Kick off 2026 with creativity, community, and self-expression at Story & Verse, the beloved monthly storytelling, poetry, and spoken word open mic hosted by the Arts Council of Princeton. Taking place in the intimate Solley Theater at the Paul Robeson Center for the Arts, Story & Verse offers a welcoming stage for voices of all ages and experience levels.

This free event invites performers, whether seasoned artists or first-timers, to share stories, poems, or spoken-word pieces inspired by monthly themes, or simply express themselves in open theme nights. Audience members are encouraged to enjoy the performances and even participate with an anonymous Micro Story based on the evening’s prompt read aloud by host, Brass Rabbit.

And this February, Story & Verse marks a major milestone: six years of storytelling, poetry, and spoken word at the Arts Council of Princeton. To celebrate, the February open mic will feature a playful “No Where to Wear” Party, inviting attendees to dust off something in their closet that rarely gets its moment in the spotlight. Whether bold, sentimental, glamorous, or quirky, this is your chance to let an overlooked outfit shine alongside your words. The evening will include light refreshments, a community potluck, and plenty of space to reflect on the stories, friendships, and creative risks that have shaped Story & Verse over the past six years.

Upcoming Story & Verse Open Mic Dates (all events are 7-9pm):

• January 15 – Beginnings
• February 19 – Ta Da!
• March 19 – Open Theme Night

"Story & Verse is incredibly special”, shares ACP Director of Programming and Events, Melissa Kuscin. “It’s a rare and beautiful thing when a program so equally and enthusiastically welcomes complete beginners and established performers. The buzzy energy, the warm atmosphere, and the invitation to indulge in total vulnerability creates a space that has never been more important in our current world.”

For more information, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org. Arts Council of Princeton, 102 Witherspoon Street, Princeton.

About the Arts Council of Princeton
The Arts Council of Princeton, a non-profit organization founded in 1967, fulfills its mission of building community through the arts by presenting a wide range of programs including public art projects, exhibitions, performances, free community cultural events, and studio-based classes and workshops. Arts Council of Princeton programs are designed to be high-quality, engaging, affordable and accessible for the diverse population in the greater Princeton region. To learn more, visit artscouncilofprinceton.org or follow @artscouncilofprinceton.