Broadway blockbuster In The Heights turns up the heat this September.
Broadway blockbuster In The Heights turns up the heat this September.
There’s something special about seeing a musical theatre show on Broadway in New York. The lights, the hype, the energy – it’s hard to match. But who says the Gold Coast can’t have musical magic of its own? Thanks to HOTA, we’re getting front-row seats to world-class musicals.
That’s right drama queens, Broadway is coming to the beach! The four-time Tony Award winning musical In The Heights is cha-cha-cha-ing its way to HOTA this September in a South East Queensland exclusive that’s set to raise the roof.
Presented by Experience Gold Coast and Joshua Robson Productions, this high-energy, salsa-infused spectacle has already wowed Australian audiences at the Hayes Theatre and the Sydney Opera House. Now, it’s our turn to feel the rhythm and the rhyme.
From the genius mind of Lin-Manuel Miranda (yes, that Hamilton guy — he’s a leading man in theatre these days), In The Heights spins a heartfelt tale of community, culture and chasing your dreams.
Set in the vibrant Washington Heights neighbourhood of New York City, In The Heights follows Usnavi, a bodega owner, and his vibrant community as they navigate love, identity, hope, and the meaning of home. Think block party meets Broadway, with a whole lotta heart.
With soaring Latin rhythms, hip-hop beats and a heart full of dreams, this electrifying show celebrates all walks of life, capturing what it means to hold tight to your roots while reaching for the future, where a winning lottery ticket could change everything.
Yarmila Alfonzetti, Head of Arts and Culture at Experience Gold Coast, says it best, “We are thrilled to welcome the powerhouse production of In the Heights to the Gold Coast. By bringing a Broadway hit to HOTA exclusively, we’re providing our locals and visitors with a production that radiates passion and joy.”
It will be a standing ovation every night with a cast that’s absolutely stacked: Ryan Gonzalez (Moulin Rouge! The Musical) stars as the lovable narrator Usnavi, Olivia Vásquez (West Side Story) dazzles as Vanessa, with Richard Valdez bringing charm (and piraguas!) as Piragua Guy, and Mariah Gonzalez shining bright as Nina Rosario.
Helming the production is the dynamic duo, director Luke Joslin and choreographer Amy Campbell, both Helpmann-nominated and ready to bring the drama in the best way possible.
Whether you’re a musical theatre die-hard or just looking for a night of infectious energy, powerful performances and maybe a few tears (we all cry during the “Paciencia y Fe” number, don’t @ us), this is the Gold Coast’s ticket to Broadway, no passport required.
So warm up your vocal cords and dust off your dancing shoes because you’ll not want to miss your shot at seeing In The Heights this September. Book now.
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
When: From 12th September 2025
Words by Lisette Drew
STORY SPONSORED BY HOTA
When Spotify just isn't cutting it.
There are a great many things to get amongst on the GC, and these days, a thriving local music scene is undeniably one of them. And we can all agree, if there’s one thing that takes kicking back with a frosty refreshment to a whole new level, it’s getting your ears around some sweet tunes while you do it.
From dank, hidden indie dive bars to classic pub-style serenades for the whole fam to vibe to – whatever genre you’re in the mood for, there’s bound to be a venue to match.
This Arundel’s brewery has been hitting all the right notes since they slid open their enormous barn door at the end of 2022. Hound and Stag is now the GC’s largest combining craft brews and live music, and honestly, how could you go wrong with a combo like that?! The regular array of tribute bands are the big old auditory cherry on top of an excellent atmosphere, brew-pub bites and endless frosty beverages here, folks.
Where: 13 Wrights Place, Arundel
One of Queenland’s largest AFL clubs, Southport Sharks is a family-friendly gem that’s more than merely a haven for footy fans to wet their whistles. With multiple venues and areas built-in, this Babushka doll vibing spot always has something going on, including live acts every weekend if you’re in the mood to groove. Every Friday and Saturday night, there’s an assortment of free gigs going down, from retro RnB shows, classic pub rock to tribute acts to get those toes tapping.
Where: Cnr Musgrave and Olsen Avenues, Southport
We can always count on our local dive bar to deliver us the very dankest of gigs, and Vinnie’s Dive does exactly that. Championing our local music scene, they’re no strangers to big alt/indie names such as Dear Seattle, DZ Deathrays, Wil Wagner (The Smith Street Band) The Bennies and Regurgiator gracing their small but mighty stage – in addition to karaoke and themed tribute nights. We think this review sums it up best: “It’s dark, the floors are sticky, the toilets seats are occasionally broken, the beers are icy cold and the staff are the best people you’ll ever meet.” Get down there for great times and even better gigs.
