The Open Mike at our local had a slightly different problem. It is run by a guitarist and keyboard player who are both excellent musicians, but concerned to just act as hosts, do a few songs and encourage other people, providing them with backing if they wish.

There are a lot of good singers who turn up. but until recently they all wanted to go on late rather than early. Being ourselves rather on the quiet side we used to volunteer for an early slot, but, after us, there would be the hosts playing until around 10.00 then everyone wanting a slot, resulting in the fact that some didn't get a chance to play and would go home moaning.

I don't know quite what the cause of this was - do get enough ale in to get the Dutch courage to go on ? Desire to be the "star turn"? Thinking the audience would be more warmed up?

Recently, it has gone far more smoothly, I think possibly because people cottoned on that you got more songs if you went on early. Whatever the reason, I'm glad it's resolved itself for the sake of the two who run it who do a great job.