The Upstairs Artspace announces Open Stage, a brand new literary event on Friday, June 26, at 7 p.m.

The objective is to provide a forum for local writers to present and discuss their work in front of an appreciative audience. Anyone with an original work of poetry, fiction or nonfiction, can participate; songwriters are also welcome.

There will be four such evenings throughout the year.

People who would like to read (or sing) their work should arrive at the Upstairs around 6:30 to sign up (doors open at 6:15).

There&squo;s a 10-minute limit to each presentation, and there will be a limited number of writers who can perform each time. Writers are encouraged to share their best work in any way they wish to present it.&bsp;&bsp; &bsp;

The Upstairs has enjoyed a long history of presenting literary readings and writing workshops. Two popular programs in the 1990s were the Literary Coffeehouse and the Southern Writers Series.

Open Stage coincides with &dquo;Intimate Curiosities: SABA National Book Arts Show,&dquo; a juried exhibit of 30 original books as art by 20 artists. The works vary widely and stretch the concept of the printed word. Open Stage hopes to do the same with the spoken word.

Light refreshment will be available for a small donation. Call the Upstairs at 828.859.2828 for more information.