“The Kid with a Bike” won the Grand Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival and a Golden Globe nomination for ‘Best Foreign Language Film.’

This deeply moving new film by the Dardenne brothers (“L’enfant,” “Rosetta”) delves into the emotional life of troubled 11-year-old Cyril (newcomer, Thomas Doret). When his father (Jérémie Renier) abandons him, Cyril obsessively searches for his bicycle – placing his last bit of hope in this symbol of their relationship.

Almost by accident, he becomes the ward of a kind hairdresser (Cécile de France – Clint Eastwood’s “Hereafter”), who seems surprised to find herself so determined to help him. With his wild, unpredictable behaviour and his disastrous search for father figures, Cyril risks losing her – though she refuses to give up without a fight.

Full of heart-breaking betrayals and unexpected grace, “The Kid with a Bike” is a film about a child, abandoned to the elements, learning to become good.

Tickets are available in advance on www.tickets.biff.bm or at the door on the day from 5.30pm. Tickets are priced at $10 for BIFF members and $15 for non-members. For reservations or enquiries email info@biff.bm. Running time: 87 minutes. Language: French (English subtitles). Rated PG-13. To view the trailer, visit: http://www.biff.bm/bifflix.

Drumline 2012 will be held at the National Stadium this coming Sunday, May 20th. Participating local Drumlines are National Drumline, PHC Drumcore, Sandys Showtime Drumline and Whitney Drumline, with guest international marching bands from Howard University in Washington DC and Gwynn Park High School from Maryland. The gates open at 1pm and showtime is at 3pm.

The Reefs is ranked No. 7 among the Top 25 Spas in the Atlantic and Caribbean. With a score of 94.1, The Reefs is the top-ranked spa in Bermuda on the list. Rosewood Tucker’s Point and the Fairmont Southampton ranked 10 and 12, respectively.

Condé Nast Traveler readers evaluated spas based on the treatments, staff and facilities. The annual poll also includes a price for basic massage. Of the three Bermuda resort spas, La Serena Spa is the most affordable at $129.

“Clients love La Serena Spa’s stunning ocean views and intimate, tranquil atmosphere, which allows for a personal connection and a high level of service,” says Helen Bryan, Spa Manager at La Serena Spa at The Reefs. “The fact that our Elemis treatments are of the highest quality and reasonably priced allow guests and locals to retreat to our sanctuary more frequently to relax and focus on their overall wellbeing.”

This year marks the third consecutive year that The Reefs has been featured on Condé Nast Traveler Top Spas List. The list is currently available online and will be featured in the June 2012 issue of the magazine, which will be on newsstands this week. The results are compiled from data in the 2011 Condé Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Survey.

La Serena Spa is open Wednesday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays.

In the spirit of Lennon’s most famous song, “Imagine” – a call to live in peace as one – Imagine Bermuda is sponsoring a Cell Phone Video Competition. The production, limited to 2 minutes, is asking young people to respond to the theme:

“Consider what you appreciate about our island and what you would like to change; tell us about the best Bermuda you can Imagine”

This call to get creative with cell phones, opens the possibility for two young people to win a prize of $700 each. All competing films are to be uploaded to Imagine Bermuda’s Facebook page, along with the filmmaker’s name and age.

The public are invited to view the films and ‘Like’ their favourites. A short-list of finalists will be selected by “Likes” and panel review with the final decisions being made by our panel of judges. Judges will pick one winner from each category of the Under 18 and Under 25 age groups. The deadline for entries is June 14th.

While the judges will consider the creativity and content of the presentations, they will also take into account the proposed use of the prize money towards a personal growth fund for the winner.

The productions may also be done collaboratively, with the team sharing the prize. Finalist productions will be aired on ZBM TV and screened during the ‘John Lennon Tribute’ at Masterworks Museum on June 21st.

It is in the spirit of collaboration that this project is moving forward. Three after school workshops will be offered by Kevin Lombard, Masterworks Museum’s artist-in-residence, at the Bermuda International Film Festival on 22 May, 29 May and 5 June from 4.30pm to 6.00pm. He will explain the pros and cons of making videos with cell phones and provide “How to” guidance to help students to develop their skills and tell their story.

