This Friday marks the opening of the inaugural Wayfarers Traveling Film Festival, organised and hosted by Nicholas Rinehimer, former head boy of Saltus Grammar School.

Nicholas began to have high hopes of hosting this film and arts festival in late 2008. Nicholas explained: "I wanted to open up another element of the arts scene in Bermuda, since student film seems to be overlooked. We actually have quite a few young people on the island that attend overseas film schools, yet they have no way of exhibiting their work locally." He continued, "I also wanted to include photography, as it's always extremely interesting, and music, because Bermuda truly has a gifted music scene, and I feel like there is always a need to display their talent."

It all starts off tomorrow night, when there will be a Sponsors' Cocktail Party, from 5 to 7 p.m., for invited guests only.

This Saturday is the date of The "Action" Party, which takes place from 8.30 p.m. until 2 a.m. at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess, with admission by ticket only. This has been labelled the party that really gets the festival started, as there is literally something for everyone. The party begins with a music showdown, featuring Bermuda's top artists, including Secret Po-Po, Mohawk Radio, Strident, and soloists Richard Spencer, and Mikki M. Still photography and silent films, created by artists from around the world, will also be displayed throughout the night.

Nicholas elaborated, "As the night progresses, things will be getting crazier as the Fresh & Bright underwear models will make an appearance, highlighting the colours of the festival." The "Action" Party was organised to have mass appeal, to involve the whole island. "If someone isn't interested in photography or film, there's always music or dancing, and vice-versa," Nicholas added. The video DJ, Choice, has also been scheduled for the night, to really accent the theme of film, photography and musical collaboration.

On Sunday, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. is when the photography, music and film will actually be displayed, also at the Hamilton Princess ballroom. The event is open to the public, but admission is limited, and those interested are advised to get there early, because seating will be on a first come, first served basis. A panel of seven judges will be deliberating throughout the afternoon, and a decision will be announced the following night. Although admission is free, donations are encouraged.

To conclude the festival, on Monday, July 27, the 'Martini' Shot Wrap Party, a black tie event, will be held at the Gosling's Wine Centre, Dundonald Street from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m., where there will be one last chance to check out the art and music, before the final winners are announced towards the end of the night.

Nicholas concluded, "I think we have appealed to most of Bermuda, with the events being hosted. From the sponsors' cocktail party, to the over-18 action party, to the black tie martini shot party and the actual film screening... there truly is something for every sense of style.

"Basically, you don't want to miss something like this. It's our first year, and although we expect to continue it next year, it doesn't mean you should miss out this time around. We really do have an amazing array of films, inspiring photography and an insane music set at all of the events. So we really hope we will attract a lot of attention and bring the best of the arts out over the next few days."

Tickets for the "Action" Party are $50, and can be bought from Stefanel, on Reid Street, or $80 at the door. 'Martini' Party tickets are also available at Stefanel, for $30. Visit nor-films.com for more details.