Chewstick celebrates nine years with fundraiser

THURSDAY, JAN. 5: Chewstick will celebrate its ninth anniversary this weekend with a special fundraiser at City Hall.

This is the first time the charity has held a show at City Hall and organisers promise it will be a show not to miss.

It all be happening on Saturday night with a welcome reception, huge artist showcase, art auction and the opportunity to donate to support The Chewstick Foundation

Founders Gavin Smith and Najib Chentouf are encouraging people to come out and show their support.

Mr Chentouf said: “It’s Chewstick’s ninth anniversary and it’s our first time at City Hall.

“We have put together a great line up of programme participants from young to old and some iconic Bermudian performers including Ruth Thomas.”

Mr Smith added: “It’s support for a worthwhile cause.

“We have been around for a long time but it’s difficult in these times.

“Every penny we raise will go towards Chew-stick’s initiatives for the year.”

Mr Chentouf said: “We have a couple of surprises but we can’t tell you or they won’t be surprises.”

A press statement said: “This year, the Chewstick Foundation is honoured to have Premier Paula Cox as the distinguished patron of the event.

“We hope that Madame Premier’s support and the good will of people from all facets of the community will help to further the cause of individual, artistic, and social empowerment to enrich the social fabric of our island home.”

Celebrations will begin with an opening reception in the City Hall Foyer from 7pm then the audience will be ushered into the City Hall Theatre for a showcase to highlight Chewstick’s talent.

“An eclectic mix of dance, poetry, storytelling, rapping, and musical interludes has been compiled that is guaranteed to please everyone”, the statement said.

“After the show, Gombeys will engage the crowd and lead the way back to the Chewstick facility on the corner of Elliott Street and Court Street for after-party vibes where the DJs will takeover and the dancing will begin.”

As for the charity’s plans for the year, Mr Smith said: “This year, we have a really big project at the end of January.

“We have Beach Fest again this year and we will be going overseas.

“We have three retreats and all the other stuff that Chewstick is known for like open mics and performances.

Mr Smith said the charity would also have the grand opening of its new building.

“The Chewstick Foundation has been going strong these past nine years, due largely to the support of those who believe in the movement and the community it has been established to support”, the statement continued.

“The Chewstick Foundation continues to inspire diverse individuals to share their stories artistically and provide a sanctuary of hope and inspiration in these dark times.

“Come to support this worthy cause, celebrate the ninth Chewversary and help further Chewstick’s endeavours to enrich our island home.

“The Chewstick facility was purpose-built to permanently house programmes that empower storytellers, artists and social justice in a way that enriches youth, arts, culture and community and ultimately become Bermuda’s premier destination for live entertainment, local culture and community development.

“Supporting this celebration will ensure their continued growth and service to the community for many years to come.”