In the couple of years since we last wrote about Open Mic and Jamming nights in Penang a lot has changed, so here is our updated 2019 list of the most happening places to watch and enjoy performers’ first forays into the public eye, or to pick up the mic yourself.
D’Loovi’s Sunday OpenMic and ProJam
This is a weekly event that takes place every Sunday night at D’Loovis in their new and expanded venue at 24 Lebuh Melayu. It is popular among Penang’s budding singers, musicians, and indie artists.
8pm until 1am Sundays, D’Loovis, 24 Lebuh Melayu. https://www.facebook.com/dloovis
Comedy Open Mic
A proper scene is developing in Penang for stand up comedians, with fairly regular performances to a growing public. This new comedy open mic takes place twice a month on Wednesdays (dates on the flyer above) at 54 Chow Thye Road in George Town. It offers comedians an opportunity to try out new material, for newcomers to make their first foray on stage, and for out-of-town comedians to experience the Penang audience. Admission is RM 10 to watch and, free of charge for performing comedians. Check out their facebook page for more details www.facebook.com/lahspace/
Open Jam Session at ChinaHouse
The Canteen at ChinaHouse is perhaps Penang’s best known live music venue. An open jam session is held here on the first Sunday of the month, open to anyone who wishes to sing or play along with the house band. All genres welcome.
9pm onwards, first Sunday of the month, Canteen at ChinaHouse, Beach Street. https://www.facebook.com/TheCanteenAtChinaHouse/
Open Mic Night at Atas Café
New Penang café/co-working space/performance venue Atas Café is also now running monthly open mics – usually on the first Saturday of the month from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. The focus is on musicians but comedians and other entertainers do also appear. It is free of charge to attend with a purchase of at least one drink. Atas is at 14 Lorong Toh Aka and you can follow them at fb.com/atascafe