comedy.openmikes.org

I created Pennies Open Mike to give a space for any artist/performer to share and express their work on stage. With the help from the many talented artists who present their work and (ideally and mostly) respectfully listen, it has become an open enviernment where people feel free and safe to experiment and grow as artists and as people.

Every week we have a different Theme to promote artistic inspiration, a Featured Special Guest and raffle prizes!

During the break is the Hootenanny Spectacular! An open Jam session like none other!

Under St. Marks Theater is the perfect space. With a brand new sound system, a large stage for dancers, a screen for film-makers, managers dedicated to art over profit and so much more!

"Spoken-word artists, musicians and other creative folks are invited to share their talents at this weekly gathering hosted by Penny Pollak."

Four time Books and Poetry Critics Pick!

- Time Out New York-

"Head on down to Pennie’s Open Mike for a supportive crowd to urge you on to greater vocal heights. It’s the gift that keeps on giving."

24/7 Things to do in NYC

-The New York Press-

"Musicians, poets, storytellers, performance artists… all are welcome to come and drop their two cents at Pennies Open Mike. Hosted by Penny Pollak. This new open mike is dedicated to giving artists of every stripe, spot and dash a venue to share their work… very highly recommended." "Five stars! (Highest rating)"

-Toxic Pop-

"Pennies Open Mike Night at Under St.Marks Theater… Readers are chosen by lottery pre-show, and those lucky few get 7 minutes of open-mic. Sessions interspersed with raffle prizes, special guests, fancy beer, and a musical hootenanny!"

-The L Magazine

First time I've submitted a comment about an open mic -- I found this one last night and walked in with open expectations.

Without a doubt, this has been my favorite open mic experience to date! There is a 3-dollar cover, which they use to keep the space, and if you show up between 8 and 8:15 you are placed in lottery for a spot (last night there were 28 people at lottery time). You get 7 minutes, which Penny gently but firmly enforces, and which everyone adheres to.

The regular attendees treat the venue, as one of them aptly put it, as "a sacred space," and on the whole, it's a very warming experience. Trust me when I tell you you do NOT want to heckle in this room.

I'm definitely going back next week.