The Upstairs Artspace’s Literary Open Stage has hosted exceptional local talent, making for an exciting year so far. The next Literary Open Stage will take place in the Underground, downstairs at the Upstairs gallery, on Friday, July 10 at 7 p.m. This spoken word event takes place every second Friday of each month.

Established and emerging writers are invited to share their work, including original fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. Writers who would like to participate in the event should arrive at 6:30 p.m. to sign up for a slot. Please limit your reading material to 10 minutes.

The Open Stage has grown with the expansion of the literary population in the foothills of North Carolina. Previously a quarterly event, the Upstairs now hosts writers coming from as far as Asheville and Greenville on a monthly basis. There is also an established group of local scribes from Saluda, Tryon, Columbus and the surrounding area.

All are welcome at the gallery to enjoy listening to the talented and diverse voices of the community. Come for an entertaining evening of touching memoir, expressive memoir, and imaginative stories.

The event is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome and all proceeds go to the Upstairs, a nonprofit organization. The Upstairs Artspace is located at 49 South Trade Street, Tryon, NC. For more information about the Upstairs’ exhibits and programs, call 828-859-2828 during gallery hours, or visit www.upstairsartspace.org.

– Submitted by Lorna Festa