Recently, I’ve had the chance to support friends while they pursue their passions.
These friends, although practicing different crafts, have one main thing in common: the stage.
While visiting New York this month, the stars aligned and I got the chance to watch a close friend perform in a stand-up improv comedy show, something she had wanted to do all her life (in pursuit of being Tina Fey).
As someone who is well-versed in “performance,” I can honestly say that it’s hard enough to get up in front of others with a planned routine, let alone with nothing planned and people screaming from the audience. Not surprisingly, friend was super nervous and had purchased a new wardrobe in anticipation of the night (great calming tactic).
I did my part by bringing my most inappropriate friend.
After waiting like anxious teenagers at our first concert and feeling nervous (!), we were finally seated and prepared to laugh our buns off courtesy of an improv troupe in which friend was taking part.
The troupe worked off each other and between sketches, the host requested that the audience yell out scenarios.
Friend busied himself with sexual innuendos while I yelled out everything that came to mind (finally, an activity where my lack of filter is rewarded).
Where should they be? Pool! First date! Yacht! Roller derby! Naked in hot tub! Naked in the ocean! Naked on an island! What life moment are they in? Kindergarten! Teenagers at prom! Losing their virginity!
Some great things resulted, including my favorites: a play on “Stacy’s mom” having it going on and a girl who was in the gospel choir until she realized that everyone was sleeping with each other.
Friend held her own and produced some excellent comedy.
I was astounded.
This inspirational event lead to another when I was given the opportunity to see a good friend perform while on tour.
Paul and Tim have been touring as part of a two-person duo known as Tall Heights since college.
During our decade-long friendship, I have heard these two discuss their goals in pursuing their musical dreams and work hard to make that dream a reality.
When I found out I was in the right place at the right time, I did everything I could to make it to their show.
Yes, I was in a bar wearing pink leg warmers and had just finished skating practice, but it was worth it.
They sounded incredible. The dynamic friendship between them was evident and inviting. The words had some real meaning.
Tall Heights released a new album this week called Man of Stone, with a video debut on the Conan O’Brien website.
Both performances left me excited for my friends, proud and inspired.
Turns out watching your friends follow their dreams is pretty… Awesome.
