I found a place in Eltham for the perhaps shy, but budding performer within. A place to gain experience with an intimate audience – unpaid of course, so no pressure there. There might also be people like me who had heard about it in the past, and what follows could reignite an interest.
At 965 Main Rd Eltham, right next to Eltham Station, is Platform 3095 where an Open Mic night happens each Thursday from 7pm to 9pm. Performances can include music, stand up comedy, spoken word and poetry.
The host, singer-songwriter and guitarist Sinead B-C provides the PA and the venue includes a small stage. Sinead focuses on providing a welcoming and safe environment for all performers and audience members, and the audience is likewise very supportive of all the acts. With a queer host, the Open Mic is queer friendly and all LGBTQI+ people are welcome.
Musical performers of any experience are welcome and can perform either solo or as a duo or small group. Performers without instruments can use backing tracks or have Sinead B-C accompany them on guitar and / or vocals if requested. Both original material and cover songs are performed.
For Sinead, one of the thrills of having regularly hosted the Open Mic has been witnessing how many performers have grown and developed their performance skills, as they have gained regular experience on stage.
Comedians are also welcome to try out new material in the welcoming and friendly atmosphere, and can gain valuable experience in dealing with (the friendly and supportive) audience interaction. Many of the comedians that appear have travelled from various parts of Melbourne in order to attend.
Sinead is keen to host an even wider variety of acts (such as potentially including circus performers and magicians) and is hoping to provide a more vaudeville style of event.
Performers are recommended to book a spot (varying from 10 to 30 minutes) with host Sinead B-C: 0434 944 986, [email protected]; or they can directly book themselves using a Google form available via the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PlatformOpenMicNight/
However, prospective performers can also turn up on the night, and time on stage can be made available for them.
Platform 3095: 965 Main Rd Eltham, 9431 4109 or [email protected]
