College can be a very stressful time. Balancing papers and tests with work and home life often leaves FAU students feeling frazzled. While on campus attending classes and studying hard, many people feel there is nowhere to go and cool off for a while. That is where Owl Productions’ Coffee House comes in.
Under the direction of Coordinator Michelle Henriques, the Coffee House is held twice a month at the Student Activities Center on the Davie Campus.
Along with being offered free coffee and snacks, students are invited to relax and enjoy entertainment ranging from singers, acoustic guitar players and pianists to comedians, there to offer everybody a laugh.
“The Coffee House is just meant to be a little outlet for students, where they can relax and enjoy themselves away from the stresses of their hectic lives,” Henriques explains. “The only reason I am here is to serve the students.”
The Coffee House began in 1999. Back then, student response was what Henriques describes as “iffy,” but she says, “Response has been getting better and better each time.” In fact, the most recent Coffee House, which featured the folk/jazz band Julie Patchouli, had what Henriques called a “tremendous response.”
The next Coffee House will take place on April 12 from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm. Melody Stuart will be performing as a solo acoustic guitarist. She has been described as having soft soulful vocals. In addition to performing her own original compositions, Stuart’s repertoire includes old-time jazz and blues tunes from the 1920’s through the 1940’s and adult contemporary popular folk, blues and rock from the 1950’s to today. “I’ve been immersed in the entertainment field since birth,” says Stuart, the daughter of a jazz pianist. “When I’m performing excellent music for a receptive and appreciative audience, I’m doing what I love.” The final Coffee House of this semester will be held on April 17 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Performing will be the band Kimosa. Beginning in fall, Henriques intends to liven up the Coffee House with even more diverse entertainment. A contest is presently being held to name the Coffee House. The deadline for entries is June 30 and the winner will be awarded a gift pack including a schoolbag, movie tickets and other prizes. In addition, any FAU students who would like to perform there are encouraged to contact Owl Productions.
Working hard is a commendable achievement, but everybody needs to take a break sometimes. For busy students at FAU , the Coffee House may be a perfect chance to take some “ME” time while never leaving campus grounds. So grab a book of poetry to read, put on your coolest black turtleneck and beret (this isn’t a requirement, it just sounds like it would be fun), and head over to the Coffee House to kick back, relax, and enjoy massive amounts of caffeine.
To submit an entry for the Name the Coffee House contest, to discuss performing at the Coffee House, or for more information, contact Owl Productions at 236-1250.
