Social Scene Costa del Sol 20 – 26 November 2025 Issue 2107
Festive generosity
THE BRITISH BENEVOLENT FUND (BBF), one of the oldest registered charities in Spain, is hosting a Magical Charity Lunch to raise vital funds for distressed British nationals across the country.
The event will take place on Wednesday, November 26, from 1pm to 5pm at the glamorous La Sala in Puerto Banús. Attendees are promised an afternoon of festive cheer, delicious dining, and spectacular surprises, all while supporting a crucial cause.
Guests will enjoy a two-course set lunch with choices including chargrilled minute steak, sea bass, or a green curry (V). The ticket price also includes free-flowing Cava and water between 1.30pm and 3.30pm, along with special Christmas gifts
for every attendee. The afternoon’s programme features festive food and accessory stalls, a pop-up from Angel Clothing, a grand raffle, and the popular ‘Guess How Many Sweets’ game.
The BBF works tirelessly to provide essential financial assistance for costs such as rent, utility bills, food, and medical expenses to British nationals facing urgent hardship. All ticket profits will
be donated directly to support this urgent work.
Tickets for this anticipated event are priced at just €40 per person. Spaces are limited and expected to sell out quickly.
To reserve your place and support the BBF’s mission, contact reservations via email at reserva tions@lasalabanus.com or WhatsApp on 620 152 963.
Artisan market
RENOWNED artisan market
curator Helen Stanley, founder of the celebrated Champagne Lifestyle Events, is bringing her signature high-end shopping experience to Mijas, just in time for the Christmas season.
Following a year of successful events across the Costa del Sol, including a residency at the prestigious Kempinski Hotel, Stanley has announced an exclusive artisan and designer market
to be held at the picturesque La Cala Resort on Sunday, November 23.
Stanley’s meticulously curated markets have become a staple on the coast’s social calendar. They are celebrated for blending a sophisticated ambiance with high-quality, unique craftsmanship. The Champagne Lifestyle concept provides a dedicated platform for designers and artisans showcasing items of exceptional artis-
tic originality and standard. Past events have drawn large crowds seeking bespoke jewellery, designer fashion, luxury accessories, and fine local art.
The La Cala Resort event promises a perfect Sunday outing, running from 12 noon until 5pm. Guests can browse a hand-selected array of stalls, all set against the backdrop of live music. The resort is also offering its popular Sunday Roast Lunch.
Thanksgiving on the Costa del Sol
THE Costa del Sol is gearing up for a festive Thanksgiving with a range of events blending American tradition with Mediterranean charm.
Jack’s Smokehouse in Puerto Banus will host its ‘Thanksgiving at Jacks’ evening on Thursday November 27 from 7pm. Guests can enjoy roast turkey with all the trimmings, stuffing, gravy and pumpkin pie, accompanied by live music by the marina.
Hard Rock Café Malaga will also celebrate on the same day. The menu features slowroasted turkey breast, seasonal sides, pumpkin pie and a signature Autumn Apple Fizz cocktail. Space is limited, so reservations are advised.
For those looking for a longer getaway, the Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club offers a ‘Stay & Feast Thanksgiving Package’ available until November 30. Guests receive 20 per cent off their room rate, daily breakfast and a traditional Thanksgiving brunch at Terraza Restaurant on November 27. The brunch includes roasted turkey and seasonal
accompaniments, with drinks available separately.
Hard Rock Hotel Marbella will host singerguitarist Paul Hull on Tuesday November 25 Dinner begins at 7pm, followed by a live show from 8.30pm. Guests can enjoy a buffet with allyou-can-eat dishes and drinks. Reservations are required via +34 653 271 960.
From family dinners to live music and seaside feasts, the Costa del Sol offers visitors and locals alike a chance to celebrate Thanksgiving in style.
Thanksgiving on the Costa del Sol.
Credit: Pixabay - MaggiePoo
Organisers Sue Crowley with Olaf & Jenny from BBF.
Credit: EWN
Christmas goodies at Helen Stanley’s markets.
Credit: CL Instagram
Live music at Elton’s
ELTON’S Rocket Bar in Torremolinos is hosting live music from Thursday to Sunday . Shows start at 10pm and entry is free, though early arrival is recommended.
The week begins on Thursday, November 20 with an Elton John style rock and roll piano show. Fans can expect classic hits delivered with flair and energy.
