED DUE TO REFURBISHMENT WORK AT THE VICTORIA
Chairman: Stewart Leader: Richard
How to propose & close that sale!
Profit from the experience of a seasoned professional whose livelihood depends on his sales success. Please bring a proposition or item to sell in three minutes Please note: The absolute maximum capacity of the Library is 14 people, so it is advisable to arrive in good time!
Friday, 22nd August – Meeting number 1092
Chairman: Leslie Leader: Patty Singleton
City Walk - New Buildings and Spaces in Southwark
Patty, official City of London Guide and fellow member of the Simpletons Club, will again very kindly take us on a most fascinating & enjoyable City Walk. The walk will start from Borough tube station, and we will discover new developments and spaces in Southwark. We shall then walk around all the new buildings of the More complex, between London Bridge and Tower Bridge. We may even find a play in progress at the Scoop. There is no shortage of eating/drinking establishments for post-walk conviviality. Meet 6.30pm outside Borough tube station, where Patty will be waiting." A voluntary contribution not exceeding £2 per head is requested towards expenses. At the conclusion of the Walk there should be an opportunity to retire for refreshments.
Wednesday 3rd September – Meeting number 1093
Chairman: John Leader: Walter
Is Renewable Energy the answer - fantasy or fact?
Come prepared with your view/opinion of what you think renewable is and of its relevance, or otherwise, to the growing global energy crisis.
Thursday 18th September – Meeting number 1094
Chairman: Tim Leader: Leslie J
How to out Paxman the Paxmans!
Difficult questions, getting your point across while avoiding someone else's, not letting yourself get sidetracked onto other issues ... public speaking is not always a smooth path. Learn how to get out of trouble when questioned, keep yourself on track to get your point across rather than let someone else divert you onto their agenda. By the end of the evening you will be planning that new career in politics and if not, you will be able to handle any heckler or even those Paxmans of Public Speaking torment.
Monday 6th October – Meeting number 1095
Chairman: Tim K Tutor: Mel Shaffer
Mel’s Masterclass in Making a Dramatic Impact
Yet again, by popular demand! Although the subject matter of our speeches may be impeccable, without dramatic structure and delivery they lack impact. In a series of impromptu exercises Mel will again help us to achieve those elusive tours de force. This is another evening definitely not to be missed!
Tuesday 21st October – Meeting number 1096
Chairman: Leslie P Leader: Tim K
Political correctness - and how to avoid it!
Whilst there is absolutely no reason to mistake Simpletons for grumpy old (wo)men, let's vent our spleens and wheel out for demolition our most loathed PC expressions!
Thursday 6th November – Meeting number 1097
Chairman: Frank
47th Annual General Meeting
Review & renew the Club and Committee. Motions are invited, as well as nominations for the entire Committee and all Officers (except the President and the Chairman), and should be received by the Honorary Secretary as soon as possible
Wednesday 26th November – Meeting number 1098
Chairman: Frank President: Leslie J
Club’s 47th Anniversary and Christmas Dinner
A traditional, convivial evening of excellent company, food, beers, wines & speeches. Following its great success since it moved here in 2006, this event is again being held in the charismatic ambiance of the Theatre Bar of our regular meeting place, the Victoria. Meet from 18.30hrs for dinner at 19.00hrs. Dress informal; do please bring a small prize for the raffle. Secure your ticket without delay for this glittering pinnacle of the Simpletons’ annual social calendar! The maximum dining capacity of the Theatre Bar is 24 people; the Dinners last year and the year before were sell-outs; we foresee the same happening again this year. Tickets cost the same from either Bill Bailie or Tim Ellis - only £28 for all 3 courses or £23 if you’d like just two.
Wednesday 3 January – Meeting number 1053
Chairman: Bill Leader: Frank
An evening of protests!
