Literati & Open Mic Night “The Light Within”

“The Light Within” is the theme we will share in this very special July edition of Literati & Open Mic. Literati is about creating a space for local literature, spoken word, and local music. As we begin a new chapter of Literati in 2022, we aim for a sense of reclaimed culture and human connection, through literature, poetry, spoken word, music, and art.

Imagine you are a firework, (probably not in the Katy Perry way,) but maybe in the poetic way… ‘The Light Within’ is about expressing what sparks us, igniting us to a fuse, and let it go rising up in the falling darkness. As the inner shades of color and shadows fall within, there is brilliance just waiting to happen. The sparks we create with the heart and mind are not just there to be literature, it’s here to be lit! Let us go rising up to the peak of a story arc, a rising action in that falling darkness happening all around us. Let us express both the brilliance and the colors of our truth in the emotion and empathy we share. Let us celebrate one of the most bombastic gesture of our freedoms, let’s make space for speaking our mind and saying a thing out loud. We should be more than a new beginning, and a fool, and a dreamer, and proud. We continue this journey, with a sense of rising up further and farther than the horizon, taking is to the secret place we all go. When it’s just us and our creative flow. Where we can express the light within.

Welcoming: Poetry, Fiction, Nonfiction, Spoken Word, Genre, Novel or Novella, Short Narrative, Flash Fiction, Lyrics, Monologues, Theater, Published or Unpublished Writing. Readers may bring one, or a few short pieces to share, and suggested to be about 5 – 10 minutes no more than 15 minutes in length. Cliffhangers and multi-part readings are encouraged for longer works.

Musicians: Please bring acoustic instruments. 1 – 3 original songs recommended. Cover songs should be limited to one. Notify ahead to coordinate a performance that requires anything beyond an acoustic set. Digital piano is available for musicians who would like to play piano.

Video/Film: Please notify ahead to coordinate video/film. A digital projector is available for artists, photographers, and filmmakers who may wish to present work during Literati.

Studio located at Mankind Murals Inc, 88 North Diamond Street, Mansfield Ohio.
White door second floor above Hursh Pharmacy. Parking is available in the parking lot and across the street at the Municipal Parking Lot.

You may bring your own wine or beer. And of course, bring friends! This event is free of charge. Donations are suggested for house drinks and housekeeping. You can also make a donation online at: https://www.mightycause.com/organization/Mankind-Murals

Reach out to Luke Beekman for more details. Looking forward to gathering with you all at Literati!

~Luke Beekman
Director@MankindMurals.org