On Friday, November 21, Esther Bakker returns to the stage with her signature energetic piano and vocal show. Packed with 80s, 90s, and modern favourites, Esther brings positivity and fun to every performance. This is a show not to be missed, especially for those who love dancing along to their favourite hits.
Saturday, November 22 features another El-
ton John style show. Soulful vocals, dazzling piano skills, and infectious energy promise a memorable evening.
The weekend programme ends on Sunday, November 23 with Lau-Marie performing a Madonna tribute. Audiences can enjoy all the pop diva’s iconic hits in a high-energy show packed with surprises and entertainment.
Elton’s Rocket Bar is
also taking bookings for Christmas and New Year celebrations. Only 10 spots remain for these special events. Fans are advised to check the bar’s Facebook page or send a message to reserve a place.
For music lovers, this week offers a mix of tribute performances and lively piano shows, making Elton’s Rocket Bar a must-visit venue in Torremolinos.
Fuengirola at Christmas
FUENGIROLA is preparing a season of festive cheer, with highlights including a new Carols by Candlelight event. On Thursday December 18, from 6.30pm to 9pm, visitors can gather at Playa del Ejido by the Castle for an evening of Christmas music under the stars. Tickets cost €5 and include an electronic candle, songbook, mulled wine or hot chocolate, and a cookie or mince pie. Handmade gifts will be on sale to support the First Fuengirola Scouts, and attendees are encouraged to wear Santa hats and join in singing classic carols. Tickets can be booked via WhatsApp on +34 711 099 171.
The town’s Christmas lights will be officially switched on on Friday November 28, featuring a new pink cherry tree forest near
the Illunion Hotel and a sparkling display in front of the town hall, with shows every half hour from 7pm to 9pm.
Returning for another year, the Christmas Market in Plaza de la Constitución runs from November 27 to December 21. Seventeen wooden cabins will offer handmade gifts, festive treats, and local products. Every Saturday, artificial snow will fall over the square, adding to the magical atmosphere. Centrally located, the market is ideal for combining shopping with seasonal entertainment, live performances, and traditional Spanish treats.
From music under the stars to twinkling lights and festive markets, Fuengirola promises a season of joy and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.
Fuengirola’s Christmas Market.
Credit: Diputación de Malaga
Live music at Premiere Club
MARBELLA’S legendary Premiere Club is gearing up for two nights of electrifying rock performances, all completely free to enjoy.
On Friday, November 21, the band Deja Vu will take the stage at 11.30pm with a powerful set of hard rock covers. Known for capturing the raw energy of classic rock, Deja Vu delivers faithful and exhilarating renditions of legendary hits. With Rodrigo López on bass, the band promises to fill the venue with thunderous riffs and intense energy, all under the free entrance policy proudly presented by Premiere Club.
The excitement continues on Saturday, November 22, starting earlier at 7.00pm with Rebellion, a band that blends rock
hits in both English and Spanish. Their live shows take audiences on a nostalgic journey through the best anthems of the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, and their charismatic performances have made them a staple of the local music scene. These early evening sessions are perfect for those looking for a more relaxed music scene.
Later that night, at 11.30pm, Wall Street Band will hit the stage, bringing a mix of rock and soul with high-energy performances. Hailing from the Costa del Sol, Wall Street Band has experience playing at prominent Marbella venues, delivering a show that promises to be the perfect closing act for a weekend full of live music and great vibes.
The Pink Floyd Experience
PINK FLOYD fans who missed out on tickets for The Pink Floyd Experience sell-out February shows at Salon Varietes Theatre in Fuengirola now have another opportunity to experience the magic.
On Sunday December 14 at 6pm, music lovers are invited to an extraordinary evening with The Pink Floyd Experience at Eddy’s Music Factory & Studio in Malaga. This intimate event promises a night filled with timeless music, mesmerising lights, and the unmistakable energy of one of rock’s most legendary bands.
tention to detail, powerful live musicianship, and stunning visuals, audiences are transported into the world of Pink Floyd, reliving the magic of their greatest albums.
The nine-piece ensemble is dedicated to authentically recreating the iconic sound and atmosphere of Pink Floyd. From the hauntingly beautiful ‘Shine On You Crazy Diamond’ to the anthemic ‘Another Brick in the Wall’ and the soul-stirring ‘Comfortably Numb’, the band brings every note to life with precision and passion. With meticulous at-
This performance is a rare opportunity for fans to enjoy the music in an intimate setting, ensuring a close-up and personal experience that connects the audience with the music like never before. With limited places available, don’t miss the chance to reserve your spot for an unforgettable Malaga evening. Call 639 930 010 to secure your place for an evening of pure Floyd magic.
