Rising Stars: Meet Cicely Mitchell of DURHAM

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cicely Mitchell

Hi Cicely, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Missy Lane’s is a culmination of a long journey that began with my passion for creating spaces where music, culture, and community intersect. My work started with the Art of Cool, a nonprofit I co-founded in 2011, aimed at preserving, presenting, and promoting jazz-influenced music in Durham. Through this, I developed a deep connection with the local music scene and a vision for elevating underrepresented artists.

After years of organizing festivals, concerts, and community events, I realized there was a need for a permanent venue where people could experience live music in an intimate setting. This led to the creation of Missy Lane’s, a venue where jazz, cocktails, and community meet. Inspired by the history and soul of Durham, we designed the space to feel like a hidden gem—a place where people can gather not only for great music but also for coffee, wellness, and meaningful social connections.

Missy Lane’s has become a space where artistry and elegance blend seamlessly, offering diverse programming, including live performances, yoga, business networking, and nonprofit nights. We continue to grow by honoring the legacy of jazz while embracing new sounds and community experiences, always striving to build a welcoming environment for music lovers, cocktail enthusiasts, and those seeking a sense of belonging.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges we’ve faced has been spreading the word and maintaining momentum, especially in a post-pandemic world where communication channels have become so fragmented. Pre-pandemic, it felt like we had a clear way to reach people through events, word of mouth, and consistent social media engagement. But as the world shifted, so did the ways people connect with live music and venues.

One struggle was figuring out how to reconnect with our audience and draw them back into physical spaces. The pandemic left people hesitant about gathering, and with the rise of digital events, we had to get creative to remind the community of the magic of in-person experiences. Additionally, marketing avenues became more scattered, with algorithms, platform changes, and more niche interests making it harder to reach the right people consistently. We’ve had to adapt by refining our approach, finding new ways to tell our story, and staying connected with our audience through targeted social media, email newsletters, and community engagement.

Despite these struggles, the passion for building something meaningful has kept us going, and the support from our community has been incredible as we continue to navigate these challenges.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At Missy Lane’s, I oversee the overall vision and operations, ensuring that we stay true to our mission of being a cultural hub for music, cocktails, and community. We specialize in creating a unique experience that blends live jazz, R&B, and soul with a carefully curated cocktail bar and lounge, where people can gather for not only performances but also casual social gatherings.

We’re known for hosting intimate, high-quality performances, bringing in both emerging and renowned artists. Our venue is a space where people can enjoy a show up close and personal while also feeling connected to the rich history of Durham’s music scene. I’m most proud of how we’ve grown into a multi-faceted space that celebrates not only music but also community and culture, creating a lifestyle experience that’s more than just a music venue.

What sets Missy Lane’s apart is our deep commitment to fostering a sense of belonging. We’re not just a venue; we’re an assembly room where people come for connection and celebration. The cocktail bar is open to the public, even when there are ticketed shows in the back showroom, creating two distinct vibes in one place. We offer programming that invites people to engage in different ways, whether it’s through music, business networking, or simply relaxing with a latte in our coffee shop. This blend of music, culture, and community connection is what makes Missy Lane’s truly unique.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice for those just starting out is simple: trust yourself, and don’t be afraid to try. When you’re building something from the ground up, there will be moments of doubt, but trusting your instincts is key. It’s easy to get caught up in overanalyzing or second-guessing, but taking that first step, even if it’s uncertain, is crucial. I wish I had known earlier that it’s okay to not have all the answers right away. You learn as you go, and each step, even the missteps, gets you closer to where you need to be.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://missylanes.com
• Instagram: @missylanesassemblyroom
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/missylanesassemblyroom/
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/missy-lanes-assembly-room
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@missylanes