Social Scene Costa del Sol 24 - 30 Jul 2025 Issue 2090
Donkey’s years Antonio Banderas’ Godspell
DONKEY DREAMLAND, the dedicated donkey rescue centre, proudly celebrates its fifth anniversary on Friday August 1, marking five years of compassion, hard work, and community spirit. To honour the achievement, everyone is invited to a magical Summer Dinner Party on Saturday, August 30, at the breathtaking La Sierra Restaurant.
Starting at 7pm, the evening promises heartwarming moments in support of our much-loved rescue donkeys and the volunteers at the rescue centre, featuring delicious cuisine, refreshing drinks, and great musical entertainment with DJ Dave
James spinning disco hits. This special event celebrates Donkey Dreamland’s mission to provide a safe haven for Mijas’ donkeys while uniting supporters for an unforgettable night.
It’s the perfect chance to come together, reflect on the rescue’s inspiring journey, celebrate its successes, and continue championing the donkeys we adore.
All are welcome to join the festivities at La Sierra Restaurant, so bring your friends, family, and passion
for donkeys! Tickets are €50 per adult and €25 for children (under 12). For more details, visit Donkey Dreamland’s website or social media pages.
Donkey Dreamland also continues to offer morning donkey walks throughout the summer, plus a special sunset walk with tapas on Saturday, July 26, and a Donkey Dreamland walk and brunch on Thursday, July 31, featuring donkey interactions and a delicious, healthy Andalusian brunch.
La Cala fair
LA CALA DE MIJAS is hosting its colourful annual Feria, honouring its patron saint, Santiago Apóstol, around his feast day on Friday July 25. This enormous event has just a touch of religious reverence with added Andalucian festivity and modern elements, bringing together residents and holidaymakers in a week of music, dance, and community spirit.
On Thursday July 24, the fairground buzzes with activity. The Feria de Día at Torreón, from 1pm to 8pm, offers live music, local food, and children’s games, creating a joyful atmosphere for families. Inclusivity is prioritised, with reduced noise levels from
7pm to 9pm for those with autism spectrum disorder. At the Youth Marquee, La Alegría Pura, hosts daily DJs and fun for younger crowds. Over the weekend, July 25 and 26,
ANTONIO BANDERAS will direct a colourful revival of the acclaimed musical Godspell at Teatro del Soho CaixaBank in Malaga, starting October 30, following its triumphant, sold-out 2022 debut and a successful Spanish tour. Based on JohnMichael Tebelak’s book with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, this reimagined 1970s Broadway classic promises to captivate audiences with its Christmas run, much like Banderas’ celebrated production of Gipsy. Godspell, inspired by the Gospel of St Matthew, follows a group of young people in a bustling city. Set in an abandoned theatre warehouse, a young troupe’s play evolves into a transformative journey. Through encounters with Jesus, the characters explore New Testament parables, leading them to embrace themes of tolerance, compassion, and community while they reflect on shared values like sustainable prosperity,
with its Christmas run, much like Banderas’
freedom, and collective responsibility.
On stage, 14 actors and a live band deliver a dynamic spectacle, blending vaudeville, magic, shadows, masks, and puppets across 16 iconic musical numbers, including ‘Prepare Ye the Way’, ‘Day by Day’, and ‘Beautiful City’. Tickets, starting at €25, are on sale from El Corte Ingles. Directed by Malaga’s own Antonio Banderas, this eagerly awaited Godspell revival is poised to be another sellout success.
Antonio Banderas and the cast of Godspell.
Credit: DD
Celebrate with Donkey Dreamland.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mijas
The Cala de Mijas Fair.
Fresh Lebanese delights
CHELO Lebanese Restaurant in Las Brisas between Aloha and Puerto Banus, immerses diners in the lively world of Lebanese cuisine, with a mix of Middle Eastern tradition and modern elegance.
The sophisticated Arabic-inspired decor creates an enchanting ambiance, lifted by live music and occasional Arabic dance performances that evoke the magic of One Thousand and One Nights.
Il Divo magic at Starlite
The menu presents authentic Lebanese dishes crafted from fresh, high-quality ingredients. Recommendations include the highly popular Msakaa or Tabouleh starters, bursting with flavour and freshness. The mixed meat skewers and Shish Taouk offer juicy, tender textures and rich, aromatic profiles. For a truly distinctive experience, the kibbeh delivers authentic Middle Eastern taste rarely found elsewhere.
