Aaron Carter performs at Buskirk-Chumley

Aaron’s party launched in 2000. Now, more than a decade since the child star’s triple-platinum album was released and following an eight-year hiatus from touring, singer Aaron Carter brought the after party to Bloomington.

More than 500 fans turned up Tuesday night to see Carter at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, part of the 25-year-old’s nationwide After Party Tour. 

“VIP” guests, who paid $65 for up-and-close access, arrived at about 3:30 p.m., show volunteer Melissa Modro said.

“As a ‘90s kid, I’m obsessed with the entire Carter family, so when this opportunity came up, I took it,” Modro said while ushering VIP ticket holders into the theater. “Fans have been crazy. Somebody just gave Aaron fan mail, and I’ve seen two
people crying.”

Carter said he was happy with the turnout and always hopes to impress.
“The girls here are crazy,” Carter said, briefly taking a lollipop out of his mouth to speak. “I hope I make them all proud.”

Before the show, VIPs met Carter for a meet-and-greet, autograph and photo opportunity.

Kelly Jacob was one such VIP. She bought her ticket three weeks in
 advance and said paying extra to meet Carter was well worth it.

“He was really nice, and I’m super excited,” Jacob said. “This is seriously my childhood dream.”

Jill Hoffmann, one of the promoters for the show, said there were some unforeseen issues because the show was much bigger than she had planned.

That didn’t stop her delight for the large turnout.

“I want to get into this industry,” Hoffmann said. “The turnout was greater than I could imagine. I was not expecting a sold-out show for my first concert I promoted.”
After two openers, including IU sophomore DJ Freddie Van, Carter hit the stage with “I Want Candy.”

After his first song, Carter thanked the audience.

“You guys gave my life back,” Carter said. “Thank you.”

His performance included “I Want Candy,” “Do You Remember” and “That’s How I Beat Shaq,” among covers of popular American Top 40 songs like Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” and Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky.”

Carter said this show is a stepping stone to his future in the music industry, and concerts like this one give him hope as he moves forward.  

“This show is sold out, which is great,” Carter said, looking out to his VIP line. “I’m excited for this show, and I hope they continue to be excited to see me in the future.”

Follow reporter Janica Kaneshiro on Twitter @janicakaneshiro.