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.

The Auld Spot Pub-Hit Me with Music: Located at 347 Danforth Ave. This cozy little pub located in the heart of Greek Town has an ambience all it's own. Your host, singer/songwriter Emily Garber makes her guests feel right at home. This event opens up with at least one feature act (about a 20-30 minute set) followed by an open jam. The audience is attentive and supportive with a mix of musicians and non-musicians.

This stage runs every other Monday and lots of great local talent shows up to perform. You're best to contact Emily for details at em_garber@hotmail.com to ensure you get a chance to perform.

When?: Every other Monday night at approximately 9 pm.

Rating: *****

Graffiti's--Kevin Quain's Mad Bastard Cabaret: Located at 170 Baldwin, in the heart of Kensington Market. This showcase features a warm and rowdy room Kensington Market has a culture all it's own. The audience is appreciative-mostly performers. It's a small room and it's best to show up a little early to ensure you get a spot.

When?: Every Monday 9 pm (Also an open stage on Thursday nights)

Rating: ****

Healey's Night Club: 178 Bathurst St. (Bathurst and Queen) Catering to both full bands looking for a place to try out a few tunes, and solo vocalists or musicians who want to play along with the house band, their jam night is a great experience for up-and-comers. My only complaint was that the sound on stage was inconsistent. Shannon Fayth hosts the night, and her band is skilled in playing many different styles, although rock and blues seem to be the preferred sound among the jammers. The crowd is mainly other musicians.

When?: Tuesday nights, approximately 9:30 or so. The house band plays a short set, then gets the jammers up around 10:30, but get there early to sign up.

Rating: ***1/2