Super Mecca Karaoke Smackdown

D.I.Y.D.S.

The awful thing about American Idol isn't the singing, or lack thereof. The problem is in the show's position as the ultimate barometer of pop talent, rather than what it really is: glorified karaoke. VD Extravaganza's "Super Mecca Karaoke Smackdown," on the other hand, knows its place. And it's as the world's most dangerous karaoke competition.

"The problem with karaoke is that the crowds get stale in local bars," says Victor Fiorillo, who founded VD with Devin Williams. "It's very safe. You can suck. People are polite. At our show, the audience will break you. One mistake and they will boo your lanky ass offstage."

No kidding. For one evening only, the Trocadero will moonlight as Philadelphia's Apollo, encouraging the audience to put down performers who are pouring their hearts out on the 35-foot screen. But the risk could pay off; prizes include $500, P-Funk tickets, a hot tub rental and sex toys from Erogenous Zone (Fiorillo's favorite prize: the "Pleasure Swing"). Saturday's show is the 13th in two years. Submitted songs include "Love Shack" ("I'd give them 30 seconds"), "Thriller" ("They better be able to move") and "That's Amore" ("If it's an old person, they might have a chance of not getting booed").

"This show is perfect for everyone," Fiorillo explains. "If you love karaoke, it's a no-brainer. If you hate karaoke, it's perfect for you too, because you can finally boo your brains out."

Sat., Aug. 28, 8 p.m., $7, The Trocadero, 1003 Arch St., 215-922-6888.

—Andrew Parks

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