The Poly Mic - MTL Event Series
Taking my first plunge into the widely renowned Montreal comedy scene, I wasn’t quite sure what I would be walking into. Being a newcomer to the city, and a newcomer to comedy, my stomach was buzzing like a hive of ever-persistent Quebec wasps. It’s always nerve-wracking trying to find community in a new place, and I was fortunate to be welcomed into the warm arms of this week’s enrapturing edition of The Poly Mic.
If there’s one thing I would consider to be a telltale sign of an excellent evening to come, it would be hearing bubbling laughter echoing up the block from the venue. In the soft shadows of a September evening, the energy radiating from the open windows of Notre Dame des Quilles was like a shining beacon, drawing me in. Stepping through the door to be greeted by the warm smile of organizer Aurora Knaut (one of the four intrepid spirits behind The Poly Mic) immediately put me at ease, and allowed me to shake off the first-night-out-in-months jitters to really take in the beauty of the venue. Located on the vibrant rue Beaubien, Notre Dame des Quilles is a designated queer bar with a healthy stock of deliciously crafted cocktails and local beers. It has that ideal mix of trendy-chic features with an eclectic arrangement of furniture and, most excitingly, two bowling lanes. I actually missed the lanes at first glance, as the room was packed to the gills with a hodge-podge of tables, chairs, and benches all filled with smiling faces. It was a beautiful sight, seeing so much Queer Joy unapologetically existing in one place.
Photo courtesy of On The Grid
At its core, that’s what The Poly Mic is all about. Started in July 2023 by Alo Azimov, Aurora Knaut, Kaja Levy, and Raquel Maestre as counter-programming during the Just For Laughs festival, The Poly Mic is intended to provide a safe, welcoming space for Queer, Trans, and BIPOC performers of all kinds, regardless of experience level. While Montreal has a reputation for its comedy scene, the larger productions frequently lack the diversity and range of performers seen at The Poly Mic. “It motivates me,” says organizer Raquel Maestre, explaining that many of the larger productions in the city overlook the contributions of Queer and Trans talent. “While they catch up, we keep creating space [for queer performers] because it’s fun and the audience enjoys it.” And enjoy it, they most certainly do. This week’s audience maintained a warm and welcoming aura all night long, without fatigue. Each of the 14 performers of the evening were met with multiple enthusiastic rounds of applause, whooping cheers, and, of course, big, bold, beautiful laughter.
It is no small feat to organize and keep the energy up for a weekly production, especially one that is grassroots and community-supported, yet in its two months of life The Poly Mic has succeeded in gaining momentum. Raquel explained to me that the choice to host a weekly event was an intentional labour of love. “There is talent and an audience. We are happy with where it’s going. There’s a lot of funny people in Montreal.” The weekly format firmly establishes The Poly Mic as a regular, reliable community event, while the open mic set-up keeps things fresh and exciting. It is a perfect place for beginners and intermediates alike, and that mix of perspectives and personalities ensures that there will be something to the tastes of every attendee.
One of my favourite aspects of Wednesday’s show was how enthusiastically beginners were encouraged to perform. Many of the evening’s performers appeared to be new talent in the scene, and any stage nerves were quickly chased away by the waves of appreciation from the audience. It was a powerful thing to be a part of, and a spirited reminder that queer communities continue to thrive and grow. “I’m confident we’ll keep going in a sustainable way. It’s not my or our [the producers’] show, I want to make it a community thing. Above all, I’m a comedy fan,” Raquel tells me. It is very obvious just by watching them in the space that the organizers are deeply passionate about this work. All four were all present at the event, chatting with participants and patrons alike, visibly building and uplifting that sense of community. There is a palpable appreciation and camaraderie throughout the venue, resulting in a true gem in the Montreal queer community. This is only just the beginning. While most of the acts have been comedy based, The Poly Mic welcomes all Queer performers in comedy, music, drag, poetry, and more. Raquel’s parting words sum it up well.
“I’m proud of the show and as a host I’m proud of what we do, putting on a show, giving the audience a good time. I encourage anyone that wants to come, to do that.”
The Poly Mic happens weekly at Notre Dame des Quilles. Entry is pay-what-you-can, with proceeds going to support further shows. Come early or stay late to grab a bite in the neighbourhood, but be sure to bring cash for entry, and for any beverages you may wish to partake in. (I’m personally partial to an alcohol-free mojito.) Each show is different, with local talent signing up in advance or at the door, so be prepared for anything to happen! Perhaps you will even feel inspired to dust off that performance you’ve been keeping in your back pocket. No matter how you choose to engage with The Poly Mic, it is guaranteed that you will be in for good laughs, good people, and good times. Come to the show next Wednesday (October 4) for a very special taping event, and regular open mic showcases every Wednesday going forward.
For more information about The Poly Mic, check out Facebook!