Open Mic: Works in Progress

Works in Progress is Hugo House’s semi-monthly writing open mic series inclusive of diverse formats. Read your work—poetry, fiction, essays, memoirs, plays, music, comedy, and more—and connect with your literary community.

Works in Progress is typically held twice monthly. Join us as a reader or performer at an upcoming open mic!

We actively cultivate a low-pressure, welcoming environment for readers and guests of all skill levels and literary experience. We especially encourage BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+, and other marginalized voices to take the mic at Works in Progress.

In-Person Works in Progress Details

  • Reading is open to all.
  • You don’t have to read! Guests and audience members are encouraged to attend.
  • Doors open half an hour before showtime.
  • Sign up is on a first-come basis and begins at check-in.
  • There are two sets of readings with about ten people per set for a total of twenty readers. If time allows, we may be able to accommodate last minute entries into what’s called a “lightning round”, which allows folks to share short work, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  • The House bar will be open to serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
  • There is a brief intermission, approximately fifteen minutes, between the two groupings of readers. 

Virtual Works in Progress Details

  • Reading is open to all.
  • You don’t have to read! Guests and audience members are encouraged to attend.
  • The Zoom room will open fifteen minutes before the event.
  • Sign-up for reading slots is on a first-come basis and begins at check-in.
  • There is a brief intermission, approximately fifteen minutes, between the two groupings of readers. 

We encourage your feedback on how we can continue to build a safer and more engaging environment at these events! Email us at welcome@hugohouse.org.