The bar area at Backyaard

Backyaard, the latest addition to Kingston's burgeoning nighttime entertainment spots, had its official opening with a jam session last Thursday to animated and appreciative gathering on Constant Spring Road in Kingston.

Performing a capella, Brian and Tony Gold kicked of the night reminiscing on their start as separate performers at the Tastee Talent contest and took the audience through their raft of songs.

It was an entertaining night as it unfolded with entertainers Rik Rok, Lukie D, Singing Melody, Tony Curtis, Delly Ranks, Wickerman and Captain Barky, and Richie Stephens sharing the stage.

Without instrumental back-up, the artistes thrilled the crowd with raw talent sampling their hits and the informal, up-close approach made it all the more enjoyable. Clancy Eccles Jr especially, gave a pleasing performance signifying that he could be one to watch for the future.

The opening illustrated the vision of the owners as it gave a mix of comedy with Chris 'Johnny' Daley, of Lime Tree Lane fame and Donald 'Iceman' Anderson along with the impromptu performances of some artistes.

Principals behind Backyaard are Anderson and Daley along with Ian McKay of Fujitsu, singer Brian Gold, Paul Patterson and Craig Murray, collectively called the Therapy Crew. The management team is completed by Doniesha Prendergast and Tricia Stone both of whom worked on the implementation of the project.

According to Anderson, who is responsible for entertainment, the concept of the club is simply to provide complete entertainment under the tag line "Come ketch de vibe".
"It is a place, within a place, within a place," he said.

The centre is actually a combination of a sports bar with pool-table facilities, a bar, a jerk pit, and outdoor entertainment with a stage area.
"There will be comedy nights along with other planned activities and the facility will also be available for private functions," Anderson explained.

"Right now Backyaard is a project under construction and we are welcome to ideas," Daley said during his hilarious time on stage.
The site of Backyaard, at 126 Constant Spring Road, former home of the well-known Centre-Pole Club, has been associated with go-go dancing for many years.
"We recognise that we have to get rid of that stigma and we are well on the way," Anderson said.
"I am sure if people come and not see what used to be at Centre-Pole they won't go away," he added.

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