Can I rent your space for a private or public event?
Unfortunately… No. We are a youth-driven space and not a rental business or facility. If you’d like to partner on an event with us that is youth centered and youth driven, you can contact us. However, we no longer rent the space. If you are seeking other rental facilities, we suggest the Edison Neighborhood Association, Jericho Town, the Epic Center, the Douglass Center, and the Northside Association for Community Development.
Every question about Open Mics ever.
Do you work with schools and other organizations?
Yes! We go to Parchment High School, Loy-Norrix High School, Comstock High School, Kalamazoo Central High School and the Juvenile Home for 1-2 day workshops that introduce youth to spoken-word, slam poetry and creative writing through a strong social and emotional lens. Even if you’re already teaching it, we bring some fresh faces to the room. Schedule a visit to your classroom or organization by emailing slam@thisisifire.org
What national organizations have inspired your work?
Youth Speaks
Young Chicago Authors
Neutral Zone
Unfortunately… No. We are a youth-driven space and not a rental business or facility. If you’d like to partner on an event with us that is youth centered and youth driven, you can contact us. However, we no longer rent the space. If you are seeking other rental facilities, we suggest the Edison Neighborhood Association, Jericho Town, the Epic Center, the Douglass Center, and the Northside Association for Community Development.
Every question about Open Mics ever.
- It always starts promptly at 6:30pm, while the doors open at 6pm. We recommend coming earlier if you want to get on the list, and to find a seat. If you enter late, please do so quietly as someone may be spilling their soul.
- Yes, you can read whatever you like! And, we suggest you consider your audience. We don't censor youth but trust youth with their words.
- Yeah, you should read it if you want to. Or perform it. Or just say it. Or sing it. As long as you don’t take longer than 3 minutes.
- No, it doesn’t cost anything! Although... we do take tips at the door for the host, DJ and feature.
- It has been on the First Friday of the month for over 14 years. So, that’s usually when it happens!
- Who is it for? Is this like… a kid thing?
- Well, we’re youth centered but our open mics are juiciest when they are intergenerational. We encourage adults who are present to behave appropriately with youth and not take center stage as non consensual mentors, preachers or surrogate Dads. Also - NO CHILDREN ALLOWED UNDER THE AGE OF 12 without a parent or guardian.
- Yeah, you can bring an instrument as long as you’re not dramatic about it.
- Wear whatever you want!
- We give out bus tokens to youth after the show. They MUST get on the bus before 9pm.
Do you work with schools and other organizations?
Yes! We go to Parchment High School, Loy-Norrix High School, Comstock High School, Kalamazoo Central High School and the Juvenile Home for 1-2 day workshops that introduce youth to spoken-word, slam poetry and creative writing through a strong social and emotional lens. Even if you’re already teaching it, we bring some fresh faces to the room. Schedule a visit to your classroom or organization by emailing slam@thisisifire.org
What national organizations have inspired your work?
Youth Speaks
Young Chicago Authors
Neutral Zone
