I agree with Joe. If the evening is marked as a singaround then that it what it should be - not an excuse for a gabfest. Talking whilst someone is singing is the height of bad manners - it suggests that you don't respect the singer at all. I would be thinking of not attending such a session and letting the organiser know why.

I go to various events to hear the singers and that is what I want to do. I have had problems with acquaintances who want to sit and chat about what is happening in their lives while others are performing. If I really gave a damn about their gossip I would get together outside of the sessions and talk. It seems that some people just can't sit still and quiet for more than a few seconds.