A new all-ages open mic night launching at Greens on Friday, November 21st, aims to give young artists a new platform.
A new all-ages open mic night launching at Greens on Friday, November 21st, aims to give young artists a new platform. But for organizer Isabelle Bouffard, the event is more than just a show; it's a mission to rebuild the kind of supportive, in-person arts community she cherished growing up in Sarnia.
"When I was growing up in Sarnia, we had venues where young singer-songwriters/bands/poets could perform," Isabelle recalled. "I loved going to places like Tugboat Tommy's in BG, the old Blackwater, Oddballs… and perform with or for my friends and family."
She explained that those venues allowed for the creation of "a community of young artists who supported each other," something she feels is urgently needed today.
"I have been the cultural activities coordinator at St Francois Xavier High School in Sarnia since 2013," Isabelle said. "I have witnessed first hand how the effects of pandemic school closures and the rise of social media platforms have shifted the way young people connect."
Her goal is to counter that trend. "My hope is to give them a chance to link up with like-minded creative youth, in person, in real time and provide a platform where they can share their art."
The idea, which Isabelle had for a long time, was finally sparked when a student asked her where they could share their music. She reached out to Myia and Brynn at Greens (196 Christina St. N.), who "immediately saw the value and became enthused about it."
For the first event, Isabelle hopes to create an atmosphere where performers and audiences "feel loved and accepted," describing the intended vibe as "warm, inviting and non judgemental."
The initiative is also about fostering a deeper connection between Sarnia's arts scene and its local businesses.
"Young people need a place to hangout and be heard," Isabelle stated. "My wish is for them to be motivated by these local business owners to care about their community and want to carry that torch in the future."
The long-term vision is for the open mic to become a monthly event, hosted by different local businesses and eventually run by the youth themselves. Isabelle connects this directly to larger community well-being.
"It's no secret that our community… has been suffering," she said, referencing homelessness and addiction. "The healing starts with families, specifically with youth. I want young artists to know they have a place in our community, there are many of us older artists wanting to help them find their voice."
For any young artist—be it a musician, poet, or comedian—who might be interested but nervous, Isabelle's message is simple: "Just show up."
"There's no pressure to perform," she stressed. "You can always just come hangout and be a part of things until you feel comfortable enough."
The all-ages open mic takes place at Greens (196 Christina St. N.) on Friday, November 21st, at 6 p.m. For questions, you can email Isabelle at [email protected].