Forget that comfortable, contented feeling of post-Festive well-being! Whether or not you are a “grumpy old man” prepare to protest for 3 - 4 minutes politely but very passionately & effectively about something that does or might annoy you. Indifferent food or service in a restaurant? Landlord or tenant trying it on? Persistent tele-sales person interrupting delicate stage of your model aircraft construction? 24-hour minicab firm opening up next door? Plans for a motorway through your front garden? Leave us in no doubt as to your views as well as the immediate action you request and require… Each protest will be followed by an impromptu speech by the person (nominated by the tutor) whose actions you are protesting about
Thursday 18th January – Meeting number 1054
Chairman: Frank Leader: Richard
Call My Bluff!
Enjoy an evening in which our own polymath Richard English has us exploring and extending the English language. Another superb evening, not to be missed! (Unfortunately due to extreme weather conditions preventing the attendance of many of our members this programme had to be deferred to another date, t.b.a.)
Monday 5th February – Meeting number 1055
Chairman: George Leader: John
Power!
You have just inherited absolute power in succession to a very distant relative in a primitive far-away land with a small population, but loaded with unexploited mineral resources. You will be obliged to live there. Tell us in 4 minutes what you would do. (NB Abdication is only achievable by dying)
Tuesday 20th February ** In the Theatre Bar ** – Meeting 1056
Chairman: Ian
An open evening to celebrate our support of CAMRA’s Community Pubs Week, and to enjoy our Annual Debate with the Kingston Debating Society "That communities need community pubs and community pubs need real ale" Proposer: Margaret Bird of the Kingston Debating Society, our guest debating team. Seconder: Richard English the Simpletons Club Honorary Secretary and CAMRA Parliamentary lobbyist Supported by other believers in Real Pubs and Real Ale who enjoy these essentials of the British Way of Life, fortified by the firkin of London Pride very kindly donated by Fuller’s and served in this welcoming community pub as most hospitable & convincing evidence! Opposer: Frank Legroux Seconder: Speaker from the Sylvans Debating Club. Supported by other actual or pretend undiscerning sceptics. A light buffet will be available; a voluntary contribution not exceeding £3 per head is requested For details of the KDS, founded in 1886, and its programme of Thursday evening meetings see its website.
Saturday 24th February at 6pm at the John Lyon School – Meeting number 1057
Mission Leader: Frank
Join our annual mission to compete in the Public Speaking classes of the Ruislip-Northwood Festival's Speech & Drama Section, held at the John Lyon School, Harrow-on-the-Hill. There are 2 classes for experienced speakers to deliver prepared speeches of up to 5 minutes, another for Festival-novices (up to 3 minutes) on “Any subject of interest to the speaker and audience excluding religion and politics” and an Open Impromptu class (up to 5 minutes). Those who've entered in previous years should need no convincing to do so again; it is a excellent experience and great fun. There is the added benefit of verbal and written assessments of each speech by a professional adjudicator. There are also cups & trophies to be won, including two magnificent ones donated by the Simpletons Club, awarded for the first time last year, when the Simpletons carried off the trophies for all the adult classes they entered. The entry fee of only a fiver per class is a remarkable bargain. Frank has entry details.
Wednesday 7th March (changed programme!) – Meeting number 1058
7.30pm Theatre Bar.
Lecture: The life and works of William Hogarth by Christine Riding, Curator of the Exhibition at Tate Britain
To celebrate the artistic genius of William Hogarth (10 November 1697 – 26 October 1764) Fuller's, whose Griffin Brewery is in Chiswick, is sponsoring an exhibition of his works, as they rightly identify him as a "Chiswick lad”. In support of the exhibition Fuller’s and the Victoria have kindly arranged this lecture. Refreshments include canapes and a pint of London Pride or a 175 mm glass of house wine. As the Theatre Bar can only accommodate about 30 people at a squeeze admission is to be by ticket only. They cost £5, need to be purchased in advance and will be like gold-dust!. The Victoria has kindly set some tickets aside for the Simpletons, with the possibility of more later if their other customers don't snap them all up. Please let Frank Legroux know as soon as you can how many you'd like.
