February, when winter holds its breath… But, fire still burns in the hearts of musical Mainers. A fantastic way to build rapport in any creative community, open mic nights help venues and artists embark on a symbiotic future, sensitive to each other’s needs. Bound to be a staple at any competent venue, performers of all kinds are drawn to the comfort and the crowds. Musicians from Casco Bay and beyond flock to these oases, looking for a chance to strut their stuff. From dives to diners, southern Maine is peppered with open showcases, all magnets for hungry musicians.  

Inspired by others braving the cold, I’ve become one of these hopefuls, showing my face at various open mics around town. This supportive community is incredible and deserves all the recognition in the world. Perhaps this month’s column can inspire my readers to go out and cheer on their friends, neighbors, or maybe even take a risk of their own.

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So, you’ve written a new song or finally nailed that Oasis tune you swore to learn? Now what? You’ll need a stage, some kind of audience to make it worth leaving the house (an enthusiastic crowd would be nice)… What’s next? Getting gigs is hard, so a ready stage and a full room is a huge leg up for any performer. Monday to Sunday, Biddeford to Brunswick, there are countless chances for anyone to show up, sign up, and rock out!

Step into any open mic, and adventure awaits — 

Is it a popular hang? Is there an MC? Does the event cater to hip hop, to songwriters, or is it a game of genre roulette? There’s no better time to take risks, break up your creative routine, or show off the bitter tune you wrote about your ex. 

Over my years of playing around Portland, I’ve seen cowboy skits, gothic melodrama, and avant-garde rockers yelling into telephones… 

Whether you’re humming ‘Proud Mary’ or yodeling, you’ll find kind faces and encouragement. 

“We would go sign up and watch all walks of life play their songs to the audience and cheer them on,” beams veteran drummer Cliff Seymour. “Some musicians are just starting and testing their new talent; others are seasoned professionals who enjoy playing their favorite songs. It’s fun to be part of a community that supports each other.”

Okay, you’re resolute — this is it! You’re going to the showcase, you’re getting on stage… 

You fought to find parking, and now the howling wind pushes you back and you wonder how bad you REALLY want to perform… Maybe you can go home, curl up on the couch, and daydream about getting on stage…

But you persevere! 

Prepare to show up early, politely introduce yourself to the host, and hope the sign-up sheet hasn’t filled up. From dive bars, cozy pubs, queer bars to breweries — open mics drive business and foster community.  

You might venture into the chic belly of Blue, the antebellum charm of Cherished Pub, or get pulled into the liminal dark of the Apohadion Theater. Meet standout MCs like Paul Connor, who balances a career in the Coast Guard while hosting open mics between Old Orchard, Westbrook, and Portland. Hear the tales and triumphs of intrepid venue owners like Andrew Roseman and Celeste Parke of BPM; Pat of the Apohadion Theater, who’s always good for a kind smile and a heart that roars with music. Get to know Graphic Melee and Stay on Mars — MC’s who run beloved showcases like Monday of the Minds and Stereo Dreams, showing up week after week to sew the seeds of community. 

Everyone makes an effort to show out and perform. You’ll catch single mothers, army veterans, and traveling bards — some performers might take the stage together while others brave the spotlight on their own, equipped with nothing but guts and guitars. Expect to see young children with nerves of steel, hot-headed bohemians, and old-timers showing off their tricks. Patrons gather in the crowd, gregarious and free. Glasses clink as drinks pour from the bar, warming spirits and fending off the cold. 

Portland native Alex Periseau has been gracing jams and open mics for as long as he can remember. “If you’re looking to tighten up your playing, I highly recommend going to open mics. Your playing will improve tenfold if you make it a regular habit,” he testifies. Periseau, in his final year studying Audio Engineering at Husson University, knows these connections will make the transition out of college much smoother. 

Hosts are always cheery, belting out names and coaxing applause from a shy audience. You might order delicious food, a beverage, or just chat with other musicians — curious about their backgrounds and the circuits they frequent. 

Finally, your name is called, and heart-racing — you take the stage ! 

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