Where: Shops A & B, 44A Nerang Street, Southport
There’s always something happening at SOPO, the entertainment heart of Southport. Right in the centre of the CBD, this lively local is your go-to for everything from live music and DJs to trivia, bingo and special events, with something on the calendar day and night. Come the weekend, Seductions Lounge turns up the volume with a rotating lineup of talented local bands and performers every Friday and Saturday, delivering the perfect soundtrack for dancing, drinks and good times with friends.
Where: 36 Scarborough Street, Southport
Take the stairs to Level 1 and you’ll find one of Surfers Paradise’s most entertaining nights out. Hotel Jardin’s Piano Bar pairs expertly crafted cocktails with live piano sessions in a moody, intimate setting centred around a baby grand. Dubbed Surfers’ favourite sing-along piano bar, the resident pianist plays all your faves and happily takes requests, so whether you’re keen to belt out a classic, sip your way through curated wine flights at Sips & Sounds, or simply soak up the late-night energy, this is your cue. Live music kicks off from 5pm Tuesday and Wednesday, and from 6pm Thursday through Sunday.
Where: 3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
The Home of the Arts is certainly doing the heavy lifting to finally elevate the arts and culture scene here in our section of Queensland. From intimate, indoor performances to the homegrown darlings and headline acts routinely taking one of Australia’s best outdoor stages – the variety of shows are as varied and vibrant as its technicolour exterior.
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Open Tuesday to Sunday, Den Devine was awarded Gold Coast Live Music Venue of the Year 2025, and it’s easy to see why. Since opening in 2020, Den Devine has put live music at the heart of everything it does, celebrating both seasoned pros and rising local talent across jazz, blues, and a whole mix of global genres. The intimate, “music is life” vibe makes every visit feel like a front-row experience.
Fuel your night with UK & Irish fayre, European classics, USA favourites, and a stellar whisky selection. Seats fill fast, book ahead to catch the vibe.
Where: 15 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
When it comes to star-studded acts and internationally recognised music performances, The Star Gold Coast is the place to grab a seat in a full-blown theatre and experience music as it was intended. But the entertainment doesn’t stop when the curtain falls.
Across the precinct, you’ll find live music lighting up Atrium Bar, Nineteen at The Star and Cherry, alongside the open-air ambience of Garden Kitchen & Bar’s Live on the Lawn series. From DJs and soloists to laidback acoustic sets and vibrant weekend sessions, there’s always a soundtrack to your night out.
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Build it, and they will come… though it’s not clear in this analogy if the ‘they’ should be the steady stream of stellar, live music acts, the hungry hordes, or adoring music fans. Either way, this iconic laneway has established itself as a cracking spot for many things, including one of the best places to catch a gig on the GC.
From 5pm from Wednesday to Saturday nights, Miami comes alive with foods from all around the world mixed with local blues, jazz and independent artists. A hotspot doing some solid heavy lifting to attract incredible national and international acts as they tour the country – Be sure to keep an eye on their gig calendar; tickets always sell out fast!
Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
A true Gold Coast icon since 1883, The Wallaby Hotel is where cold beers, loud guitars and even louder singalongs collide. Fresh from a glow-up that still keeps its old-school charm intact, this Mudgeeraba fave is basically the unofficial HQ for live music lovers. Expect bands belting it out every weekend (and often midweek too), dance floors that don’t quit and plenty of boot-scootin’ opportunities. Whether you’re here for a chilled solo pint or a full boogie with the crew, good times are basically guaranteed.Where: 45 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Burleigh’s multi-use music, space hire and events hub, Mo’s Desert Clubhouse is a melting pot of goings-on and a principal meeting place for muso’s, movers and shakers and music lovers across the GC. The industrial-style venue is outfitted with a fully stocked bar and equally stacked gig guide, so refer back often and make sure you pencil in a date with Mo’s Desert Clubhouse ASAP.
Where: 6/36 Central Drive, Burleigh Heads
A fresh look is not the only thing Burleigh Town Hotel is boasting these days, also ‘drumming up’ a very solid live entertainment schedule studded with emerging bands and popular Aussie acts to get your ears around. There’s DJ’s and acoustic artists bringing tunes to the beer garden most weekends, along with with Punk, Motown and Pop themed tribute shows – where you can hit the d-floor to the likes of Ed Sheeran, Robbie Williams and queen Kylie (gold hot pants optional).
Where: Tsipura Drive, Burleigh Heads
This gem is a favourite among live music fans, having hosted a slew of local, national and international icons — but it also remains one of our best-kept secrets. Find your way down to Currumbin RSL, where, hidden just above, Soundlounge hosts acts from folk soloists and DJs to rock and roll bands. Listening to fantastic live music can be a hungry business, but this venue has you covered with food options, including pizza, an a la carte restaurant and bar snacks.
