Newsfeed
Printer-Friendly ModeWriters pen their way past final drafts at open mic night
October 26, 2009 —
The might of the pen was tested Tuesday when writers brought their skill to the stage.
Students and faculty gathered to hear artists ranging from standup comics to YouTube videographers at the open mic event in the Student Activities Room.
SVSU was one of hundreds of schools across the country to honor the National Day of Writing endorsed by the National Council of Teachers of English. The day recognizes the wide range of media that today’s writing can embrace.
To celebrate this diversity, Student Life and the University Writing Committee co-sponsored an open mic contest in five different categories. Amid the aromas of coffee and muffins, contestants offered original poetry, short stories, songs, jokes and online videos.
Judges were looking for something creative and interesting enough to stand out from the other submissions, said Peter Barry, professor of philosophy and one of the evaluators.
Amy Hlavacek, professor of math and master of ceremonies, said the competition was tough. “While I’m watching each one, I’m thinking, ‘This is the winner.’”
A variety of submissions existed even within each category. Songs ranged from raps to acoustic. The You- Tube videos — an unconventional format for an open mic event — included anime music videos, a rant and a public service announcement.
“Any opportunity to write will attract me,” said Marlin Jenkins, the professional and technical writing freshman who won in the poetry category.
He said he saw a poster about the event and immediately wanted to participate.
Jordan Finn, a theater freshman and winner in the jokes category, was drawn to the event by his friends. He said he originally came to do poetry but saw that few were signed up for jokes.
Finn said he hadn’t slept in 29 hours, adding, “The longer you stay awake, the better jokes you get.” First place winners were awarded with $75. Door prizes were raffled off periodically throughout the event.
Prizes included SVSU apparel, gift cards and an iPod shuffle.
Hlavacek said she enjoyed all the submissions.
“I’m glad I wasn’t one of the judges. I wouldn’t be able to choose,” she said.