Oh Neighmond! I do sympathise! Welcome to the world of fragile egos and area of low intelligence and sensitivity, that is the world of amateur promoters. Theres a wonderful James Joyce story in Dubliners set at the start of the 20th century all about an amateur concert - your story is sadly not a new one to the world!

I must say the woman sounds like a monster of stupidity and loutishness. To assemble a load of players and then decide you were not going to allow everyone a fair share of the limelight - well its unforgiveabe - inexperienced or not. Just plain rude.

She may feel her friend was 'very talented' - if so they were that talented, the form is that they are top of the bill - they go on last - because people will stick around to see them.

The youngsters (if they are that young) have no place on a bill for adults. the rules of courtesy are that you listen to the other performers and appreciate what they can do. if you can't rise to that level of courtesy, go and organise D-day or some area of human activity where tact and courtesy are not necessary.

Apologise profusely and individuallly to the bruised egos (phone them up now!) - put a distance between you and the idiot. Its the only waypeople will not start give involving you a bad name.

Print off this message from me and send it your hostess for the evening. Try and make her see what a complete and utter twit she has been, and the size of the gaffe she has committed.