Friday Night Fun Times

Tonight was a ward activity for the Heidelberg English-speaking Military Ward - and what a night to remember.  It was advertised as an evening of games, snacks, entertainment ... all very casual from 18:00-20:00.  We arrived closer to 6:30 and were surprised to see a full stage set up complete with two drum kits, keyboards, 8 guitars, speakers, mics, etc.  Also, there was a guy behind the the rolling tripod (television studio quality) video recorder.  The onstage talent at that time was the seminary teacher/Army dentist doing an acoustic version of something I didn't quite recognize.  

There was plenty of food from the snack aisle (chips, pretzels, Twizzlers, etc) and a surprising amount of fresh fruit with caramel dip.  Marie had baked Angel Food cupcakes with strawberry and Cool Whip frosting - absolutely delicious! - and only 68 calories each.

After John and I found a seat along the sidelines, we were able to really take a look at the different solo artists, family groups, garage band types, and ensemble pieces.

 

The play list included:  a 'rock band' that sang mostly in German complete with a wizened drummer sporting Birkenstocks, ponytail, and a caftan ... a mom and pop garage band with a keep-the-kids-busy-with-this-music-project-they-won't-go-astray sound ... a would-be boy band sans choreography ... the list goes on.

Funny thing, one of the best parts of the evening was the confidence of the participants to get up on stage and do their thing.  It was a

truly safe environment with nothing but an encouraging vibe in the air.  

Had I known this was akin to open mic night, I'd have suggested some def poetry jam - I'm thinking of a piece I wrote, "Married Sex."

I'm already looking forward to next year's event.

Live music with my family is where it's at.