Thursday 22nd March – Meeting number 1059
Chairman: Richard Leader: Tim
Tim's profession requires him to chair many meetings, some of which continue over days, weeks & even months - and at the conclusion of each to summarise clearly and fairly to enable a correct decision to be reached. This evening Tim will share with us some of the secrets of how to run a meeting that is efficient and as far as appropriate & possible enjoyable, to bring into the open all relevant matters, to summarise – and at all times to maintain control.
Monday 16th April – Meeting number 1060
Mission Leader: Leslie
The Sylvans Debating Club (founded in 1868) has invited the Simpletons to take part in their debates, especially on this evening, when we have accepted their challenge to oppose the motion - "This House implores the media to stop glorifying trivialities". Proposer : (SDC) Seconder: (SDC) Opposer: Leslie Jamieson Seconder: t.b.a The Sylvans meet at the Old Bank of England,.
Thursday 26th April – Meeting number 1061
Chairman: Jim Tutor: Jack Milner
A funnier thing happened on the way from the Victoria… An evening of comic instruction, invention and practice. You are invited to bring a humorous act of up to 2 minutes. By the end of the evening all our turns should be even funnier!
Friday 4th May at 6.15pm (please note revised date & venue) – Meeting number 1062
Chairman: Frank Leader: Patty City of London Guide
City Walk - New or Old?A walk through 800 years of City buildings.
Starting at 6.15pm at the Bishopsgate entrance to Liverpool Street Station* outside Hamilton Hall and ending near Monument Station.* Hamilton Hall is a Wetherspoon pub, with a beautiful interior. There are a plethora of pubs nearby. The walk will take you through the Broadgate area, and wend through alleys and streets full of surprising buildings. We shall finish at the "moon walk". * Liverpool Street is on the Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Circle and Central tube lines. Monument on the Circle & the District. A contribution of £2 per head is requested towards expenses.
Wednesday 16th May – Meeting number 1063
Chairman: Bill Leader: Ian
Ethical dilemmas.
A brief presentation will be given of the main ethical frameworks and then.... Statements will be provided or scenarios painted, each posing an ethical dilemma for which there is not an obvious right or wrong solution. Present your opinion and convince us in up to 4 minutes that your view is the most appropriate one. Members are invited also to contribute further ethical dilemmas for the meeting to discuss.
Monday 4th June – Meeting number 1064
Chairman: John Leader: Frank
A riot of illiteracy
Your local authority has decided to fortify its campaign to improve adult literacy by introducing, with no advance notice, zero-tolerance literacy tests for any adult wishing to use or discuss its facilities. You have been summoned to address a growing, riotous-looking crowd that has already destroyed the door-entry system, the hidden security cameras & an equal-opportunities anger-management display stand at the Enviro-crime policy directorate. Gain control by speaking for 4 minutes, passionately supporting or opposing the council’s new policy.
Tuesday 19th June – Meeting number 1065
Chairman: Stewart Leader: Richard
Call My Bluff!
Enjoy an evening in which our own polymath Richard English has us exploring and extending the English language. Another superb evening, not to be missed!
Thursday 5th July (please note revised date) – Meeting number 1066
Chairman: Michael Leader: Bill
Improvisation
Learn how to improvise, to become prepared for the unforeseen. Bill will make us aware of most useful theatre training techniques to enable us to deal better with a sudden requirement to speak on anything at little or no notice. Be the authoritative spokesperson whilst all around you are awaiting instructions!
Thursday 19th July – Meeting number 1067
Presiding: Bill Chairing: Leslie
SUMMER PARTY – In the Theatre Bar of the Victoria
Plenty of headroom for tall stories!
Hot buffet, incredible yarns, cool company
An absolute MUST for estivant Simpletons and friends. Tickets, great value at only £16, available now from Bill Bailie or Frank Legroux. Please bring a guest, a Limerick – and a small prize for the raffle (Please note: The maximum capacity of the Theatre Bar is about 24 people, so it is advisable to book asap!)