Chelo’s exceptional service adds to every visit. With the warm and attentive Ahmed, the staff provides thoughtful menu recommendations, ensuring a personalised experience for newco-
Credit: Chelo.
THE internationally renowned popopera quartet Il Divo will captivate audiences at Starlite Occident in Marbella on Friday, July 25, showcasing their extraordinary vocal prowess at this iconic festival.
mers or those accustomed to fine Lebanese cuisine.
Remarkably, Chelo delivers this premium experience at surprisingly affordable prices, especially for the area. This makes it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
For a lighter option, Chelo’s charming downstairs café terrace offers everyday favourites and delectable Mediterranean sweets, ideal for a quick stop or casual meet-up with friends.
Chelo Lebanese Restaurant is in Avenida del Prado, Centro Comercial Aloha 20, Marbella. Call 951 561 133 to reserve.
This highly anticipated concert marks a milestone as Il Divo celebrates their 20th anniversary with their latest album, XX: 20th Anniversary Album, a testament to their enduring legacy.
Since forming in 2004, Il Divo has redefined the crossover opera genre, captivating global audiences with their seamless chemistry. With over 30 million albums sold, 50 chart-topping hits, and 160 gold and platinum records across 35 countries, the quartet has solidified their status as musical icons.
Their Starlite Occident performance will feature stunning renditions from their new album, including international hits like ‘Hoy Tengo Ganas de Ti’, ‘Despacito’, ‘Crazy’, and ‘No Tengo Nada’, alongside an original
composition, ‘Despertar Sin Ti’. It should be an unforgettable evening brimming with emotional depth, musical brilliance, and the signature magic that defines Il Divo.
Tickets for the concert at Starlite Occident in Marbella are available now at Starlite Marbella. Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration of two decades of musical excellence.
The event at Starlite, Cantera de Nagüeles, Marbella, starts with doors opening at 8pm, and Il Divo stage at 10pm. Tickets, priced from €89 on the Starlite website.
Chelo Lebanese restaurant, Aloha.
Il Divo on stage in Porto.
TUCKED away just off the scenic road to Mijas Pueblo, El Muro Mijas has become a favourite among locals and visitors. One of its greatest assets is the ample private parking available on-site, a rare and valuable feature in this part of the Costa del Sol that allows guests to arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy their meal without the typical parking hassle.
The atmosphere is cosy yet elegant, with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and coast. It’s no wonder the restaurant is often full, especially on weekends, which is why it is highly advisable to book in advance so you don’t miss the chance to experience it firsthand. The restaurant is also
proud to be fully accessible for guests with reduced mobility.
One of the standout moments of the week is Sunday lunch. El Muro Mijas’ Sunday roast,
served from 1.00pm, has earned a loyal following thanks to its generous portions, quality ingredients and excellent value. The experience is elevated by live music starting around 2.00pm, often featuring the smooth swing sounds of
of soul to a laid-back afternoon.
During the summer months, the restaurant truly comes alive in the evenings. Every Friday and Saturday night, guests can enjoy live music while dining under
the stars. These summer per-
the stars. These summer performances have included local favourites like singer-songwriter Toni-leigha Dempsey or the energetic Peet Rothwell among others. The combination of good food, service with a smile and great live music creates an atmosphere that captures the spirit of an Andalucian summer.
With a stunning setting, consistently praised cuisine, and a seasonal live music lineup that brings warmth and energy to weekend nights, El Muro Mijas offers a dining experience that blends convenience, flavour and ambiance in all the right ways. Whether you’re planning a relaxed Sunday lunch or a lively summer evening, it’s worth every visit.
Darren Paul, who adds just the right touch
Scorpions Still Rock…
For Now
by Kirk Blows
GERMAN rockers Scorpions drew on all their experience in a bid to carve their name into the Marbella quarry that provides the location for the latest Starlite Occident festival with a thunderous set on Monday, July 21.
After 5,000 shows, the veteran quintet have earned the right to celebrate their history, with this tour billed as their 60th anniversary.
