On October 18th, 2025, I had the pleasure of attending the St. Francis-in-the-Wood Open Mic event with Karen - Squared. On the dark, blustery October evening, I was immediately greeted by a warm and cozy ambience, welcomed by smiling faces and a luminously decorated room. The Caulfeild Cove Hall was strung with rainbow strings of lights arcing between chandeliers, casting a brilliant glow over the room. The stage was set with a backdrop of plants and an array of instruments awaiting their musicians. The evening event brought together attendees from all over, gathered to connect over pleasant conversation, sweet treats, and a night of marvelous music.
The event began with an energetic welcome from Karen Fowlie, one half of the Karen - Squared who would be the vibrant hosts for the evening. Commencing the series of performers, the audience was treated to a series of original songs by Karen F. and her talented band, including the sleek electric guitar and smooth bass. All of the subsequent performers were welcomed warmly by the encouraging crowd, sharing their diverse talents and creativity with the group. Throughout the evening, I enjoyed the mellow strum of the acoustic guitar, playing songs by Bob Dylan, the Beatles, and many more; the sweet twang of the harmonica; the beautiful melodies of the piano, spilling everything from the gentle notes of Claire de Lune to energetic ragtime to familiar popular classics like Coldplay. I was dazzled by a pair of young sisters, ages 14 and 10, who sang acapella a passionate rendition of Colours of the Wind from Pocahontas, and a charming and humorous performance of a song from Charlie Brown, respectively. Other singers shared their voices through lively scat singing, romantic love songs, and even songs in new languages - Karen Lee Morlang (the other half of Karen - Squared!) gave an entrancing vocal and piano performance of a Latin piece, sung entirely in Spanish. The evening’s program truly encompassed all varieties of music taste, appealing to all in the audience.
I was particularly impressed by the flexibility of all the performers, their ability, in the moment, to improvise and come together in collaboration to share music with the audience unrehearsed. It was inspiring to witness firsthand the joy of music and its ability to bring people together from different places and backgrounds. Towards the end of the evening, many of the night’s individual acts came together to form a spontaneous band, including talented musicians on the piano, drums, bass, guitar, harmonica, and vocals. The night concluded in high spirits with a number of audience participation opportunities, encouraging those in the crowd to join in with the singing and become a part of the shared musical experience.
Overall, I would like to extend a massive thank you to all of the volunteers and performers who brought the open mic evening to life, creating a meaningful and memorable experience. Thank you to both Karens for their incredible organization and storytelling throughout the night, and to all of the performers who bravely shared their talents on stage for an unforgettable evening!
Clare.
A roving reporter and Ambassador for St. Francis-in-the-wood
