28 Nov 2012
Michael Felder/Contributing Writer
Mable Peabody’s, a local Denton bar, held its first of a series of student-oriented open mic nights on Tuesday.
With presentations of poetry, music, comedy and more, Denton’s first and only gay bar plans to continue the open mic night to give students a place to express themselves.
Anthropology sophomore Ally Lowe was recruited by the bar to kickstart the event and help bring more students in.
“I really want it to be a place where students can come and feel at home, and so they can meet new people,” Lowe said. “At its peak, I think we had about 30 people show up, and we had some technical difficulties at first, but we’ll work it out, even if I have to bring my own equipment.”
Some of the night’s entertainment included fashion design sophomore Arbriana Branch, who performed with her ukulele. Branch said the event is a great way for artists to take the stage and gain exposure.
“I don’t really get the opportunity to play for people besides my friends,” Branch said. “A girl came up to me afterwards and said that I should sing again next time, so I think I will.”
Biochemistry junior Orrin Pinkerton appreciated the variety of acts that performed.
“I’ve never been to this place before, but I was surprised by how much fun I had,” Pinkerton said. “It’s a little further from campus, so it’s nice and not flooded with people.”
Another act included English sophomore Rebecca Bennett, who read some of her poetry. Bennett said that she loved the chance to spread the word about her poetry.
“I got nervous at first, but I really enjoyed it,” Bennett said. “It was just the right mix of people. The atmosphere was very intimate and inviting.”
Lowe hopes that the open mic night will become a safe place for students to share their creativity with their peers.
“Everyone should get on the mic and free themselves,” Lowe said. “This is all for the artists, because a lot of us don’t get to express ourselves all the time.”
Open mic nights at Mable Peabody’s will be held every Tuesday during the school semester, from 7-9 p.m. Mable Peabody’s is located at 1125 East University Dr.
