Open Mic Night in Chelmsford
Hot Box Open Mic Night
Open Mic Nights usually run twice a month, on the first and third Tuesday of every month. Come and showcase your original music to a dedicated community of local music lovers, or just come along to listen.
The whole point is to build a supportive community of like-minded musicians in Chelmsford. To keep things fresh, each night is looked after by one of a rotating line-up of guest hosts.
How it works
- Musicians: book a Musician ticket to perform. Duos only need one ticket between them.
- Spectators: book a Spectator ticket to enjoy the show. Walk-ins are welcome if time allows.
- Can’t make it? Email returns@hotboxlive.co.uk so we can give your spot to someone else.
Tickets are free and booked through DICE on our What’s On page.
On stage
The stage is fully set up for acoustic guitar and vocals, and there’s an aux connection for backing tracks. If your performance needs a bigger technical setup, email jon@hotboxlive.co.uk in advance to talk it through.
Play and stay
This is a play-and-stay night, not a play-and-leave one. We ask performers to stick around and support their fellow musicians for the whole evening. That’s what makes it a community rather than a queue for the stage.
Keeping it free
To keep these nights free for everyone, we rely on bar sales, so bringing your own drinks isn’t allowed. If you’re able to, you can also help by donating at the venue or through our Support Us page.
Good to know
- Doors 6pm, finishing around 11pm.
- Original music only.
- Under-18s are welcome with a responsible adult (a parent or guardian).
Next dates
Open Mic Night is usually on the first and third Tuesday of the month.
Pick a date to book:
Book your free ticket on our What’s On page.
Getting here
Hot Box Live is under the railway arches at 28-29 Viaduct Road, Chelmsford (CM1 1TS), a 2-minute walk from Chelmsford train station. If you’re driving, parking on Viaduct Road is free after 5pm, and the NCP car park at Chelmsford station (right behind us) and Fairfield Road car park are both close by.
The ground floor is step-free, including the main room, the bar and an accessible toilet. We take cash, all major cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Open mic FAQs
When is the open mic?
Usually the first and third Tuesday of the month. Doors open at 6pm and the night runs until around 11pm.
How much does it cost?
It’s free, for performers and spectators. Book a free ticket through DICE on our What’s On page. The night stays free thanks to bar sales and donations.
How do I book a slot to play?
Book a Musician ticket on our What’s On page. If you’re performing as a duo, you only need one ticket between you.
Can I play covers?
The night is for original music, so come ready to play your own songs.
What equipment is provided?
The stage is set up for acoustic guitar and vocals, with an aux connection for backing tracks. If you need a bigger setup, email jon@hotboxlive.co.uk in advance.
What if I can’t make it?
Email returns@hotboxlive.co.uk so we can give your spot to someone else.
Can I bring my own drinks?
No. Outside drinks aren’t allowed. Bar sales are what keep the night free.
Can under-18s come?
Yes, as long as they’re with a responsible adult (a parent or guardian).
Book your free ticket on our What’s On page, or see everything else that happens at Hot Box in our regular nights line-up.
