Evolution Dopen Mic - NJPAC Center for Arts Education

Evolution Dopen Mic stands as one of Newark's longest-running active open mic events, born from necessity in 2014 when poet and author Sean Battle recognized the city needed a free, accessible platform for artistic expression. Now held monthly at NJPAC's Center for Arts Education, Evolution has become a Newark institution.

The Vibe

This isn't your standard open mic—it's a full-scale production. Each event features a 10-slot open mic list for poets, singers, emcees, and other performers, plus an "EvoluGame" where audience members compete in lip sync battles, dance-offs, and freestyle sessions. The night culminates with performances by "Ascended Artists"—elite craftspeople in poetry, hip hop, and R&B.

Past featured artists include HBO's Def Poetry veterans, Tony Award winners, nationally recognized poets, and acclaimed R&B artists. The purple and gold storm (Evolution's signature colors) creates an atmosphere of celebration mixed with serious artistic merit. DJ The IZM provides soundscapes, and the production values reflect Sean Battle's commitment to giving artists an experience beyond a simple open mic list.

Performances

The $10 ticket price (reduced from earlier $5 pricing to sustain quality post-pandemic) includes snacks and beverages, with hot food available for purchase from local vendors. This is hip hop culture meeting poetry culture meeting community celebration. Sign-ups happen first-come, first-served at the door, and performers email music tracks ahead of time for seamless production.

Evolution operates under the philosophy that this is "more than a show: it is a home, with fellow artists and art lovers to learn from." Over its decade-long run through various Newark venues (Coffee Cave, Burger Walla, Gallery 211, Mocha Lounge, Express Newark, Cryout Cave), Evolution has maintained its mission: holding space for artists to connect, form community, and express themselves.