BIFF, Chewstick, FIL Limited, Imagine Bermuda, Masterworks and ZBM TV are collaborating in putting this project together.

CultureFest also enjoys strategic alliances with WEDCO, The Department of Community & Cultural Affairs, The Ministry of Public Safety, The Corporation of Hamilton, the Corporation of St. George’s, Mirrors, New Beginnings, Global Arts Entertainment, The Royal Gazette, Youth News, and several other corporate, community, non-profit, and religious organizations.

A spokesperson said, “CultureFest is a free family event that will take place in Dockyard over the National Heroes Day Weekend, on June 17th & 18th, 2012, so please save the date. It was first established in the 1970s in celebration of the diversity of cultures residing in Bermuda, grew into a national event in 1995, and was replaced by the Jazz Festival in 1997.

“The return of the Bermuda CultureFest to the national stage will enable the gathering of a broad cross-section of social interest groups to collaborate in a unified approach to problem solving and value creation.

“Bermuda has become a melting pot of residents from all corners of the earth, each of whom plays a vital role in making this island the success it has become today. CultureFest can help to broaden this legacy by providing all residents with the opportunity to showcase their cultural traditions in a way that raises awareness, increases understanding, builds new relationships and improves those we currently share.

“CultureFest is a uniquely Bermudian event that is designed “for the people, by the people,” and, as a result, we invite vendors, exhibitors, artists, musicians and educators to get involved. Please contact us with questions and if you know of any cultural groups or individuals who may be interested in participating in the cultural entertainment segment, the visual art exhibit, or the international food court, they may forward their details to info@bermudaculturefest.com or call us directly at 441.295.4917.”

Now Jelani’s latest hits, ‘Studio @ 8’, ‘Bad Side’ and ‘We Made It’ have captured the attention of school children across the island.

During his most recent “tour” of Bermuda’s middle schools Jelani greeted fans, signed autographs and performed at Sandys, Clearwater and T N. Tatem.

On Saturday, May 19th, 2012, Jelani will be performing all of his latest songs and a few old favorites at “King of The Paradise” a full show and fundraiser starting at 8:30pm in the Ruth Seaton James Auditorium.

The show will feature special performances by Buzby, Fyah B and Krazed Ego and a Palm Tree Living Fashion Show. Each ticket holder will receive a free copy of Jelani’s new mix tape launching that night and one lucky guest will win a photo opportunity and personal autograph session with Jelani.

Tickets cost $35, and can be purchased at Caesar’s Pharmacy, Fabulous Fashions and the Ruth Seaton James box office. All proceeds from this event will go towards funding Jelani’s future plans to perform overseas at several music festivals across the U.S. this summer. His goal is to gain more experience on stage and increase his international exposure.

Everyday Jelani works diligently at his craft, and he looks to take his rapping career to the top. He strives to have his music played all over the world, and be signed to a major record label. For more information on Jelani, the show, his mix tape or ways you can support him please contact 504-0551 or info@plamtreelivingbermuda.com.

PlayList Management, is conducting their annual Developing Artist Program [DAP] which offers student musicians/artists the chance to work alongside professional musical artists, producers, and the like for a full week in Atlanta, GA.

“Many of Bermuda’s young musicians are unfamiliar with the “behind the scene” aspect of the music industry. PLM provides an opportunity for our budding musicians to be exposed to the inner workings of all aspects of this profession long before they reach the critical point of a career decision.”

“Most musicians only see the performance aspect and don’t realize the amount of energy it takes to make their performance successful,” stated Theresa Minors, CEO of PlayList Management. “We are excited about being able to provide them with the chance to work alongside professional artists who have dedicated their lives to their craft.

“We have organized for the students to receive instruction at Lion’s Share Cre8tiv, Atlanta’s #1 artist development company as well as gain knowledge from professional producers, managers, independent labels, and entertainment lawyers.

“This intensive covers types of industry contracts, music production knowledge, networking opportunities and experience with various recording studios and producers in the Atlanta area. This is an exciting opportunity for our students.”