Where: 165 Duringan Street, Currumbin
Whether you’ve been catching world-class waves or lounging in the afternoon sun, Coolangatta — and specifically the Coolangatta Hotel — has long been known as one of the best for rounding out a perfect afternoon with live music. Being one of the Gold Coast’s largest live music venues, this OG frequently features both national and international touring bands and DJs on any given weekend. In between catching your fave big names, rock out to live, local tunes every Wed, Fri, Sat and Sun.
Where: Cnr Warner Street and Marine Parade, Coolangatta
For live music lovers, Twin Towns delivers in a big way. Home to a 1,000-seat, state-of-the-art Showroom, this Tweed Heads icon hosts an ever-changing lineup of acclaimed Australian and international artists, with both daytime and evening ticketed shows on the calendar. Beyond the big names, there’s more than 50 hours of free live entertainment every week, making it one of the premier live music venues on the Tweed and southern Gold Coast. Head to The Stage for complimentary performances from talented local and touring acts, and settle in for an easy, music-filled day or night out.
Where: 2 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads
Words by Belinda Symons
You don’t have to duet it alone!
In all the utter joy and harmless humiliation, you gotta love Karaoke. You’re mic in hand, belting it out to your favourite hit song, all while being cheered on by your best mates (and maybe a few good-time spectators). It’s an activity that’s often stumbled upon (literally)- not planned. They’re a regular Saturday turned wild. Or maybe, a work party gone rogue- you didnt realise Sharon from the front desk had it in her. Needless to say, they’re a memory-making machine.
As it turns out, there are a few places around the Gold Coast where you can sing your little lungs out without fear of judgement and enjoy yourself in a lyric-fuelled good time!
Strike Bowling
This place is a playground for adults and kids alike. They’ve got everything – bowling lanes, escape rooms, a bar to keep you fueled – and yes, private karaoke rooms! That’s right, you and your mates can hire out a room, meaning no crowd of strangers to stir up your nerves.
It may not be your typical karaoke bar experience (which some folk will find a relief), but the laughs and memories with your crew are guaranteed to be gold. Plus, you get full control over who’s up next to sing! Pair it with a few rounds of bowling or an escape room challenge, and you’ve got a night to remember.
Where: Circle on Cavill, Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
The Avenue
The Avenue is popular on any given day of the week, with people converging for daily specials and a host of events. However, Mondays are where the magic happens. Yep, Monday is a mundane weekday no more! You have after-work business to attend that involves a microphone and one too many martinis. At 8:30pm, the musical mayhem and karaoke antics begin! When it will end, nobody knows. That’s for your Tuesday self to find out.
Where: 3-15 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Fat Freddy’s
Did someone say cocktails and karaoke?! We’ll sing to that! Fat Freddy’s is already the go-to for American eats, killer cocktails, and all the sports you can handle, but on Saturdays, they add a little extra something – Cocktails and Karaoke hosted by Adam James Warmington! From 8:30 pm- which allows more than enough time to sink some liquid confidence if required- you’ll be treated to laughs, prizes, and a whole lot of sing-along fun. Margaritas with a side of Madonna, anyone?
Where: 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Tune-Up
Okay, this one’s legit! Tune-Up is a proper karaoke bar designed solely for your singing pleasure. It’s a hidden nook amidst the bustling streets of Surfers Paradise, where you’re guaranteed a good time. If you’re brave, take the stage, or snag a private booth with your friends for something a little more low-key (but high-vibes). The entry price? Just grab a drink! And trust us, finding people who sing worse than you is almost guaranteed – so no pressure!
Where: 23 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
E-Star Karaoke
If something a little bit fancy is your jam, E-Star Karaoke is the one. With gold gilded armchairs, wallpaper fit for a queen and over 300,000 songs to choose from, this Southport gem is an entirely unique experience. There’s a delicious buffet restaurant to fill your tummy before you take to the stage to belt out a beat. It seems Chinatown in Southport is the place to be karaoke fans. Remember, you’re the voice!
Where: Davison Lane, Southport
Roji Cat
Considering Roji Cat place is modelled on the neon-laden Dotonbori district of Osaka and downtown Tokyo’s Shinjuku district it’s only fitting they’ve got a karaoke room. When in Rome Japan, right? The specialty (sound proof) karaoke room is just off the main bar area so you and your crew can belt out a tune to your heart’s content without a single note being heard outside. Tuck into some next-level Japanese street food (you gonna need sustenance) before heading in to crank out some tunes of your own for only $60 per hour! Roji Cat will also keep you well-hydrated with an impressive and extensive selection of Japanese brews and sake!
