Well not quite that strong, but I do have some real concerns about Open Mic. I have been pondering and comtemplating where I want to fit in, if at all.

I spent a lot of years in theatre, acting, directing and artistic director of a theatre for two years. There are a few things that are very basic in theatre that are essential for excellence,
commitment, discipline, flow, timing etc. that can make or break an evening. I don't see that happening right now.

The weeks I have come, I have arrived very close to 9:30 and set up the chairs and couches. They are usually scattered all over the place. I also try to greet people as they come in.

Two weeks ago, no one had arrived and there was no signup list etc. I finally started one at about 9:55PM. Whoever is responsible for that should always arrive by 9:45PM.

We should practice what we preach. We have urged 5 minutes per person if at all possible. When I went outside, there was grumbling among several people about Lucaso singing three songs and being up there 15 minutes. Now I LOVE Lucaso as a singer, but it is essential that we model that which we expect.
So don't take this personal, Lucaso. You da greatest!

I still think there should be an on deck chair and musicians should have the instruments OUT OF THE CASE, tuned and ready to go.
I still think musicians should be limited to one song unless they are a guest featured artist.

I have been watching Def Poetry on HBO lately, a fantastic show.
Boy it has a pace...bang, bang, bang one right after the other.
The MC has very little to say. A very quick intro and BANG, the next person performs. Dead space and lengthy breaks in the action kills the energy of a show.

There seems to be mixed philosophies on MCing. When I did the meditation chanting with the didgereedoo players, I received lots of positive feedback. In fact two weeks ago, I was asked by a couple of people when we were going to do it again. But there seemed to be a WERD consensus that this drained the energy from the show. I disagree. Different strokes for different folks.

It would seem all styles and philosophies should have an opportunity to do their thing, as it were. But I may be wrong.
Perhaps I am an old fogie that doesn't fit in. I don't know.

I DO know there are certain theatrical principles that apply to all styles and I am hopeful they will be part of each evening.
Pace, intention, flow and discipline are always needed to make it work.

I find myself quite unmotivated at this time and I own that.
No one to blame. Just where I am at. But that is subject to change. But certain changes really need to happen for this to be a success.

I say all this with humility and hopefully good for all concerned.
If I don't fit into the scheme of things, I am happy to set up chairs and couches and do my 5 minutes from time to time. But I am honestly contemplating what level I want to be involved.

Perhaps we should all sit down for a meeting, share ideas and find where we can truly create a passion for excellence. Without that,
it is hard for me to be motivated.
Love all of you,
Jim