Aspiring singers, here’s a chance for your big break. The Clayton Chamber of Commerce is hosting its third annual Clayton Idol karaoke contest on August 16 at Double D Karaoke (1740 S. Brentwood).
“We thought, ‘How fun would it be to come out with your work friends and show off your talents?’” says Ellen Gale, executive director of the Clayton Chamber of Commerce. “When you work with people all day, you don’t know what other talents are hiding there.”
Admission to the event, which is limited to guests age 21 and over, costs $20 and includes drinks, seats, and live entertainment. This money goes towards covering the costs of staging the event, which will be presented by Huntleigh McGehee. Singing begins at 6 p.m.
The competition is modeled on the popular television show American Idol with a slight twist. In order to vote, the audience must first donate money. The more you give, the more votes you get to cast. All donations will go towards the American Red Cross of Greater St. Louis. Last year’s event, which featured 15 singers, raised over $1,100 for tornado victims in Joplin, MO.
The winning singer, as crowned by the audience, will have the chance to perform live at one of the Chamber’s Parties in the Park in downtown Clayton on September 12.
Gale admits, however, “Some people are a little shy to do that.”
Clayton Idol is just one of the 30 to 50 events the Chamber of Commerce organizes each year, ranging from educational presentations to golf outings to overseas trips. Last year, the Chamber hosted its inaugural tour abroad by bringing 62 people to China for a week of sightseeing and exploration.
“We’re always looking to bring people together in fun and unique ways, and what’s better than traveling?” says Gale. “Our exotic location this year is Istanbul, Turkey.”
The trip to Turkey will take place November 7-15 and is open to both members and nonmembers of the Chamber. The final informational meeting for trip will be held at noon on Tuesday, August 14 at the Center of Clayton.
Gale hopes that the upcoming events will further the Chamber’s goal of promoting networking, business, and social opportunities for the people of St. Louis. While Clayton Idol may not promise the fame and fortune of American Idol, co-workers will get the chance to show off their hidden musical talents and the winner will get a taste of the spotlight.
“We can’t give a record deal, but they can go live onstage at Parties in the Park,” says Gale. “It’s the same thing!”
Participants must preregister by August 10 online or by calling the Chamber at (314) 726-3033. For more information, visit www.claytoncommerce.com.
