Downtown Selma has an invitation for anyone with a poem, a song or a story to share on Saturday, October 10.

Wide Open Mic, presented by Neuse River Writers, runs from 3–5 p.m. at Strickland Art Gallery, 115 South Raiford Street.

The gathering is listed as free, and listeners are welcome alongside people interested in performing.

That makes it an afternoon option for neighbors who want to enjoy local creativity without committing to a ticketed evening show.

A place for different kinds of voices

The announcement welcomes original poetry, acoustic music, spoken word and creative readings.

It also describes a setting intended to encourage both first-time performers and people with more experience.

A microphone can feel intimidating when you are used to writing privately or practicing music at home.

An open mic provides a reason to ask about taking the next step, while leaving room simply to listen if that feels more comfortable.

Listeners have a role too, giving performers their attention and helping create an atmosphere where different styles can be heard.

Bring a friend who enjoys words or music, and approach the afternoon with curiosity about what each person chooses to share.

Art adds another reason to visit

The event takes place at Strickland Art Gallery, with artwork by William Strickland featured in the announcement.

A gallery setting offers something to explore beyond the performance itself.

Allow yourself time to look at the artwork without interrupting someone who is reading or playing.

Respect any gallery instructions about photography, touching artwork and moving around the room.

Visitors looking for a simple downtown outing can combine the open mic with a separate stop nearby, keeping the performance time in mind.

Any meal, shopping or additional activity would be separate from the free event.

Thinking about sharing your work?

Prepare a piece that you feel comfortable presenting, and practice reading or playing it before you arrive.

A shorter selection can be easier to deliver clearly than a piece you have not yet rehearsed.

The public announcement does not specify a performance time limit, registration process or order for taking the microphone.

Check the organizer’s event announcement for contact information and ask about those arrangements rather than assuming that arriving at a particular time guarantees a slot.

Musicians should also ask about equipment, accompaniment and what they should bring.

Those details matter when deciding whether a planned performance will fit the available setup.

If you are sharing written work, keep a readable copy handy and decide where you will begin and end.

Consider the mixed audience when choosing material, and ask the organizer about any content guidelines.

You can enjoy the afternoon without stepping up to the microphone.

Listening first can help a newcomer understand the format and decide whether to participate at a future gathering.

Give each performer space to finish, keep side conversations quiet and follow the host’s guidance about applause and transitions.

Different pieces will appeal to different people, which is part of the variety an open mic can offer.

Keep the practical details handy

Wide Open Mic is scheduled for Saturday, October 10, from 3–5 p.m. at 115 South Raiford Street in Selma.

Check the current event notice before leaving for any changes to the schedule or arrangements.

Anyone who needs information about seating or accessibility should ask the venue or organizer in advance.

The announcement provides the date, place and creative formats, but does not describe every accommodation or participation rule.

Leave time to find parking and arrive without rushing, especially if you hope to speak with the organizer before performances begin.

A little preparation can make the afternoon more relaxed for performers and listeners alike.

Whether you bring your own words or come to hear someone else’s, the event offers a local reason to spend Saturday afternoon in downtown Selma.

See the organizer’s complete announcement and current event details.