‘Open Mic’ Event Celebrates Local Creativity

CHERRY VALLEY—The Telegraph School presents the First Friday Open Mic, hosted by Cherry Valley Artworks, on Friday, August 7 at 6 p.m. It will take place on the new outdoor timber frame stage at 44 Main Street, Cherry Valley.

Since 2021, The Telegraph School has hosted an Open Mic Night every first Friday of the month. It has become a cherished monthly tradition in Cherry Valley, welcoming both seasoned performers and first-time participants. The event is free and open to the public, “offering an inclusive space where creativity, connection and community flourish,” officials said.

On August 7, The Telegraph School will partner with Cherry Valley Artworks to host the first public event on the new timber frame stage, “Little Star,” adjacent to the Star Theater. Drawing performers from throughout the region, there will be a sharing of poetry, music, dances, short stories, comedy, theater and more.

The timber frame stage, owned by Cherry Valley Artworks, was built during a public workshop run by the Timber Framers Guild in July. It was funded by private donations and volunteer labor by members of the Timber Framers Guild.

According to a press release, community members are invited to attend the Open Mic to perform or to simply come listen and connect. Organizers ask those who wish to perform to sign up in advance at www.thetelegraphschool.org.

This event is partially funded by a Community Event Grant from the Otsego County Board of Representatives. The rain location will be inside the Star Theater.

The Telegraph School is a project of ReGathering. Through education, gatherings, art, and performances, ReGathering aims to foster collaboration, personal growth, community resilience, and a strong relationship to nature.

“In doing so, we uplift our rural community and invite folks beyond our area to join us in discovering, sharing, creating, and re-creating traditions,” officials said.

Learn more about The Telegraph School and its upcoming summer programming at www.thetelegraphschool.org.