DANBURY, CONN. — The Western Connecticut State University Midtown Coffeehouse opened its doors for the fall semester on Thursday, Sept. 7.  Located in Alumni Hall on the university’s Midtown campus, this brainchild of Dean of Student Affairs Dr. Walter Cramer began last year as an artistic outlet for some students to express their creative talents, and for others to just relax with a variety of free sandwiches and beverages. But most importantly, the Coffeehouse was created as a place for students to become more involved with the campus community.

 “The Coffeehouse was set up because students said there was nothing to do on campus,” Cramer said.

On Sept. 21, upon entering Alumni Hall, host Shelby Davis welcomed each guest to a cozy setting with soft lighting. The evening began with an open mic forum where some students recited poetry they wrote themselves. The audience was very responsive and supportive. Cramer heavily emphasized the Coffeehouse is a “safe-zone” for students to perform and relax without any fear of rejection. And that proved to be true, as each performer approached the stage and performed casually in front of a packed audience.

“I can only imagine how hard it must be for a person to get up on stage and perform in front of a group of strangers, so I’m going to be as supportive to the performers as I can,” said Jessica Harding, a social science major.

There was hardly an empty seat available toward the middle of the evening, and once the night’s featured performer, Derek Waldron, approached the stage, there wasn’t an empty corner. Waldron, a music major at WestConn, is working on his first album, which should be completed some time soon. With his piano and music sheets before him, he performed several songs.

What began as a quiet evening, culminated in a night full of high energy, and students left well entertained.

“I wasn’t sure I wanted to come at all, but I’m glad I did,” said English major Tara Belton.

“One of last year’s successes was that we had a consistent group of students attend the Coffeehouse.” Cramer said. “This year, our goal is to keep students coming, but also to expand on the numbers we already have attending.”

If the performances on Sept. 21 were any indication, Alumni Hall will be packed every Thursday night.

The Midtown Coffeehouse runs from 8 – 10 p.m. most Thursday evenings during the fall and spring semesters.

For more information, call the Office of University Relations at (203) 837-8486.