Live Blues and Latin
HUBBER in Estepona hosts a lively music double bill this weekend, offering two contrasting nights of blues and Latin rhythms. The programme opens on Friday November 21 with a blues set led by Richard Ray Farrell, joined by Javier Martin on bass and Olmo Sánchez on drums. Farrell, originally from Niagara Falls, has built a long European career marked by raw, traditional blues. His past collaborations include work with Raimundo Amador and the band Street Talk, while albums such as Live in Germany and 3 Pints of Gin earned him strong critical praise, including a 2021 nomination for Acoustic Blues Album of the Year from The Blues Foundation. His performance at Hubber promises soulful guitar work and expressive vocals in an
intimate setting. The show begins at 8pm, with entry at €15. Reservations are available on 608 359 656 . On Saturday November 22, the atmosphere shifts as Habana Vieja brings a burst of Cuban-style Latin music. The band is known for upbeat, dance-driven sets that blend classic rhythms with lively stage presence. Their 8pm performance is expected to fill the gallery with warm, tropical energy. Tickets cost €15, payable in cash, and early booking is advised.
Hubber Art and Food continues to stand out as one of Estepona’s most distinctive cultural spaces, combining contemporary art with food, drinks and regular live events.
Further details are available at elhuber.es.
Experience Pink Floyd.
Credit: James Yeadon
Free live music at Premiere this weekend.
Credit: Premiere
Credit: Hubber
Habana Vieja bring latin vibes.
Lions shine blue
LA CALA LIONS CLUB
marked the start of the festive season by focusing attention on World Diabetes Day on Friday, November 14
In a powerful act of global solidarity, Mijas Town Hall was illuminated in blue, the international colour of unity and awareness for people living with diabetes. This gesture aligned Mijas with major landmarks worldwide, reminding those affected that they are not alone. The Lions thanked Mijas Town Hall for making the inspiring display possible.
La Cala Lions Diabetic Support Group is launching key community events and promoting their innovative ‘Message in a Bottle’ scheme. This life-saving initiative encourages residents to store vital medical information - including diabetes specifics and emergency contacts - in a bottle kept inside their refrigerator. First responders are trained to look for the bottle, ensuring faster and more in-
formed emergency treatment.
November 21 from 10am to 1pm: Nurses will offer free glucose testing and distribute the ‘Message in a Bottle’ items at Mijas Pueblo.
The Lions will cap the month with their festive highlight, the Very Merry Christmas Market, on November 30 at Butibamba Park from 11am. The market will feature over 50 stalls, seasonal treats, and a visit from Santa. For information, call 607 879 450.
Christmas markets
ON Saturday November 22 , St Anthony’s College in Mijas Costa will host its annual Christmas Bazaar. The event runs from 1.30pm to 4.30pm at Camino de Coin and promises a festive afternoon for the whole family.
Visitors can browse a variety of stalls offering arts and crafts, food and drinks, and unique handmade gifts. Children will enjoy pony rides, games, and a chance to meet Santa Claus.
A raffle adds a touch of excitement, making the bazaar a perfect outing to kickstart the holiday season. Everyone is welcome, whether local or visiting, in a warm and friendly community atmosphere.
Readers are also reminded that the festive fun continues on Sunday November 23, at the popular ADANA Christmas
Fayre in Estepona. The event takes place at the Palacio de Congresos from 10am to 4pm. Entry costs €3, with children and dogs admitted free, making it ideal for the whole family. Visitors can explore gift stalls, festive decorations, and creative Christmas ideas while enjoying hot food and drinks. Exciting ra-
ffles and prizes add extra cheer, and animal lovers will enjoy meeting Santa Paws, a playful twist on the traditional Santa experience. Both events offer great opportunities to soak up the Christmas spirit, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere on the Costa del Sol
4-hand dinner
EL LAGO RESTAURANT in Marbella’s Elviria Hills will host a one-night-only White Truffle 4-Hands Dinner on November 22
Italian chef Nicola Batavia joins El Lago’s executive chef Milos Zdravkovikj for a tasting menu built around the rare white truffle. The pairing blends Italian tradition with Andalucian flair, using seasonal ingredients and modern techniques.
