The Next Level

Each time we hold the canvas Open Mic we find ourselves saying “this one went to the next level.” This is actually hard to do since we’ve been told that the talent from the very first event was a high caliber.

Well last night was no exception, when I heard our host Joe Iadanza say he needed a moment to come down from being overwhelmed I knew we were on a ride.

The night began with Joe’s warm up and kick off, then music from Artmosphere a Joe Satriani sounding Trio, then to a first time – outstanding accapella signer Michele. We also had many emotional and lighter poetry readings. If that wasn’t enough we had some other firsts last night, Mike on Native American Flutes – wow I could feel my soul being talked too. Another first last night were comedians Monica and Louise who provided jocularities for those in attendance.

One of our regulars and a long time canvas friend, Electra, was so moved by Michele’s accapella singing she put down her guitar and went accapella her self. But it didn’t end there we had Steve, a first timer, who said he saw canvas and the open mic ad for the first a few days ago, come down bang out some tunes. Phil and John treated us to some Buddy Holly; I missed them last month and was really happy I got to hear them this month.

The night was brought home around 10:30 by our featured performer Jordan Rothstein who ended his set on a light note with the Date Song. By the end we were all spent from the raw emotion and passion each performer put into what they did. I could see the satisfied smiles of the weary attendees as they looked for their last treat or tea, provided by Whole Foods Market, before they exited into the dark night outside.

No crickets last night, just a packed house, great words, sounds and friends!

Joe you’re right, once again we took it to the next level!

See you all for September’s Open Mic.

Tom Pellicane – Publisher, canvas Magazine