Kevin Fraser Park LOCAL wine connoisseur, Nicky Lloyd, who runs her own wine tour business, has agreed to conduct a wine tasting for Age Concern Marbella & San Pedro Branch at the Social and Activity Centre in San Pedro on Thursday February 22 at 6pm. The event includes: five different wines, a tasting template, a tasting booklet with information about all the wines with space to write notes on each, bread sticks, a cheese platter, a cured meats platter. Especially for Age Concern, Nicky has organised this for only €25 per person. Spaces are limited to 20 and payment is required in advance. Spaces will be allocated
Photo: Rawpixel CC / Kelly Ishmael
Wine Tasting...
on a first come, first served basis. Please book quickly by email to info@ ageconcernmarbella. com with your name and number of places required. Payment can be made: using credit or debit card using the Age Concern Paypal page; at the Centre on a Monday between 11am and 1pm or by
direct transfer to their bank account at - Asociacion Age Concern Marbella-San Pedro, IBAN - ES15 0081 2097 6700 0125 3229. For all payments please put ‘Wine & your name’ in the Notes/Reference field. Age Concern Marbella and San Pedro is keen to tackle the loneliness many suffer in their later years in
Valentine extravaganza
Photo: ARCH and Shutterstock / Rita Kochmarjova
TOPS or The Occasional Performance Society is a group of like minded people who like to get together to arrange events and put on shows to raise money for charity. Each year they choose different charities and then work all year to help them. Of course, the charity work is foremost, but they do love to entertain as well. And their first event of 2024 will be on Saturday February
10 at 8pm at Alhaurin Golf Clubhouse. Entertainment will be supplied by live band ‘Deja Vu’, the TOPS singers, and DJ ‘AI’. Tickets are €12 or €10 for TOPS members. All proceeds go to horse rescue charity ARCH whose mission is to provide the best care and rehabilitation for abandoned and abused horses. The charity works hard every day to offer these animals a better life. They
rely heavily on donations to cover the costs of rescuing and transporting animals to the Centre, giving them veterinary care and proper feeding in rehabilitation, and helping to meet the legal costs involved in prosecuting abusive owners. They could not exist without your support. For tickets call 627 293 609 or email the TOPS box office boxofficefortops@ gmail.com.
Spain, without their families here to take care of them. They hold coffee mornings at different locations to make it easy for anyone to attend in their local area.
Photo: pxhere CC
Carnival make-up
THE Youth Department of Fuengirola Town Hall has organised a free Carnival make-up workshop, aimed at young people aged 12 to 37, which will take place on Saturday February 10 from 11am to 1pm, in the Colores de Los Boliches building. “On the occasion of the Carnival festivities, the Department of Youth has organised a make-up workshop which is aimed at young people living in Fuengirola,” said councillor Isaac Vargas, adding that, “participants in this activity will learn simple make-up tricks to have a great time at the carnival. What is carnival without the perfect face to complement the costume?
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Love
Fuengirola
Photo: José Antonio Merchán
Oil and acrylics
Kevin Fraser Park THE Casa de Las Tejerinas in Estepona is hosting the first exhibition of paintings by José Antonio Merchán. The exhibition will open on Friday February 9 at 6.30pm and will be open to the public until February 21, with free admission. The exhibition of paintings ‘Óleos y Acrílicos’ by José Antonio Merchán will be inaugurated in Room 2 of the Casa de Las Tejerinas, located in the Plaza de las Flores. José Anto-
nio Merchán considers himself a self-taught painter who, “is learning with each of his works”. His paintings range from acrylics to oils, charcoals and watercolours. In this, his first exhibition, the painter is showing a total of 18 works of different formats and themes, such as portraits, landscapes and emblematic buildings like Malaga Cathedral and the Alhambra, among others. José Antonio Merchán Martín was born in the Malaga town of
Yunquera in 1977 and he currently lives in San Luis de Sabinillas. From an early age, when he was only 10 years old, he was fascinated by the painting of a neighbour from Yunquera, whom he liked to go and see. Since then, his hobby grew and, over the years, his paintings improved. The exhibition can be visited until February 21, from Tuesday to Friday, from 9am to 8pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 2pm and from 4pm to 8pm, free of charge.
‘VIVE Fuengirola con Amor’ (Live Fuengirola with Love) has programmed more than 20 events to liven up the town from February 12 to 18. The mayor, Ana Mula, accompanied by the councillor for Festivities, Isabel Moreno, presented the celebration, which will bring together various leisure, sporting and cultural events for all ages with the aim of commemorating Valentine’s Day in all the town’s neighbourhoods. More than 30 local businesses have joined this initiative. “Fuengirola is a lively town all year round; cheerful, open and dynamic. Many citizens from other places come here attracted by that and this, in turn, benefits our local economy,” said the mayor. It is an event that started in 2020
to promote economic activity in the area during this time of year when the town registers fewer visitors. The businesses involved in this initiative will also contribute by organising different activities individually or jointly and offering promotions and discounts on their services or products. “The aim is to continue to show that Fuengirola is a place to have a good time and to celebrate love in all its expressions. There will be music, magic, children’s theatre, sports, parades, cooking competitions and parties for singles, among other activities,” said Ana Mula. The full programme can be consulted on the town hall website
euroweeklynews.com II SOCIALSCENE Kevin Fraser Park THE Palacio de la Paz in Fuengirola is the venue for the concert ‘A Valentine’s Day with Orbis’ on Friday February 16. This musical show, which will take place at 8pm is free of charge and is part of the programme of activities of the Department of Culture of the town hall of Fuengirola.