Batavia, founder of The Egg restaurants in Turin and Amsterdam, is known for creative yet simple Mediterranean dishes. “Cooking is sharing culture, emotion, and respect for the product,” he said. Zdravkovikj, who honed his craft with the Dani García Group before taking the helm at El Lago in 2020, sources zero-kilometre produce
from local partners. The star ingredient, Tuber magnatum Pico, is harvested from October to December in Piedmont’s Alba region. Its intense aroma and subtle flavour are released when shaved over warm dishes, making it a luxury reserved for special occasions.
Set beside a tranquil lake, El Lago offers an elegant, relaxed setting. Seating is strictly limited; early booking is advised.
Date: Saturday, November 22 Time: 7.30pm
Location: El Lago Restaurant, Elviria Hills, Marbella. Reservations: +34 952 832 371
Email: restaurante@restauranteella go.com
Christmas markets for everyone to enjoy.
La Cala was a sea of blue for World Diabetes Day.
Credit: La Cala Lions
El Lago offers an elegant, relaxed setting.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Magical Winter Blu
IF you’re looking for a truly magical Christmas event to enjoy this December, look no further than Marbella. Collective Calling is hosting A Magical Winter Blu Experience on Friday, December 13 at 19.30 at the iconic Nota Blu Marbella - an evening promising world-class entertainment and meaningful impact in equal measure. Presented in collaboration with Casanis Group, with headline support from Drumelia, the night features internationally acclaimed magician Joe Labero, Sweden’s legendary master of magic known for his mind-bending performances from Las Vegas to Sydney. His shows are renowned for their precision, imagination and sense of pure astonishment - a signature style that has captivated audiences for over three decades.
The evening also includes live performances from electric cellist Cello Femme and vocalist Amaria Simone, along with a charity auction supporting Collective Calling’s Mobile Shower Unit for those experiencing homelessness in Spain and their rescue and rehabilitation programme for street children in Tanzania.
Tickets are €95 per person, including
co-Founder Gemma Carr with the Director of Nota Blu, celebrating a partnership dedicated to positive community impact.
welcome drinks, flowing canapés and a €40 donation to the charity. With limited spaces and high demand, early booking at www.ccevents.live is strongly recommended. A Magical Winter Blu Experience offers a perfect blend of elegance, artistry and purpose - a truly unforgettable way to celebrate the season in Marbella.
Booking at www.ccevents.live
Columbus’s flagship
A FULL-SCALE replica of La Nao Santa María, the flagship that carried Christopher Columbus on his 1492 voyage to the Americas, will dock on the Costa del Sol for the first time this winter.
The authentic recrea tion allows visitors to step aboard and ex plore the decks, expe riencing life as it was for sailors more than 500 years ago during the voyage that chan ged world history.
The ship arrives first at Sotogrande from November 21 to 23, open daily from 10am to 6.30pm. It then sails to Fuengirola, where it will remain from November 25 to December 8 on the same hours.
These are among the vessel’s first Spanish ports of call after an extensive European tour that included France, England, Germany and the Netherlands.
Tickets cost €8 for adults and €4 for children aged five-10. A family ticket (two adults and up to three children) is €20, while under-fives enter free when accompanied. Advance online booking is recommended to avoid queues at tickets.nao santamaria.org, or tickets
can be bought on board.
Guided tours for schools and groups are available at the same rates; bookings via ecam pos@velacuadra.es.
The visits offer a rare chance to walk the decks of the ship that helped open the New World and shaped modern history.
ECO AMIGOS, the community clean-up group based in Casares Costa, is marking its first anniversary with a birthday celebration on Thursday, November 27. From 6pm to 8pm, locals, current volunteers, and prospective volunteers are invited to drop by the Rose & Thistle Bar in Duquesa Port to enjoy a birthday cupcake and learn how to get involved in the group. The bar is also offering a three-tapas-for-€10 deal for guests.
In a show of the progress the group is making, it has secured its first sponsorship from Zen Villas Luxury Real Estate, who are supporting the event and have allowed the group to purchase branded caps to protect volunteers during cleanups.
Formed in November 2024 by Melissa Vaughn, Eco Amigos has quickly grown into a community force dedicated to keeping the Costa del Sol clean. Monthly clean-up events have removed hundreds of bags of rubbish from beaches, public spaces, and roadside areas, with roughly half of the collected waste being recycled.
