On May 8, eleven women read from a diverse body of work at WNBA’s annual Open Mic event. Held in one of the oldest churches in New York City, with its quiet pews, high ceilings, stately columns and stained glass, the 2018 Open Mic contrasted sharply with last year’s, held at the differently atmospheric DTUT bar. But the “bar” was raised by the participants, who read from work polished and rough, poetry to mystery. Without much lead time, Harriet Shenkman and Rhona Witty did a fine job putting together a group of readers. Poised and on point for time, they read from the altar in front, which was transformed for the occasion.
A Round-up of the Talent:
Bracha N. Bomze read from her poetry, in which subway doors clanged and life on the Lower East Side of another era, unfolded.
Jane Murphy’s mystery brought us a taste of Jen Quince, a chameleon-esque character in a quixotic setting. We look forward to getting to know her better!
Diana Altman’s beginning of her humorous short story, “The Farm,” portrayed life in a distinctive setting, with her uniquely keen eye and amusing touch.
Debra Lee’s delightfully provocative and evocative scene from her novel “Sisterly Love” opened in present-day London on the wedding day of the protagonist, Summer O’Flynn.
Nancy Newman’s novel-in-progress “Secret Biography” introduced the hilariously terrifying predicament of a character trapped in a car by a mastiff, at an opulent estate.
Harriet Shenkman’s first pages of her novel, “The Camel Tamer,” led us through textured layers of the Dead Sea and Masada, desert settings that promised drama and suspense.
Marilyn Berkman, who writes fiction and poetry, read poems from “Transportation,” showcasing her verbal virtuosity and vivid, fluid style.
Lisa St. John’s poetry from her chapbook, published by Finishing Line Press, successfully took on the challenge of “capturing the essence of feeling,” her words.
Kathryn Paulsen’s flash fiction, intriguingly entitled “Staircase Voyeurs,” set a sharp, edgy and mood-inducing tone, in a single flash of dazzling writing.
Sara Alaica’s novel, “Pigeon Girl,” portrays the impact on characters of rescuing a pigeon in Belgrade. The unusual setting, premise, people and pigeons, are uniquely drawn.
Susan Sparks, Pastor of the Madison Avenue Baptist Church, ended Open Mic on a light and deep spiritual note, reading from chapter 10 of her book, “A Leo’s Search for God.” Turns out she’s funny, too, and “moonlights” as a comedian. She graciously offered her sanctuary, and a lovely refreshments area, to WNBA, allowing guests and readers to mingle over delicious food and drink.
For anyone who wants to test the waters of their words, Open Mic provides a generous venue. I left, feeling inspired by and appreciative of the efforts of our readers, members and non-members, alike. Another reason to join WNBA (members get priority to read for this event). Get ready for Open Mic 2019!
Reported by Sheila Lewis (member since 2007, blog contributor)
sheilaklewis@gmail.com
www.sheilaklewis.com
Co-creator, “Spanda Cards for the Entrepreneurial Spirit” (Beyond Words, Fall, 2018)
Editor, Project Manager, “Joe’s Violin: A Survivor Remembers”
