The sound of music, laughter and applause filled 5 WAYS on Friday 5 December as people came together for an Open Mic Night showing the creative heart of the local recovery community.
A sell-out crowd gathered to support some compelling performers. While poetry, improv and comedy made brief appearances, the evening belonged overwhelmingly to powerful music.
The evening was not just about the talent on display, but the atmosphere in the room: encouraging, relaxed and joyfully informal. Each performer was met with loud cheers in a safe, supportive place to share their creativity.
5 WAYS Building Recovery in Communities Coordinator Carla Carr, who organised the evening, said, “The Open Mic Nights are all about giving people a space to express themselves. Almost every performer gave me goosebumps. Music has such power to connect us directly on an emotional level. The response from the audience as well helped to make the night feel magical”.
Suzy Beaverstock who closed the show with an amazing musical performance said: “I feel so lucky to have been welcomed into such a creative and an amazing recovery space! Good company, good food and music…can’t really ask for more than that. I’m so excited for the next one. “
Leona Graham who attended the Open Mic Night said: “It was a wonderful night, showing just how much talent and creativity there is in the Leeds Recovery Community. What I love about nights like this that everyone here is rooting for each other. It’s the kind of atmosphere where people want to perform and people want to come back. It never ceases to amaze me the talent that exists within the recovery world”.
The event highlights the role of 5 WAYS as a community hub. For people who are abstinent from alcohol and other drugs it is a place that offers connection and confidence-building alongside support and structured activities