As the group grew in reputation and impact, a sister group was formed in Marbella, through a partnership with Costa Women, meaning even more areas of the Costa del Sol are being cleaned up.
The birthday celebration will give guests the chance to enjoy food and drink while meeting the Eco Amigos team, discovering upcoming events, and exploring volunteer opportunities.
Charity
Amigos’ 1st anniversary
Eco Amigos celebrate.
La Nao Santa Maria.
Credit: Eco Amigos
Credit: Rodrigo Boj FB
Calahonda festive fayre
Dance for hospital kids
ber 29, from 11am to 2pm at
THE Queen Bees are set to host their annual Festive Fayre on Saturday, November 29, from 11am to 2pm at The Far Post in Calahonda. The event offers a cheerful start to the holiday season while supporting local charities.
Visitors can browse a range of home-made treats, including salted caramel, zesty lemon curd, and savoury chutneys. Handmade cards, knitted and crocheted crafts will also be on display, perfect for unique gifts or adding a personal touch to festive decorations.
A highlight of the fayre is the popular ‘Name the Santa’ competition, offering visitors the chance to win a seasonal prize. A raffle with a variety of prizes adds to the fun while raising funds for charity.
All proceeds from the fayre will go to local charities, reflecting The Queen Bees’ commitment to the community. The event is family-friendly, with something for everyone, from delicious treats to festive crafts and games.
The Queen Bees meet every Wednes-
day at The Far Post in Los Jarales, Calahonda, where they work on crafts for charity in a social setting. The venue is accessible via the lift near Mercadona, and parking is easy.
Organisers invite locals and visitors to join the festivities, enjoy the community spirit, and support a good cause. In a post on social media, The Far Post said: “It’s that time of year again! Please come and support your hard-working Queen Bees who make such a difference with donations to our local charities.”
BEST tapas revealed
THE ninth annual Benalmadena Cinema Tapas Route has concluded with resounding success, firmly establishing itself as a key autumn attraction on the Costa del Sol. The nine-day gastronomy festival saw unprecedented levels of public participation, demonstrating the event’s growing importance in revitalising the local hospitality economy during the off-peak season.
Participation figures soared this year, with more than 3,000 patrons casting their votes via the official event app and in-person ballots. This massive engagement reflects the strong interest in the initiative among both residents and tourists, confirming the community’s deep connection to the local food scene.
Following the final count, the top prize for the Best Cinema Tapa 2025 was awarded
STUDENTS from the Dance with Freedom school, based in Calahonda, are set to stage a special charity performance in Las Lagunas de Mijas this month. The event takes place at the Teatro Manuel España on Sunday, November 23, at 5.30pm.
The performance aims to raise funds for Juega Terapia, a Spanish organisation committed to improving the lives of children battling cancer in hospital wards. Juega Terapia champions the healing power of play, operating on the belief that “the kid who plays is a kid who recovers faster.”
The charity provides games, activities, and works to transform clinical spaces. Their inspiring projects include converting unused hospital rooftops into ‘Gardens of my Hospital’ and creating interactive ‘Lunar Stations’ to restore
to La Taberna de Sinfo. This popular local restaurant, known for its authentic Spanish atmosphere and high-quality offerings, secured the coveted first place.
Completing the triumphant podium, Cincuenta Peroles earned the second-place distinction, while ErTapeo secured the third position. These three establishments represent the excellence and diversity of Benalmadena’s culinary landscape, contributing significantly to the festival’s overall success.
For anyone who wants to try out the three best tapas in Benalmadena, La Taberna de Sinfo is on Avenida Juan Luis Peralta; Cincuenta Peroles is at Calle Roberto Olid, 6, Arroyo de La Miel; and ErTapeo is in the shopping centre San Juan, Local 44, Arroyo de La Miel.
fun and normalcy to a child’s routine.
a child’s routine.
The Calahonda students will showcase their year’s dedication with a diverse repertoire, ranging from graceful ballet to dynamic contemporary pieces. The show, ‘Dance with Freedom’, embodies the compassionate spirit of the cause.
Every €7 ticket purchased directly contributes to giving these brave children vital moments of respite and joy during treatment. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of incredible dance while helping Dance with Freedom raise significant support for Juega Terapia.
Credot: Pixabay - Einladung_zum_Essen
Enjoy home-made treats.
Tapas from Cincuenta Peroles and Taberna de Sinfo.