Their schedule is jammed packed with vocal/music instruction, production sessions, and even a special artist “Q&A” session. Last year, the students had the opportunity to sit and chat with Director/Actor/Producer Tommy Ford from TV’s Martin fame [pictured above].

This year, the community is encouraged to be part of their experience – an online blog has been created to share their daily activities. The students will share their thoughts, videos, pictures and more for all to see.

Additionally, PLM is encouraging individuals, as well as companies, who may wish to help sponsor a student to contact Mr. D Minors at pr.playlistmanagement@gmail.com. All funds received are marked for that specific student and their instructional cost only.

The students this year are:

Berkeley Institute

• Jeron Clemendor (Percussion)
• Malaiyah Jackson (Vocals)
• Chinyere Nwasike (Vocals)
• Chiante Roberts (Vocals/keys)
• Delijah Symonds (Vocals)

Warwick Academy

• Justice Edness (Vocals)
• Dylan Hollis (Keys)
• Emma Keane (Vocals/guitar)

Home School/Other

• Jahroy Richards (Rap)
• Additional student – Shomari Warner (Producer)

The two artists, signed with Spotlight Talent Agency, will spend quality time at the Rehearsal Factory preparing to perform at popular downtown venue called Lambadina Lounge on Wednesday. They will perform on Friday May 18th at the same venue.

While in Toronto, Kombat and Mariore will also record music at Scarlet Sky Studio and work with film company, Flashfilment, to produce a promotional video for Kombat’s song, Astronauts, which has been played locally on Hott 1075 and Power 95. You may visit their website to learn more about the film company.

“No one should have to choose between eating and surviving,” said a spokesperson. ” We look forward to seeing you and hope that you will join us on our journey to help breast cancer patients survive.”

For more information about Mélange, please visit our website at melange.bm

The 48 page book titled “Picturesque Bermuda at a Glance”features the best of Roland Skinner’s iconic photos, some of which were featured in Skinner’s first two hard cover books – two of the most popular Bermuda books sold today.

A.S. Cooper Managing Director Somers Cooper explained, “We wanted to offer a collection of the best Picturesque images in a book size that could easily be transported overseas in one’s carry-on luggage and be at a price range suitable for any budget.

“Roland and I worked directly with book designer, Laura Herrmann Couallier to insure that print selection, lay-out and production quality was first class.”

Images featured show Bermuda scenes taken over the last ten to fifteen years and include local landscapes, seascapes, beaches, flora, architecture and aerial shots of the island. The book is expected to retail at $16.95.

A.S. Cooper’s acquired the Picturesque Gallery from Mr. Skinner a year ago although the business still relies on Mr. Skinner’s input. Archival quality prints of the Picturesque images are available at the Picturesque Gallery in the Design Centre, 129 Front St. East or online at picturesquebermuda.com. New mini galleries are also in place at A.S.Cooper’s Main and Dockyard stores.

En Sound is an Independent Gospel Music Award Show which provides an outlet where independent and unsigned artists are recognized for their contribution to the gospel music industry.

The En Sound Awards are determined by a popularity vote which takes place online. Voting ends on June 8th, 2012, with the awards being presented on July 29, at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, Georgia U.S.A.

The nominations are for: Best Urban Female, Female Vocalist of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Artist of the Year

Set at the show’s closing scene, personalities Susan and Keisha can be seen bouncing to the track while they play in the water with the Dolphins in Tahiti as the song plays in the background.

“I literally felt good when I got the news of the songs placement on the show” said Collie Buddz, “It’s nice to see Reggae profiled in such a big way!”

Basketball Wives is a reality television series that premiered on the VH1 cable television network on April 11, 2010, with Shaunie O’Neal — the ex-wife of former NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal — serving as executive producer of the series

“About Face: Supermodels Then and Now” will screen at 3 p.m., while Warren Miller’s ‘Like There’s No Tomorrow’ will screen at 5.15 p.m.

