interesting thread having just realised I've been 'folk singing' in one form or another, for fifty years (more if you count compulsory 'singing tohether' in junior school). My introduction to grown up folk clubs, no entry when singer on etc was the early revival Wigan FC circa 1966 and I haven't stopped since. I started and ran a couple of clubs along the 'traditional' format in the past but in my part of the world (SW Wales) time has moved those sort of clubs on and what is left are acoustic sessions and 'open mic' nights. Various people have tried to reintroduce the old style folk club but it hasn't worked. Society has changed but for me the important thing is to play/sing with a bunch of like minded friends who can play their instruments and mostly remember the words but also welcome beginners and even folk with words on paper if necessary. An audience is a bonus (feedback and ego boosting) and free beer is doubly welcome!