Veteran Community
Open Mic
About
In partnership with The Carpetbag Theatre Inc., Art2Action developed a robust Veteran Arts Program in Tampa, in conjunction with the development of Speed Killed My Cousin, a play by Linda Parris-Bailey, and our collaborative Creative Arts Reintegration (CAR) model. With support from the Alternate ROOTS "Partners in Action" program in 2013, we founded the Veterans' Community Open Mic, featuring local and national guest artists, at Sacred Grounds Coffee House. Since then, the Open Mic has been on-going as a monthly event! In 2016, we moved to The Bunker Cafe in Ybor City (Tampa), and in 2020 we temporarily moved online.
Art2Action presents the Veterans Community Open Mic as a creative space for Veterans, families, community members, caregivers, allies, and artists of all kinds. Join co-hosts Andrea Assaf & Jessica "J-9" with DJ Cotton, local artists & national guests, for a special evening of creativity & community-building, the first Sunday of every month, 6:30-9pm Eastern time.
ALL ARTISTS, VETERANS, FAMILY MEMBERS, FRIENDS & SUPPORTERS ARE WELCOME!
First time on the mic? Seasoned poet, musician or storyteller? Just want to listen? No problem! Your level of involvement is what you want it to be, no pressure! You can sign-up to share, or just listen in. Art2Action is committed to providing a safe, respectful, welcoming & positive community environment for all. FREE admission. For details or to Register for the next upcoming Veterans Community Open Mic, please visit our Events page!
To learn more about Art2Action's multi-year Veteran Arts program, please visit Veterans in Tampa.
Video
Photos
Articles
Speed the CAR: Creative Arts Reintegration by Linda Parris-Bailey & Andrea Assaf
Moral Injury Killed My Cousin by Dr. Lynne A. Santiago, LMHC
Opening New Doors: Reflections On Art and Recovery by Cheldyn Donovan, Veteran Peer Leader
Listen
Special Events
Veterans VIRTUAL Open Mic - Spring 2020
Because Art2Action believes in protecting each other by limiting in-person contact during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are getting INNOVATIVE with the Veterans Open Mic! Starting on April 5th, 2020, we're going online... Join co-hosts Andrea Assaf & Jessica "J-9" with DJ Cotton, local artists & national guests, for a special evening of creativity & community-building! The first Sunday of every month (until further notice), 6:30-9pm. Please visit our Events page for details.
R & R Festival Open Mic - Spring 2017
Creative Forces Open Mic - Fall 2017
