American Idolatry

FRI, 2/25

"We filmed everyone during the auditions," explains Morgan Ralph, director of CU Idol, a search for the University of Colorado's best crooner, which takes place at 8:30 p.m. tonight in the Old Main Chapel on the Boulder campus. "We wanted to show highlights of all the really bad singers like they do on American Idol, but hardly anybody who came out was terrible. They were all really good."

Listening to contestants do permanent damage to their vocal cords as they attempt to sing has become one guilty pleasure spawned by the popular television show, but true fans know it's the later rounds when the stars really shine.

Shine on, you crazy diamonds.

This year's auditions saw 61 Golden Buffalo wannabe pop stars take to the stage, up from 42 the year before. From that group, organizers culled thirteen of the top performers, and they're the ones who will appear in front of the whole school tonight. Each contestant in the finals will sing one full-length song with a musical backing track, after which the audience will vote the group down to six. Following another tune, only three will remain. Each of them will sing a short a cappella number, and a winner will be crowned.

Tickets to the free show are available by contacting co-organizer Judd Rodgers at 303-492-8484 or at judd.rogers@cufund.org. Last year's event drew a capacity crowd, so act fast.

"This is a great opportunity to bring something positive to the community," Ralph comments. "With everything else going on here, people tend to overlook the good stuff." -- Adam Cayton-Holland

You Got That Swing
Jump and jive at Zoot Suit Riots.
SAT, 2/26

If you use the phrases "daddy-o" or "cool cat" more than five times a week, chances are you're going to enjoy the Zoot Suit Riots concert tonight. The Mile High Freedom Band and the Windjammers Jazz Orchestra help transport the PPA Event Center, 2105 Decatur Street, back to the time of Glenn Miller with their traditional swinging sound.

"This is a good chance for big-band fans to hear two community groups put a spin on those classic songs from that era," says organizer Roy Vestal. "It's going to be a fun, family-oriented setting."

Zoot Suit Riots participants will offer dance lessons before and during the show to help novices with their jumpin' and jivin' needs. A cash bar can help numb any nervousness about getting out on the floor.

The doors to this musical time machine open at 7:30 p.m. General admission tickets are $10, free for children under ten. To buy advance tickets or for information, call 303-433-0371. -- Richard Kellerhals