The documentary, which screened at the Sundance Film Festival in January, reveals the stories behind the magazine covers – the models are candid, charming, honest, and often very, very funny as they speak about their lives at the top, including the clubs, the drugs and celebrities, but also their careers in an industry built on, and by, their beauty.

Featuring Isabella Rosselini, Beverly Johnson, Marisa Berenson, Bethann Hardison, Cheryl Tiegs, China Machado, Carol Alt, Pat Cleveland, Christie Brinkley, Jerry Hall, and more, the models celebrate the gains of age and experience with infectious enjoyment in this fascinating portrait.

“Like There’s No Tomorrow” is the 62nd annual adventure sports film produced by Warren Miller Entertainment. It has toured the U.S., Canada, U.K., Australia and New Zealand – and will now screen in Bermuda for the first time.

The film features some of the world’s top skiers – including Chris Davenport, Julia Mancuso and Andy Mahre – touring the world’s most inspiring locales, including the legendary peaks of British Columbia’s Monashee Range, the striking Himalayas of Gulmarg, India, the southern hemisphere’s highest peak in Portillo, Chile, and a spot closer to home, the rugged peaks of New Hampshire’s Mount Washington, plus many more.

Tickets, $15, can be purchased in the Oceans Gift Shop at the BUEI, or by calling 297-7314.  The ‘Weekend Film Series’, sponsored by Gosling’s, is a joint production of Bermuda Documentary Film Festival director Duncan Hall and the BUEI.

The “Bermuda Day” event was spearheaded by the Bermuda Department of Tourism, and also saw the first pitch of the game thrown by Shawn Caisey of the participating Gombey group.

The photos below are by Anthony Francis of Tekoa Photography, the official pageant photographer. O’Faces is serving as the official makeup artists for the pageant are O’Faces, while Impressions Hair Artistry is the official hair stylists for the pageant.

Miss Deshona Perinchief representing Warwick:

Miss Lene Hypolite representing Devonshire:

Miss Chelsy Furtado representing Pembroke:

Miss Dwanae Simons representing Smiths:

Miss Dashunte Furbert representing Hamilton Parish:

Miss Shannon Ingram representing St. Georges: 

Miss Rochelle Minors will also enter the contest, representing Sandys, however she is still abroad in school and her photo is not yet available.

A synopsis of the film said: “It offers a riveting view of the human side of crime. We meet Ana, the mother of a child killed during an armed robbery, and Saul, the gambling addict who committed that crime. In the course of the movie we come to see that a criminal act is much more than “breaking the law.” It is also a destructive act that wounds victims, communities, and even perpetrators.

“In the movie’s climactic scene, Ana asks to meet with Saul. The prison authorities are reluctant to give permission, but eventually relent. It is during the meeting that both find release from the burdens of the past.”

The screening will take place in the Chewstick Lounge [corner Elliott & Court Streets] on May 22nd. Doors open at 6:30pm, and the film screening is at 7pm. The screening will be followed by a discussion. Admission is free, but donations are welcomed.

The owner of FAM, Mr. Quency Phillips, has become a name known amongst numerous athletes, business professionals and talents in Bermuda, after his active role in projects such as David Bascome’s ISL football programme and the Hope4Life initiative, and bringing Phil Keoghan of The Amazing Race to Bermuda for The Ultimate Bermuda Experience earlier this year. He also has provided a wealth of assistance in booking entertainment for various Bermuda events and was a sponsor for the CARIFTA Games.

Mr. Phillips, who manages a variety of local athletes including David Bascome, Daniel Augustus, Cecoy Robinson and Daniel Johnson has recently added aspiring Bermudian artists to his roster. Most recently, Cami-Cam was added to the Fuzion Artist Management roster, and will begin work on her debut mixtape, album, and overall artist development. Known for managing several high-profile players in NFL, NBA, WNBA and other professional athletes, his artist management roster includes marketing and development for hip-hop legend Raekwon (Wu-Tang), platinum production duo Da Internz and other well-known international talents. Educated and groomed on the job by Common and NoID, he is ready to expand his interest in Bermuda by working with Spotlight Talent Agency to help local talents through workshops and opportunities to perform on island and overseas. He plans to lend his expertise and professional advice to help Bermuda’s talents showcase their skills overseas, thus promoting the beautiful island treasures and attracting art and entertainment enthusiasts to the island.

