For the first time in Southern Maryland, performers wishing to demonstrate their prowess on stage will have a place to go – open mic night at Room with a Brew in Leonardtown.

 Starting this Thursday, April 10 at 8 p.m. the eclectic coffee house and supporter of local artists will begin opening its doors to talent from all walks of artistic life – singers, song writers, dancers, actors, poets, or anyone wishing to display their talents on stage.

 The owner of Room with a Brew, Wendy Heidrich, said that the night will be completely open to anyone that signs up. “We will begin signing acts for the stage around 7:45 and then each performer or group can have the mic and the stage starting at 8.”

 Hosting the weekly event will be local singers and song writers, Casey and Crystal Brandt. The Brandt’s will introduce each act and then watch along with the audience whoever shows up to perform. “We don’t care what they do, it’s open mic and they have the stage until they are ready to pass it on,” said Casey.

 In talking with The Bay Net, the couple indicated that they both grew up in Southern Maryland – Crystal in St. Mary’s saying, “I went to school right here across the road.” Room with a Brew is located across the street from Leonardtown High School.

 Casey went to school in La Plata. However, they didn’t meet until they were at an open mic night in Manhattan, NY. “We both loved singing and songwriting and were on stage at the same club on the lower east side one night,” said Casey.

 The couple loved singing and songwriting so much they created their own record label – Mungler Winslowe Records. “We have done pretty everything we set out to do with the label,” said Casey.

 Crystal added, “We still have our day jobs, though.”

 The Brandt’s reported that they have recorded 12 records, mostly with others that are as passionate as they are about music.

 Casey Brandt is a budding artist in addition to his songwriting and singing endeavors and discovered Room with a Brew when he was searching for a place to display his art. Once Heidrich and the Brandt’s met discussions of their passions blossomed into the idea of introducing an open mic night here in Southern Maryland.

 “We have long been a supporter of the arts,” said Heidrich, adding that the facility is booked completely Monday through Friday. “We have a variety of live music acts every Friday and Saturday and there is always something going on throughout the week.”

 Room with a Brew hosts Jazzercise on Monday, Tai Chi and Yoga on Tuesdays, Jazzercise and Pilates on Wednesday and now Open Mic Night on Thursdays. “We also use the facility for bridal and baby showers, birthday parties and meetings,” explained Heidrich.

 Performers wanting to demonstrate their talents, now have a place to do so. No need to call ahead or to register in advance, just show up on Thursday nights and sign in - everyone will get their turn on stage. For more information, call Room with a Brew – 301-475-8811 or visit their website, www.roomwithabrew.com.