Went for the St. Andrew’s Zonals at St. Andrew’s Auditorium. Watched the 4 zonal plays (liked the 1st one best, written & directed by Rosalind, starring Brian Tellis). The 4th play had great laughs too - in fact lots of people liked it best - I personally felt the 2nd, 3rd & 4th plays were very sub-stand compared to the usual Andrew’s quality (the 3rd was a positive sleep inducer).
They started a “People’s Poll” this year (their Golden Jubilee year) and I rated the plays: 1-3-4-2. Eli actually rated: 2-3-10-1 
Well if the plays were not all what I expected - the music & vocalists were AMAZING!!! The talent is outstanding. It was like we were at the Grammys (yeah, I know it sounds a bit over the top, but if you were there, you know exactly what I mean). The classical, non-classical, singles, duets, quartets, choir, instrumentals (in so many age-groups) all were a feast for our ears.
Besides the entertainment, the zonals has always been a great excuse to meet people - and meet I did - TONS of old friends, people I haven’t seen for years & people I don’t see too often. Very nice indeed, just the type of thing I enjoy.
It was well past 11pm when all ended, so we decided not to drive too far away & ended up at Gondolas. Actually one of the boys wanted to go to Soul Fry, but they were already done with last orders (which I find weird for a Saturday night in Mumbai, hmmm?)
Gondolas used to be one of my college favorites (it was close to St. Andrew’s & it was pretty light on the pocket). I have been there a few times after college as well & it always amazes me how little the place has changes. I’m more wary about it’s hygene than I was in college (have heard horrendous stories!) but since I’ve always gone in a large group, have never not had fun there. Also, always loved the background music they play (something to notice, if you’re going).
And a word to the wise, just as you should not go to Goa and order Chinese food, you should not go to Gondolas & ask “Should we order steaks??”
Had lots of added entertainment, like Ajay who decided he lost one of his contact lenses, makes us all go down on our fours (though thankfully at home) to search for lens (which later turns out to be in his eye) and Eli who did some of his (amazing, have to see-to-believe) Mr. Bean impressions (love the credit card one).
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March 30th, 2006 at 1:13 am
Hi Melody,
How interesting to read about your experiences. It’s been a long time since I’ve been in Bandra. Went to St. Joesph’s and wonder if you know if they have a website for the alumni? Loved your Bandra feast pictures. Do you also go to the zonals at St. Theresa’s? That’s where I grew up and it was so much fun practising for the chorals, duets, quartets, plays.. Gosh I miss those days, being zone captain.. Thank you for bringing back happy memories..
Karen