So, what is in store for Bermuda’s talents? Local athletes and artists will gain opportunities through local and international marketing and promotions provided by both companies. “The goal is to create a greater presence of Bermuda talent on island and overseas through performances and the press,” shared Cha’Von K. Clarke, CEO and Creative Director of CKC Corporation (Spotlight Talent Agency & CKC BOOKS). “Talent in the form of athletes, performing artists and authors will be provided with development workshops to bring more local talent to international standards.” Recently, Mr. Phillips joined Ms. Clarke on the new TV talk show, On the Couch, which has become the craze on the island with people tuning in Thursdays on channel 82 for their next fix.

The episode featuring Mr. Phillips included two-minute performances by ten local talents with Mr. Phillip’s offering professional industry advice to the artists. The development of opportunity and positive growth for Bermuda’s artists was evident throughout the dialogue during the show. Quency Phillips stated, “The world is about partnerships and Spotlight Talent Agency has shown a strong commitment to developing Bermudians for success. I look forward to growing our partnership, and supporting the efforts of Ms. Clarke and her Spotlight roster.”

The partnership also includes a unique event management service with local talent performing at birthday parties and other events for children and adults. Hotels and restaurants may also book local and international talent through CKC Spotlight. Businesses, organizations and individuals interested in booking talents for events, birthday parties or promotions may contact Spotlight Talent Agency at info@ckccorporation.com.

“I Can Fly!” is a story about a young bluebird who learns that being disobedient can likely lead to trouble, physical pain and even heartache.

Main character Bluey is an adorable, yet mischievous tree bird who finds himself locked away in his cage where he eventually has time to think about the problems he has caused himself, his friends and his mother.

What will result from his time away from his Mama and friends? Will he continue in his mischievous ways or set himself apart and play by the rules?

“I Can Fly!” was written to help educate its young readers by including valuable lessons on obedience, responsibility, patience and love. The book can be ordered online here,, AuthorHouse, Amazon.com, or any bookstore.

Born and raised in Bermuda, Taylor-Dill discovered her talent for writing as a child. Some of her poetry included “Portraits of Life” and “A Season of Flowers” which were both published by The National Library of Poetry.

The event listing describes the event as: “Set to be the largest poetry festival ever staged in the UK, Southbank Centre’s Poetry Parnassus brings together poets and spoken-word artists from all over the world with all competing Olympic nations represented.

“This hugely ambitious project, led by Artistic Director Jude Kelly and Artist in Residence Simon Armitage, will include readings, workshops and discussions with all the poets who were nominated through public voting.

“Never have so many poets and so many languages been together in one place, with each poet contributing a poem in their own language.The poems from each of the 200-plus countries will then be presented together in the World Record Anthology.”

You can visit Mr Simons’ blog here.

A Chewstick spokesperson said, “Samantha Thornhill has traveled the globe performing her eclectic style of poetry to audiences from all walks of life. Poetic License II will be Samantha’s debut performance in Bermuda her dynamic mix of Trini-flair and New York flow will surely captivate the audience.

“Samantha is passionate about taking her poetry to the streets and sharing her gift with as many people as possible. In addition to being a founding member of the impromptu public performance group “Pop Up Poets” she is an author and educator.

“For the past six years Thornhill has been teaching poetry to actors-in-training at the Juilliard School and is regularly, contracted to teach creative writing workshops and seminars in New York. Ms. Thornhill’s individual work has been featured in publications such as Crab Orchard Review, Indiana Review, Poets and Artists Magazine, and Faultline. On Friday evening we will see her share her talents alongside Bermudians, showcasing awe-inspiring, conscious, and sensual poetry.

“As a teacher at the Julliard School, founding member of Pop Up Poets, and Writer in Residence at The Bronx Academy of Letters she has experience working to enhance the gifts and talents of storytellers and celebrating the individual voices of the arts. Thornhill will take part in mentoring the ChewSLAM Teen Poetry Club as they prepare to represent Bermuda later this year. This involvement will empower them to express the words on a page in a way that is felt and appreciated by their audience.

