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We all have to start somewhere. If you’re a young musician trying to get people to hear your sound, or perhaps a comedian just starting out; performing at an open mic night is a great way to get heard. You never know who may be in attendance. That person may just be able to help you get your foot in the door at a record label, or book you for a big show. Of course, it isn’t usually that easy and it takes a lot of time and effort, but have patience young grasshopper.
Just like most things that involve performing; some of you are going to have to get over your stage fright, and it does take some courage to initially get up on that stage in front of people. I’ve heard people with talent get over that quickly though. You won’t see me on a stage singing anytime soon (other than maybe karaoke). Not due to stage fright, but probably because I couldn’t carry a tune in a bucket.
I am; however, here for those of you that can sing and perform. Maybe you’re a musician, comedian, artist, poet, etc., and have been looking for places around Metro Detroit to show off your talents. Let’s go over a few venues.
The Phoenix Cafe located at 24918 John R., in Hazel Park is a performance space for musicians, as well as poets and artists. Weekly open mic nights take place on Mondays and Wednesdays, but it isn’t limited to those days, so always call ahead to find out. The space is also used for music and dance lessons and art classes. In addition, the Phoenix Café usually has live bands on the weekends. There is a full art gallery too!
Broughton Music and Arts Center, 141 North Center St., Suite 102 in Northville allows musicians to showcase their skills every Wednesday from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. Broughton offers private music lessons both for groups and individuals, but of course anybody can come and perform on open mic night. It is “open” after all. I have it on good authority that it is best to park your car on Dunlap Street because I looked into such matters for your benefit! If you ever find yourself in Kalamazoo there is also a location there.
555 Gallery and Studios is located at 2801 W. Vernor Hwy., in Detroit. It is a nonprofit organization dedicated to music and the arts. On the first and third Saturday of every month 555 hosts open mic night. It is not just limited to musicians though. Poets and artists are also welcome to show off their work and talents. The event starts at 7 p.m. and goes until 10 p.m. Refreshments are served and all 555 Gallery and Studios asks for is a measly $5 donation.
Joey’s Comedy Club, 36071 Plymouth Rd., in Livonia is my favorite comedy club. For those of you that are aspiring comedians, Joey’s hosts open mic nights every Monday and Tuesday starting at 8 p.m. Make sure to call ahead to reserve your spot. Each comedian only gets five minutes of stage time, so bring your best material!
Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase located at 314 E. Liberty in Ann Arbor has “Comedy Jamm” every Wednesday night at 8 p.m. Comedy Jamm gives 12 comedy hopefuls three to five minutes on stage. Due to an overwhelming amount of signups, a random drawing is held every Friday to see who will be performing. So, submit your name as soon as possible by calling the box office!
There you have it. Now it’s up to you. Go accomplish your dreams and what not!
