Our Open Mic Night Brings Community & Talent Together
The Music Venue Trust’s 2024 Annual Report discovered that 24.9% of grassroots music venues (over 200 across the country) reached out to the MVT last year for financial support to prevent closure. Of the 810 venues that are members of the Music Venue Alliance, 43.8% reported a loss in the last 12 months. In this climate, spaces for local musicians and creatives to experiment, practice, and display their talents within their communities are becoming more vital – and precious – than before.
American sociologist Ray Oldenburg created the concept of a “third place” – a space away from home and work that’s affordable, accessible, and allows the local community to come together. In a time where social isolation and loneliness are rising, particularly among disabled adults, gender non-conforming adults, and young adults, The Florrie stands out as a shining example of a “third place”.
On Friday 21st March, The Florrie hosted its first open mic night of the year. Local creatives came together for a night of fun, showcasing talent and unconditional support from their peers. The founder of The Florrie, Bernard Hall, watched over the evening from his portrait on the mural as hosts for the evening Florence and the Ukes kicked off the night tremendously, establishing a welcoming and supportive environment for the acts to come. Over the next two hours, we were treated to a range of performances from community members of all different ages and backgrounds – from jazz guitar, to a capella chorus, all the way through to spoken word poetry. Throughout the night hearty applause, standing ovations and calls for encores were heard. Families came together, children danced and the audience sang along to the songs they loved. Some of the performers at the open mic may not have had the opportunity to showcase their passions in other venues around Liverpool, and it’s a testament to hard work of Florrie staff and volunteers that it remains a place of refuge for artists among all the other work they do in the community.
Florrie Coffee, the latest addition to facilities at The Florrie, opened for the night to provide everyone with refreshment, and it was also a great opportunity to grab a Florrie raffle ticket for the chance to win an Easter basket or a guitar signed by Noel Gallagher. Supporting The Florrie doesn’t have to be donating money or running a marathon – it can be coming along to an open mic night, grabbing a drink, and enjoying a night of music, art, and connection with your community. All proceeds made from raffle tickets and drink sales go right back into the continued preservation of The Florrie, which relies on the generosity and support of the surrounding neighbourhood – just as the neighbourhood relies on The Florrie to be a safe place for education, skill building, and support.
If you would like to attend a Florrie open mic night, as an audience member or performer, many more opportunities are coming up this year, on Fridays from 5-8pm:
- 9th May
- 4th July (Oasis Special)
- 15th August
- 10th October
All are welcome, and we look forward to seeing you at the next one!
This article was written by Florrie Radio volunteer Emily Copping.