“Samantha Thornhill’s presence is an invaluable addition to the Poetic License series, designed to spotlight the beauty, expression and richness of storytelling through poetic artistry. With vocalist and poet Joy T Barnum and a group performance by ChewSLAM this will be a night that is not to be forgotten.

“It’s all being hosted by Chewstick’s own Tanzaoui who will weave all the beautiful facets of the night into a tapestry of humour, emotion and pure vibes. Each performer has a unique energy and delivery that will be a treat for all in attendance. Do not miss the opportunity to experience a dynamic performance and celebrate live entertainment at its best. Following the performance everyone is invited to dance into the night with a soca after party, complete with dj madness and palancing!

“The performance, to start at 8pm will be streamed live on the Chewstick website (www.chewstick.org) to share the experience with supporters from around the world. Find out more about Samantha at http://samanthaspeaks.com. For more information on the pop up poetry group visit http://popuppoets.com. Entry is free, but donations toward The Chewstick Foundation are greatly appreciated. Seating is limited so get there early! For more information call 292-2439 (CHEW), 535-2575 or email info@chewstick.org.”

In June 1980, John Lennon sailed to Bermuda on a yacht for an extended vacation. The experience sparked his musical genius and the resulting comeback album was entitled Double Fantasy, named for a flower he had seen in the Bermuda Botanical Gardens.

On Thursday, June 21, 2012 Bermuda is honouring this great music legend at the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art, located on the grounds of Bermuda’s Botanical Gardens with the unveiling of a memorial sculpture, an art exhibit and the grand opening of the “Double Fantasy Labyrinth.”

On Friday, September 21, 2012 Bermuda artists and artists from around the world will honour John Lennon with a tribute concert held at the Botanical Gardens Show Ring. The evening will also include the release of the “Bermuda John Lennon Tribute” CD and the launch of the book “Bermuda Fantasy – John Lennon’s Island Story”.

Guest artists for the tribute concert include: Heather Nova, Maxi Priest, Biggie Irie, Judie Tzuke, Roy Young, Chewstick, Rachel Brown, Joy Barnum, Paul Muggleton, Bailey & Tallula Tzuke, Robert “Sai” Emery, Christina Frith, Jonathan Frith, Bailey Outerbridge, Steve Easton, Michael Cacy and more. Previews of some of the songs by local musicians are below:

Watching the Wheels – Rachel Brown:

Revolution – Bailey Outerbridge

Beautiful Boy – Jonathan Frith Artwork

Norwegian Wood – Heather Nova

Julia – Christina Frith

Woman – Biggie Irie

Love – Judie Tzuke

The event will raise funds for charity, while showcasing fashions for all ages from A.S. Coopers. The models start from 5-year-old kindergarten students up to and alumni from 1965.

All proceeds benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Society’s Loaves and Fishes programme, which feeds the needy every Sunday evening at St. Theresa’s Hall. Hot meals are provided to anywhere between 50-85 homeless and needy individuals and families.

Proceeds will also benefit the Sisters of Charity Marillac Residence Renovation Project at Wellesley in Boston MA. This is the Retirement home for many of the Sisters of Charity who dedicated their lives and who work here in Bermuda over the past decades. This project is to enhance the living conditions for our senior retirees from the Sister’s of Charity.

The winner of the second season of American Idol in 2003, Mr Studdard received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for “Superstar,” and is best known for songs including “Sorry 2004″, “Flying Without Wings”, and “I Need an Angel.”

Senator Smith published “In The Hour Of Victory” — based on letters his grandfather Major Toby Smith sent to his family during the Second World War [1939-1945] — earlier this year.

The book and the forthcoming film tell the story of Major Smith who was a member of the first contingent of Bermudian troops to travel to the UK in 1940. He was killed in Holland in October, 1944.

