The Pen & Pencil Open Mic — Quick Facts
Northern Quarter's wednesday-night free open mic at **The Pen & Pencil** — PA + vocal mic, walk-in sign-up from 7:30pm, 15-minute slots, all ages.
Everything you need before you turn up
Where
The Pen & Pencil
Northern Quarter
Manchester
Contact
Walk-in sign-up only
No advance booking
Host: in-house team
Highlights
What's on Stage
The Pen & Pencil runs an open mic every Wednesday in Northern Quarter, Manchester, starting at 8pm with free entry for performers and audience. Known for hosted by izzie walsh. It's one of Manchester's regular weekly open-mic slots — listed across [public open-mic guides](https://ilovemanchester.com/best-open-mic-nights-manchester-free).
Sign-up opens at 7:30pm on a walk-in basis (no advance booking). Slots run 15-15 minutes per act — typically 3 songs solo or 4 for a band. PA and at least one vocal mic provided. Bring your own instrument, amp and any pedals.
Sign-up process
The sign-up sheet goes out at 7:30pm at the venue. Popular wednesdays fill within 30-60 minutes — arrive early if you want a guaranteed slot. There is no advance booking, no online sign-up, no email list — strictly walk-in.
What to expect
Manchester's open-mic scene is built around the Northern Quarter circuit; expect a mix of working musicians and curious locals. Solo songwriters, duos and acoustic acts work best given the gear set-up; full bands should ask the host before turning up. The "Hosted by Izzie Walsh" tag captures what regulars come back for week after week.
Find The Pen & Pencil
Northern Quarter, Manchester