Snack Attack: A warm welcome this winter
AT Snack Attack, we bring the charm of a traditional British café to sunny Spain - and this winter, we’re serving up even more comfort, flavour, and warmth. Whether you’re escaping the chill or enjoying a cosy catch-up with friends, our all-day breakfasts and hearty home-made meals are the perfect pick-me-up for the cooler months.
Alongside our classic favourites, our new Healthy Corner has quickly become a hit. It features wholesome choices such as overnight oats, fresh fruit granolas, creamy yoghurt, and a selection of tasty toppings. For those with special dietary needs, we also offer gluten-free and high-protein bread options, so everyone can enjoy their meal without compromise.
Winter also brings a few in-
dulgent treats - our home-made desserts, including cheesecake and apple crumble, are the ideal way to end a meal on a sweet note. Pair one with a rich hot chocolate or a steaming mug of tea, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate winter comfort. After managing a popular pub in Tadcaster for seven years, I was ready for a fresh challenge. Taking on Snack At-
lidaymakers.
tack, a beloved local café with a 20-year legacy, felt both exciting and humbling. With a few thoughtful updates,
La Vida Loca opens
THE highly anticipated grand opening of La Vida Loca, a new bar and restaurant in El Faro, Mijas Costa, proved an undeniable success Friday, November 14, despite torrential rain.
The venue was ‘packed to the rafters’, instantly establishing itself as the coast’s newest, most fun place to be. Crowds of eager customers arrived from across the Costa del Sol, including from as far afield as Fuengirola, Calahonda, and Torremolinos, making the event a warm celebration of community spirit. Inside, the closed terrace offered a lively, warm sanctuary for locals and expats to mingle and reunite.
La Vida Loca is an ambitious ‘triple-treat’, successfully blending an excellent restaurant, a sophisticated cocktail
lounge, and the ultimate action-packed sports bar. The kitchen, open from 8am to 9.30pm daily, is set to be a major draw, promising high-quality comfort food, including their popular Sunday lunch.
For sports fans, the venue boasts nine large screens showing everything from Premier League Football and Formula 1 to GAA events. Situated minutes from the beach, it also offers a stunning Mediterranean backdrop.
The successful launch confirms that La Vida Loca has brought a much-needed touch of class and comfort to El Faro, cementing its place as the Mijas Costa community’s newest and liveliest social hub. Find La Vida Loca on Urbanisation Playamarina, Local 3c, Mijas Costa. Call: 711 040 722. www.lavida-loca.es.
Our focus remains simple: friendly service and quality food at affordable prices. Every team member goes above and beyond to make guests feel at home. We offer daily specials, plus our Super Saver deal - a delicious meal with tea or coffee for just
adding a modern twist - making it a favourite among both residents and ho-
guests feel at home. We offer per Saver deal - a delicious milies looking for a
This winter, we’re expanding our famous Sunday lunches, perfect for families looking for a hearty roast and relaxed atmosphere. We also provide takeaways, freshly made deli sandwiches, and outside catering for events and buffets. At Snack Attack, we believe both praise and feedback help us grow. So come in, warm up, and experience why locals love us all year round.
Snack Attack, Jardín Botánico, La Cala de Mijas. Open seven days a week, 8 am–4 pm (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day). WhatsApp: +44 0753 8236338 • Email: tedderscowel@yahoo.com • Follow us on Facebook and TikTok for updates and winter specials.
Rising rock heroes
MADRID’s explosive rock band, King Sapo, is set to deliver a one-night-only show at Louie Louie in Estepona on Friday, November 21 The show will be their first their return to the Costa del Sol following the release of their blistering second album, El Dios de América.
Formed in 2022 and fronted by the powerful vocalist Jesús Trujillo, King Sapo has quickly become one of Spain’s most electrifying live acts. Their signature sound fuses the raw, riff-heavy glory of 1970s rock with the unpolished fire of 1990s grunge, creating a molten cocktail likened to Black Sabbath meeting Nirvana, but with a unique Spanish swagger. Their debut EP was followed by El Dios de América, an album critics have hailed as a milestone of mo-
dern Spanish rock. Produced by Carlos Raya, the record features anthems like ‘Rocanrolero’ and the pulverising title track. The lyrics tackle themes of cultural dominance and working-class defiance, delivered in fiercely narrative Spanish. RockFM has kept their singles in heavy rotation, with ‘El Dios de America’
king the Top 20 Nacional chart.
