If you've been waiting for a socially acceptable place to sing 80s hits at full volume, mark your calendar for October 17.
Pathways Health Centre for Children has announced return of "The Big Sing Thing", a one-of-a-kind, interactive musical experience that was first held to celebrate the organization's 50th anniversary in 2025.
Special Events Lead Marcy Draker said everyone had so much fun participating in The Beatles experience, they've decided to do the event again.
"We really had people moving, and grooving, and smiling, and we got such tremendous feedback," said Draker. "We knew that, with the agreeance of Mark Payne and Pat Morrison to do this again with us, that we would absolutely want to bring it back for the community, and so we are," said Draker.
Payne and Morrison are directors at Victoria Playhouse Petrolia.
The Epic 80s will be held in the auditorium at Great Lakes Secondary School on Saturday, October 17 at 7:30 p.m.
"The attendees are invited to join a massive choir, and together they are going to be belting out some iconic 80s tunes," Draker said. "You need no prior musical experience to enjoy this evening of fun, you just need to bring your enthusiasm, and your will for a good time."
Whether the theme inspires you to break out the acid-wash denim, neon, a distressed leather jacket, or use a whole can of hairspray, Draker welcomes it.
"You can absolutely dress 80s theme, that would make it so fun for the audience to see that and be part of that experience, but it is not necessary if that's not your thing," she said.
Tickets are $40 each, and purchasing them in advance is encouraged.
"You can visit our website at www.PathwaysCentre.org," said Draker. "You can order your tickets that way, or you can come into the centre, or give us a call at 519-542-3471 and we would love to be able to help you in any way so that you can experience this momentous evening to come."
Draker said about 350 people attended last year, but there's seating for about 600 people.
"If we could get as close as we can to cramming that beautiful auditorium full of fun loving people in Sarnia-Lambton, that would just make us tremendously happy," she said.
Money raised supports programs and services offered to over 5,000 local children and youth with physical, developmental, and communication needs.
"Keeping up to speed with the newest, the greatest, and the latest... and helping the kiddos in the best way that we possibly can is our goal and our aim through our fundraising endeavors," said Draker. "Last year, The Big Sing Thing brought in over $7,000, so we want to exceed that goal."
