The Open Stage Commandments

The Open Stage functions under a set of ten guiding “commandments” which participants agree to follow upon entering the event.

I. Thou Shalt Not Sue

There are inherent risks associated with the performing arts. As an entrant to the Open Stage event, you assume full responsibility for personal injury to yourself, injuries caused to other persons by your actions and for any other loss or property damage resulting from your actions at the Open Stage.

II. Thou Shalt Sayeth Cheese

Cameras will be recording at the Open Stage. Your presence constitutes consent to be photographed and recorded. By entering, you agree to to release the Open Stage and its affiliates from any liability for loss or damage to persons or property or for infringement of any rights. You expressly authorize and permit the use of your name, voice, and likeness and the reproductions thereof for any purpose whatsoever throughout the world in perpetuity in any form of media without compensation whatsoever.

III. Thou Shalt Be High In Spirits Alone

The House of Poets is a non-smoking, drug-free facility. If you’d like to partake in drugs, please stay home. If you’d like to partake in a legal smoke, our host-venue invites you to visit their hookah lounge which is conveniently located next door.

If you are of legal age, the House of Poets does allow the consumption of alcoholic beverages. Please feel free to bring your own drinks, subject to a set-up fee for glasses and mixers.

IV. Thou Shalt Clap, Dammit

Performing in front of an audience is not easy. Be supportive and encouraging to those brave enough to grace the Open Stage with their talents.

V. Thou Shalt Take Thy Positivity Pill

It is our goal to create a supportive, nurturing environment that fosters experimentation and growth. Help us by being a part of that positivity during your time at the Open Stage.

VI. Thou Shalt Engage

While we are a supportive audience for our performers, the Open Stage prides itself on not being a spectator event. Do something awesome with your time here. Try something new. Risk and be appreciated for the attempt.

VII. Thou Shalt Not Keep Score

If you have a criticism, make it constructive. This is not a contest. We are here to support artists as they learn their craft.

VIII. Thou Shalt Play Nice Together

Rule one of the Open Stage is respect. Respect others, their creative process and their performance tools. While it is a performer’s responsibility to be mindful of their surroundings, do what you can to yield to explorers in motion. Do not touch another person or their tools without explicit permission.

IX. Thou Shalt Respect The Venue

Think of the Open Stage as a rare and fragile thing that you love, and do what you can to protect it. The House of Poets offers us their amazing space because of our positive, respectful approach to creative exploration. Be appreciative of that gift, and earn the right to call it your home away from home.

X. Thou Shalt Not Confuse This With A Democracy

In order to make this lovely madness work, there has to be someone in charge. To allow you to explore like a child, we’ve agreed to take the role of the grown ups. As such, the Open Stage’s event staff is the final authority in all situations.