Karaoke is the best medicine

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 16/11/2011 (5263 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Karaoke is a popular pastime that was created in Japan in the 1970s. It allows music lovers to sing their favourite songs as lyrics are viewed on a screen.

In the North End, karaoke and a love of music have brought people together from all walks of life. Ever since smoking was banned, karaoke has become extremely popular at many Legion branches, which are being forced to close as memberships declined.

Without karaoke, people like me probably wouldn’t have a place to sing publically.

Karaoke helped me rise above depression while I enjoyed good, fun singing. It allows me a chance to meet old and new friends for a fun night out while at same time allowing these establishments to continue doing business.

I used to do public speaking in front of all kinds of people, yet the first time going up to sing still made me feel nervous.

I use to work shifts and weekends but was able to have some fun singing on my days off during the week at various local places.

Karaoke is not a competition unless you want it to be. It does not cost much to enjoy a night of karaoke, even if one only listens to the music while socializing.

In the North End, a person can choose between at least half a dozen locations to attend karaoke night. Some examples include:

• Tuesdays starting  at 8 p.m. at Sir Sam Steele Legion on Salter and Mountain

• Wednesday night karaoke at the West Kildonan Legion

• Fridays at 9 p.m. at Alfie’s Sports Bar and Restaurant on Keewatin

• Fridays and Saturdays at the Legion No. 246 Main St. beginning at 8 p.m.

• Friday evenings after bowling at the Polish Athletic Club at Mountain and Arlington
In any part of the city you can usually find karaoke fun seven days a week.

Anyone can enjoy a sense of community togetherness thanks to karaoke and the host. Please offer your thanks to the invention of karaoke and to all the hosts and hostesses who are so dedicated and give everyone a chance to shine.

Karaoke has made a difference to our better health, more so than most medications.

It is for everyone, whether you sing or not.

Terriann Winiarz is a North End-based writer.

Neighbourhood Forum is a readers’ column. If you live in The Times area and would like to contribute to this column, contact jim.timlick@canstarnews.com.