A bouquet of daisies. A romantic dinner at In-n-Out Burger. A
shot glass shopping spree at aahs! and an improv comedy show.
Forget high-class romance ““ it’s time for an Art to
Heart blind date.
Introducing our weekly participants: Jonathan Webb, a
second-year physiological sciences student, and Kelly Persons, a
second-year biology student. Webb, carrying flowers, met Persons
outside the De Neve Plaza turnaround. Webb and Persons, dressed in
Abercrombie & Fitch and GAP, respectively, were both excited
and anxious about the upcoming experience.
“I’m a very outgoing guy,” said Webb.
“But even this experience got my nerves a little rattled, not
knowing who you’re going to see and not knowing if she
doesn’t have two legs or two eyes always freaks me
out.”
Both said to be very sociable and humorous by their friends,
Webb and Persons described themselves as very adventurous and
willing to take a chance to try something new.
“I’m always up for trying something at least
once,” said Persons. “I’m the kind of girl who
doesn’t back down from a dare, but takes it to a new
level.”
The two started their romantic soiree over a halogen-lit dinner
of two cheeseburgers, fries and Cokes in Westwood’s favorite
grease joint. Savoring luscious tomatoes and succulent sauces, they
discussed everything from past relationship history to the
impending situation in Iraq.
“In-N-Out is always a good way to start a date,”
said Webb. “Amazing food always makes a date better; even if
you have nothing in common, you can just eat. Thankfully, the
conversation between Kelly and I wasn’t awkward at all
““ it was like talking to a friend.”
Persons was most impressed with Webb’s ability to make a
quick comment about everything she said.
“Every time I made a joke or comment, Jon had a witty
comment as a rebuttal. His wit was impressive,” said
Persons.
After dining, the two wandered around Westwood, ending up at the
variety store aahs! Doing everything from playing with the
“adult section” toys to looking for the most unique
shot glass, they entertained themselves while also learning more
about each other.
“Kelly definitely was right when she said she was outgoing
and pretty adventurous,” said Webb. “She wasn’t
shy at all when we were pointing and laughing at the edible undies
or dirty dice.”
After leaving the store, each with a precious memento, the two
went back to Gayley Avenue to see the Ultimate Improv show to give
their abs a workout.
Ultimate Improv, a comedy show performed by a regular troupe of
comedians, has been a popular source of entertainment for UCLA
students. The group’s antics include everything from audience
participation to scheduled routines.
“Ultimate Improv is definitely a perfect first date
place,” Persons said. “It’s an atmosphere when
you both can relax and just enjoy the show while not trying to
impress the other person or have to think of awkward topics for
conversation.”
Webb agreed with Persons, saying that even though he’s
seen Ultimate Improv numerous times before, the acts keep getting
more interesting and entertaining. According to Webb, the best
parts of the performance were when the audience had a chance to
interact with the comedians.
“Overall, the date went pretty well,” said Webb.
“There weren’t too many awkward silences or pauses. I
was also pretty impressed that Kelly was the type of person to go
on a blind date. She wasn’t what I expected at all, but was a
pleasant surprise.”
While the two didn’t find romance that Saturday night,
they did have a chance to meet someone new and polish their social
skills.
“I think it was a good experience to have,” said
Webb. “It can’t hurt to be put in a situation where
you’re nervous, but are forced to open up and talk to the
other person.”
From filling up on fries and cheeseburgers to working it off
with laughter at Ultimate Improv, the two had a night filled with
new experiences and new people.
“I’d definitely do this again.” Persons said.
“It was a blast ““ I mean, I didn’t fall in love,
but now I know if I ever need to talk to someone whose favorite
cartoon was “˜Freakazoid,’ I know where to
go.”