Friend Raising

Me:  "So... do you have a companion?"  
Carley:  "No, but I have all shift to find one."

The Doctor (Carley) was unflapped by my awkward (almost) pick up line.  My first shift as a Fringe Friend-Raiser and I didn't know anyone.  Perhaps if I'd dressed up, people would talk to me?  The theme of the day: "The Doctor."  Don a chunky sweater a la Dr. John Watson (summer heat be dammed!) or some designer modern frock as Dr. Joan Watson...? 

Anyway, standing at the gate, asking people to donate to the Fringe,  and handing out stickers didn't actually allow for much talking.  Though it certainly fit the bill as my personal challenge to be more "outgoing" and "out there" (just not sure if I'd be able to meet it).  




For the most part, we were ignored.  Likely, even the costumed seems everyday when placed alongside the Fringe.  We tried to catch people's attention, to convince them -- but most people either had money already in hand pointing to the collection boxes or just walked by. 

It was hot in the sun.  But then the sun went down and the temperature dropped to 16 C.  We were then dancing just to stay warm. The Doctor moon walked. 
Ami and Val!  They came for a math related show.  Ami, ever the gentleman, visited before leaving to offer me his coat.  
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Me: "Thanks for donating, here's a sticker."
Guy: "I think I'll put it on my pointy nipple."
Me: Yes, good idea.


Next day, next shift, I was prepared.  Theme of the day: Orient Express.  Me in my sparkly red wedding dress did attract some attention.  Kisses blown from street performers.  Hugs from Erika (whose head was printed from a 3D printer).  A request to pose in a picture that was part of a wedding proposal. 

But it was mostly just like the night before: not a lot of eye contact, lots of people walking by, like... 

- Mark Meer and Belinda Cornish. I bowed.  They didn't seem at all phased -- guess that happens to them a lot.  
- Prior students from dance class.  One was kind enough to ask if I was in a show - if only! 
- Sherry S and Claudia.  They were here to check out the site.  The Bechdel test came to mind - our short conversation failed.  

Carley wasn't on shift, but Avery was.  She, as the way-too-cool-girl, was hilarious. So laid back people seemed to be chasing her down to donate money (and give their number?).

During the slow times, I danced to keep myself amused (and warm). It turned out another volunteer had been watching; he donated some money for me :) 

So many ups and downs, but ultimately good for the soul?  There was a that sweet spot moment of being so off the radar that it made no sense to be self-conscious - just be what you want to be.  And then, a reminder to not take things too seriously: People might be watching, but they're most likely not.  And even if they are, maybe they'll like what they see.