Open Mike Night Provides
Entertainment on Campus

By Kelsey Rahn
CyberNews Reporter

March 18, 2002

Every Tuesday from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., more than 30 Drake students gather in the Olmsted Center Lounge to listen to fellow students play music, sing, read poetry or tell jokes. Open Mike Night is a new opportunity presented on campus.

The idea for the night was brainstormed by Daniel Carey (B1) and Jeff Breakey (B1), two members of SAB band committee. "We wanted to give people a chance to perform who otherwise wouldn't be able to. And plus, there isn't much music at Drake," Carey said.

They brought their proposal to Zachary Nunn (AS4), who helped them make this night happen. Next they had to get students involved and made flyers to inform everyone about the event.

"So much preparation has gone into getting this started. At first, I didn't know how much of an audience to expect, but I'm glad everyone is as enthusiastic about it as I am. We've been really happy with the results," said Carey.

The first Tuesday of Open Mike Night, about 50 people were there to listen, and around 15 people performed. So far all types of music have been done--anything from N'Sync to Creed to originally written songs. There have also been poetry readings and joke telling. Anyone wanting perform can come and sign up between the two-hour period.

Sarah King (J1) said, "I enjoyed [this event]. It had a good atmosphere with good music. I would definitely go listen again."

The future plan for Open Mike Night includes moving it to Cool Beans, the new coffee shop in Hubbell North that is in the process of being opened on campus. "Once it's moved, the atmosphere will be even better, and it will attract more students," Carey said.