My Account
A musical initiative called Open Mic Night, hosted by the Matakana Pub, is proving a popular place for musicians to mix and perform.
The event runs every Thursday from 7pm to 10pm and gives members of the public 15 minutes to perform up to three songs.
Matakana Pub owner Greg Lawrence started the night to give musicians a chance to perform in a supportive environment.
“It occurred to me there was a lack of venues where people could play in an Open Mic environment,” Greg says.
Organiser Rob Anderson says the idea is catching on.
“The opening night exceeded my expectations, I was overwhelmed with the support and people wanting to help out with equipment,” Rob says.
“Every night the weather has been miserable and I haven’t expected it to happen, but people have still showed up.”
He says there has been a lot of variety.
“Jade River Ukes were the first act on the first night, and since then we’ve had seven year olds, my
Mum and aspiring musicians like Riley Popham.”
“The quality has been good.”
Both Rob and Greg hope Open Mic Night will be a stepping stone for performers.
“We would like to give people of all abilities some performance practice so they can then move on to playing gigs or at events like the Kowhai Festival,” Rob says.
He says the challenge will be attracting more people to perform, as well as the core group that show up consistently.
Greg says he would like to see the numbers increase in summer and Open Mic become a permanent fixture at the pub.
More info: Rob 022 174 9214
