No clapping? Only at Takoma Torch's Party

The Takoma Torch publisher is warning guests not to clap for karaoke performers at its 7th Anniversary Party on Saturday night because it might make the really bad singers feel reluctant to perform.

“We want everyone here to feel welcome to make fools of themselves,” said humorist Eric Saul. “Clapping for some and not all scares away the best people to make fun of later.”

Saul included clapping together with wooting and shouting Yaas, girl! as actions that can discourage off-pitch, off-balance guests from performing. He prohibited clapping in his role as the guy who pays the bar tab.

Ward 3 Councilmember Roger Schlegel asked if clapping could be allowed as an expression of freedom of speech if it didn’t disrupt the performer. Saul didn’t directly answer the question but beat him mercilessly with a microphone stand.

“I have never been insulted as much as when I belted out Dancing Queen and no one applauded,” said Karen Elrich, a Takoma Park resident whose name seems vaguely familiar. “We can’t clap. We can’t clap. I can’t believe we’re hearing this from our satirist.”

Saul could not be reached for comment about whether the clapping ban will include Adam Pagnucco's performance of part six of A Change of Seasons by Dream Theater, or if it will be extended to the Takoma Torch 4th of July parade float riders.

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Publisher’s Note:  click for more information about the Takoma Park clapping ban or more information about The Takoma Torch lalapalooza.