A new initiative by Blumenthal Performing Arts called Whirl is bringing local artists to Blumenthal’s stages as it encourages greater public participation in the performing arts. Parts of this initiative are bi-monthly Open Mic nights, giving Charlotte’s local talent a chance to take the stage. Open Mic nights are free and open to performers and spectators of all ages and all abilities. Shows typically include: singers, instrumentalists, dancers, storytellers, poets and even magicians.

“You can count on a fun evening,” said Blumenthal Performing Arts patron, Lester Ranson. “You get to hear and see a variety of live performers and encourage developing talent.”

The next Open Mic night is tonight at 7:30 p.m. in McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square, which provides a great cozy atmosphere for this type of event. According to Ralph Beck, director of Blumenthal’s Education Department, “Charlotte has embraced the idea of our bi-monthly Open Mic shows.” In fact, the Blumenthal has gotten such interest from artists they instigated a lottery system for selecting performers. Interested performers should contact Blumenthal at [email protected] prior to the Open Mic night to be entered into the lottery draw.

Guidelines for performing include:

• Performances must be no longer than five minutes
• Performances must be appropriate for a general audience—inclusive of very young children
• Performances must stay within the stage dimensions: 33′ wide x 18′ deep
• Blumenthal will provide: up to five microphones, CD player, ipod connection, piano, DI box for instrument amplification (1/4″ plug), chairs and stools
• Each performer and group must set up the stage for their act within 90 seconds and clear the stage of their properties within the same amount of time

Blumenthal Performing Arts Open Mic.