Between now and March 20 when the winning young writers of the Water in Words short story contest take the stage at Genesis Theatre to share their watery tales, a well-known B.C. singer is going to be lending his support to the cause.

Bobby Bruce, also known as Nearly Neil, will be bringing his Neil Diamond solo show to Taverna Gorgona on Feb. 24 to entertain arts supporters at the Water in Words fundraiser dinner. Bruce, who started his career as a child-actor making regular appearances on shows such as The Beachcombers, is thrilled to be part of an event that is encouraging kids to become writers and storytellers.

Bruce had a passion for the stage early on.

"I begged my parents to get me into acting," said Bruce via Skype from his home on Gambier Island.

It was with his mother's help, and the mentorship of a handful of music teachers who recognized his talent for both the stage and song, that he launched a successful career in theatre that, in his teens, led to an even bigger career in music.

Remembering what it was like when he was trying to break into the music scene as a teen, Bruce said, "I was looking for contests to enter but there weren't many around in those days. Star Search was a big one in the U.S., but I couldn't get on because I was Canadian."

Bruce went on to say that opportunities like Water in Words are really important because they encourage young people to follow their passion for the arts and make that first step toward becoming a working artist.

"It's a great opportunity," he said, stressing the importance of creating positive venues for kids to test their artistic abilities.

The Water in Words fundraiser will kick off on Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. with a red carpet-style arrival followed by a three-course dinner, door prizes and a storytelling duet by local comedian Billy Mitchell and professional storyteller Laura Thomas. Bruce will take the stage as Nearly Neil shortly after 8 p.m.

Tickets are available at Taverna Gorgona. Call 604-946-9111 or email info@tavernagorgona.com. For more information about the Water in Words short story contest or the World Storytelling Day celebration, visit www.agentstory.net.