By Sydney Alexandra, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The BurlLITFestival concluded its month-long celebration of literature and creativity with a heartfelt Open Mic matinee at the Burlington Public Library. The event brought together performers of all ages and backgrounds — writers, poets, singer-songwriters, and more — making it a fitting and memorable finale to the festival.
Throughout the month, the Burlington Public Library hosted an impressive array of workshops and events aimed at celebrating authors, books, and creativity. Local authors shared insights about their work and connected with readers, fostering a sense of community and inspiration.
The Open Mic event embodied the festival’s spirit, offering a platform for Burlington’s creative community to shine. “The intention of an event like this is to provide a welcoming space for practice,” said Parampreet Singh, Burlington Public Library’s events coordinator. “It’s been a tremendous success thanks to everyone’s participation and attendance.” Singh also praised the performers for their courage in sharing their talents with the audience.
Seventeen-year-old Tasha opened the afternoon with her original poem, “Mundane,” a poignant piece that invites loved ones to find beauty in life’s simple moments — what some might overlook as ordinary, but Tasha sees as profoundly meaningful. Inspired by a conversation with her mother about the small wonders of the world that evoke memories of those they’ve lost, the poem reflects on the quiet joys and connections that endure through time. Tasha shared that the passing of her uncle was a catalyst for these reflections, leading her to explore themes of love, memory, and resilience in her work.
“I started writing poems two years ago after my uncle passed away,” Tasha said. “I thought about how I’d feel if it were my mom and all the little things that remind me of her. I’ve never taken a workshop or learned proper formats — I just put pen to paper. So far, I’ve written about 30 poems.”
The open mic was Tasha’s first time sharing her work publicly, and she captivated the audience with her authentic delivery.
Tasha’s friend Isaac also took the stage, performing “Drift Away” from Steven Universe: The Movie, followed by an encore of Hozier’s “Take Me to Church,” earning enthusiastic applause for his soulful voice. The two friends, who met through Model UN and bonded over their love of music and literature, supported each other throughout the event, encouraging one another to take a leap of faith.
Another standout performer was singer-songwriter Kathy Humphrys, who performed her original song “Hey Mary.” Inspired by her sister’s battle and triumph over cancer, the emotional piece resonated deeply with the audience, earning a sustained ovation. Humphrys, a teacher and director of Young Yoga Masters, an initiative offering free yoga and meditation, exemplified the theme of resilience and creativity that ran through the festival.
The Burlington Literary Festival’s Open Mic was a vibrant celebration of Burlington’s creative community, leaving attendees inspired and eager for next year’s festivities. Events like these not only highlight the extraordinary talent within the community but also create a safe and encouraging space for self-expression and connection.
For many participants, this event marked a significant milestone in their creative journeys, providing a stage to share their stories, emotions, and artistry with an appreciative audience. From Tasha’s poignant poetry to Isaac’s soulful performances and Kathy Humphrys’ deeply personal songwriting, each act showcased the power of art to build empathy, foster resilience, and strengthen community bonds.
As the applause faded and the festival drew to a close, the message was clear: creativity thrives when nurtured, and the Burlington community is ready to embrace and celebrate its diverse voices. The BurlLITFestival not only celebrated literature and creativity but also reminded us of the importance of storytelling in all its forms — be it through words, music, or shared experiences.
With its resounding success, the festival leaves behind a legacy of inspiration and a challenge to the community to keep the creative spirit alive year-round.