Where: 47 Lemana Lane, Miami
Black 8 Pool Hall
Southport’s Black 8 Pool Hall is your go-to spot for a killer arvo of entertainment. With their premium karaoke party rooms and American 8-ball tables, you can sing your heart out and shoot some pool all in one place. For just $20 per person, you get a whopping 5 hours of karaoke fun from 1pm to 6pm – talk about bang for your buck! If you’re feeling fancy, check out their VIP pool tables for an extra touch of luxe. Whether you’re belting out tunes or lining up your next shot, Black 8 has you covered!
Where: 138 Scarborough Street, Southport
So technically we’ve already given you 7, but this one is so much fun it deserved a special mention. Here for a good time not a long time…
Rockaoke
If you’ve ever dreamed of living out your rock star fantasy, now’s your chance! But you’ll want to get in quick- this Gold Coast classic is about to take its final bow. Atrium Bar’s Rockaoke nights are in full swing every Friday through September. With hits from the ’70s to today’s chart-toppers, a drum, bass, and guitar trio backing you, and lyrics on screen to keep you on track, it’s the perfect way to end the week on a high note. Entry is free, so don’t miss out!
Where: Atrium Bar, Casino Level, The Star Gold Coast
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Top honours for your faves.
Look we’re all partial to a good hat but if you’re a chef, a hat is all that and a bag of chips. Each year, the Australian Good Food Guide awards hats to the crème de la crème in the restaurant world. And while some of our neighbouring cities may have once side‑eyed the Gold Coast’s dining scene, it’s official: the tables have turned, and the GC is strutting its stuff.
This year, a whopping 25 of our favourite local eateries snagged at least one hat, and we’re practically bursting with pride! The AGFG rates each restaurant out of 20, and although nobody’s hit that elusive perfect score just yet, there’s plenty of brilliance on display.
In a twist everyone saw coming, Broadbeach cleaned up with seven venues receiving hats. The newly revamped Mamasan charmed its way to a score of 13, while Social Eating House and Bar (13) matched it with its masterful blend of modern Australian favourites.
The Oracle Boulevard scene was further flaunted by BLOWFISH Ocean Grill + Bar (12) and kōst (13), each offering their own distinct flavour explosions for diners.
Of course, several of The Star Gold Coast’s restaurants collected gongs. Japanese sensation Kiyomi scored a sophisticated 14, while the sleek Modern Australian fine‑dining gem Nineteen at the Star earned 13.
Rounding out Broady’s winners, long‑standing steak haven Moo Moo The Wine Bar and Grill received a solid 13, keeping carnivores grinning from ear to ear.
Travel south to Mermaid Beach and you’ll find boutique dining superstar The North Room boasting an impressive 15, a testament to its thoughtful, modern dishes executed with technical precision. Beloved Little Truffle Dining Room & Bar earned 14, and esteemed Japanese haunt Etsu Izakaya scored 13, continuing its legacy of refined flavours.
Slick Latin American newcomer Norté, with its vibrant, fiesta‑inspired energy and bold Mexican flavours, made its debut with a 12. Euro-inspired Juju (13) and The Oxley’s stalwart fave Lars(12), rounded out Nobby’s award recipients.
Robina’s Eddy + Wolff represented with a well-earned 12. It just goes to show that the ‘burbs can cook up a winner too, not just the Insta-set-favoured pockets.
Speaking of, Mudgeeraba’s intimate Japanese (and under-the-radar superstar) Anekawa, earned itself a 13, while Bundall’s Mediterranean‑meets‑local gem Bar Leo Food & Wine debuted with a solid 12.
Burleigh wasn’t left behind either. Rick Shores scored 13 for its delectable contemporary pan-Asian offerings. The Gold Coast highway strip represented with Vietnamese pin-up boy Jimmy Wah’s(13).
Daniel Ridgeway’s Palm Beach offering Madame V was shown some love with 13, while Kirra’s beachfront Billy Chow (12) made its debut, earning recognition for its playful pan‑Asian menu.
Let’s journey back to the central neck of the woods, starting with Surfers Paradise’s Modern Australian superstar Palette located at HOTA, Home of the Arts, topping the list with a stellar 16. This Modern Australian standout blends bold flavours with innovative techniques, earning its spot among Queensland’s finest.
The JW Marriott Gold Coast’s seafood superstar Citrique earned a 14, while the QT’s Japanese phenomenon Yamagen scored 13 and The Langham’s Cantonese gem T’ang Court scored 12.
Over in Main Beach, La Luna Dining scored 12 with its modern Australian waterfront charm.
Anyone who still says we’re lacking in the quality eats department here on the Goldie, now is the time to concede defeat because this list of local victories confirms what we already knew – our foodie scene has officially become a force to be reckoned with and there’s plenty more to come…
Words by Belinda Symons
