Stephen Gilson Jr.
Life Editor
Would-be pop stars showcased their talents at karaoke night last Friday at Ironbark Ciderworks.
About 20 patrons took part in the night’s activities. Those who wanted to perform their favorite songs could do so by scanning a paper placed in the center of their table with the code scanner on their phones, selecting a song, writing their name and waiting in line to perform.
They could choose from a variety of songs.
Events like these draw many different types.
“I showed up here because a good friend of mine has a girlfriend who works for the brewery,” said William McMullin. “I love karaoke, I don’t need to think about getting in front of people to perform. “(‘Self Esteem’ by The Offspring) is my favorite song because they sound exactly the same live as they do on streaming services.”
As the dim, warm lights glowed across the room and filled the eyes of guests, house music filled the intermissions between performances.
Some of the performers brought their family along for the festivities and had some fun singing duets.
“My husband and I actually met at a karaoke night, so we like to go out to different places and experience a nice sense of community,” said Heather Chapman, who attended Friday. “My son chose the song we performed (‘Popular’ from the play Wicked). He learned the song from Glee Club at his school, and the only way I managed to get him out of the house tonight was by telling him I’ll sing with him.”
While the music played, patrons sipped hard cider. Ironbark Ciderworks offers a wide selection of flavor-infused ciders, from Earl Gray to a spicy flavor made with blueberry and habanero. The venue is welcoming, and family- and dog-friendly.
“It’s all about coming out and having fun, whether you can hit a certain note or not. Karaoke brings people together,” Events Manager Justine Tunque said.
“I like the freedom of it and the fact that you can express yourself without the judgment of it,” said Roy Tumambing, a karaoke participant. “It resonates with what I’m going through, and lately it has been heartbreak and how to get over that. I’m slowly starting to realize that there are other people out there who are willing to give you what you deserve.”
Stephen Gilson Jr. can be reached at stephen.gilson@laverne.edu.
Stephen Gilson Jr. is a senior journalism major with a concentration in broadcast journalism. He is the arts editor for the Campus Times, a staff writer for La Verne Magazine and a staff photographer for both publications. He has previously been a staff writer, assistant editor and LV Life Editor for the Campus Times.
Chris Rodriguez is a senior photography major and photo editor of the Campus Times.