Monday 6th August – Meeting number 1068
Chairman: Ian Tutor: Melissa Whitehead
Storytelling
We welcome Melissa back for an evening that promises to be spellbinding! Doyenne also of acting, voice production and pupeteering, Melissa will act as our professional mentor and guide to the magical world of story-telling. Please come prepared to tell an original story of 3 to 5 minutes (Please note: The absolute maximum capacity of the Library is 14 people, so it is advisable to arrive in good time!)
Tuesday 21st August – Meeting number 1069
Chairman: Richard Leader: Stewart
Simpleton Earth; still travelling hopefully…
Take us with you, enthralled, in your traveller’s tale or tales of up to five minutes. You may see places on Google Earth, but tonight you can live them in words.
Wednesday 5th September – Meeting number 1070
Chairman: Michael Leader: Tim
Your opportunity for a further place in history?
Choose an historical character, real or fictitious, who you'd like to be - and tell us why. Another not-to-be-missed evening led by Tim, wit, raconteur, amateur yachtsman, musician and occasional charity auctioneer.
Thursday 20th September – Meeting number 1071
Chairman: Frank Leader: John
Current Affairs
An approach to impromptu discussion on topical matters. Drawing on news & views in the media today speakers are invited to prepare a three-minute speech on a current topic.
Thursday 11th October – Meeting number 1072
Chairman: Jim Tutor: Mel Shaffer
Mel’s Masterclass in Making a Dramatic Impact
The subject matter of our speeches may be impeccable, but without dramatic structure and delivery they lack impact. In a series of impromptu exercises Mel will help us to achieve those elusive tours de force. Please also prepare to deliver a poem or item of prose, about three minutes in length, for Mel’s welcome return.
Wednesday 24th October – Meeting number 1073
Chairman: MichaelLeader: Leslie
Impromtu Spanners!
Prove your prowess at impromptu speaking and the range of tools you have in your public speaking tool box. Rise to the challenge of an evening of short impromptus with the added spice of a variety of spanners your tutor will set for you to incorporate or demonstrate as part of your speech. Everything from words, colours, objects phrases, people or particular public speaking skills but expect the unexpected. Plenty of opportunity to speak, but you will need to show how good you are at coping with whatever might be thrown at you – no problem for a seasoned Simpleton!
Thursday 15th November – Meeting number 1074
Chairman: Bill
46th Annual General Meeting
Review & renew the Club and its Committee. Help us make the Club even better! Motions are invited, as well as nominations for the entire Committee and all Officers (including this year the Chairman), and should be received by the Honorary Secretary as soon as possible.
Tuesday 20th November – Meeting number 1075
Club’s 46th Anniversary and Christmas Dinner
A traditional, convivial evening of excellent company, food, beers, wines & speeches.
Following its great success here last year this event is again being held in the charismatic ambiance of the Theatre Bar of our regular meeting place, the Victoria. Meet from 18.30hrs for dinner at 19.30hrs. Dress informal; do please bring a small prize for the raffle. Secure your ticket without delay for this glittering pinnacle of the Simpletons’ annual social calendar!
The maximum dining capacity of the Theatre Bar is 24 people; last year’s Dinner was a sell-out and we foresee the same happening again this year. Tickets cost the same from either Bill Bailie or Frank Legroux; only £28 for all 3 courses or £23 if you’d like just two.
Wednesday 4 January – Meeting No. 1029
Chairman: John Tutor: Frank
Tales of the unexpected!
Surprise us with a story, up to four minutes in length, of something quite unexpected that occurred in the most ordinary of circumstances. Be prepared to answer questions about it afterwards.
Thursday 19 January - Meeting No. 1030
Team Leader: Bill
Annual debate with Kingston Debating Society, at Kingston
At the Kingston Debating Society venue this year, ie in the Baptist Church
Hall, Union Street, Kingston, from 7.45pm to approximately 10pm. The
Hall is two minutes` walk from the Market Place, between Boots and
the Clarence Street entrance to the Bentall Centre.
Motion: “That this House is planning to work until
70”.
The Simpletons Club, led by Michael Garrard, is opposing
the Motion.
Tuesday 31 January - Meeting No. 1031
Chairman : Walter Tutor: Jack*
An evening of comic instruction, invention and practice.
