Many Penn State students think of Joegies in the HUB-Robeson Center as a place to grab a sandwich on the go. However, on Friday and Saturday nights it is transformed into a free live music venue by Late Night Penn State with the American Eagle Outfitters Performance Stage.

"Our concept for Joegies was to have a sandwich and cheese steak place with a small music venue," Late Night coordinator John Harlow said. "It was recently renovated and a small stage was installed along with a sound and lighting system." Harlow said a generous grant from American Eagle Outfitters made it possible to pay the musicians and to advertise the live music events.

"Personally, I am very pleased with the venue," Harlow said. "Our goal was to give alternate entertainment options for students on weekend nights."

Harlow said the venue is only open to students to give them an opportunity to play in front of their peers. "There is always a fresh supply of talent," he said.

Harlow said he enjoys watching performers come out of their shells when they perform.

"This stage gives students the ability to hone their public speaking and performance skills," he said. "Many of the performers come back and it is great to see them mature in terms of stage presence. It really seems to make a difference."

Megan Gill (freshman-division of undergraduate studies) is scheduled to perform at 11 p.m. Saturday. Even though this setting is new for her, she is eager to get on stage with her guitar.

"This is my first time playing at Penn State, but I played a few shows at home. I'm a little nervous, but mostly excited," she said.

Gill found out about this opportunity from a friend who has performed at Joegies in the past.

She plans to play mostly originals with a few covers thrown in as well.

"My style is hard to define, but I would classify it as acoustic folk," Gill said.

Chris Benson (junior-biology) will conclude the evening of music with an hour-long set that begins at midnight. He has played at Joegies three times.

"It's fun and frightening at the same time when you play for people you know and don't know," he said. "The tension builds up, but I try not to let the intimidation get to me. The best way to describe playing a live gig is that it's exhilarating."

Benson and his roommate have been putting on free shows since they were freshmen. "Our first music gig at Penn State was playing on elevators in the dorms, and one day our RA gave us a Late Night Penn State flyer and we decided to sign up," he said.

The show is no different.

"I play the guitar and let him handle most of the vocals," Benson said. "We each plan half the show and half the set list."

Benson described his style as free-floating with throwbacks to classic rock. He expressed appreciation to Late Night Penn State for giving young musicians a way to share their work.

"I'm glad that Penn State offers this performance stage," he said. "You can play your instrument anywhere, but it's hard to get better without a venue. This is a great opportunity to foster local talent."