Frequently Asked Questions
How many people attend Alchemy?
Since September 16th, 2002, when the first Alchemy evening
was held at Shakespeare & Sons, we’ve consistently
packed the café with attendance, leaving many people
standing or sitting on the floor. This means thirty to fifty
people. An audio system is currently being installed to let
people listen to the performances from the adjacent bookstore,
allowing us to accommodate the ever-growing audience.
Can I perform or sing a song?
We don’t know, can you? Alchemy invites all forms of song,
readings and performance. Open mic is limited to 5-7 minutes maximum
for each performer.
Is this evening in English?
Alchemy is primarily an English language venue and the majority
of audience members speak English as a first language. However,
we have a particular interest in presenting Central European writing
in English language translations and encourage the participation
of writers and performers with a first language other than English.
Does the work I read have to be original?
The simple answer is, no. An actor can perform a monologue from
a famous play or a musician can play a cover, of course. However,
Alchemy is primarily a forum for inspiring and helping to develop
original work.
How do you pick feature performers?
We use a very precise algorithm to determine optimal feature readers
and performers. The formula is inclusive of such variable as
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a)
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"Does this person’s work excite and inspire
us?"
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b)
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"Has this person contributed a great deal to the
creative community in Prague with his/her work?"
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c)
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"Has this person been a regular participant in
Alchemy’s open mic segments?"
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d)
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"Do we owe this person money?"
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Do you charge admission?
No. Alchemy is a volunteer effort on behalf of all those involved.
The space is donated by the venue. We may, however, from time to
time pass a hat to collect voluntary donations to raise money for
such things as audio/visual equipments - see our wish
list.
How do I sign up for the open mic?
If you wish to read at the open mic, come early. If you don’t
see a sign up sheet being passed around, just ask at the bar or
someone who looks like they know what’s going on.
Who is Tycho?
Tycho Brahe was a 16th century astronomer and alchemist. After traveling
several years, he became one of the many early expats to settle
in Prague. And he didn’t have a nose.
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Readings
and Performances Series
