Capital Region Open Mic Night Perfect Place To Support Local Music

When was the last time you stepped out to a local establishment around the Capital Region to support someone local? When I say support, that doesn't always mean money. That means showing up. Sharing their art. Telling a friend about this amazing performer you got to see while enjoying some food or drink at the bar and restaurant you frequent.

Many local artists in the music scene depend on that to help spread word about what they're creating. Some of them struggle to get gigs consistently because without a manager they have to handle the booking themselves, all while also working a regular job. That's something that Troupe Productions Shannon Tehya highlighted during the open mic night that they host on the first Thursday of the month at The Eleven at Lark Hall. This open mic night is a way to see a variety of performers doing everything from comedy to music.
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I attended the open mic on Thursday October 1, 2026 and I am so happy that I did. I not only got the see the incredible talents of Shannon Tehya and Hunter Frost, but was introduced to several artists I had not had the pleasure of seeing before. One of those artists was Girl Love. They were solo on their acoustic guitar and did a version of of the song "Mercy" by Duff. They had the entire place dancing during that song. I also enjoyed the music from Sergio as well as Josh Breden, who closed his set with a version of the very popular "Choosin' Texas" from Ella Langley.

Support your local music scene

The entire night was filled with sounds from all kinds of different musicians and comedians just stepping out of their comfort zone and practicing the art that they love to create.  If I had gone to this event I wouldn't have gotten to experience the local musicians. It's very easy to give them your full attention as each only gets 10 minuets to perform, which works out to be two songs.

Troupe Productions are hosting these open mic nights on Thursday at The Eleven at Lark Hall in Albany.

262 Lark St, Albany, NY 12210