Open mics for all coming to the Strathmore Legion

If you're a performer looking for a fun way to get yourself out there, the Legion may be a great place to start. 

On March 5, the Legion will be hosting an open mic, the first of what they hope will be many. The current plan is to host an open mic for the community on the first Sunday of every month from 3:00-5:00 p.m.

Event organizer Brenda-le Graff explained this open mic will be a bit different from a standard one, as it will be open to anyone who wants to perform, not just musicians.

The goal will be to promote both music and the spoken word, Graff says all are welcome, including poets, stand-up comedians, church or school choirs, or solo instrumentalists that may not even sing or speak.

"The dream is to have a community event like an old-fashioned variety show," she said.

Graff strongly believes in the importance of music and community events like this, saying it helps build community and bring us closer together. Because of this, she hopes to see many people show up for the inaugural Legion open mic. If early community feedback is any indicator, it seems like March could be off to a great start. 

"I've heard a couple of people say, 'oh, maybe I'll have to dig out a poem.' The Legion themselves are quite excited to see if it's going to draw more people in towards the Legion. I've got a couple of kids that are excited to present." 

The open mic is also open to all ages, so Graff strongly encourages kids to show what they can do as well. She mentioned how years ago she saw a 3 or 4-year-old girl who "could sing like an angel," so she encourages all kids to join in on the fun.

Registration will be open from 2:30-3:00 p.m. on the day of the open mic, depending on how busy the day is you may be able to perform even if you miss the initial sign-up period, although Graff encourages you to arrive early so you can ensure you'll get your turn on the stage.

The first open mic will be on March 5,  depending on how it goes there could be a potential for more to come.  If community feedback is strongly positive Graff hopes to have two open mics a month in the future.

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