🎤 Gentle Open Mic – Taunton’s Supportive Space to Perform, Connect, or Simply Listen.
📅 Next Gentle Open Mic: Friday 22nd Aug 2025
🕢 Time: 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
📍 Venue: Studio Theatre, Taunton Brewhouse, Coal Orchard, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 1JL
🎟️ Entry: Free (Donations Welcome)
The Gentle Open Mic is a community event created by Max Price, hosted in partnership with Taunton Brewhouse.
This open mic is a welcoming space for everyone - whether you're an experienced performer or sharing your voice for the first time. As a queer, neurodivergent singer-songwriter who struggles with imposter syndrome, I know how daunting it can be to put yourself out there. This night is about support, creativity, and connection, with a relaxed and friendly crowd.
Event Schedule (2.5 Hours)
7:30 PM – 7:50 PM
🌀 Arrival & Warm-Up (20 mins)
Come early to settle in and join a relaxed, optional activity to get everyone chatting and feeling comfortable. It’s a low-key way to connect with others and get into the creative spirit.
7:50 PM – 8:30 PM
🎶 First Set of Performances (40 mins)
Sit back and enjoy a variety of performances from local artists, including music, poetry, and more.
8:30 PM – 8:45 PM
☕ Break (15 mins)
Grab a refreshment, chat with fellow audience members, or keep enjoying the ongoing activity.
8:45 PM – 9:25 PM
🎶 Second Set of Performances (40 mins)
More fantastic performances to keep the evening lively and inspiring.
9:25 PM – 10:00 PM
🌿 Wrap-Up & Chat (35 mins)
As the night winds down, come back to the relaxed activity for some informal reflections, a guest Q&A, or just to share thoughts with the group.
How It Works
✅ Sign up in advance (or on the night if space allows).
✅ Each performer gets a maximum of 9 minutes (around 3 songs or an equivalent set).
✅ Friendly, supportive crowd - no pressure!
🎤 Performance Length Options:
Short (Up to 3 mins) — Ideal for a single poem, short spoken word piece, or 1 song.
Medium (4-6 mins) — Great for 2 short poems, a longer spoken word piece, or 1-2 songs.
Longer (7-9 mins) — For 2-3 poems, a spoken word set, or 2-3 songs.
🎶 Performance Setup:
3-4 performers per set to ensure a relaxed, enjoyable pace.
We aim to be inclusive, non-hostile, emotionally safe, and welcoming to a broad range of people. Our approach is trauma-informed, so we’re mindful about language and content that could be triggering or alienating. We also ask performers to avoid “punching down” - that is, making jokes at the expense of people who are marginalised or vulnerable.
🎤 Sign Up to Perform at Gentle Open Mic (Taunton)!
Want to take the stage in a welcoming, supportive space? Whether you're a musician, poet, spoken word artist, or storyteller, we'd love to hear from you! Performers get up to 9 minutes (around 3 songs or an equivalent set in spoken word/poetry).
💡 Limited slots available – new performers are prioritised. If you've not performed at Gentle Open Mic before, we'll do our best to make sure you get a chance to share your work.
📝 If you performed at the last event, you’re very welcome to request another slot - we’ll pop your name on the waiting list and be in touch around a week before the event if space becomes available.
👉 Fill out the form opposite to book your performance slot.
👥 Not performing? Come along and enjoy the night!
Whether you're supporting friends, discovering new talent, or just enjoying a night out, everyone is welcome! Grab a drink, relax, and enjoy the performances in a friendly, inclusive environment.
👉 Read our Gentle Open Mic Code of Conduct - it applies to all attendees, performers, and volunteers, and outlines how we hold space together with care and respect.
Age Guidance
This event is designed for audiences aged 16 and over, due to the presence of alcohol and the potential for sensitive content during performances.
Under-16s are welcome, but must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
Accessibility & Parking
We want to ensure everyone has a smooth and enjoyable experience! The Studio Theatre at Taunton Brewhouse offers step-free access, wheelchair accommodation, and accessible facilities.
🚗 Nearby parking:
Coal Orchard Car Park (free after 6 pm)
Canon Street Car Park (within walking distance)
Designated drop-off area
Public transport options nearby
For full accessibility and parking details, check out our Accessibility & Parking Information.
🏳️🌈 This is a queer and neurodivergent-friendly space, open to all. Whether you're LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, or simply looking for a kind and welcoming creative community, you're very welcome here.
Hope to see you there! 💜
Meet Your Host
Hi I’m Max Price (they/them), a singer-songwriter and the host of Gentle Open Mic. I created this night because I know how scary it can feel to share your voice.
For years, I struggled with imposter syndrome and a deep fear of singing live. Even when I knew I had something to say, self-doubt often kept me silent. Performing felt vulnerable - and sometimes overwhelming.
This open mic is for anyone who’s ever felt the same. Whether you’re just starting out, returning after a break, or testing new material in a safe space, you’re welcome here.
I can’t wait to hear what you’ve got to share.
Max :)
Get in Touch!
If you're interested in coming along to Gentle Open Mic in Taunton or would like to reserve a performance spot, here’s how you can get in touch:
Join the Private Facebook Group
For updates, community discussions, and event details, join our exclusive group on Facebook:
Gentle Open Mic - Taunton
(Note: You’ll need to request to join the group to access updates.)Become a Member of Our Meetup Group
Join the Gentle Open Mic community on Meetup to stay in the loop about upcoming events, sign-up details, and more ways to get involved.
Email Us
For any questions or general enquiries, feel free to email me at:
hello@gentleopenmic.com.Reserve a Spot
Want to perform? Please fill out our online form below to reserve your spot:
