Usually 4 features or so, and open mic time either after or interspersed - strict 'only 1 poem which must be 2 minutes or less' rule. Often recorded on video and posted to Youtube. Easy to become a feature, just fill out a survey & you get put on the list (tho' they plan out quite a ways so it can be a wait).

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FREE event, usually a donation jar there

Beverages for sale, no food

Affiliated with Cracked Walnut branch othe League of MN Poets

 

Host: Tony Plocido, pictured above (but he delegates often to others to curate the poets)

* for those seeking poetry from a diverse group of folks, he does the best job being deliberate about this, out of all the event hosts I know

One of the longest running open mics - kind of a variety show where folks share poetry, song, dance, even mime. You get 7 minutes to share whatever you'd like. Excellent stage, sound, lighting. It is recorded on video but only for archives. If you take pics or record video, host requests you ask permission of performer to post.

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FREE event, snacks and drinks for sale after (& maybe before? I never get there early

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Host: Leslie Ball

5 minutes per poet at the open mic. Great stage, fun lights. 

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FREE event, donation box on desk at front?

They also do classes and other events including a storytelling open mic w/10 min each on 3rd Mondays.

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Host: Loren Niemi

1st half hour is music, then features and usually room for about 3 walk-ins? Best to connect via text message with host in advance if wanting to read at open mic (note: host varies).  Be ready to perform to a louder crowd, they do not always quiet down for you, so you need to just go for it and hope for the best! There are folks there that really do listen, but you also have some non-poetry folks waiting to be won over. ;)

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FREE but pass donation jar if I remember right?

Beverages available at the bar

 

Host: I think main host is Dave Alderson, but he delegates curating to others sometimes too

I think this is the first one? Not sure how often they are planning to do it? 

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Host: William Anderson

Both features & open mic time. When I was a feature here (with the awesome folks pictured above), the library bought all my books (and still does!) and puts them in their 'Minnesota Authors' section (maybe they do that for all features? not sure). I forget time limit on open mic, I think just a couple min? (I'll check)

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FREE, no food or drink

Host: William Anderson

I haven't been to one yet, but I see that each salon features a shared meal, a workshop or interview with a features artist and an open mic session where folks can share performances, ideas or works-in-progress. I think she has had one or two so far.

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Host: Bethany Mae/Strawberry Propoganda

We meet up in the basement of the library, with tables arranged in a large square, and get prompts and maybe 10 min to write about each, then go round and share (anyone who wants to, you can pass). Very supportive group. Generally candy is passed around. 

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For dates of events, join the Cracked Walnut Writing Collective Facebook Group.

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Host: William Anderson (his FB profile here)

I've been once. I love the University Club, it's so lovely. Just readings, no open mic.

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Host: Tim Nolan