The stage was set- The Glyphs Literary Arts sign was hung with care, surrounded by dazzling lights; microphones stood tall on their stands, ready to project a performance; students took their seats around construction-paper-covered tables, eager to be serenaded by their peers. The bi-monthly Glyphs Coffeehouse, hosted at the Madison Public Library, was ready to begin

Despite these events’ widespread appeal, many students are in the dark as to what the coffeehouses actually are. Yes, coffee is available to those addicts still in need at 7 PM; however, these nights have much more to offer. For only $5 (or a food contribution) attendees are provided with an easy-going atmosphere in which they can spend their Friday night eating delicious snacks, socializing with friends, and enjoying performances from the many talented students MHS is proud to be associated with. At the coffeehouse one may witness a thought-provoking poetry reading, a touching acoustic number, or even some hilarious stand-up comedy. Once the scheduled performers have taken their turn, the exciting unpredictability of the night begins with an open-mic, where anyone is encouraged to take the stage. From here every coffeehouse is unique; the only guarantee is a memorable and rewarding experience after a treacherous week of school. And for those of you on the fence- Glyphs is cool! You will not be straining to make sure you aren’t spotted, as you will be among a wide array of social groups choosing to spend their coveted Friday night in appreciation of the arts.

The most recent coffeehouse was an especially successful one, with high attendance and a sampling of new performers, choosing to reveal their talent to the student body for the first time. The night was kicked off with a hard-hitting poetry reading by Julia Prout, which set a tone of professionalism for all who followed. Next to the stage were Whitney Xu and Brian Culligan, who delivered a tasteful acoustic rendition of Frank Ocean’s hit, “Pink Matter”. Whitney would later take a seat at the library’s beautiful grand piano to accompany Ryan Mak in an awe-inspiring cello performance. From here, several Glyphs veterans, including Matt Haughey, Matt Driscoll, Elizabeth Monkemeier, Grant Claytor, Morgan Sanchez, Lauren Downs, and the infamous Billy Hughes displayed their gifts to the encouraging audience with vocal performances backed by their own instrumental ability.

While these experienced entertainers exuded confidence, faces unknown to the Glyphs stage prepared to unleash their craft. Tim Raymaker delivered his first ever public performance with a touching and intimate song, self-accompanied by acoustic guitar.  The well-known was given new life by Rob Bazaral, who added electric guitar crunch to Drake’s “Hotline Bling”. Nicky Davidson took the night back in time to the 1940s with remarkable Frank Sinatra covers that filled the room with positive spirit. These new performers were applauded graciously by those in attendance, and hopefully they will continue to share their talents with the school.

After the scheduled performances came the much anticipated open-mic portion of the evening. Those who couldn’t get enough of the limelight performed for a second time with previously rehearsed acts, and did not fail to deliver. Some were urged up to the stage by friends to improvise on-the-spot. A memorable example of one of these incidences was Morgan Sanchez’s uncanny “chicken impression”, which left the audience both confused and amazed. The night was closed out in a lighthearted way that left all with a deeper bond, and excitement for coffeehouses to come.  

Glyphs needs more performers! These coffeehouses are an excellent environment to expose talents of all kinds to a warm and non-threatening audience. Now is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate your unique abilities, and join the skilled student-body of MHS. If you are interested in performing at the next coffeehouse, do not hesitate to contact a Glyphs editor!