Dozens of local young musicians, from 6-year-olds to tweens, came out to sing, play and showcase their blossoming talents at a kids-only open mic at Woodies Drive-In in Ship Bottom on Monday night. With ukuleles, guitars, sheet music and more in tow, the kids bravely took the opportunity to get valuable experience performing in front of a packed audience, and shared their love of music with each other.

The event was the first of its kind hosted by the Gilbert Family Band, a four-piece family outfit from Barnegat…