Adult Open Mic Poetry Night

What: Voyage of Verses: Navigating Horizons – An Adult Open Mic Poetry Night at Hughes Library

When: Tuesday, April 9, 2024, 6pm – 7:30pm (presenters please arrive at 5:30)

Where: Edinger Community Room, Hughes Library, 1002 N. 9th Street, Stroudsburg, PA 18360

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, April 9th, and join us at Hughes Library for an evening dedicated to poetry. We are excited to extend a warm invitation to poetry aficionados and literary enthusiasts alike. Our Open Mic Night, titled “Voyage of Verses: Navigating Horizons,” will be a celebration of language and resilience in honor of National Poetry Month.

Both emerging poets and seasoned veterans are encouraged to participate in this event. Poets and artists can showcase their work during an open reading, while community members are invited to attend as audience members. Our library will be transformed into a haven for verse on Tuesday, April 9th, aligning with the global celebration of National Poetry Month. This national celebration brings together millions of readers, students, educators, librarians, and poets, fostering a collective appreciation for the beauty and power of language.

The inspiration for this year’s event – “Navigating Horizons” –  comes from the 2024 National Poetry Month poster, featuring the captivating artwork of Jack Wong and poignant lines from “blessing the boats” by the legendary Lucille Clifton. Together, we will explore the theme of navigating through life’s challenges, finding strength in adversity, and discovering hope amidst turbulent times. In the spirit of resilience and hope, we invite you to participate in our open mic night.

Whether you’ve faced storms or sailed through calm waters, share your journey in verse. Present a piece (6 minutes or less) aligned with the theme, or let your creativity set sail with any piece that speaks to your heart – it need not be on theme. Alternatively, if you prefer not to present an original piece or haven’t selected a favorite, consider joining us as a ‘Featured Reader.’ Our librarians have curated a selection of poetry aligned with the evening’s theme, Navigating Horizons – you just need to lend your voice. There are plenty of ways to engage with the poetic atmosphere! Audience members are encouraged to come as well.

Secure your spot for the “Navigating Horizons” Open Mic Poetry Night at Hughes Library by registering in advance. Kindly email programming@monroepl.org or call 570-421-0800 ext. 303 by Thursday, April 4th. Walk-ins are welcome, but priority goes to registered participants.

When registering, specify if you’ll be presenting an original piece, a selected piece, or if you’d like to volunteer as a “featured reader” with a curated piece matching the theme. We appreciate your enthusiasm and look forward to a wonderful Open Mic Night!

Registration and Event Prep for Participants:

 Registration:

• To secure your spot, please register in advance by emailing programming@monroepl.org or calling 570-421-0800 ext. 303.
• Walk-ins are welcome, and we’ll accommodate as time allows. However, registered participants will be given priority.
• A sign-up sheet will be available on the night of the event for those who haven’t registered in advance.
• When registering, indicate whether you’ll be presenting an original piece, a selected piece, or if you’d like to volunteer as a “featured reader” presenting a curated piece fitting the “Navigating Horizons” theme.

Time Limit:

• Each participant has a maximum of 5-6 minutes to ensure fairness for everyone. Shorter pieces are also welcomed.

Bio and Inspiration:

• Participants are encouraged to provide a brief bio (1-2 sentences) and share what inspired their piece or why they chose it if it’s not their own creation.

Credit for Other Artists’ Pieces:

• If presenting a piece by another artist, please give credit during your reading.

Practice Reading:

• We encourage you to practice your reading in advance. If possible, let us know the approximate length of your piece when registering.

Ground Rules:

• Please adhere to all ground rules for a respectful and enjoyable atmosphere.
• No Hate Speech or Offensive Content: Hate speech, discriminatory language, any type of harassment, or offensive content is not allowed. Please note that while the program is intended for adults, all are welcome – please use language appropriate for a mixed-age audience.
• No Interruptions: The audience should refrain from interrupting performers during their presentations. Applause or snapping after each performance is encouraged. All attendees should turn off or silence their electronic devices during the performances
• Original Content and Proper Credit: Presenters are encouraged to share original work. If performers are sharing someone else’s work, proper credit should be given.

Questions?

• Call Hope at 570-421-0800 ext. 303 or email programming@monroepl.org
• Download flyer here: 8 x 11 Flyer Poetry Open Mic Night
• Download these directions here: 2024 Poetry Open Mic Night – Register