Toronto hosts a variety of Open Stages/Open Mics a Singer/Songwriter nights. But which ones are right for your style of music? What kind of crowd can you expect? Do these venues lead to anything beyond performing the venue itself?

For 10 weeks, we're checking out the "Toronto Open Stage Circuit" and reporting about what we've learned from this experiment. We rate the stages out of five.

Mackie's Taigh Osda Singer Songwriter Night: Located at 2112 Danforth Ave. (just east of Woodbine) Mackie's boasts excellent food, a VARIETY of cold beer (hooray for beer) and an excellent little singer/songwriter night. Most of the performers are regulars and they don't get a lot of walk-in performers. Acts are polished. This is NOT the venue to try out your 'rough stuff.'

The host is Singer/Songwriter Terrance Gowan who always delivers a spectacular array of established guest performers. Music style varies including Jazz, Folk, Electronic, Pop, Rap-you name it. Mackie's draws a nice crowd of patrons as well, so it's one of the FEW stages I've been to that actually has an audience.

When?: Every Sunday night at approximately 9 pm.

Rating: ****

Shakespear's Café Open Mic with Uncle Herb: Located at 362 Bloor, this little café is a warm room. It is a coffee shop and the crowd is small, quiet and attentive. Uncle Herb is good to his guest performers and you can get good coffee or even a beer while you're enjoying the night. We recommend this location for artists that are just starting the performing circuit.

When?: Every Tuesday and Wednesday at 8 pm.

Rating: **

Free Times Café Open Stage: Located at 320 College, this is a "must do" venue on the circuit. Musicians pack in early to get on the sign-up sheet. Acts are generally good, but your audience is ALL musicians waiting their turn. The audience is attentive and respectful.

When?: Every Monday at 8 pm. Sign-up at 7 pm.

Rating: ***