Analogue Dialogue: Open Mic / Open Stage
UPDATE: As of the end of 2023, Analogue Dialogue events are postponed until further notice. I am deeply grateful to all those involved over all 8 of our ADs. I am hopeful for the future of AD and I hope this story inspires others in the art of listening.
Learning to listen
Justin and I had been friends for a couple years when one of us thought about an open mic. I don’t remember who thought of it first, but I think that means it was the right time for it to happen. He’s the pastor of a church and I was a long-time goer to open mics.
I wanted to explore what it would mean for an open mic to happen at a church. Most I’d attended were in coffee shops, bars, or comedy clubs. Churches, on the other hand, are primarily places where people come from outside and listen to a Christian speaker. So, what if we flipped it? What if we gave the space on the stage for people in our community and as Christians, we practiced listening rather than speaking?
This is the heart behind Analogue Dialogue. The team of Zoe, Alicia, Brad, Tim, Amy, Joshua, Malia, Kai, Justin, Heejung, Angie, Charlie, and Gina all pitch in to create a relaxed, lounge-like environment with free coffee and snacks where artists are welcomed, introduced, interviewed, and have time to converse with audience members.
I host the events and perform some of my own spoken word pieces. Although I’ve never surfed, I feel like I am riding a wave of beautiful expression as the artists, poets, and musicians fill the room with their stories. It is humbling to witness.
As each event is planned, I update the link to reserve free tickets. Please follow @adopenmic on Instagram as well to stay up to date with Analogue Dialogue.
