(1.19.2017) By Lindsey Smith — Morningside College students’ passion for creative expression led to a moderately strong turnout at Open Mic Night in Buck’s café on campus Wednesday night.
Three students—two freshmen and a junior—stepped up to the mic to sing and perform original works in the crowded room. The smell of fried mozzarella sticks and pickles seemed to liven the crowd of people, intermixed with supportive friends and organizers of the event. Loud pop music played over the speakers, creating a laid back atmosphere with a white board by the stage to give order to the performances.
The first participant, junior Madison Harpenau, sang “Part of Your World” from the movie The Little Mermaid.”
“It’s been a shower song for a long time and Ariel is my favorite princess,” explained Harpenau.
Harpenau came to Open Mic Night when she was a freshman and her friends convinced her that she should challenge herself to sing every year. She finds it a little nerve wracking but fun to sing in front of people.
For the second performance, freshman Grant Turner played an original piece on his guitar titled “4 a.m.” that was written about a year ago when he was unable to sleep one night. Turner also performed in the talent show at Morningside College this past fall.
Freshman Jackie Monk, a freshman and member of the MAC (Morningside Activities Council) who put on the event, performed two original works in slam poetry style. Her friends encouraged her to sign up for the event and they were also the inspiration behind both of her pieces, which focused on her bonds with others.
The event is put on once or twice a year, headed by MAC President Jordan Heim, a senior. He’s been apart of the MAC since he was a freshman through various roles in the public relations department as well as a general member.
“Sometimes these events can be hit or miss…everyone measures success differently,” explained Heim.
He hopes these types of events will continue as they line up well with the mission statement of the school and the MAC organization, allowing students a creative space.
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