Running for over 10 years and consistently voted the "Best Open Mic in Northeastern Pennsylvania" in local polls, the NEPA Scene Open Mic is held every Tuesday night at The V-Spot in Scranton, attracting varied lineups and great crowds week after week.

Sponsored by Samuel Adams and LT Verrastro, this free event gives up-and-coming and established local musicians, comedians, actors, performance artists, magicians, dancers, and more the platform to showcase their talents in front of new audiences, meet other artists, and hang out together while giving each act some extra publicity through the live stream and photos. Even touring bands have stopped in to play a set in between gigs.

Sign-ups are from 6 p.m.-8 p.m., and while the open mic may be able to accept a limited amount of sign-ups after that, arriving early guarantees a spot. Every act receives between 10 and 15 minutes of stage time, depending on the turnout for that particular night. The show runs from about 7 p.m. through midnight or later. Original material is encouraged.

Everyone participating will be featured in the live stream on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitch, and TikTok, though some online platforms do not allow copyrighted tracks to be played, so those sets will not appear on the stream. Photos of each act will be made available for download in the NEPA Scene Open Mic Facebook group, giving artists professional shots that they can use for their own promotion.

"The NEPA Scene Open Mic is a great opportunity to show off and develop your talent, as well as meet fellow artists in the local scene who can help you book shows or get to that next level. Many artists who have come to our open mics over the years have gotten paid gigs and made many great friends and business connections - let our extensive online reach help you," said NEPA Scene editor Rich Howells, who hosts the event.

"For those who are looking for a unique night of entertainment, look no further than this unpredictable variety show. You can watch online, but it's even better in person."

As per The V-Spot (906 Providence Rd., Scranton) and state laws, artists must be 18 or older, and those who are 18-20 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Parents or legal guardians with an 18, 19, or 20-year-old must provide valid IDs for both parent and child in order to enter the venue.

The venue provides a well-lit stage, a soundboard, two microphones, two standard instrument cables, and a five-piece Mapex house drum kit. Full bands are welcome to perform. Those who have pre-recorded music or backing tracks can bring them on their phone or laptop; NEPA Scene has audio cables ready to plug devices directly into the soundboard. If any other equipment is needed, performers must bring it with them.

Join the conversation throughout Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter by using #NEPAScene and tagging @nepascene. Join the NEPA Scene Open Mic Facebook group to stay up to date on these live events.