Open Mic Night at Negative Space Gallery

Now in its fourth month, open-mic night at Negative Space Gallery is growing so fast that founder and artist Gadi Zamir is thinking of making it a whole weekend. First conceived in partnership with local Asia Town cafés as a way to mutually promote each other, the first free-for-all attracted about fifty people. (“Some of the people weren’t too good, if I’m being honest, but they were all excited for the chance,” Zamir helpfully tells us.) It’s been drawing bigger crowds and gnarlier performers every month since. Tonight’s confirmed participants, for instance, include poets Michael Cmarik, Vladimir Swirynsky, and an assortment of rhymers who will also be backing up the vocal stylings of Amelia Gonzalez. Rounding out the roster are guitarists, comedians, prose writers, spoken-word enthusiasts, and an as-yet-anonymous assortment of Cleveland up-and-comers who just recently mussed up the courage to come out. With a little courage, you too can excite the night. Sign-up begins at 6 p.m.; the fun continues until 10 p.m. Complimentary wine, beer, cheese, crackers, and pastries will be served. If your act requires any technical niceties, please call ahead to make arrangements; no fee will be charged.