One thing that all cultures seem to have in common is celebration. In France, the annual grape harvest is celebrated between August and October. Java Dance Company treated us to a simulation of this in the Palace last night. It was delicious. My friends described it as a real “feel-good” show. What I loved about this show was the audience interaction. We were invited to participate in the celebration, from throwing the spices, to eating the grapes, to drinking the wine… and some lucky people were even greeted with a kiss.

Speaking of celebrations …today is a special day in the Tauranga arts scene because we are celebrating a very significant birthday. The Incubator turns two today. What an achievement.

They always say that the first year is the most difficult. The Incubator has passed that milestone and arrived at the next one. They have moved through the survival stage and they are thriving.

For those of you who don’t know what I’m talking about, The Incubator is one of Tauranga’s centres of artistic goodness. You may have seen them in “Wonderland” on our festival community day, or at the House of Cards exhibition. They are located in the Historic Village, in the old barn- which they have revamped into the most gorgeous venue. It has mini art-studios, an exhibition space, and a snuggly lounge. Their tagline is “Growing Arts and Culture”, and they do that very well.

I personally am very excited about this birthday celebration, because it signifies two years of generous support and promotion for local artists. It also signifies two years of connecting people through the arts community.

So if you haven’t already, make sure you pop in to The Incubator and find out what it’s all about. If you’re an artist, get involved. You’ll never look back.

To many more years of growth in Tauranga’s art scene.

And to the All Blacks.

Cheers.

Leah x

Oh the places you’ll go!

There is fun to be done.

There are points to be scored,

There are games to be won…

-Dr Seuss