Story by Stephen Zegalia

Photos by Annabelle Klachefsky
Music, poetry, and Dr. Seuss could all be found at the Buzz Café in the EMU on Wednesday, March 2.  Ethos Magazine hosted an open mic night honoring the famous author’s birthday and Read Across America Day. The evening included a variety of performances, and the stage was open to anyone who chose to give it a try.
“We’ve been working on getting this set up for most of the term, trying to figure out an event, finding a venue, getting supplies and stuff,” said Will Cox, one of the event’s coordinators. “It’s mostly to just get the word out about Ethos and raise some awareness about the magazine.”
UO student Jonathan Rosenberg started the round of performances off with a violin rendition of “A Little Night Music” by Bach, followed by some more classical tunes. Following him was an eclectic mix of acoustic guitars and singing in an informal, jovial atmosphere. The night tended heavily toward the musical side of things, although English major Miles Cressman read his poem Another Time and his short story Deconstruct for a literary change of pace.
The sign-up process was informal, with some performers going onstage multiple times. Sound coordinator Trevor Helt even got in on the action, with a soulful performance of classical and blues guitar. Fellow UO student Mike O’Brien got the audience members snapping their fingers along in what was one of the more popular performances: a clarinet-infused performance of the classic folk song “16 Tons” by Tennessee Ernie Ford.
“A buddy showed me the song on YouTube, and I happened to buy a clarinet a few weeks ago, so I thought I’d give it a try,” he said.
As the evening wound down, there were readings of some of Dr. Seuss children’s books including Green Eggs and Ham. A raffle was also held with the prize—$25 to Off the Waffle—going to UO student Lindsey Lake, who has won something at every Ethos event she has attended.
Thanks to the Buzz, Off the Waffle, and all the great contributors for this night of Dr. Seuss-inspired fun!

See what else Ethos is planning by friending us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and checking out our Events.

Gallery • 1 Photos