We woke to a bright and sunny morning for a tai chi flash mob session in the park. It was the first day of autumn (Sunday 1st March), following a dark, stormy night with lots of rain. Approximately 25 students of Tai Chi and several instructors gathered at Akoonah Park on a Sunday morning market day, supported by friends and relatives. Si Gung Charles mingled in the crowd, enjoying both his coffee and our execution of a Flash Mob. For those who do not know what a Flash Mob consists of, it is an organised and coordinated gathering of people who perform in a seemingly random act and then disperse into the crowd.
On the 28th February we gathered at the Berwick Centre to practice the 24 Form and how we could join in the flash mob, making it look as though it was a random, on the spot appearance to the public. Si Je Sandra was able to help out with her portable DVD player for our music.
As we casually gathered at the market you could feel our energy and enthusiasm, with a slight touch of nervousness as this was our first performance. Sifu Di started the 24 and we began to join in a few at a time and it was not long before we were all engrossed in the form. What a thrilling and satisfying experience this turned out to be. Many photos and videos were taken by our support crew and before long our conversation turned to “when can we do this again” and Sigung Charles had a smile on his face.
Many thanks to Norma Edge (Berwick Centre) for her idea and enthusiasm to get this event to actually happen, students who participated from a number of sites, Sifu Di for her enthusiasm and support together with Si Gung Charles for his encouragement for us “to give it a go”
For myself, it was a great experience and I hope all at Golden Lion enjoy watching us on YouTube.
Yvonne den Hertog, Berwick Tai Chi Centre
This is the link or just search Flash Mob tai chi Berwick.