It's summer time again and, as usual, summer doesn't officially begin until Chewstick, Bermuda's legendary open-mic jam session, goes into its weekly schedule.

Chewstick the Neo-Griot Lounge has been running for the past five and a half years at various venues around the Island, now it is housed at Spinning Wheel and Level on alternating weekends.

Chewstick is improv at its finest, with acts signing up to perform minutes before they hit the stage, collaborating with people they may have never met.

Part poetry night, part Hip-Hop Freestyle, part Old School Jazz or Reggae Jook Joint, this eclectic event has become the watering hole of choice for not only the Island's artists, but also people who want a little more out of their entertainment.

It also features house band Olybhosh, The Dirkistan Freedom Fighters, House DJs and DJ Kid Fresh.

Chewstick founder Gavin Djata Smith told The Royal Gazette that the venue offers everyone a chance for self-expression.

"It is a great opportunity for the aspiring artist and seasoned professional to both get their chops up and perform the material they want to perform, which results in performances ranging from classical dance to soul-stirring reggae and much more!"

Describing a Sunday night at Chewstick, Mr. Smith said: "Picture a collection of people of all ages, stereotypes and colours coming together and sharing their most personal thoughts, gifts and talents.

"This is one of our most sacred goals and we constantly strive to make Chewstick a model for breaking down the walls of social segregation and polarisation that have become the norm in the community.

"And it's true, seldom do you have a social experience that bridges the gap between so many, as can be seen at a Chewstick event. As a country we have always worked well together, but after 5 p.m., we go our separate ways. That's fine, but we seldom get a chance to really know each other and what's going on behind the 9 to 5 mask.

"That is what Chewstick is all about, making people comfortable to be who they truly are."

Mr. Smith added that this was what prompted Chewstick's latest endeavour: A rotating weekly summer schedule, alternating venues between Level on Front Street, where they have been for the last two months, and Spinning Wheel, on Court Street.

"That's right, the Spinning Wheel, a place which has been blacklisted by the community," Mr. Smith said. "It's been amazing to me how many people I've spoken with about the plan that have had reservations, people I didn't expect.

"Regardless though, we are about moving forward and, though Spinning Wheel may have had its issues in the distant past, in recent years Spinning Wheel has been a model for a good, safe venue, I mean every venue has challenges, but Spinning Wheel has turned itself around and we look forward to re-introducing it to people as a great option."

Thanking the community, Mr. Smith said: "Chewstick would not have made it this far without the incredible support it receives from the community — both the talent and the organisations that assist in making it happen.

"We are blessed to have had the Department of Tourism's support for the last three summers, without which we would not have introduced the weekly vibes, in addition Jerome and Bartlby at Level have really come through for us these last several months becoming a great home for Chewstick.

"Now, with the addition of Spinning Wheel and welcoming support Steve Simons has shown, there is no question this summer is going to be one of Chewstick's greatest!"

All are encouraged to come and participate, and see some of the best performances on offer this summer!

l Chewstick will be taking place every Sunday night from 8 p.m. until 12 a.m. at either Spinning Wheel, on Court Street or Level on Bermuda House Lane, off Front Street, next to Café Cairo. This Sunday it will be at Spinning Wheel. For more information visit www.chewstick.com or the Chewstick group on Facebook, otherwise telephone 504-2439. Entry $5.