Kickstarter

Who? Hello! My name is Eric K. Auld. I am a writer, teacher, and musician straight out of North Adams, Massachusetts. This is my project.

What? The goal of 49 Open Mics is simple: perform at one open mic in every continental United State (A.K.A. The Lower 48), as well as Washington, D.C. My accordion and I will travel around from city to city in my Toyota Corolla, exploring the open mic as an important part of the United States’ grassroots culture.

My job on the road is to open-mindedly observe the open mic from two perspectives: Performer and Audience Member.  I will blog these observations at 49OpenMics.com, using words, videos, pictures, and the occasional grunt and/or sigh.

Where? I will perform in the capital cities of every state. I realize that not every state capital is the most popular city in the state (e.g. Albany vs. NYC), but I see this as the fairest method of conducting this study.

When? Late Spring/Summer 2012. My anticipated kick-off date is May 28th. The journey should last around three months total.

Why? Open mics are a true freedom of expression in an increasingly exclusive world. The open mic is one of the few events nowadays when a person–just about any person–can get up in front of an audience and (with amplification) artistically express him/herself. This can happen through many mediums, whether music, poetry, comedy, Polka dancing, etc. Open mics also give any person the right to feel like a rock star.

My expectations for what I will discover are little to none; just like the open mic itself, I’m keeping an open mind about this. I’m excited to see what I will find.

How? This is where you come in! This project requires a great deal of planning, time, and finance. To make this a successful project, I will need some money--around $5000, to be exact ($1500 for gas, $2000 for food, $1500 for lodging/other expenses). Help out by pledging and you'll earn some pretty cool incentives (look to your right).

You can also help out by checking out the project website (49OpenMics.com) and reading the blog, filling out the questionnaire, and offering some helpful tips on places to stay, venues to perform, etc.

One final way you can help out is by just spreading the word. Like 49 Open Mics on Facebook. Share the Kickstarter link. Tell your friends! I'll give you a great big cyber-hug if you do.