5 Reasons to Perform (or Host) an Open Mic
5 Reasons to Perform at an Open Mic
If you write poetry and prose chances are your work spends a lot of time living quietly on the page. There’s a special kind of courage in standing before a room and reading your own words. Open mics can feel intimidating — but they’re also where poetry comes alive. They remind us that language is meant to move, to breathe, to be heard. Performing at an open mic brings it to life — and offers more benefits than you might expect. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned reader, here are five reasons to take the mic.
1. You hear your poems come alive
Reading your work out loud changes your relationship with it. You hear the rhythm, pauses, and energy differently when there’s an audience listening. Performing teaches you which lines land, which ones rush, and where the heart of your piece really lives – helping you listen to your own work differently.
2. You build confidence and presence
Standing up and reading your own words is vulnerable — but it’s also empowering. Every time you perform, you strengthen your voice and your sense of self as a writer. You don’t need to be a “performer” to do it well; authenticity and connection matter far more than polish.
3. You find community
Open mics are one of the few creative spaces that truly welcome everyone. You’ll meet other writers, musicians, and listeners who understand the courage it takes to share something personal. Many lasting creative friendships and collaborations begin on open mic nights.
4. You witness the impact of your words
There’s nothing like hearing a crowd react in real time — the quiet after a heavy line. A nod from someone in the back. Performing gives you something the page can’t; a live, emotional exchange. You see your poem reach someone, and while the feedback isn’t formal, it is deeply human.
5. You remind yourself why you write
When your words reach someone — even one person — you remember the power of art to connect and comfort. Performing reminds you that writing isn’t just a solitary act; it’s a conversation. It’s easy to get lost in drafts and edits, but an open mic pulls you back to the joy of simply sharing.
So, take the stage.
The mic isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence. Every performance, no matter how small, strengthens your voice and expands your creative world. And, with current resurgence of contemporary poetry, we are seeing events pop in many cities, big and small. If you can’t find one, you could always consider starting one of your own.
You won’t regret it.
My online, generative writing circles also have regular sharing/open mic events. Solace Writing Circle and The Portal Writing Community are both open to new members. Hope to see you there!