2620 days ago

45 by 45 - first one done!

Shannon Beynon Reporter from Christchurch Mail

The first thing off my list of 45 things to complete by the time I'm 45 has been completed. Admission - it was in the wind before my birthday, but it was still something I had wanted to do, and it was serendipitous that it all happened around the same time.

I performed in front of an audience.

For eight weeks last term, I was part of a rag-tag bunch of twenty or so individuals who got together every Monday night, telling stories, making stuff up and having a hell of a lot of fun. We were teachers, tattoo artists, students, personal trainers, professionals. All with our own reasons for coming, and united in our desire to step outside our comfort zones and try something new - and maybe make some friends along the way.

Our tutor, Emma Brittenden, was an absolute breath of fresh air while being incredibly encouraging and delightfully naughty. She encouraged us all from the get-go to always be 'a bit shit'; to give ourselves permission to not be perfect. It's this lesson that's at the heart of improv, and, if you ask me, life itself.

Improv isn't just about acting or comedy or making a dick of yourself on stage. It's about sharpening your brain, inspiring your partner and failing spectacularly and being more than comfortable with it.

We learned story structure and we learned the rules of the games, but we also learned how to read cues and how to step back and let someone else lead. We learned to let go. We learned to relish our failures.

A couple of weeks ago we showcased what we'd learned in front of an audience of family and friends. And it was both terrifying and terrific.

If you're keen to repeat my madness, I highly recommend this class as a way of dipping your toes in.

Spontaneity One runs at the Court Theatre every Monday night from 6pm-7.30pm. No experience necessary!
$127 per term (8 weeks).
Book at courteducation.org.nz.

The full list of my 45 by 45 can be found on my blog: shewillbealright.wordpress.com.... I'll update as I go.

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Poll: Are quality products on the decline?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Gift-giving looks a lot different these days when you can pick up super-cheap goods made overseas. But do they last?

Do you have any old items like appliances, electronics or clothing that have stood the test of time? Share below!

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Are quality products on the decline?
  • 90.1% Yes
    90.1% Complete
  • 8.4% No
    8.4% Complete
  • 1.5% Other - I'll share below
    1.5% Complete
263 votes
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Give the gift of tickets this Christmas!

Heart Foundation Lottery

Surprise your loved ones with tickets for the Heart Foundation Christmas Lottery. It's a gift that could change their lives!

They'll have the chance to win a brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home in Clarks Beach, Auckland, valued at over $1 million. Plus, there are incredible prizes up for grabs, including international travel.

Tickets are just $15 each, and every purchase supports life-saving research. Get yours online today at heartlottery.org.nz.
Find out more

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8 hours ago

Puzzle Pros of the Neighbourhood, Assemble!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What common English verb becomes its own past tense by rearranging its letters?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

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