Honey Badger Events love our Open Mics!! There are a few things to consider to make sure everyone has a great time.
3 Songs Each / 15 Minutes: Each performer can take the stage once, whether solo, duo, or in a group, with a limit of three songs or a total of 15 minutes, including setup and your stories about the songs you are performing. This structure ensures that everyone has a fair opportunity to perform. Please note if you are performing as a duo or with more people this is a 15-minute slot for the entire act and not an additional 15 minutes for each person in the act if they decide to sing. If you have any questions regarding your slot, make sure to ask the host—often someone like “Dan.”
Be Ready: Preparation is essential for a smooth performance. Know where you are on the performance board and be ready to go on as soon as the person before you has finished. Also, be prepared to hop off the stage quickly for the next performer and follow the steps below.
- have your instrument tuned before your set
- know where you are on the board and be waiting to go on when the person before you starts
- be ready to move off for the next person
- have your songs pre-selected
- if you need them, have your lyrics ready on your phone or tablet before you start
- Check the batteries in your guitar and carry spares!!!!!
Remember There Is a Host: They’ve got this! The host is there to help facilitate the event, it’s their role to thank / introduce performers and provide any commentary. Trust their expertise, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you require assistance. They’re responsible for keeping things running smoothly.
Stay Away from Doorways: Be conscious of your surroundings. Avoid standing near doorways to keep pathways clear and allow for smooth traffic flow within the venue.
Store Instruments in the Designated Gear Area: When not in use, store your instruments in designated areas to prevent theft or damage, especially in public venues where items can easily get lost. If unsure about where it is safe to store your gear, just ask the host.
Only Write Your Own Name on the Blackboard: When signing up for your performance, write only your own name on the board and avoid doing it for others. The signup typically opens an hour before the event starts, and this helps maintain order and fairness.
No Karaoke: Absolutely no karaoke is allowed and we do not facilitate the use of backing tracks as the focus is on live music. No exceptions. Our venues and audiences have made it very clear they expect live music.
Avoid bringing in too much gear: Gear take takes time to set up, sound mix and takes away from other performers. Remember your 15 minutes set starts not when you are set up but from the time you are called on stage. A simple plug and play set up is preferred. Avoid using big pedal boards that require stereo sends, multiple inputs and other instruments. A simple pedal board with a power plug, instrument input and one output is highly recommended and is already provided.
No Swearing: Since many open mic events cater to all ages, refrain from using profanities, consider also the appropriateness of your song content for a wide audience. Keep in mind that recordings may be shared across various communities, so it’s best to keep the content appropriate.
Support Other Performers: Stay a while, listen and enjoy the other performers. This grows our positive atmosphere and strengthens the artistic community.
Do Not Practice Inside the Venue: Avoid practicing inside the venue where it can be heard while others are performing, or the venue’s sound system is playing. This maintains respect for the performing artists and keeps the event enjoyable for the audience.
Respect the Venue and Its Patrons: Remember, open mics are not closed events. Many patrons have come to eat, drink, and socialise, some may not be there specifically for the performances. Being respectful allows everyone to enjoy their evening.
Open mic etiquette can be drilled down to a few key notes: know the rules, be ready, be respectful, be live, and be safe. We deeply value creativity and artistic expression at open mic events and want to offer the absolute best to all of our musical community.
If you would like to know more about Honey Badger Events Open Mics, how to become a live performer, or have an open mic or live music at your next function, reach out via email to admin@honeybadgerevents.com.au.