It’s a small bar in a small town on the Southeast coast of England but twice a month it plays host to the Granddaddy of all open stages.

Channelwebscene talks to Jack Pound.

Cws.  What is The Butt of Sherry Jack?

It's a friendly little bar on The High Street in Hythe. Sells beer and food and does everything that a bar should do. The landlords Susan and Duncan Sinclair have been running the place for the past 13 years but earliest records date back to the Norman Conquest. Its very cosy.

Cws.  I believe you have a special connection to the bar?

Yes, Su and Duncan managed to coax me out of retirement to host an open stage night. That was twelve years ago and I’m still there. Must be doing something right.

Cws.  You must have seen a lot of acts in that time?

Oh sure, too many to mention, but I do remember them all. It gets better and better with people turning up from all over.  Its great to greet new performers but the biggest buzz is watching regular players improving over the weeks as their confidence grows. One of the best things about open mic sessions is that it gives all a chance to get up and do their thing. There's a lot of talent around and for that I'm very grateful. 

Cws.  And people just turn up?

That’s right. If you want to play then just make yourself known to me and I’ll slot you in. There’s no fee, payments or anything like that but if you do perform then you get a drink. Occasionally, very occasionally I can’t find a spot for everyone and then I guarantee him or her a place next time. It’s very popular. In fact I have just produced 3 CD’s of their music.

Cws.  Tell us about that.

To celebrate our 12th year at the open stage I have collected tracks from some of the artistes who have performed there. It’s in a limited edition. 36 tracks on 3 CD’s.

Cws.  That’s a lot of work. Did you do the entire recording yourself?

Oh no, that would be asking too much even for me. They all sent in their own recordings and I compiled them. I was also very lucky to have some help from some very talented friends. The artist Phyllis McDowell produced the artwork for the covers in her own inimitable style. Pete Brown of Annexe Music was responsible for the technical production and the graphic design side of it was  by Colin Gibson. All good friends who gave up their time for free.

Cws.  And the proceeds?

All for a charity. The Demelza House Children’s Hospital.They do great work providing hospice care for kids all over the southeast.

Cws.  That’s good. How do we get hold of the music?

You can get the CD’s from my website www.jacksopenstage.com.  Also from Pete Brown at info@annexemusic.com and of course across the bar at The Butt of Sherry.

Cws.  Thanks Jack. I’m sure there are a lot of people grateful for what you've help them achieve. What next?

As soon as the limited edition sells out they'll be avaible for download. After that comes volume 4.