Virtual World Café has open mikes

Virtual World Café has open mikes

OMRI WAISMAN/The Acorn LOCAL MUSIC-Bruce A. Teitell sings original music at the Virtual World Caf‚ in Agoura Hills on Saturday.

By Stephanie Bertholdo

Acorn Staff Writer

Teens, families, businessmen and women, grandparents and even young children share a common bond at the Virtual World Café in Agoura Hills. It’s in the Agoura Meadows Shopping Center at 5653 Kanan Road.

It offers a unique setting that combines a comfortable retro coffee shop atmosphere where friends can mingle and chat, with high-tech features that include access to computers with dozens of programs and connections to the Internet.

That’s not all. Virtual World Café (nicknamed "V-dub" for the letter ‘W’ by high school students) is on the cutting edge of discovering and presenting local talent. Wednesday nights are "open mike night," where anyone can stop by and perform. Some people sing, while others share essays, poetry or even political commentary.

Manager and soon-to-be-owner of the Virtual World Café, Todd Ryzow, talked about the dynamics of open mike night. "One older gentleman told the crowd a story about a camping trip—it was great." Another patron discussed rape, while others eloquently (or otherwise) addressed current events, Ryzow said.

There’s more. Friday and Saturday nights are devoted to live band performances by local musicians. "You can grab a cup of coffee on Friday night and listen to great music," Ryzow said.

In addition to offering music, conversation and a full coffee bar, the café welcomes children. Crayons and coloring books are provided for their entertainment, and soon free art classes will be offered through Agoura Hills resident and author Margie Shiwell, who said she’ll donate all materials. Chess sets are available for a friendly game that goes well with conversation.

"Kids need good quality, healthy things to do instead of going into Los Angeles," Shiwell said. Artwork will also be displayed at the café, Shiwell added.

Brian Travis, the café’s music booking agent, explained that the music performed is meant to be appropriate for everyone. No bad language is used, he said. "Since no alcohol is served, it’s a great alternative for high school kids."

Travis described his music choices as "acoustic bands, unplugged and Dylanesque."

The 12 computers have wide appeal. "A lot of students come to do research here and study," Travis said.

Ryzow added that there’s a favorite jaunt for many. Realtors check listings, while another regular—a businessman—stops by daily to check the Dow Jones report.

"It’s become quite the hangout with high school kids," Ryzow said. During finals week, the place was packed, he said.

Virtual World Café is open weekdays until 8 p.m., except on Wednesdays when it stays open until 10 p.m. to showcase local talent. On Fridays and Saturdays, the café is open until 10 p.m. as well.

Virtual World Café is also inexpensive. Computers are rented at $5 per hour, unless you purchase a $10 membership that includes two free computer hours, followed by a reduced, $4 hourly fee. In addition to flavored coffees, cappuccino and blended drinks, lemonade and cookies are available.

The Brian Travis Band will be performing on Feb. 13. Travis said his band plays California rock that’s lyrical and melodic.

"I feel that this community is starved for this," Travis said about Virtual World Café. Local bands can submit demo tapes to be considered for weekend performances.

"Cut your teeth here as a performer," Ryzow said. "It’s a forgiving atmosphere." But it’s booked, he said, through March.

Call Virtual World Café at (818) 865-8602.