Chewstick promises to provide entertainment with a purpose on Saturday night with more than a dozen artists taking to the stage.

The performing arts group will not only be celebrating its seventh anniversary, they are raising money for some of their worthwhile projects including a new creative arts after-school programme.

According to founder and executive director Gavin Smith, people can look forward to special performances by Heather Nova, the popular singer and great supporter of the group and Star Child, an "underground legend", who will be performing with Chewstick for the first time.

But, most importantly, people who attend will be making a positive change in the community.

Money raised from ticket sales go directly to the Chewstick Foundation and its creative outlet programmes for youth, prison inmates and others in the community, explained Mr. Smith.

Chewstick was formed seven years ago out of a need to give artists a place to perform, experiment and connect with each other. Since then it has organised a host of events in a bid to bring the community closer.

"Since our inception we have recognised the strong appeal we have across demographics, and have purposefully pushed to bring down the walls of social segregation," Mr. Smith said.

"Bermudians have always worked well together, but after 5 o'clock they go their separate ways. We have endeavoured to create safe spaces throughout our programming, designed to bring people together in a social context and help them to broaden their worldview and personal network."

He expects the event will attract people from different cultural divides including young and old, black and white, haves and have nots.

This is what Chewstick represents and what has kept this organisation alive and thriving, he added.

Entertainers for the night include Spring Flower, Alex Winfield, Caiside, Djata, KASE, R?ddla, and TanZ who will be offering their talents from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Spinning Wheel. Also expected to perform is King Somner, Kofi, Ital Foundation, Live Wires and Propa.

Following the concert there will be an old school style dance party with The Dirkistan Freedom Fighters and DJ Kid Fresh.

The event requires a minimum donation of $30 and will begin with a cocktail reception at 8 p.m. For advanced tickets or more information telephone 292-2439.