Organized by award-winning poet Lee Stockdale, Tryon’s Literary Open Stage reconvened Nov. 15 for an evening of readings by local writers. Held at Upstairs Artspace, the November open-mic literary event attracted nine talented poets and storytellers who presented selections of their published and unpublished works.
Guest host David Riddle orchestrated an enjoyable and engaging evening for writers and the listening audience, plus he read a few of his own pieces.
In addition to David, presenting authors Judy Spencer Bolton, Chris Erskine, Maryneal Jones,
Jerri Lincoln, Janet Orselli, and Roe Sony Sprouls welcomed newcomer Si Baker. Each writer
and poet captivated the audience with profound tales of life, observations of nature, childhood memories, and sage advice for the young – all suitable for reminiscing after a family Thanksgiving Dinner.
Stockdale, who will host on December 20, said, "The wonderful thing about the Literary Open Stage is how welcoming it is. I’m always excited when a writer gets up and says they’ve never read in public. I can’t overstate how much it can mean to feel accepted and supported by a live audience. It's gas in the tank that can take them to that next, farther off, destination."
Tryon’s Literary Open Stage at Upstairs Artspace is held the third Wednesday of each month
starting at 6:30 p.m. with the next event scheduled for December 20. The event is free to the
public to attend and is limited to 10 guest readers, who may sign up as they enter the
event.
Literary Open Stage is open to all writers, including published novelists, poets, and
essayists, as well as emerging writers, to drop in and present to an appreciative audience.
Listeners are invited to enjoy the readings and mingle with the writers after the event.
For more information, please contact Lee Stockdale at (828) 458-1632.
RSVP here. RSVPs are not required but are helpful for the gallery to plan for seating.
~ By Biz Eischen, Upstairs Artspace staff
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