Everyone loves karaoke. Even if people are too shy to get on stage and try it out, we all thrill at an awesome rendition of some of our favorite songs as performed by amateurs on stage. This Sunday, everyone is invited to a wonderful and new experience to the Salt Lake area – deaf karaoke! What is deaf karaoke? Well, there is a video at the end of the article, but it’s pretty much exactly what you’d expect. Deaf and hearing people choose the songs they want, hop on stage and either perform them in ASL (American Sign Language) or by singing them.
I’ve been friends with the event’s coordinator, Samm Nielsen, for years, and was really excited when she told me about it. I took ASL in high school and spent time working with the deaf community growing up. They are an important and vibrant part of life here in Salt Lake, and it’s great to see more people have such a passion for this community.
When I talked to Samm, I said the first question that probably pops into most people’s minds is “Why deaf karaoke?”
“Why NOT deaf karaoke? Shouldn’t they be invited to all the things?” Samm Nielsen replied.
Point well made and taken.
She continued, “I want to bridge the gap between the deaf and hearing communities to promote the deaf community within the hearing community. I think that ASL and deaf culture is beautiful and something that should be easily accessible to everybody and something that should be respected for the wonderful thing that it is.”
Throughout our conversation, she went on to explain that she has learned some ASL but doesn’t get as much of a chance to practice as she would like and was looking for an idea that would allow her and others to interact with the deaf community and have a fun time doing it. As a huge karaoke fan, it suddenly dawned on her that this would be the perfect thing to bring people together, let them learn and work with each other all while having an incredibly fun time.
Thus, deaf karaoke was born!
The first of what will hopefully be many events will take place this Sunday, March 21, at Frankie and Johnny’s Tavern (aka the Penalty Box) between 8 PM and midnight. There is no cover, and people can find more information by checking out their Facebook page. Everyone is invited, and it doesn’t matter if you don’t know a single letter in sign language. There will be materials at the bar to help those interested in learning the language as well as plenty of people who are hearing and can sign in order to keep the conversation flowing. Most importantly, just come and have fun and get to know your deaf and hard of hearing neighbors. Who knows, you might even win some prizes or discover a new road in life to head down.
Hope to see you there!