Poet Steven Leyva reads his original work, "The Bus Stop in Baltimore Where We Wait for #7" in true beatnik style. Leyva was the highlight of Open Mic Night at the Vineyard Community Church. (Claire Evans / November 1, 2008)
By Claire Evans | Towson University journalism student
Seventeen entrants revealed their hidden talents to an audience of forty at Open Mic Night in Millersville, Md., Saturday.
The Vineyard Community Church opened its stage to fifteen acts which performed songs, literary readings, and comedy routines. Other guests featured art, such as photography, handmade flutes and poetry.
“The diversity of talent made this event as successful as it was,” Brian Burns said. Burns, a Towson University student and flute maker, co-organized the event with Casey Odean, a sophomore at Anne Arundel Community College.
“I knew there would be some incredible talent,” Odean says, “but I was surprised by how many poets and writers the night seemed to draw.”
Poet Steven Leyva stole the show with a reading of his original four-part poem, “The Bus Stop in Baltimore Where We Wait For #7.”
His compassionate description of raw life and urban decay in Baltimore was accompanied by soft conga beats and soaring flute melodies (see photo). The performance conveyed a moody beatnik style.
Other poignant readings included prose and an original short story. Regarding such performers, Odean said, “I was…blown away by how vulnerable and emotional they allowed themselves to be.”
The wooden flutes were also particularly appealing to the crowd. Burns displayed his flutes, performed solo acts and accompanied other artists.
“We need more flute in our lives,” guitarist Ken Livi said with a smile. Cheers rang out in agreement.
After each act, participants drew numbers from an old, brown, fedora-style hat to see who performed next. Acts entertained on a stage decorated with symbols of the harvest season.
The sweet smell of sugar and warm hues of fall enveloped guests in the dimly lit auditorium. Happy faces glowed around tables adorned with flickering candles and autumn leaves. Snacks, sweets and hot apple cider were provided.
The relatively small crowd fostered a sense of community and creativity in an intimate atmosphere. Guest and flutist Bryan Gall said he was thankful for the “warm and friendly” reception.
Many visitors signed up to be contacted for future events and asked if it would be a once-a-month gig.
The organizers will consider hosting a quarterly Open Mic Night, and all are welcome. Want to show off your talent? Call Bryan Burns at 443-623-1161.
