The typical smell of coffee and pastries filled the Bistro during its Open Mic Night the evening of Monday, Nov. 11, but even more noticeable were the palpable emotions each artist expressed through their pieces. The event, hosted by Poetry Club, was a great opportunity for both novice and more advanced writers to share their poems, songs, prose and other forms of creative work. While this wasn’t the Poetry Club’s first Open Mic, this time the event was organized in collaboration with The Mill, which broadly promotes literary art on campus. Their combined efforts attracted more participants, filling the evening with a diverse array of creative writing.
Anyone wishing to read their work could sign up on the spot — even guests who hadn’t originally planned to participate. “I think an informal setting creates a safe space for artists to share their work in a relaxed environment. Everyone is incredibly supportive and kind, which makes it a genuinely wonderful place to be,” shared Lilly Thies (’26), head of The Mill Club and one of the event’s co-organizers. Those who shared their work first inspired others to step up and share as well, with a large line formed near the registration table towards the middle of the event. Some participants read several of their works, while others admitted that it was their first time performing on stage. Regardless, everyone had a chance to showcase their talent.
Before presenting, artists experienced a broad range of emotions from fear to uncertainty, yet everyone was confident by the time they took the stage. "My heart always races. I get really nervous because I'm scared of putting myself out there,” shared Valentine Wells (’27), the vice president of Poetry Club. “But it turns out fine all the time. I feel good when I'm in front of a crowd. It's frightening, but I feel calmer there than I do in that uncertain in-between stage." After each reading, the audience snapped their fingers in support instead of clapping loudly, creating quiet applause. It helped to maintain an overall atmosphere of understanding and literary calm in the room.
Not only poems were presented at Open Mic, but also excerpts from prose works, monologues from theater performances and even original songs. Zelda Stein (’27), who performed an original song, explained how she comes up with her songs: "I have so many voice memos where I write poetry and then add a melody to it, or I hear a melody in my head and add words to it. Going up to a stage isn’t something I’m usually afraid of, but at the Open [Mic], I decided to challenge myself and sing on the spot.” She rose up to that challenge, adding a musical touch and a sense of rhythm to the overall atmosphere of the evening.
Events like the Open Mic not only provide a venue to share one’s talent, but also boost student’s confidence in performing their work. Watching young writers grow can provide inspiration and motivation to try writing your own short piece. Additionally, "It’s beautiful to see people face their fears," said Stein, encouraging anyone hesitant about participating in a similar open mic event. "Stay open and willing to try — taking that leap builds confidence and earns admiration for your courage."
Wells added a final piece of advice: "Remember, when you take that step [of performance], you're not just doing it for yourself. You’re doing it for the people around you." If you have a desire to develop your creative writing skills or you simply love listening to poetry and reciting poems or monologues, consider joining the Poetry Club or The Mill. Following their news and coming to future events could be a great way to spread your creativity!
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