A dim candle flickers on a table while a poet reads some of his newly written philosophy. The smell of coffee lingers in the air while in the background an acoustic guitar is being tuned.

Your palms sweat as you grip your most recently penned poem — waiting for your turn at the microphone.

It's not the latest reality TV show but a typical night at The Spirit Café.

The open mic entertainment event is held each Friday at The Art Center on Main Street. Beginning at 7 p.m. locals and passersby can try their hand, their voice, their song or their latest stories on a hopeful audience.

"The idea originated from Larry Sassone, The Art Center's president," said Rebecca Novak, Spirit Café initiator. "It sparked after the Age of Aquarius.

"The Age of Aquarius was intended to unite artists and musicians both locally and nationally. We aimed to keep this idea alive by fostering a network of support and engagement for young and adult artists and musicians."

The café began April 29, and Scott Reagan of Butler has frequented the café since June.

"It's a great place for me to read my poetry, and it's fun to hear others read their work and play their music," said Reagan. "Being in the audience you get to see and hear a diverse body of creative work ranging from somebody singing and playing the blues to somebody reading an excerpt from a novel

"It can be very inspiring. As a performer you get to perform in front of a live audience that is very supportive. It's definitely a positive experience."

Another Butler writer who enjoys the feedback from the audience is Nicole Nevel."I have been patronizing the cafe' since the end of spring," said Nevel, who presents dramatic readings. "It started out just a few people, but has grown into a nice sized group of artists. Every week, a few more people are present."I love to see the reaction of an audience — good or bad. Getting feedback is always a great reward. I love to entertain people."Novak said the café is open to performers of all ages, children included. Art forms can include dance, comedy, poetry, music, theater skits, short stories and more, she said."Our stage is open to everyone, and we do not make up a schedule ahead of time, so every Friday is different."Novak is quick to note that a host of creative volunteers combine to make the café what it is.PJ Hixon works as the sound technician. The staff at The Art Center and other volunteers help with promoting the Café and arrange the stage each week.Sue Isreal, a member and artist at The Art Center, designed and painted contemporary tabletops. Ronnie Hicks painted the backdrop stage for the Café.The Spirit Café runs every Friday night, except during opening art shows."You never know who'll pop in," Novak said. "We have musicians and poets coming from Pittsburgh, and have had performers from Detroit, Texas, and Alaska."You never know whom you'll see and meet, and it's a great way to mingle with local, regional and national artists."