Open Mic Nights

Open Mic Night is one of the most beloved and anticipated events on campus! Hosted by the graduate students in the Creative Writing MFA program operating under the English Department, these events occur at least three times a semester and are open to all: students, faculty, lovers of the spoken/written word, and really anyone from the general public who would like to come support our readers!

In the weeks before each Open Mic Night, the show-runner (currently, screenwriter and MFA candidate, Daniel Rusiecki) posts fliers and sends out QR codes through social media encouraging students and faculty to sign up for spots to read their work. Slots are given on a first come, first serve basis and chosen readers are encouraged to bring any genre of writing with them to present—be it creative nonfiction essays, fictional short stories, poetry, simple lines prose, music, comedy bits, screenplay excerpts, etc.!

Requirements: If you are interested in signing up for the next Open Mic Night, please email daniel.rusiecki372@topper.wku.edu. Vulnerability, honesty, and spontaneity is always encouraged in your submitted work—a reverence and passion for the craft is shared by all in attendance at Open Mic Night, so don’t be afraid to push boundaries and color outside the lines! The only requirement is that readings remain at or below four minutes long.

WKU’s Open Mic Night is a fantastic opportunity to get your work out into the world, make connections with your peers, and test your bravery in front of a live audience! Come share your work, listen to other’s work, and make new friends in a low-stakes and encouraging environment surrounded by both practitioners and admirers who are passionate about the art! If you’re shy, or just want to do a vibe check on the event before putting yourself out there, students and faculty are always encouraged to come and observe without participating. In fact, with only fifteen readers per event, most of the people in attendance are there strictly for support!