Gatsbys’ Open Mic Night opens opportunities for aspiring entertainers

Manjimup cabaret club Gatsbys Skyline will be hosting its first open mic night on May 19.

Any aspiring entertainers wanting to take the stage will have a backing band to support them with music arrangements, according to Gatsbys owner Greg Hamlyn.

“We’ve got the best acoustics in the South West, a big PA sound to showcase professionals, amateurs and part-time musicians, so anyone can be a part of it,” he said.

“It doesn’t just have to be musicians, it can be any entertainment, so if they want to do comedy, if they want to do some sort of act, they just need to let us know so we can prepare for that.”

He said the idea for the open mic night was to allow potential acts to come and showcase their talents.

“It’s entertainment and it’s good to find that hidden talent out in the community that we hear so much about and it allows people to come out of their shell and take a crack.

“It’s all about entertainment and having fun, there’s no strict rules around it, except the fact if they say they’re coming, we can lock it in a time slot for them.”

Mr Hamlyn said there is potential for an act to become a headliner on an upcoming night, depending on the showcase.

“They might be showcased on a Friday or Saturday night,” he said.

“Who knows, they may get a paid gig if the crowd loves them and if we love them too.,”

The night is open to everyone in the South West who has an act they are willing to show.

“It’s for everybody and anyone, from Perth to Albany, that wants to come and play and showcase,” Mr Hamlyn said.

“You don’t have to be a professional, although professionals are allowed.”

More open mic events could follow, depending on the community’s reception to the first night.

“We’d love to do it as much as people want to see it, so if we have to showcase it every couple of months, as long as people keep wanting to do it, we’ll keep putting it on,” Mr Hamlyn said.