In songs such as ‘Bad Boys Running Wild’, ‘Loving You Sunday Morning’ and ‘Coast To Coast’, they proved they still have plenty of power.
And fans of a certain vintage will have appreciated the mid-1970s medley of ‘Top Of The Bill’/‘Steamrock Fever’/‘Speedy’s Coming’/‘Catch Your Train’, although it’s later ballads such as ‘Wind Of Change’ and ‘Send Me An Angel’ that have attracted a more mainstream audience.
Emphasising one’s longevity can be a double-sided coin, however, for while guitarists Rudolph Schenker and Matthias Jabs keep the fire burning, diminutive, 77-year-old frontman Klaus Meine was clearly struggling.
Indeed, he told the crowd, “You’re singing much better than me tonight.”
The band closed their set with an encore of ‘Blackout’ and ‘Rock You Like A Hurricane’, with a giant scorpion providing the theatrical backdrop.
Klaus may have ‘Rock & Roll Forever’ on his jacket but, for a band with a wonderful legacy, the finishing line surely can’t be too far away.
Street culture
BENALMADENA is celebrating another year of ‘Cultura en la calle’ (Culture in the street) until August 8, which will be structured around four main themes from Tuesday to Friday and feature 12 diverse and entertaining activities.
Tuesdays will offer family-friendly openair cinema screenings at Los Nadales and Malapesquera Beach.
Wednesdays will present concerts with a mix of jazz and Cuban rhythms at venues like Parque de la Paloma and Castillo El Bil Bil.
Thursdays will bring contemporary circus performances and magic shows for families at locations such as Pueblosol. Fridays will conclude each week with flamenco performances by artists including Rafael Vílchez, Isabel Guerrero, and Andrés Cansino at plazas like Andalucía, Tribuna, and Castillo El Bil Bil.
The programme of events started on Tuesday, July 22, at 10pm with a screening of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire at Los Nadales.
The next day, Yailo Beltrán y los Fuera de Serie will perform at Parque de la Paloma at the same time. The first week continues with the Stars Circus Gala on July 24 at 9pm at Adolfo Suárez Square and a flamenco performance by Rafael Vílchez’s company on July 25 at 10pm at Andalucía Square. Launched in 2016, the programme has become a cultural hallmark for the Costa del Sol and Malaga Province, as a complement to the town’s sun, sea and sand tourism.
Singer Klaus Meine, guitarists.
SOCIALSCENE II euroweeklynews.com
Street theatre
AFTER a roaring success with the local community in 2024, San Pedro Alcantara will celebrate its Performing Arts Month from July 31 to August 20, offering free, family-friendly outdoor performances in public spaces. The festival’s top show will be a performance by comedian Wilbur, a star of the Spanish television show Grand Prix. The event has been described as a ‘much-loved fixture in the local cultural calendar, featuring a diverse programme of theatre, circus, dance, flamenco, and live music’ that has ‘accessible, high-quality outdoor performances that invigorate the community and strengthen cultural identity’. The event is part organised by the Andalucian Public Theatre Network.
The festival kicks off on July 31 at 8.30pm with Kimera by La Banda Teatro Circo at the Las Cañas del Bulevar Monument. On August 7 at 10pm, Empaque by Chicharrón, a mix of flamenco and circus, will take place at the Bulevar amphitheatre. Urban dance by Mariana Collado and Lucio Baglivo (Butaca 13 Producciones) follows on August 3 at 8.30pm at the Paseo Marítimo near La Salida beach. On August 20 at 8.30pm, Curolles will perform Tot Bé, featuring a unique spinning top act, at Plaza de la Libertad. The festival finishes up on August 26 at 8.30pm with Piensa en Wilbur by Plan A. Producciones at the Bulevar amphitheatre. All shows are open to the public and are free of charge.
Hello Lionel Richie
MUSIC legend Lionel Richie is performing at Marenostrum Fuengirola on Friday, July 25, as part of his European tour, Say Hello to the Hits.
The Grammy, Oscar, and Golden Globe-winning artist, loved for classics like Hello, All Night Long, Say You, Say Me, and We Are the World, will bring his groundbreaking production to one of only five exclusive shows in Spain.