The Estepona venue, a Mecca of the Andalucian rock scene, is expected to reach capacity for this high-energy performance. Doors open at 9pm at Louie Louie, which is opposite the Estepona harbour entrance. Tickets are priced at £23 in advance via Mutick, or £15 on the door.
crac-
King Sapo at Azkena Bilbao.
La Vida Loca opening.
Credit: EWN
Demon Barber of Malaga
Credit: Teatro Soho
ANTONIO BANDERAS will direct and star as Sweeney Todd in a Spanish-language production of Stephen Sondheim’s musical at his Teatro del Soho CaixaBank in Malaga in 2026.
The announcement came during the launch of the theatre’s new season of Godspell. This marks Banderas’ third Sondheim revival at the venue he founded in 2019, after acclaimed runs of Company (2021) and Gypsy (2024). The production will feature translated lyrics and local casting.
“I’ve had the rights for some time,” Banderas said. “Sweeney is rage, pain, and dark humour - everything I want to explore on stage. It will be operatic, intense, and very Malaga.” A late 2026 opening is planned, after he completes
TV commitments.
Sweeney Todd tells of Benjamin Barker, an unjustly exiled barber who returns to London as the vengeful Sweeney. With pie-shop owner Mrs Lovett, he murders clients and turns corpses into meat pies. His revenge targets Judge Turpin, who covets Sweeney’s daughter Johanna. The tale unfolds with bloody murders, intrigue, dark secrets, and tragic revelations.
Theatre officials predict a boost to Malaga’s winter tourism, with interest from international Sondheim fans. Banderas, who returned to Malaga after a 2017 heart attack, sees the project as a legacy. “What better stage than my city, with its fiercely artistic soul and talent, to make my lifelong dream come true.”
Tom Jones and Shirley Bassey tribute
FUENGIROLA’S English-speaking theatre, Salon Varietes, is gearing up for an unforgettable musical weekend as two of the Costa del Sol’s most celebrated performers, Ricky Lavazza and Juliet Williams, unite to honour the legendary voices of Tom Jones and Shirley Bassey. The show will run on Saturday November 22 at 7.30pm and Sunday November 23 at 7pm.
Ricky Lavazza, regarded as one of the region’s strongest vocalists, will lead the Tom Jones tribute. Known for his classic Welsh tone and commanding stage presence, he has built a loyal following for performances that blend power, warmth and authenticity. His take on Jones’ biggest hits promises the same energy
and charisma that have made him a favourite on local stages.
Juliet Williams will bring the voice and glamour of Dame Shirley Bassey to the Salon Varietes. Celebrated for her dramatic delivery and vocal range, she is set to perform classics including Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever and Big Spender. Her style and stagecraft capture the grandeur that
made Bassey an international icon.
Together, Lavazza and Williams will guide audiences through an evening of well loved songs and polished performances, showcasing two of Wales’ most famous musical exports.
Limited tickets are still available through the box office on +34 952 474 542 or via the official website.
Bocanegra Boogaloo
mising a journey throu-
JAZZ heads are invited to an evening dedicated to the legendary alto saxophonist Lou Donaldson as Bocanegra Boogaloo performs a special tribute concert on Friday, November 21. The performance, promising a journey through Bop, Hard Bop, Soul Jazz, and the infectious 1960s Boogaloo trend, will take place at the Clarence Jazz Club in Torremolinos.
The Bocanegra Boogaloo repertoire will trace Donaldson’s influential career, starting from his days as a prominent exponent of Bebop. Lou Donaldson is revered as one of the most significant alto sax players of his era, noted for being a follower of Charlie Parker. His notable early career included co-leading combos with major figures like Blue Mitchell,
Art Blakey, and Percy Heath.
Donaldson’s muelectric organ,
giants such as Jimmy Smith and Brother
Donaldson’s musical signature evolved significantly when he began leading ensembles that paired his alto sax with the electric organ, leading to key collaborations with jazz organ giants such as Jimmy Smith and Brother Jack McDuff. This tribute aims to capture his extensive impact across these diverse stylistic aesthetics.
Bocanegra Boogaloo comprises Sergio Albacete (Saxophone), Pierre Huarniz (Electric Guitar), Alfonso Alcalá (Double Bass), and Stik Cook (Drums).
The concert starts at 10pm at the Clarence Jazz Club, Calle Danza Invisible 8, Torremolinos. Tickets range from €12 to €18, and advance booking is encouraged for this celebration of a true giant of the genre.
