Arts & Culture Entertainment Fund-raising charity event to feature 100 per cent local line-up Barbados Today14/06/20230361 views Mikey with Vice Chairman of the Team Mikey Chartity Alison Mullin, who has been with the charity since its inception in 2012. The highly-anticipated “reunion” has been announced and organisers are promising an even more exhilarating experience. Well known calypsonian Michael Mikey Mercer and his team launched The Reunion: Return of the Waistlines, at the Olympus Theatres in Sheraton Centre on Tuesday. In addition, Mercer announced the reunion of the Grass Skirt crew, along with an exciting lineup of international performers for the show. At the official launch Mikey shared his vision for the charity event’s second edition. The primary goal, he said, is to change people’s perception of “international acts” in Barbados while raising funds for his Team Mikey Charity’s projects. “The artist lineup is phenomenal once again this year. I’m trying to change the rhetoric surrounding local artists because Barbados produces international-level talent and we intend to push this to the world,” Mikey said. Although he is keeping the suspense high by not revealing the performers for this year’s event at this stage, Mercer is promising that the show would be memorable and an authentic Bajan party experience. “What makes this event extra special is that it’s not just about having a good time, it’s also for a great cause. We’re proud to feature a 100 per cent Barbadian cast, ensuring a crazy, high-energy atmosphere. Ladies, no heels are allowed because this is the event where you can let loose and have a blast – all in the name of charity,” he explained. The Reunion: Return of the Waistlines is slated to have a number of international artists performing. During Tuesday’s launch, the charity also presented a special gift to five-year-old Zane Bovell, a participant in the Mavericks sports club’s community outreach programme. Zane and his grandmother, Margo Bovell, were overjoyed by the donation and expressed their gratitude. Noting that Zane remains resilient despite health challenges, Margo said she appreciates the generosity the charity has shown him. “His mother actually sent in a letter to the team explaining his situation, and while he has an issue with wheezing Zane never lets anything get him down. So I’m happy that he got this opportunity and I thank the team for helping him,” she told Barbados TODAY. Alison Mullin, the Vice Chairman of the Team Mikey Charity, highlighted Mikey’s longstanding commitment to giving back, which began in 2012. Over the years, the charity has been involved in various initiatives, including collaborations with children’s homes, senior citizens’ homes, the QEH and spreading holiday cheer through Christmas donations. Mullin encouraged Barbadians to purchase tickets for The Reunion, not only to enjoy the event and its giveaways but also to support the charity’s efforts in aiding those who need assistance. The highly-anticipated event is slated for August 1 at the car park at Kensington Mall. Tickets can be purchased online at ticketlinkz.com, as well as at CS Pharmacy, Eddies Supermarket, IShop, Sol Warrens and Coverley and Rubis Sunset Crest. (BB)