With more than 125 million records sold worldwide, Richie’s performance at the Escenario Unicaja, in the grounds of Castillo Sohail, will be one of the pinnacles of the 2025 Marenostrum Festival. The concert starts at 10pm, with gates opening at 8pm at the venue in Fuengirola. Tickets have been available since October and can be purchased via mare nostrumfuengirola.com, Live Nation.es, vivaticket.es, and elcorteingles.es
Prices range from €75 to €150 for general admission standing, €200 to €300 for premium standing front stage, and €1,200 for VIP boxes for up to six people, which include personalised service, VIP access, two parking spaces, a welcome bottle of Champagne, and premium bar service. VIP box reservations are available at vip@
marenostrumfuengirola.es
Fresh from his Sing a Song
All Night Long tour with Earth, Wind & Fire and his Las Vegas residency, Richie’s performance will celebrate his four-decade career, made more popular by his American Idol tenure and the Emmy-nominated documentary The Greatest Night in Pop.
Kimera show by Banda Teatrocirco.
All Night Long with Lionel Richie.
La Sierra Hawaiian BBQ
DUST off your Hawaiian shirts and prepare for a sizzling evening at La Sierra Restaurant’s Elvis Hawaiian BBQ Night on Saturday, July 26, at Cerrado del Águila Golf and Resort.
Starting at 8pm, the tropical bash will have you crooning like the King himself. Featuring Ricky Lavazza along with special guests Eva Lloyd and Emma Luisa, the night will be rock-a-hula with Elvis tunes and hip-swinging island energy. For €35, guests will be welcomed with cava and canapés, followed by a barbecue feast worthy of the Memphis king himself.
Diners can savour a BBQ mixed grill with
chicken churrasco, half a rack of ribs, English sausage, four chicken wings, jacket potato, corn on the cob, coleslaw, and salad. For a lighter option, choose the grilled tuna steak with new potatoes and vierge sauce, or the vegetarian grilled courgette rolls with ricotta and a tomato-basil sauce. Dessert offers a choice of chocolate fondant with vanilla ice cream or Eton mess with fresh strawberries. Reserve early, as this will sell out. Claim your seats by calling 951 741 990 or messaging 627 164 168 on WhatsApp. The event is taking place at La Sierra Restaurante, Cerrado del Águila Golf and Resort, Avenida Maria Civiero S/N, Mijas.
Soul power
MAMA CATH and the Soul Sisters take centre stage at El Mojito on Thursday, July 24, delivering a dynamic tribute to The Commitments, classic soul, and Motown. Look forward to a night of powerful vocals and classic hits that capture the essence of these iconic sounds, performed with the group’s typical energy and a dance floor filled with groovers.
Loved by all on the Costa del Sol, Mama Cath and the Soul Sisters have built a strong following for their authentic and spirited per-
formances. The concert at El Mojito, a well-loved Torremolinos venue, promises to be an amazing night this summer.
The show starts at 8pm, with doors opening at 7pm. It’s free to enter, but the cocktails are not. Join the crowd for an unforgettable evening of soulful music. El Mojito can be
found on Calle Bulto 80, Torremolinos.
El Mojito is a British entertainment bar with food served all day, 11am to 9pm. There is entertainment most nights starting at 9.30pm and a lovely sunny terrace to sit and watch the world go by and a large indoor area with a games room.
Ricky Lavazza as Elvis at La Sierra
Mama Cath and the Soul Sisters.
Will Smith at Starlite
FOUR-TIME GRAMMY AWARD-winning artist
Will Smith will perform at the Starlite Festival in Marbella on July 26 offering a unique show with limited tickets still available. The evening includes a discussion on his upcoming music, creative process, and illustrious career, culminating in a grand musical performance.
Smith’s multifaceted career spans four decades, encompassing acting, music, stand-up, and entrepreneurship. He has earned prestigious accolades, including an Academy Award, four Grammy Awards, a SAG Award, a BAFTA, and an NAACP Award. His impact across genres is undeniable.
Rising to fame with DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince in the early 90s,
Smith won Grammys for hits like ‘Parents Just Don’t Understand’ and ‘Summertime’. His solo career produced chart-topping tracks like ‘Men in Black’ and ‘Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It’, with platinum albums Big Willie Style and Willennium. Beyond music, Smith excels as a media entrepreneur and bestselling author.
