By PATRICK GOWER
The stars were out at Shortland Street's 2000th episode party last night - but the video player would not work.
While the last 2000 episodes may have been on time, a preview screening of Street Life: The Shortland Street Story, due to screen on TV2 this Sunday, suffered "technical
difficulties," leaving the guests to their own devices.
More than one billion collective viewers have filled in time until 7 on weeknights to enjoy their daily Street dose over the past eight years, so the partygoers did too.
Mayor Christine Fletcher and Dame Catherine Tizard were among those rubbing shoulders with cast and crew.
TVNZ chairman Ross Armstrong was one of many to laud the show, especially for its role as the voice of a generation. "Even an old fogey like myself can glean some insight," he said, describing it as "perhaps the most effective public health system in this country."
The bash was a chance for stars both past and present to catch up. Elizabeth McRae, who was Marj the receptionist for many years, chatted to former on-screen husbands, Adrian Keeling and Chick Littlewood, at the same time.
But while the show was applauded last night for addressing pressing social issues - including incest, labour relations and an obsession with Star Trek - it is one simple quote that will stick in the minds of many viewers:
"You're not in Guatemala now, Dr Ropata."
