Bermudian entertainers will be given a chance to showcase their talents to try to get hired in the tourism industry later this month.

Hoteliers, restaurateurs, promoters, management companies and cruise line representatives have been invited along to the show at the Fairmont Hamilton Hotel on May 18 from 1-6 p.m.

A similar contest was held five years ago by Bermuda Hotel Association (BHA) which lasted 13 hours, prompting complaints that it was too long and a flop.

Tourism Minister Renee Webb, announcing the initiative yesterday said she hoped the private sector would come along and play its part in helping rejuvenate the Island's entertainment scene.

"I would like to encourage our local entertainers and musicians to make full use of this opportunity to market themselves to industry professionals that make decisions about hiring new acts," Ms Webb told MPs.

"Our objective is to give our partners an opportunity to experience the talent on offer in Bermuda and to employ that talent in their establishments for the mutual benefit of the entertainer and our visitors.

"This initiative is one essential part of the recent on-Island campaign that was initiated to underscore the fundamental importance of our tourism product in the mind of every man, woman and child in Bermuda."

Five years ago, BHA held a talent showcase at Pier 6 on Front Street, which lasted from noon to 1 a.m.

BHA executive director John Harvey denied claims made that it was flop, pointing out that around five or six entertainers were hired.

"It was very successful, I don't think it was a flop," said Mr. Harvey. "The hoteliers came out and they stayed, but there is nothing you can do about the time-span. Each person who came out wanted to be an entertainer and you can't say no to them."