Recently, he returned to music with the single
‘You Can Make It’ and debuted ‘Work of Art’ at the La Velada del Año IV boxing event in Madrid, joined by collaborators Russ Smith and his son, Jaden Smith.
The event at Starlite, Cantera de Nagüeles, Marbella, starts with doors opening at 8pm, and Smith takes the stage at 10pm. Tickets, priced between €98 and €249, are available on the Starlite website.
Street operetta
ESTEPONA’S Plaza de Ajedrez will come alive on July 25 and 26 with the ‘City of Estepona’ Lyric Festival and free performances of the much-loved zarzuela operettas The Barber of Seville and La Revoltosa.
The event will feature works by renowned composers Gerónimo Giménez, Manuel Nieto, and Ruperto Chapí, offering passers-by and those enjoying the terraces a chance to delight in these historic cultural marvels at no cost.
The Malaga-based
Teatro Lírico Andaluz, under the direction of Pablo Prados, will perform both zarzuelas on Friday, July 25, and Saturday, July 26, at 10pm completely free of charge.
The Barber of Seville, a one-act zarzuela, which is divided into three scenes, features a libretto by Guillermo Perrín y Vico and Miguel de Palacios, with music by Gerónimo Giménez and Manuel Nieto. It originally premiered at Madrid’s Teatro de la Zarzuela on February 5, 1901.
La Revoltosa, a oneact sainete lírico with a libretto by José López Silva and Carlos Fernández Shaw and music by Ruperto Chapí, is considered a pinnacle of the género chico (little generation). It debuted at Madrid’s Teatro Apolo on November 25, 1897. Librettos will be distributed free of charge on the nights.
The mini festival on the streets of Estepona promises to be an enchanting weekend of music and theatre in the heart of Estepona.
La Revoltosa by Teatro Lírico Andaluz. Credit: TLA
Will Smith on stage.
From Freddie ABBA to
LA SALA Puerto Banus is thrilled to announce a spectacular line-up of five tribute evenings this August, all taking place in the intimate Live Lounge.
The series kicks off on Tuesday, August 5 with The Murs to Mars Show, a high-energy tribute featuring chart-topping hits from Olly Murs, Ed Sheeran, Justin Timberlake, Rag’n’Bone Man, and Bruno Mars. This show is a must-see for fans of contemporary pop, tickets €12 per person.
On Tuesday, August 12, guests can enjoy Queen Supreme: The Ultimate Tribute to Freddie Mercury. This electrifying performance captures the essence of Queen’s legendary frontman, in a night filled with unforgettable music, passion, and power. Tickets are €12 per person.
ABBA Tribute. Featuring classic hits such as Mamma Mia, Dancing Queen, and Thank You For The Music. Tickets also €12 per person.
Fans of Britpop won’t want to miss Oasis Live’ 25 Tribute, on Thursday, August 21. Relive the magic of one of the UK’s most iconic bands as they perform the anthems that defined a generation. Tickets are €10 per person.
On Monday, August 25 it’s a truly unique evening with the Cher & Neil Diamond Tribute.
Two legendary artists are celebrated in one night. Tickets for this show are €10 per person.
On Monday, August 18, it’s time to channel your inner dancing queen with Gimme, Gimme, Gimme - An
Guests are encouraged to arrive between 7pm and 7.30pm to enjoy dining from La Sala’s extensive A La Carte menu before the entertainment begins at 9pm.
To book your spot for the best tribute nights in Marbella contact La Sala at: reservations@LaSalaBanus.com, call 952 814 145 or book online.
Sami James, Elviria Free comedy theatre
THE 39th Mijas Theatre Festival, which runs from Thursday, July 24 to Sunday, July 27, at the Municipal Auditorium in Mijas Pueblo, will be an exciting lineup of free, open-air performances for a cooling summer evening. Among the highlights are two fun shows by the acclaimed theatre group Yllana, who will be presenting humour, music, and a little social commentary.
Opening the festival on July 24, Yllana presents Trash!, an energetic and imaginative show which explores the theme of recycling through percussion, movement, and comedy. Set in a recycling centre, four quirky workers transform everyday waste, such as gas canisters, umbrellas, balls, toolboxes, horns, and rubbish bags, into dazzling musical numbers brimming with wit. The performance invites audiences to reflect on society’s overconsumption while at the same time they deliver a contagious, family-friendly show.