Trailer for the “In the Hour of Victory” film:

Sen. Smith has said the 300-plus letters home begin with Major Smith’s voyage to the UK — when the ship carrying Bermuda Volunteer Rifle Corps and Bermuda Militia Artillery troops came close to being torpedoed by a German U-boat — and end just two days before his death leading his men into battle in Holland.

He recently said: “I never knew my grandfather. My father lost his father when he was five years old. I knew when I picked up the very first letter, that there was a story to be told here.”

The film’s synopsis says, “Untouched for 50 years, a family finds a bundle of letters setting them on a journey into their past, and the rediscovery of a tragic love story amid the turmoil of World War II. Bermudian, Major Toby Smith lost his life at the battle of Overloon during the final Allied push for victory.

“This film weaves a haunting portrait etched in Toby’s own words through the letters he lovingly and dutifully wrote to his wife and five children as he agonised over loyalty to them and the war against the Nazis during four years of service abroad.

“This first-hand account uniquely re-captures the war-time era and its impact on a family, leaving a lasting legacy of what it means to serve one’s King and Country. Based on the book by Major Smith’s grandson, Jonathan Smith. Lucinda Spurling and Jonathan Smith will attend the screening.

The film will screen on at 7pm on Saturday April 21st, and you can download a Bermuda Documentary Film Festival guide here [PDF].Tickets are available at BDAtix.com.

The 2012 pageant is scheduled to take place Sunday July 8th, when reigning queen Jana Outerbridge will crown her successor. Along with the opportunity to represent Bermuda at the Miss World Pageant, the new queen will also win a $3,000 cash prize, wardrobe, an iPad and various other prizes.

The 2012 Miss Bermuda sponsors include, The Bermuda Department of Tourism, A.S. Coopers, Blanc Bridal Boutique, Sandstorm Boutique of London, Tekoa Photography, O’Faces Makeup Artistry, Impressions Hair Artistry, Flowers by Gimi, and Dasani Water. Tickets for the pageant will go on sale May 14th exclusively on www.bdatix.bm

Bermuda’s first-ever Highland Games, under the auspices of the Caledonian Society of Bermuda, will offer residents and visitors the opportunity to display a range of talent, and will include tests of strength, speed and agility; for many, however, it will be the musical talent on show that will draw them to the Sandys 360 complex on the afternoon and evening of Friday June 8.

It was the chance of inviting the Atholl Highlanders pipe and drum corps to the Island that prompted the decision to hold the Games, but there was no question that the talent of local marching bands would be enlisted to create a musical display in the fashion of a military tattoo.

And for that reason, the visiting musicians will be joined by the Bermuda Islands Pipe Band, the Bermuda Regiment Band, the Somerset Brigade Band and the Sandys Drumline to end the day’s activities with a flourish.

Following the opening ceremonies at 3.30pm, there will be a series of competitions, some of which the public will be invited to join, including adult and junior tossing the caber, short- and medium-distance races and the team tug o’ war.

A main feature of any Highland Games is the Highland Dancing competition, and Bermudian dancers, who have been working hard for many months to hone their skills, will be judged by two judges from Canada.

There will be at least six different dances included in the competition for three age groups (eight and under, 12 and under, 13 and over): Highland Fling, Sword Dance, Seann Truibhas, Reel, Scottish Lilt and Flora McDonald’s Fancy.

The judges, Carleigh Leighton and Dana Gamache, are highly-accomplished professional dancers and adjudicators with the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing (SOBHD), the world governing body of Highland Dancing.

“In order to participate in the competition dancers need to be registered with the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dance (SOBHD),” explained Marissa Stones, Bermuda Islands Pipe Band Dance Division Instructor. “Once registered, the dancer can compete at just about any SOBHD-registered competition in the world. We hope that in the future, as the Bermuda Highland Games catch on, Bermuda will become a stop for competing dancers.”

During the afternoon, there will also be piping demonstrations given by members of the Bermuda Island Pipe Band and members of the Atholl Highlanders. While the Bermuda Island Pipe Band is a well-known and well-loved feature of Bermudian life, the Atholl Highlanders rarely travel beyond the borders of Scotland, and within Scotland usually parade no more than twice a year, so the opportunity to see members of Britain’s last remaining private army on parade is one not to be missed.

