F.A.Q.

an open mic event usually consists of a casual stage in, say, a café where it is understood that attendees also consume… There is a “sign-up sheet” for those who want to perform. The venue usually has a microphone (the “open mic” implying that), although in some spaces performers can do without easily. It is a good opportunity to try using a microphone!

We made ours Queer and in a less open space to create a “safe(r) space” i.e. that has a mutual understanding of respect and dignity for performers and the audience. It is also intended to create community. By the way, there is no Queer Identity Card, and you can claim belonging in the “+” of LGBTQ+ and act in full respect of this community. Some of us feel microaggression on a daily basis, and it is our goal to provide an environment in which those are consciously minimized.

We have had various forms of spoken word: poetry, essay, comedy, show-and-tell… And singing, or dance. We usually have a piano, and you can ask us to play music from your or our phone – check with us beforehand. We don’t operate as karaoke, but you can find the music you want and play that whether it is labeled karaoke or not (please skip the ads before you play it!).

Generally the answer is no, but we try to make your venmo (and your web presence if you have one) available for audience members to “tip” or “follow.” We might consider paying a small stipend (we are self-sponsoring) to feature a performance of longer duration than 5-10 minutes. The venue rental is either donated or we pay for it…

Although I consider myself a beginner and older modern dancer, I develop my own choreography sometimes derived from what I learn in class. I have found that even when dancing my teacher’s choreography, there is a process of integrating it into my body and making it self-expression (it is also therapeutic to this queer self). I also learned to improvise using prompts (a bit like meditation prompts). An Open Floor would be to invite performers of any level to share dance with us: as performance, but also if you want, inviting others to join (whichever way you suggest). Teachers are welcome to give a taste of their style. We will fill time with improvisation prompts, so everyone can expect to have an opportunity to dance!