You are invited to bring a humorous act of up to 2 minutes and see how our ever popular tutor and maestro of mirth can help you turn it into an evening funnier act by the end of the evening. As ever a high spot of the Simpleton's calander - not to be missed!
*Subject to Jack not being required at the Lichfield Mysteries, where he is now the Director.
Monday 13 February – Meeting No. 1032
Chairman: Jim Tutor: John
Baloon Debate
The balloon, beneath which the basket crammed with intrepid Simpleton balloonist-explorers is suspended, has sprung a leak. All cigars have been hurriedly extinguished as the hydrogen seeps out with a faint hiss. Every non-essential item has been jettisoned as the balloon has sunk lower and lower towards the frozen, arid mountain peaks far below. A brisk breeze is carrying the party towards a larger peak that it will not clear unless more weight is lost. It has now been decided, with some reluctance, to start jettisoning members of the party. However each member has a calling useful to society. Choosing one of these - teacher, spy, beauty queen or Mr Universe, policeman, traffic warden, shopkeeper, bingo caller, local government clerk, ambassador, magistrate, sumo wrestler or revenue inspector - in a knockout competition reason for three minutes why you should not be jettisoned..
Wednesday 22 February - Meeting No. 1033
Chairman: Frank Tutor: Richard
An open evening in support of CAMRA's National Pubs Week
The motion “That a drink anywhere is just a drink and too much fuss is made about the excellence of Real Pubs & Real Ale”
Supporting: assorted actual or pretend undiscerning sceptics. Opposing: believers in Real Ale, fortified by the firkin of London Pride very kindly donated by Fuller’s as most hospitable evidence! (*Simpletons Club Honorary Secretary and CAMRA Parliamentary lobbyist)Tuesday 7 March – Meeting No. 1034
Chairman: Leslie Tutor: Ian
***(Programme being devised by Ian)***
Check back regulary - full details will appear soon.
Thursday 23 March – Meeting No. 1035
Chairman: Michael Tutor: Jim
To give or not to give... and what - that is the questions!
You have been invited to donate unwanted chattels to a good cause. Tell us what you’d give, and why. What difference would there be, if any, if your donations were attributable to you or if they were not?
Thursday 6 April – Meeting No. 1036
Chairman: Irene Tutor: Richard
An evening of Limericks
Recently returned from research in Marrakech to resume his co-authorship and moderation labours of love for the internationally-acclaimed Omniscient English Dictionary In Limerick Form, our own Limerick Laureate will lead an evening devoted to this most entertaining but under-rated form of verse. Enthused and inspired by the two amazing sessions last year do bring a Limerick for our enjoyment.
Wednesday 26 April – Meeting No. 1037
Chairman: Ian Tutor: Leslie
***(Programme being devised by Leslie)***
Thursday 11 May – Meeting No. 1038
Chairman: Richard Tutor: Frances
Expressive Recitation
Prepare, and read aloud with feeling, your favourite:
* Opening paragraph of a book (must be the opener!).
* Paragraph, or more, of a book.
* Poem, rhyme. ditty, aphorism, joke, or word.
Interactions between speakers will be encouraged. For instance, some
of us may know the piece, or have a similar passage we would like to alert
other members to.
Wednesday 24 May – Meeting No. 1039
Chairman: Jim Leader: Frank
Apologies and excuses
A brilliant opportunity to hone your skills in making really acceptable apologies and excuses. Speakers are invited to share with us a brief scenario in which they will deploy their irresistible excuse and/or apology. Time limit 4 minutes.
Monday 12 June – Meeting No.1040
Chairman: Ian Leader: Irene
Voice production and dramatic impact in public speaking.
An entertaining evening of instruction given by a seasoned professional. Not to be missed!
