All genres of the performing arts are represented at Magnetic Theatre’s revived monthly open mic, Magnetic Midnight. The first installation is on Friday, Aug. 7, 9:30 p.m. to participate, 10:30 p.m. to watch.
Press release from event organizers:
Once upon a time, when The Magnetic Theatre had its first home, it presented a monthly event, Magnetic Midnight, that was special to the company and to audiences alike. Based on the nationally popular “No Shame Theatre,” but freely modifying the format, Magnetic Midnight billed itself as “a magical, mysterious” evening “in which the best of The Magnetic Theatre meets the best of you!” The notion was that company members, selected guests, and the general public were invited to present works in any genre of the performing arts — comedy or dramatic sketches and monologues, songs, rants, dance pieces, juggling, puppetry, genre-fluid performance art, or what you will — with only two restrictions: the works had to be no longer than five minutes in length, and they had to be original. The hope was not only that an audience would enjoy a fantastic variety show, but that writers, actors, directors, musicians, dancers, and what have you, would have a chance to introduce themselves to The Magnetic in a setting more favorable than a standard audition. It was also intended as a way for playwrights to try out new material, with the intention of developing work for future presentation (as happened with Jim Julien’s smash hit The Caro Savanti Experience and John Crutchfield’s upcoming The Jacob Higginbotham Show).
Now established in its new home, Magnetic 375, The Magnetic Theatre brings back Magnetic Midnight Friday, August 7 (additional dates to be announced). Co-hosted by The Magnetic’s artistic director Steven Samuels and the Asheville Fringe Arts Festival’s co-director Jim Julien, this unique show will feature the first ten short original pieces to appear when the doors open at 9:30 PM (and some surprises). Actors and directors interested in participating should also arrive around 9:30, because sketches will be cast and assigned directors, and rehearsed until showtime. The show proper begins at 10:30 and runs till approximately midnight, and the general public is heartily invited to enjoy the festivities.
Participants and audience members pay $5 admission at the door for the cheapest and wildest fun you can have legally in Asheville. Join us, grab a refreshing beverage, and prepare yourself for the creative spectacle that was and will forever be Magnetic Midnight!
The Magnetic Theatre presents Magnetic Midnight, Friday, August 7, 9:30 PM to participate, 10:30 PM just to watch. Admission: $5 at the door. At Magnetic 375, 375 Depot Street, in the River Arts District.
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