Julie Hamill: Time to pause in the heart of London - OnLondon

A movie about the pandemic served as a well-timed prompt of how enjoyable it is to gather in the presence of legendary music venues.

It's Friday night in London and I'm faced with a dilemma - two friend's events that I want to attend: Alistair Morrison's film premiere for "Time To Pause" on Davies Street, and Keeley's performance supporting The Folk Devils at The 100 Club. With some careful scheduling, I'm able to make it to both and they couldn't have been more different but equally amazing.

Alistair has created an educational and captivating experimental film. It features interviews with 1000 individuals from various parts of the world who were stuck in isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic. The title of the movie is quite smart and it allows the audience to think about the time when the world came to a standstill and helped people regain their perspective.

Newborns enter the world while frightened patients are hurried to medical facilities to pass away without companionship, leaving healthcare workers in distress as they recognize their life-preserving abilities are ineffective. The movie investigates the numerous unfavorable and favorable juxtapositions of quarantine, a fresh era of resourcefulness in artistic expression, dance, and melody, while also considering everything from sanitizing deliveries to making noise with pots and pans and exchanging words through panes of glass.

I observed how Alistair cleverly edited his piece to convey the message that the initial excitement of a new day can quickly become monotonous. The routine of waking up, having coffee, taking a shower, having muesli with milk, and repeating this cycle can make one feel desperate for the warmth of a simple hug. This highlights the significance of genuine human connection.

As I make my way from one location to another, I take a moment to stop and enjoy the excitement of London's nightlife.

I exited the movie theater and strolled along Davies Street, which was illuminated and opulent, in the affluent neighborhood of Mayfair. I passed by some people exchanging air kisses in front of Cipriani, saying "goodbye" in French - "moi, moi!" - and was greeted by two amiable doormen at Claridge's, where I made a right turn. I kept walking up Brook Street until I reached a striped pedestrian crossing, where I hurriedly made it across the street, and a cheerful taxi driver stopped his black cab to let me cross before he continued on his route.

As soon as I got to Regent Street, I felt like I had stumbled upon a world from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Buses whizz by and cyclists expertly navigate alongside them as they all speed past Oxford Circus. Shoppers out late emerge from stores with their newly acquired treasures, wondering out loud where they should go next. There's even a line for the vendor selling candied nuts, their tantalizing scent wafting through the air. But for the most part, people are simply walking with purpose, hurrying along to their next destination.

Moving on to the other side of the story, we visited the 100 Club shortly after the lockdown. It was a crowded basement where people were passionately enjoying themselves. I felt proud watching my friend Andrew, who is the drummer in Keeley's band, playing his heart out and entertaining the music lovers. Though many of the attendees were alone, they looked comfortable and not lonely. I believe the atmosphere created a sense of safety, and everyone was united in the joy of live music performances.

Outside the central area of London, I gaze around at the vibrant atmosphere, observing the lights and commotion that envelop me, feeling content to be among the many cheerful individuals.

I hop into Andrew's vehicle with his partner Tanya for a ride back to my place.

I required a moment to reflect on the fact that returning felt terrific.

Julie Hamill is not only a skilled author but also a radio host and much more. Stay updated with her latest updates on X/Twitter. If you'd like to support OnLondon.co.uk and its talented writers, you can do so for just £5 per month or £50 per year. Plus, you'll receive some cool perks for your contribution. Check out the details HERE. Lastly, take a look at this stunning image taken by Keeley at the 100 Club on 15 March 2024.