Thursday 29 June – Meeting No.1041
Chairman: Leslie Leader: Michael
Balloon Debate
It is a beautiful starlit night and the moon is just rising. Alas, the balloon beneath which the basket crammed with customarily intrepid Simpleton balloonist-astronomers is suspended has sprung a leak. The pressure lantern and all cigars have been hurriedly extinguished as the hydrogen seeps out with a faint but menacing hiss. As the balloon has sunk lower and lower towards the icy, turbulent ocean far below all non-essential items, such as paper-weights, humidors and trouser presses, have been jettisoned into the darkness beneath The balloonists will soon be in the sea unless more weight is lost. It has now been decided, with seemly reluctance, to start jettisoning members of the party. However each member has a calling he or she passionately believes to be useful to society. Choosing one of these - teacher, spy, beauty queen or Mr Universe, policeman, traffic warden, shopkeeper, bingo caller, local government clerk, ambassador, magistrate, sumo wrestler or revenue inspector - in a knockout competition reason for three minutes why you should not be jettisoned.
Wednesday 12 July – Meeting No.1042
Presiding: Bill Chairing: Leslie
SUMMER PARTY
Hot buffet, incredible yarns, cool company in the Theatre Bar – A MUST for estivant Simpletons and friends. Tickets, great value at only £15, from Bill Bailie or Frank Legroux. Please bring a small prize for the raffle.
Friday 21 July – Meeting No.1043
Chairman: Frank Leader: Patty City of London Guide
City Walk Murder, Monasteries and Martyrs in a Medieval Suburb. A stroll around the heart of Clerkenwell and Smithfield. Start at Farringdon Station* at 6.30pm. For early arrivals, there is the opportunity to sample the St Peter's Ales at the Jerusalem Tavern at 55 Britton Street, Clerkenwell, London, EC1M 5UQ, just three minutes’ walk from the station The walk ends at the Old Bailey, with the historic Viaduct Tavern across the road, or a secret one if you come with me. This is a compact area, so there are no great distances to walk. Patty, our professional guide and fellow Simpleton, is very kindly donating her services to the Club, so there is no charge for the evening. Guests will be welcome, as at all our meetings. It would be helpful, though not essential, if you'd let Frank Legroux know if you plan to come on the walk. * Farringdon is on the Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan and Circle tube lines.
Thursday 27 July – Meeting No.1044
Chairman: John Leader: Stewart
Simpleton Earth; travelling hopefully…
Regale us for up to five minutes with your traveller’s tale or tales. See places on Google Earth, but live them tonight in words.
Thursday 17 August – Meeting No. 1045
Chairman: Frances Leader: Richard
Call My Bluff!
Enjoy an evening in which our own polymath Richard English has us exploring and extending the English language Another superb evening, not to be missed!
Tuesday 5 September - Meeting No. 1046
Chairman: Stewart Leader: Leslie
Eulogies - a final word!
How would you rise to the honour and challenge of delivering a eulogy for someone you knew? What is its purpose? What should you say? Is humour appropriate? What about being too serious? Join us for an evening exploring how to prepare a eulogy and the various forms it could take.
As preparation for the evening create a 3-4 minute eulogy for a famous or not so famous person - Chaplin to Churchill, cleaner to carpenter. Also, if you have come across any particularly good eulogies please bring them along, as time permitting, it would be interesting to share some or parts of them.
For those of you who feel comfortable doing it, a possibly more challenging, and hopefully thought-provoking, final task - prepare a 3-4 minute eulogy about yourself, setting out how you would like to be remembered and the highlights or reflections of your life.
Monday 18 September - Meeting number 1047
Chairman: Frank Leader:
Follow that
An evening of imroptus generated from a single word - the catch being you have to continue the story from the previous speaker while still keeping to the point!
Tuesday 3 October - Meeting number 1048
Chairman: Leslie Leader: John
A bee in your bonnet?
Does that incessant buzzing that nobody else can hear really trouble you? Do you need on every possible occasion to relieve it by sharing what’s really on your mind with whomsoever crosses your path, be it spouse, doctor, newsagent, traffic warden, Community Police Support Officer, fellow demonstrator or dog-walker? Why should “Grumpy Old (Wo)men” get all the lines? Get as much as you can off your chest in a prepared speech of no more than four minutes. Leave us bemused, perhaps, but definitely wanting more! However if you have no bee in your bonnet and nothing to get off your chest we have plenty of other hot topics for you to present with passion.
