SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – An experimental open mic night was held for artists and performers at Wunderbar in Downtown Syracuse on Nov. 30. Artists and performers had an opportunity to share their finished acts and works in progress. The idea was started by the founder and artistic director of 315 Ensemble, Chris Creswell, when he was searching for an area for himself.
“There aren’t that many spaces where you can just go try out new stuff,” said Creswell. “So, for me, I was wanting that space and since I wasn’t able to find that space, I wanted to create that space.”
Creswell encourages artists to share pieces that aren’t complete and to revile in the “in-between space” of a set. The open mic night strives for anyone from any walk of life to share in a space they feel most comfortable. A local performer Eli Baez feels the environment and the atmosphere help bring that feeling of openness to the event.
“In terms of being gender divergent or diverse, as well as an up-and-coming artist, I mean I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my time or a better place to be,” said Baez.
With many local artists being able to share their performances and work, the overall theme of the night was new beginnings. This isn’t the only mic night though. Chris plans to continue the experimental open mic night in the future.