Two BMDS Events Raise $1,221 For Chewstick
Thanks to support from the Bermuda Musical & Dramatic Society [BMDS], the Chewstick Foundation — whose premises were severely damaged in the Front Street fire — will be receiving a donation of $1,221.
As soon as the news hit that Chewstick was in trouble, the BMDS said they resolved to help, quickly deciding to request donations at two events that they had planned, including “Hoot Night” on Thursday and a live jazz cabaret night on Friday.
The events did not have a cover charge, so the $1,221 was raised entirely by donations, with the BMDS saying, “It was an amazing evening – our regulars were treated to some entertainment that they really don’t get to see much – poetry, spoken word, rap, and more. We put out some donation bins for Chewstick and the crowd was quite generous.”
The group also held a tag day this past weekend as they work to recoup losses suffered as a result of the fire, which caused not only damage to their newly opened Culture Hub, but also the loss of items within the building. Premier Michael Dunkley was one of the people who stopped by the tag day, and tweeted his support for the organisation.
“We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from the community,” Chewstick said on their website, adding that “it brings us incredible joy to know how well-loved Chewstick is by so many people.” More information on Chewstick’s fire relief efforts can be found on their website.
Photos from the BMDS fundraising events courtesy of Kevin MacDonald and Ray Burkholder:
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It is so sad to hear of the loss of the Chewstick lounge as a result of the recent fire.
I hope an existing location steps in and steps up to offer them access and bar revenue while they rebuild. Maybe the RBCY or Dingy Club can offer two nights a week until they get on their feet.
Other possible locations would be Masterworks, BSOA, BNG, BMDS or other cultural institutions that understand the value of the Chewstick Cultural Hub. Maybe they could set up in the new big tent on the waterfront?
Chewstick serves many creative people through numerous programmes and activities and I hope they are able to keep moving forward with the full support of all Bermuda.
Why are you calling out people like that? If those venues want, I’m sure they would offer.
Although we are in the middle of rehearsing for a production, BMDS has offered space when and where we can, as I’m sure many other venues on the Island who care about the arts have or will. Given the devastation Gavin and his team have been faced with, it is understandable that they would want to halt everything for now until they can deal with the shock and sadness of these tragic events. What we at BMDS were able to do was a drop in the bucket (literally!). Do whatever you can to help, Bermuda. Losing Chewstick is not acceptable. It is an important institution, steeped in culture and a haven for creativity, talent and acceptance. They will rise from the ashes – with our help.
Wickkkkeeeeddd