Tuesday 24 October - Meeting number 1049
Chairman: Michael Leader: Ian
Persuasion
The evening will cover the basics of persuasion but with a focus on how to persuade someone who doesn't know they have a problem and if time permits how to start to move someone with firm and apparently immovable opinions towards your point view. Come along with some firm beliefs of your own and see if they can be shaken!!!
Monday 6 November - Meeting number 1050
Chairman: Frank Leader: Jim
Making friends with aliens
You have severed all connections with your former life and have moved to a small, remote and primitive village where everyone looks very different from you, but worryingly indistinguishable from each other. You can not understand one word of their language. Tell us how you establish good relations with your new neighbours, perhaps culminating in your being invited to join the Council or Council of Elders.
Wednesday 15 November - Meeting number 1051
Chairman: Leslie
Annual General Meeting
Tuesday 21 November - Meeting number 1052
President: Bill
Club Anniversary and Annual Dinner
Wednesday 5 January – Meeting No. 1005
Chairman: Ian Tutor: Frank
An evening of protests!
Whether or not you are a “grumpy old man” prepare to protest for 3 - 4 minutes politely but very effectively about something that does or might annoy you. Indifferent food or service in a restaurant? Landlord or tenant trying it on? Persistent tele-sales person interrupting delicate stage of your model aircraft construction? 24-hour minicab firm opening up next door? Plans for motorway through your front garden? Leave no doubt as to your views as well as the action you request and require… Each protest will be followed by an impromptu speech by the person (nominated by the tutor) whose actions you are protesting about.
Thursday 20 January - Meeting No. 1006
Chairman: Bill Tutor: Jim
My holiday
Please prepare a speech of no more than 4 minutes giving a graphic account of a future holiday, real or imagined
Tuesday 1 February - Meeting No. 1007
Chairman : John Tutor: Michael
Impromptus – but with a difference!
For instance, whilst speaking during one session of five-minute impromptus you may be given in succession two subsidiary one-word topics to include.
Wednesday 16 February – Meeting No. 1008
Chairman: Frank Tutor: Irene Bradshaw
Our tutor takes us from & back to basics
For beginners and the seasoned alike, (re-) learn how to prepare a speech and deliver it, take command of your audience and persuade those in it to do or believe what you want.
Tuesday 22 February - Meeting No. 1009
Chairman: Jim Tutor: Frank
My favourite pub, restaurant or hotel
* Fuller’s is sponsoring this Simpletons evening in celebration of CAMRA’s National Pubs’ Week in the same most generous and practical manner in which they also did last year*
Please prepare a speech of no more than 4 minutes giving a graphic report on a visit to your favourite pub or restaurant, real or imagined.
Tuesday 1 March – Meeting No. 1010
Chairman: Walter Please note that this time the debate is at the Victoria
Debate with the Kingston Debating Society
That this house believes that those parts of the entertainment and hospitality industry that don’t already receive direct public subsidies should do so.
The Simpletons Club is proposing the motion, the Kingston Debating Society opposing .
Thursday, 17 March – Meeting No. 1011
Chairman: David Tutor: Melissa
An evening with our tutor, Melissa
How to use voice, posture and poetry to command and beguile your audience.
Tuesday 5 April – Meeting No. 1012
Chairman: Michael Tutor: Mark
Office shenanigans
You are five years away from retirement when you discover that your (female) boss has been socialising long and frequently with your (male) personal assistant. You don’t like this or either of them. Seize the chance opportunity of only the three of you being in your office to resolve matters with a prepared speech of about 4 minutes.
Wednesday 20 April – Meeting No. 1013
Call My Bluff!
Chairman: Leslie Tutor: Richard
Enjoy an evening in which our own polymath Richard English has us exploring and extending the English language
Thursday 12 May – Meeting No. 1014
Chairman : Walter Secretary: Richard
Committee meeting, with impromptus afterwards, if time.
