Bradley students were given a chance to shine during Broadside’s Open Mic night Dec. 4. The semi-annual event was held in Lydia’s Lounge, treating those in attendance to an evening of poetry, prose and musical numbers.
According to senior English major and Broadside Editor-in-Chief Maggie Cipriano, students who wanted to participate were told to sign up via email ahead of time; however, the loose and relaxed nature of the open mic allowed anyone who desired to perform to do so if they pleased.
“That’s why an open mic night is so great,” Cipriano said, referring to the atmosphere the event aimed to provide. “I think the environment is pretty fun and relaxed for people to show their work.”
This proved true for all of the 17 performers who took the stage, like junior international business major James Ghareeb, who was greeted with enthusiastic applause before his set and effortlessly interacted with the crowd.
“This song is called ‘Secret Love’, but it’s not really about love,” Ghareeb said before breaking into a soulful musical piece of his own creation.
Other participants shared works containing subject matters ranging from like the Scottish independence vote and body image to cats and the Chicago Cubs.
Freshman journalism major Colin Allpow, who performed a song he wrote about sleep deprivation, said his experience with showcases has contributed to his love of performing in front of audiences, especially ones of his peers.
“When I write songs in my room, I can play them as many times as I want for myself,” Allpow said. “But the real full range of the expression really isn’t done until I’ve shared it with other people.”
Broadside holds an open mic night each semester to celebrate the release of its journals that come out in the fall and the spring. The Fall 2014 mini-journal can be found in various locations around campus, including the Michel Student Center and Markin Recreation Center.
Submissions for the spring collection of student works are currently open.
To submit, email broadsidelitmag@gmail.com.
