Robert on David
What were you hoping for?
George Clooney.
First impressions?
Quiet, diminutive, a book reader.
What did you talk about?
London life. Books we’d read. Performing. Social groups. We touched on his childhood and his current home.
Most awkward moment?
Generally, there weren’t any.
Good table manners?
Fair – he had to deal with long, oily prawns, which would defy anyone.
Best thing about David?
His interest in reading and social history, and his belief about the importance of good education in childhood.
Would you introduce David to your friends?
I’m not sure that would be necessary.
Describe David in three words.
Diminutive, survivor, stoic.
What do you think David made of you?
I have no idea.
Did you go on somewhere?
No.
And ... did you kiss?
We did not.
If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?
There was a rumour that George Clooney was in the building – was he looking for me?
Marks out of 10?
6.
Would you meet again?
It’s very unlikely as there was not a romantic attraction evident.
David on Robert
What were you hoping for?
To start a conversation that we both enjoyed and wanted to continue.
First impressions?
Tall. Solid. Good posture.
What did you talk about?
Personal development. My writing project. Growing up in a patriarchal society. Socialising as older gay men. Performing naked.
Most awkward moment?
Negotiating the steps with no railing outside the restaurant – no fun with arthritic knees.
Good table manners?
His were great. I’m from Ohio, so “fine dining” is not really my skill set.
Best thing about Robert?
He’s comfortable being who he is.
Would you introduce Robert to your friends?
The more mature (in years) ones.
Describe Robert in three words.
Honest, unpretentious and self-aware.
What do you think Robert made of you?
He had the impression that I’d danced for the past 54 years, but it was a small part of my work, much as I loved it.
Did you go on somewhere?
No. I think it was Bedtime for Bonzo.
And ... did you kiss?
As Bette Davis once said: “I’d like to kiss you, but I just washed my hair.”
If you could change one thing about the evening what would it be?
I wasn’t alert enough to ask some of the questions I would have liked to.
Marks out of 10?
7.
Would you meet again?
Sure. There’s a lot still to find out.
David and Robert ate at Bossa, London W1. Fancy a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com