On July 26, Yllana returns with War Baby, a sharp anti-war comedy that
combines their typical slapstick comedy and witty storytelling. The production continues the festival’s theme of mixing entertainment with thought-provoking social critique.
The festival, one of Andalucia’s longest-running theatre events, also features A Small Story with Héctor Alterio on July 25 and closes with A Pound of Flesh, a local adaptation of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, on July 27. All performances are free until capacity is reached, offering broad access to a cultural celebration. Don’t miss Yllana’s infectious creativity at this year’s Mijas Theatre Festival.
COSTA DEL SOL native Sami James will lift audiences with a live performance at Ona Amanda Club in Elviria, Marbella, on Saturday, July 26.
The Estepona-based singer-songwriter, known for his seductive mix of indie pop and rock, promises an unforgettable evening featuring original tracks and well-loved classic covers.
Born in Malaga in 1989 to British and Argentinian parents, Sami began his musical journey at 14, teaching himself guitar. Inspired by icons like Oasis, The Police, and Fleetwood Mac, he sharpened his skills at Brighton’s music college before returning to Spain.
His genre-defying sound, described as ‘rock with restraint, pop with depth’, has won
over fans throughout all of Andalucia.
Sami is getting big as a solo artist and has upcoming recording work with producer Eliot Kennedy of Take That fame. Also with his duo, The Blue Sky, and as a member of The Rabbit Holes, a four-piece band set to release a new album in 2026. His latest EP, Spiritual Malady, remixed by Eliot Kennedy and
released in December, 2024, has been celebrated for its poignant, heartfelt lyrics.
Don’t miss this chance to witness Sami’s urban poetry and raw talent at Ona Amanda Club, a vibrant showcase of Costa del Sol’s homegrown star. Ona Amanda Club is located at Km 192, N-340, Elviria, Marbella.
Cast from Trash!
Credit: Yllana
Sami James performing solo.
Battle of the bands
ON Friday, July 26, at 6pm, the Boulevard Auditorium in San Pedro Alcántara hosts the 11th Battle of the Bands, Spain’s largest children’s rock festival, organised by Rock Factory. Featuring 46 bands, mostly young musicians aged eight - 18 from Costa del Sol, the event showcases impressive musical and stage talents. More than a competition, it’s a family-friendly festival with live raffles, prizes like musical instruments, and gifts from sponsors.
bouncy castles for kids. This year introduces enhanced audiovisual and lighting production. Hosted by Miguel Ángel González (Mimosín) and co-host María Shislo, the event features backstage interviews, challenges, and live connections to capture the excitement.
Attendees can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with attractions including a food stall by La Bocatería, an artistic creativity tent by Arte Sonsoles, a virtual reality zone by Área VR, a drinks bar, and
A jury, including Safety Last with Vince Baills from Euro Weekly News and Mutación from Parauta, will judge performances and award top acts. Entry is free but with limited capacity, so early arrival is advised. The Battle of the Bands is a unique, educational, and thrilling event, blending musical training, culture, and community, providing a platform for Europe’s future musical stars.
Love to Sing Choir
THE Love to Sing Choir has closed its spring/ summer season with a wonderful charity BBQ fundraiser in Valle Romano in aid of AFESOL - the local charity dedicated to helping those with mental health is-
sues and their families along the coast. During the season the choir raised in total €850 with its local concerts at the Mirador del Carmen Auditorium, outside the Orchidarium in Estepona and at the Internatio-
nal Residents Day held annually at Castillo de Duquesa.
With a busy autumn and winter season ahead, the choir is putting a ‘call out’ to local singers that would be interested in joining the community choir - especially for bass singers. If you can sing, live in the Costa del Sol area full time and are dedicated to weekly rehearsals and performing for charity fundraisers, the Love to Sing Choir will be holding an ‘open evening’ on Wednesday, September 28 from 7pm at its weekly rehearsal studios in Sabanillas. Please contact Maggie on +34 628 163 977 or email lovetosing choirmanilva@gmail. com for further details. Come and join the choir all who ‘Love to Sing’ and help raise awareness for local charities and raise much needed funds.