On their home grounds of Blair Atholl, the pipe and drum corps’ appearance at the the Atholl Gathering at the end of May each year is billed as an “unrivalled spectacle [that] gives locals and visitors alike the chance to participate in a unique Highland tradition that has persisted for generations.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPn1v88qId4

Reflecting on their visit, Lieut. Colonel James Murray, noted, “The prospect of the Atholl Highlanders’ tour to Bermuda is causing great excitement in the Regiment. We are looking forward to visiting the beautiful island of Bermuda for the first time.

“The first Highland Games in Bermuda is causing considerable interest among the men, and as the only remaining private Regiment in Britain we are very proud to be allowed to take part in The Queen’s Birthday Parade on the island in Her Majesty’s diamond jubilee year.”

Viscount Charles Dupplin, Captain of the Athol Highlanders colour guard, and CEO of Hiscox Bermuda, is one of the driving forces behind the Games. “I have been an Atholl Highlander for more than 20 years,” he observed, “and have been with the Highlanders at community events in quite a few countries but have never known the Highlanders more excited than at their visit to Bermuda and to the Highland Games.

“There are more and more links of history and culture that I have come across as the Highland Games planning has moved on,” continued Captain Dupplin. “I suspect that there will be quite a bit of debate about the relative delights of rum and whisky in the spare moments.”

The compelling beat of the Sandys Drumline will add another thread to the rich tapesty of sound during the afternoon, and the youngsters will take their place alongside the members of the Bermuda Regiment band under the direction of Major Dwight Robinson and of the Somerset Brigade band, under the direction of Major Ellsworth Bean.

At 8.30pm the massed bands of the Atholl Highlanders, Bermuda Islands Pipe Band and Highland Dancers, the Bermuda Regiment Band, Somerset Brigade Band and Sandys Drumline will combine to present a rousing musical finale that will provide a fitting end to the community gathering.

“It is a source of great pride among Bermudians when one of our own creates a legacy of contribution; perhaps even more so on the occasion when these contributions take place on the international stage,” said Minister Minors.

“It is with this spirit of appreciation that legendary actor Mr. Earl Cameron CBE was welcomed by the enthusiastic, standing-room-only crowd that gathered at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute for an evening designed to celebrate the life and career of Bermuda’s most celebrated actor.:

Minister Minors continued: “It is no overstatement that Mr. Cameron has been a legendary figure in the film industry, from his breakout role in “Pool of London” to his well-known role in James Bond’s “Thunderball” to his more contemporary roles in “The Interpreter”, “The Queen” and “Inception” as well as a host of theatrical and television credits too numerous to mention.

“However, what is particularly noteworthy about these accomplishments – remarkable by any standard – is that Mr. Cameron began his career at a time when actors of colour were virtually an anomaly, or relegated to stereotypical and oftentimes offensive portrayals.”

“Mr. Cameron has reached the impressive age of 94, and his humour and charm have not at all diminished with his advanced years – there were many times over the course of the evening where the audience laughed uproariously at one of his anecdotes or fell to a hushed silence at the poignancy of his experiences.”

The Minister’s full statement follows below:

-

“There’s no momma’s baby, daddy maybes around here! When a surprise change interrupts the lifestyle of ladies’ man Mike Scott, there is no hesitation. Mike steps up to the plate and embraces fatherhood,” said a statement from the organizers.

“It certainly helps to have a strong friendship-net to help him with the challenges of the unexpected life change,”

“Imagine a play that pulls heart strings, explores your every emotion! Imagine one that uplifts the men in the community. Imagine “A Sudden Change”!

“Join the stellar cast, awesome story line, belly-aching laughs and teary moments as we uncover the sudden change that will force Bermuda to open their minds, embrace the men in our community and realize that even through times of hardship, there’s happiness on the other side!

Tickets are sold at Kit and Caboodle or 27th Century Boutique. A special patron night is planned for April 18th with tickets sold at $45 and $65. Part-proceeds will go to PRIDE Bermuda. Regular tickets are $35 for April 19th and 20th.