The Blanks, ‘Scrubs’ band, put on free show at STLCC-Meramec
By: Rory Sullivan
-Staff Writer-
Live music, four-person harmonies, skits, choreography, autographs, and a chance to meet four cast members from the show “Scrubs” will be available when the a cappella quartet The Blanks are scheduled to put on a free show at STLCC-Meramec as part of their 2011 tour.
The Blanks will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 24 in at the Meramec Theater and are expected to draw a large audience. Steve Brady, manager of student activities, looks at the concert as an opportunity for students to get involved with more campus activities.
“The reason why it’s free [is because] we want to encourage students to come to programs in the theater, not just this program, but all the offerings that we have throughout the year,” Brady said. “The concert is covered by an activity fee, “ Brady said.
The Blanks made their name on the television series “Scrubs” where they appeared in eight seasons. Sam Lloyd, who played Ted on the show, would appear on screen with the rest of the group, Paul F. Perry, George Miserlis and Philip McNiven, to perform their versions of songs ranging from popular music to television show themes.
In 2008, The Blanks decided to turn the quartet into more than a running gag on “Scrubs” by taking their show out on the road. The group will arrive in St. Louis from Edinburgh, Scotland first to meet at the conference for the National Association of Campus Activities, and then to put on the show at Meramec.
The Blanks are expected to sing mostly television show theme songs, but their website also features versions of “Hey Ya!” by Outkast and “I’ll Be Seeing You” which has been covered by artists like Frank Sinatra and Billie Holiday. After the show, members of the group will stick around to meet with audience members, sell merchandise, and sign autographs,” Brady said.
The group has played at many college venues including Truman State University in 2009.
Alec Sydlow, member of the Student Activities Board at Truman, was there to see the show and believes that the show will appeal to more than just “Scrubs” fans.
“The show was a great mix of music and comedy, and you definitely don’t have to be a ‘Scrubs’ fan to appreciate it,” Sydlow said. “Anyone who enjoys a cappella will have a great time, but what made the show so enjoyable was just how fun and outgoing the guys are.”
Sydlow said that the band takes occasional breaks between songs to crack jokes and interact with audience members. Highlights of the show included the group’s rendition of “Superman” by Lazlo Bane and the Israel Kamakawiwo’ole version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”
“I was really glad I went, and I know the reaction was overwhelmingly positive,” Sydlow said.
Brady said he is is confident that the show at Meramec will be a success as well.
“Students I talk to say ‘Oh yeah, I remember them, that’s cool. I used to watch that show all the time, those guys are funny.’ There have been a few people who have said ‘I’ve never watched that show so I don’t know who you’re talking about,’ and when I hear that I just say ‘Come on out.’ They are an a cappella singing group, they are funny, and they get the crowd going. It’ll be a good time,” Brady said.
