Artists, performers, and writers alike are invited to share their talent and participate in OCCC’s semiannual Open Mic event from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 2, in College Union 3.

The event is free for anyone who wishes to perform or simply be a spectator.

Sign-up sheets can be found outside English Professor Marybeth McCauley’s office, AH 2F3(B), or in Student Life for anyone wishing to secure a spot to perform.

McCauley said participants will also be able to sign up at the time of the event, but space is limited.

“We’ve realized there are so many talented people here, that we just had to give them an opportunity to show off their talent,” said McCauley, who collaborated with Student Life to host this event.

McCauley is faculty sponsor for OCCC’s literary and art journal, the Absolute.

The journal is published annually and accepts poetry, short fiction, non-fiction essays, art, photographs and other material from students and the community.

Previous open mic events have welcomed various types of talents, McCauley said.

Original poetry, stand-up comedy, and polka music played on an accordion were just a few of the acts that have been featured in the past.

McCauley said the event originated as a way to encourage students to express themselves creatively on a platform they otherwise might not have had.

James Knoll, a film major at OCCC, said the hour-long open mic event has attracted quite the turnout.

“The room was completely packed with people,” Knoll said. “It was standing room only.” Knoll said he recited two of his original poetry pieces at the event last fall.

Open mic events are held once every fall and spring semester.

“I suggest showing up early, because the room filled up fast.” Knoll said.

For more information, contact McCauley at 405-682-7820 ext.7405 or Student Life at 405-682-7523.