Practicing for IU SING

Feb. 17 and 18 mark the 74th IU Sing. Each year more than 3,000 students come together, giving their time to the theatrical competition, according the IU Student Foundation Web site.\nThe beginnings of IU Sing can be traced back to famed songwriter and IU alumnus Hoagy Carmichael. His "Showdown" appeared in the 1920s and was a musical send-off for graduating seniors, according to an Indiana Daily Student article. The show's first official running in 1932 brought competition to the event.\nIn the 1960s some shows took on a political tone, reflecting issues like draft dodging surrounding the Vietnam War, according to the article. Now, the shows have a less specific tone to reflect an IU twice as large as in the '60s.\nThe 2006 IU Sing will begin at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the IU Auditorium. Saturday, after the last performance, scores will be tallied and awards will be given. Tickets are $18.00.