By: Christina Kostic
Posted In: Opinion
Photo credit: Christina Kostic
Empire Tea
It’s my favorite time of day in Newport as I meander along the back roads away from the hustle and bustle of tourists on the main avenues. After a dreary and drizzly day, the gray fog has dissipated just enough for the brilliant sunset to peak through the clouds.
As I walk down a cobblestone hill, I can see the fuchsia and ginger colors reflecting off the still water in the harbor. Even the usually white Trinity Church is a light pink in the glow of twilight. I’m on my way to a refuge where doing school work doesn’t seem as tedious, Empire. Many Salve students are familiar with this wonderful haven, and for those of you who aren’t, allow me to enlighten you. Empire is a coffee and teahouse located on Broadway here in Newport. Aside from a scrumptious array of innovative tea and coffee creations, delicious snacks (and a 10% discount for Salve students!), there is also free wi-fi and comfy couches, conducive to lounging around and chatting with friends, and if you’re feeling productive, you can get some homework done. However, there is one particular aspect of Empire that is especially appealing to me, and that is open-mic night. Twice a month, locals have the opportunity to showcase their talents, whether it be poetry, singing, music, comedic routines or even playwriting. I’ve seen all sorts of things at these shows! My friends and I usually go every chance that we get and read our poetry. Well, to be perfectly honest with you, I have yet to share anything at open-mic night, but I’m always there to watch my friends and other people perform. I think I’m going to read some poetry this week, I can’t wait! There’s truly something inspiring about being in a room full of people who are brought together by the desire to share their inner-most thoughts and feelings. Sipping on a hot horchata chai , (just one of my many favorite drinks on the menu,) I take in the soothing guitar strums of the musician on stage. In order to perform at open-mic night, you must use your own original material. Which, in my opinion, makes the event that much cooler. Every time I attend, I can’t help but to notice how great the people are, on stage and in the audience. All of the people there I have ever encountered are so appreciative of others’ creativity, they love everyone that comes to perform. Empire is really a great place to make interesting new friends, and to share and experience creativity at its finest. I always leave Empire’s open-mic night feeling rejuvenated. Taking place on the second and forth Wednesdays of the month from 8:00-10:00 pm, it provides the perfect middle of the week pick-me-up. And you don’t have the stay the whole time, you can always drop in and then step out. If you’re interested in checking out Empire, and I hope you are, visit their website at www.fineloosetea.com for their address and hours. Maybe I’ll see you there!