Wednesday 7 June – Meeting No. 1015
Chairman: Ian Leader: Leslie
"The Simpletons Club - what are we about?
What (if
anything different) do we wish to become, who should we be seeking to attract
as additional active members and how? How does and should the Club present
itself?" We
need your ideas for the Club's core proposition, to build on our remarkable
first 44 years of enjoyable success. Do please come and join in - prepared
and/or impromptu!
Wednesday 22 June - Meeting
No. 1016
Chairman: Mark Leader: Jim
Taking control
You have just found yourself in charge of an undertaking that evidently needs considerable reform. Prepare to tell us in 5 minutes what you have taken over, its present situation, your proposals for reform, their benefits and disadvantages and how you will deliver the former successfully. An impromptu speaker will be invited to speak for 2 minutes opposing the reforms, then the original speaker to defend them for a further 2 minutes. At the end of the evening a vote will be taken and the winning speaker awarded the Chairman's Trophy - the very first time it is being awarded - to hold until our next speaking meeting.
… and a Simpletons Special ….
Friday 1 July at 6.45pm. - Meeting number 1017
Chairman: Walter Leader: Patty Singleton City of London Guide
"BACK STREETS THROUGH THE CITY "
A ramble from West to East through the City's alleys. Starting
at Blackfriars, we shall pass a large wardrobe, an Italianate youth hostel,
resurrected churches, a Roman Temple, temples to mammon, and much more. Walk
ends at a Fuller's pub, The Hung Drawn and Quartered, near Tower Hill
Underground.
START - outside Blackfriars Tavern, at the corner of corner of New Bridge Road
and Queen Victoria Street, near Exit 1. From the Underground or Thameslink
at Blackfriars, take Exit 1, and you will be at the Blackfriars Tavern. Try
to arrive early enough to explore the interior of this attractive pub, particularly
the innermost back area. At the conclusion, although there is no food in the
evening at The Hung Drawn and Quartered, a nearby Wetherspoons pub, the Liberty
Bounds, serves food until 10pm.
Patty, our professional guide and fellow Simpleton, is very kindly donating
her services to the Club, so there is no charge for the evening. Guests
will be welcome, as at all our meetings. It would be helpful, though
not essential, if you'd let Frank Legroux know if you plan to come on the walk.
Tuesday 5 July - Meeting number 1018
Chairman : Bill Leader: Frank
Impromptus
Prepare to amaze us with your prescience and erudition, apparently off-the-cuff. An evening in which to celebrate the very converse of that Simpletons specialty, the unprepared prepared speech.
Thursday 21 July - Meeting number 1019
* SUMMER PARTY *
* Hot buffet, incredible yarns, cool company *
in the Theatre Bar & Library –
A MUST for estivant Simpletons and friends.
Tickets available at only a tenner, from Bill or Frank Legroux.
Please bring a small prize for the raffle
Tuesday 2 August - Meeting number 1020
Chairman: John Leader : Ian
A seriously different evening.
The seasoned Simpleton is justly renown for his or her ready wit and willingness lightheartedly to tackle any speaking assignment at the drop of a hat. However we are less wont to tackle serious subjects in a serious manner. Prepare & present any 5-minute case you like about one of the following subjects (chosen to be flexible) .
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Time permitting, others will be invited each to speak impromptu for up to 3 minutes on the same subject. A trophy or trophies will be awarded for outstanding speeches.
Wednesday 17 August - Meeting number 1021
Chairman: Tutor: Irene Bradshaw
Our tutor takes us from and back to basics
Again, by popular demand, but this time with a stage-presence emphasis, for beginners and the seasoned alike, (re-) learn how to prepare a speech and deliver it, take command of your audience and persuade those in it to do or believe what you want.
Future dates – programme in preparation
September Thursday 8 th & Wednesday 21 st
October Tuesday 4 th & Thursday 20 th
November Tuesday 1 st & Thursday 17 th - AGM
Club Anniversary and Xmas Dinner – Tuesday 22 November - at the Victory Services Club, near Marble Arch, London W2.