IN a classic case of better late than never, hundreds of the island's school children converged in a back-to-school dance sponsored by BIBA, Pepsi and Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Bermuda.

Despite complaints that dancehall can be age-inappropriate, MF Productions, in conjunction with Jamela Daniels, BIBA's local events co-ordinator, got the ball rolling by securing the use of the Pembroke Community Club to host their first annual back-to-school dance. As with all of their functions, security was tight as the patrons filed in.

Obviously pleased with the turnout and overall well-behaved patrons, a spokesman for MF Productions saw this as perhaps one of a series of age-appropriate events in the future.

"This is our first annual dance and we wanted to something for the kids. Over the years we have been doing various functions but really nothing for the kids.

"When we approached members of PCC and proposed the idea to them, they threw their support behind us 200 per cent because it was a positive function and outlet for the island's school kids. Plus, we have fostered an excellent working relationship with PCC.

"Next month Stone Love will be performing locally and we will have one of their selectors come to one of the schools and talk to the kids".

Ms Daniels, affectionately known as Jada, was equally elated with the support both from the members of PPC but as well as BIBA and the other sponsors.

"This is a great opportunity for the kids under 18 to do without getting into trouble," she said.

Founder of Magnum Force, Norman (Magnum) Godwin agreed with Ms Daniels' sentiments and added: "MF Productions is trying to give back to the community, especially to the charities that are in dire straits.

"This was an event in the making and hopefully we will try and host a series of events monthly or bimonthly. This function was for the school kids between the ages of 13-18 and as you can see it was well attended and the sponsors have been wonderful."

Also on hand to round out the evening's entertainment was the Dynasty Sound System that helped with the dance competitions. The contingent from Whitney and CedarBridge were the most vocal, cheering for their peers as there were lots of giveaways throughout the evening.

Godwin said he was pleasantly surprised by the positive criticism he received from several of the parents.

"Parents have stopped me in the street and voiced their approval. With the bad reputation dancehall has earned over the years, we have worked hard to show the positive side of the industry and how it can be used to put something positive back into the community."

Part proceeds of the dance will be donated to BBBS.