They are multi-talented, known for putting on extravagant shows and they are headed for Bermuda.

Up With People (UWP), best known for high-energy, upbeat, family-friendly entertainment, is bringing its 60-strong cast, drawn from 17 countries, to the Island later this month.

The organisation is now looking to residents to help with a centrepiece of the programme the opportunity for students to stay with local families in each community.

UWP field marketing and operations manager Phil Worcester said: "The sharing goes both ways. While families share their traditions and local attractions, the cast members share their experiences and cultures.

"Families in Bermuda are being sought to host the cast members from June 15 to June 28 and are asked to provide transport at the beginning and end of each day as well as breakfast and most dinners."

Started in 1965 during a turbulent period in the United States, UWP was founded by J. Blanton Belk as a positive voice for young people. Its historic path officially began in 1968 when it was incorporated as an international, educational non-profit entity.

Participants in the UWP programme travel for five months, taking part in various community service projects, performing a dynamic musical show and experiencing a global education curriculum.

Over the years, UWP has become known as a tremendous force in international relations, education, and entertainment. The organisation's worldwide influence is far-reaching:

¦ More than 20,000 young men and women from more than 89 countries have come together to deliver a common message of hope and goodwill to people around the world

¦ UWP has visited 3,600 communities in 38 countries

¦ Three million hours of community service have been performed by UWP students

¦ More than 450,000 host families around the world have welcomed UWP students to their homes

¦ An estimated 20 million people worldwide have been directly impacted by UWP.

Bermuda Tourism Board member, Unité promoter, and Snorkel Park creative director Belcario Thomas was in the UWP cast of 1995. During his tour he visited more than 30 American states and 200 cities in nine countries.

"The most memorable part of the experience outside of tangible community service and exciting 'we-are-the-world-like productions' was staying with host families," he said.

"My dad, [the late] Fred Thomas, who travelled often and even came to see us would remind me that even when I got older, maybe got some money and could afford more traditional travel, that nothing would compare to the human connection, personal growth and lifelong memories one would find from the intercultural relationships formed as host families opened their hearts, homes, refrigerators and washing machines.

"It single-handedly changed my life, inspired me to bring people together thus Unité Promotions and to bring innovative concepts to Bermuda while being empathetic and an enjoyer of a wide range of friends that carry on my life now.

"Long live Up With People! For a simple way to bring the world to you, and help make it and Bermuda a better place, host a student or two. It's one of the coolest things you'll do this summer."

The group will participating in community service projects over a two-day period, June 23-25. And they will put on a two-hour performance at Snorkel Park on June 27 at 8 p.m. Admission is free.

Mr. Worcester added: "Throughout the show, international cast members will provide the audience with a glimpse of their own national traditions and cultures through music and dance with musical stops in Europe, Mexico, India and Africa.

"Up With People strives to become involved with local organisations and programmes that are relevant and meaningful to the communities they visit and provide an opportunity for local students to join the cast members in the service activities."

Persons wanting to host cast members should contact Phil Worcester: pworcester@upwithpeople.org or 777-4757.