The Brightside: Micvidos, giving local artists a space
SALISBURY, Md. – In this week’s edition of The Brightside, WMDT highlights a new space for local artists to show off their talents and work. The owner of Micvidos, Michael Thomas Jr. says he’s hoping this elevates the artistry scene here on shore. “I’ve created something where the community can grow as far as artists or any art department.”
In Salisbury, a growing music scene is on the horizon with artists consistently being highlighted and celebrated. However, Thomas is hoping his space in downtown Salisbury will put the city on the map. “I walked in here and that vision had come to me and said it’s time. So this is our chance now to give our family and friends that chance to grow and shine.” He goes on the explain, “I noticed people were trying to experience luxury, experience the concert life and all that and I said why don’t we have that here?”
Micvido’s Outlet Event Hall is more than just an event space and Thomas, a Maryland native and former artist says, he’s hoping this can be Salisbury’s version of the Apollo Theatre. “Let’s do shows, let’s do something with someone with artistic flavor that can just be known and seen,” says Thomas. “When you have worked so hard, you should have that clap, you should have that praise.”
We’re told he grew up with a strong musical background – but realized he had to travel quite a bit to not only thrive in his work but find a community that can support the local music scene. Beyond music, his passion for photography and videography led him to a vision that has now created a multi-media center. “At this point, this is your chance, your stage, do your thing. I don’t care if you juggle, magic tricks, I don’t care what you do, if it’s art, bring it here.”
As the city of Salisbury has seen over the years, events like the Maryland Folk Festival have showcased the talent that resides right here on the shore. Talent that Thomas says should be celebrated year-round in a space to call home. “A place like this has the biggest opportunities because there’s nothing here. So once you make something here, you are that big opportunity that was created.”
The whole idea is to be able to host talent shows, open mic nights, concerts, and art shows, we’re told the possibilities are endless. However, according to Thomas, the Eastern Shore has the talent but needs to be given a permanent platform and space to grow and represent our area. “Don’t look at it as if there’s nothing here, we don’t have nothing to do – make it. You don’t just sit you don’t settle, you make things happen.”
Thomas tells us he hopes a space like this can also attract big-name artists to travel to Salisbury to check out the local music scene.
Whatever your talent or passion is, Thomas says he wants to be a part of the efforts to foster it. “When you want to be somebody, you want to grow and you know it’s time to grow, come see me.”
The event hall is also an event space for birthday parties, baby showers, receptions, and more.
Thomas is hosting an upcoming ‘Lover Boy Edition concert at Micvidos on Thursday, February 13th; a Valentine-themed concert that will be hosting local artist Pat Haass and others.
You can head to Eventbrite to learn more and also reach out to Thomas personally for artistry questions at Imtheoutlet_@gmail.com.
