BHAA OPEN STAGE with Host LYNESE DAVENPORT
Schedule
Sun Sep 07 2025 at 05:00 pm to 08:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
The Livery | Benton Harbor, MI
Advertisement
Benton Harbor Arts Association Presents Open Stage - With special host LYNESE DAVENPORTLynese says, “At 11yrs old, I was performing as the preacher girl for a program called, SIDEWALK SABBATH SCHOOL, teaching kids about God, singing church songs with them and leading out in Bible trivia. At 14, I was in the studio making my first gospel rap called, I'M JUST RIGHT. Since then my love for music has carried me through a lot and has brought me to you guys. I am so happy to be a part of this amazing event.”
The BHAA wants her to know we’re overjoyed she accepted the invitation to Host! We KNOW she’s gonna be great!
4:30P.M. Sign-up.
5:00P.M. Performances start on-time
8:00P.M. Open Stage typically ends
Benton Harbor Arts Association Open Stage is an evening for our local talent to shine! We welcome all singers, instrumentalist, dancers, ensembles, comedians, magicians and more!
This event is meant to showcase those seeking to build their performance skills and stage presence. It’s also a great way to NETWORK with other artists.
We ask the performers to please present original material.
🚨 IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING BACKING TRACKS FOR OPEN STAGE!! 🚨
Procedure for Submitting Backing Tracks to OPEN STAGE
To ensure a smooth and fair experience for everyone, performers using backing tracks must follow the procedure below.
This helps us keep the show running on time and preserves the quality and spirit of live performance.
Submission Guidelines:
Original tracks are preferred.
If you plan to perform a cover, it is strongly preferred that you use a backing track you produced or designed yourself.
While commercial karaoke tracks are allowed, we encourage performers to use custom or self-produced versions when possible to better showcase their unique style and interpretation.
Tracks must not include lead vocals or any instrument that will be performed live on stage.
The track should support your performance, not replace it.
Tracks must be submitted at least 3 hours before the event.
Earlier submissions are encouraged. Late submissions may not be accepted.
How to Submit Your Track
Email your submission to:
[email protected]
Subject Line Format:
Open Stage Track Submission – [Your Name]
Include the following in your email:
Performer Name
Track Title(s)
Preferred performance order (if submitting more than one track)
Downloadable link to your track(s)
Link Requirements
Your link must allow downloads.
Google Drive or Dropbox are acceptable platforms.
Be sure your sharing settings allow the host and sound engineer to access and download the file without requesting access.
Example Email
Subject: Open Stage Track Submission – John Smith
Hi there,
I’m performing at this Sunday’s Open Stage. Please find my track below:
Performer Name: John Smith
Track Titles:
– “Song Title 1”
– “Song Title 2”
– “Song Title 3”
Preferred performance order:
Song Title 1
Song Title 2
Song Title 3
Download Link: Example [https://drive.google.com/yourtracklink]
Let me know if you need anything else!
Thanks,
John
If this procedure is not followed, we may not be able to play your track at the event. These steps help us ensure fairness and keep things running smoothly for all performers.
Thank you for helping us build a strong, respectful, and artist-focused Open Stage!
– The BHAA Open Stage Committee
***
The BHAA will provide a professional sound technician and sound system. All musicians, including Open Stage hosts, must bring their own instruments.
LIVE PERFORMANCES ARE ENCOURAGED. Artists may use pre-recorded tracks, but they must meet the following guidelines;
Tracks must be SUBMITTED BY EMAIL at least THREE HOURS BEFORE the event for review and approval. The sooner the better.
Email address - [email protected]
Tracks MUST NOT include lead vocals or any instrument that will be played live during the performance. However, backing elements such as ambient layers, harmonies (that don’t replace a live singer) or electronic textures are allowed.
Final decision as track usage will be at the sound team’s discretion, to ensure the integrity of live performances.
THE BHAA will usually have photographer present who will be posting pictures and video to the BHAA social media pages. We encourage you to follow, tag, like and share the photos to help promote Open Stage and your own artistry. We also encourage you to invite others so we can continue growing our community, to keep events like this going strong.
Thank you for contributing to the creative environment in the Benton Harbor Arts District.
Sincerely,
The Benton Harbor Arts Association, Open Stage Committee.
Advertisement
Where is it happening?
The Livery, 190 5th Street,Benton Harbor, Michigan, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
