Open mic and coffee house in Barrington

“From the Heart,” an open mic and coffee house will be offered Friday, Feb. 18, at the BCAC Gallery at the Ice House Mall, 200 Applebee St., Barrington. Reception begins at 6:30 p.m. and open mic from 7-9 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the Barrington Cultural Arts Center and TesserAct Theatre of Palatine. Cost is $5 per person. The event is open to those high school age and older. Participants are invited to sing a song, read poem, tell a joke, etc. (performances may be limited by time constraints.) If you don't want to perform, come and listen to the talent. Coffee service provided by Chessies 111 Grill. Sweet treats also will be served.

This event launches a series of monthly programs called “Third Fridays…in the Gallery” by the two groups that will include open mic nights and programs that will feature readings of original works by area writers.

Upcoming readings include “A Fireside Chat: A Conversation with FDR” at 7 p.m. March 18, “The Lutwidge Canvass” at 7 p.m. April 15, “Buttin for Nuttin” at 7 p.m. June 17 and “Fingered” at 7 p.m. Aug. 19.

For more information, visit www.barringtonculturalartscenter.org or www.tesseractensemble.com.