Ever wonder how a favorite music video is made? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lqn5AIdd-9k Madness, the British pop group comes to mind when they made this zany contribution in the early 1980s. It is likened to a flock of friends who just want to have a little fun. The lyrics, '...our house, in the middle of the street,' are not supposed to be taken literally and therefore the musicians display a brilliant sense of humor as they poke fun at themselves.

Zeum, an interactive media museum located at Howard and 4th Street near the Yerba Buena Center http://www.zeum.org/visitor/directions.html is offering an after school program for children ages 6-18 called After School Studio. This is an amazing opportunity for children to work with professional artist-educators and have a great time with hands-on technology. The program also offers clay animation and digital workshop for those that are so inclined.

On any given day, Zeum offers music video karaoke. http://www.zeum.org/exhibits/productionLab.html With a suggested five dollar donation any Zeum guest can receive a DVD copy of their masterpiece. However, children certainly aren't expected to perform like the kooky members of Madness. Then again, yes they are. This is not American Idol for kids. The point is for the children to have fun. They learn best that way anyways. Parents are encouraged not to participate but rather stand back and let the magic happen. When the kiddies are in school parents can play hooky and make their own videos if they must obey their inner muse. On second thought, childless adults in kid-friendly places is usually frowned upon. Well, there's always singing in the car?

Fortunately for those who sound like they're reading (rather than singing) the lyrics when they appear on the karaoke screen, singing is optional. Just ask the Zeum attendant if dancing is a greater preference and they'll make your dreams come true. Remember, even though Madonna is a singer she was also a dancer. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FRLHro9EPD0&feature=fvw