A Valentine’s concert “The second musical event, which will be held at the Palacio de la Paz in February, is called ‘A Valentine’s Day with Orbis’ and will be performed by the Orbis Symphony Orchestra,” explained councillor Rodrigo Romero, adding that the Orbis Cultural Association’s maxim has always been, “to bring culture closer to society, always seeking to attract new audiences to the con-
cert halls.” The orchestra has put together a programme with works from the most eloquent and vibrant post-romanticism through composers such as Mahler, Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov, to Gabriel Bussi, a contemporary composer whose Symphonic Poem ‘Let’s Follow the Path’ will be performed for the first time. This musical perfor-
El Oceano reopens THE El Oceano hotel and restaurant reopens on Friday March 29 in time for easter and, on Good Friday Zing Duo will perform and then Johnny Baker will entertain you on Saturday March 30. Zing Duo’s style of music ranges from laid-back acoustic sets to the best pop, soul and Motown party classics, including today’s chart hits. They also have Italian and Spanish songs in their repertoire. Zing are two accomplished musicians, having performed in stadiums, theatres and the best venues around the world. This friendly duo consists of Gillian on saxophone and Carmine on keyboards. Both sing lead and backing vocals. Johnny Baker is one of the most po-
mance will feature the following repertoire: Tchaikovsky: Romeo & Juliet Fantasy Overture, TH.42; Elgar: Salut D ‘Amour; Mahler: Symphony No. 5 in C-Sharp Minor: IV. Adagietto. Sehr langsam; Torroba: Luisa Fernanda. “From this peaceful corner of Madrid’; Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 2: III. Adagio; Rimsky-Korsakov: Sheherazade Op. 35: The Young Prince and Princess; and Puccini: La bohème, Act I: ‘O soave fanciulla’.
Photo: Facebook / Johnny Baker
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pular artists on the Costa del Sol. Join El Oceano regular, the amazing Johnny Baker, the pianist brings smooth tunes during the meal, then some getup-and-dance classics when you’re ready to hit the dancefloor. Born in London, Johnny has been entertaining audiences for over 30 years in many countries around the world. Now living in Marbella for the past 15 years, Johnny continues to be the resident pianist at El Oceano Beach Hotel. An amazing menu and a great party atmosphere are guaranteed at El Oceano Beachfront Restaurant. Book your table now at the website: oceanohotel.com.
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Chili Pepes
Photo: Facebook / Chili Pepes
Michael Carrington LOUIE LOUIE in Estepona is the venue on Friday February 9 at 11pm to see one of the best Red Hot Chili peppers tribute bands - Chili Pepes. The band pays tribute to one of the most important Funk/ Rock bands in history: the famous Red Hot Chilli Peppers, active since 1983.
Their powerful live show will teleport the audience for a few hours to California with the most faithful live performance to the Angelinos that you can find. In 2023, Dani, Pepe, Rubén and Paco celebrated a decade in the music business, and their repertoire includes the classics ‘Under The Bridge’, ‘Give it Away’, ‘Other Side’ and ‘Californication’, to
name just a few. The real Red Hot Chili Peppers were formed in Los Angeles in the 1980s and are still active today with the original vocalist and bassist, Anthony Kiedis and Michael Flea, who were joined in 1988 by drummer Chad Smith and guitarist John Frusciante, although the latter left in 1992 and from 2019 to the present day.
Simply Thriving Group A WONDERFUL cruise was enjoyed by group members last week who are now keen to arrange another cruise in the spring, based on price and availability of many single cabins and embarkation at Malaga. Simply Thriving group is a very simply organised group which aims to avoid loneliness. They meet for lunch the first Thursday of each month and also enjoy an evening event every two months. There is no joining fee, no collection of money. Book whatever through the Facebook site or phone 951 313
257, turn up on the day, pay direct to the restaurant. Our next lunch is on Thursday February 8 at MerryLand in Fuengirola and the next evening event is The Elvis Experience at La Sierra which is in fact fully booked on Thursday February 22. This is a celebration of Elvis Presley who would now be 89 years old and a celebration of Val Williams’ 85th birthday, the founder of Simply Surviving in the pandemic and Simply Thriving after the pandemic.On April 23 a St George’s event is to be celebrated. Details soon. It is very sad to report the
death of Dorothy Gallagher who has lived on the coast for many years and was an enthusiastic and loyal member of Friends of the Theatre Association and later joined Simply Thriving Group. For some months Dorothy has been confined to her home and suffering a lot of pain. She was a beautiful lady loved by everyone who knew her. Her favourite night out was to enjoy the Ricky Lavazza show. We shall miss her. RIP our lovely Dorothy.
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Love is priceless
Photo: Alhaurin Town Hall
Kevin Fraser Park ALHAURÍN DE LA TORRE Town Hall has launched a new campaign on the occasion of Valentine’s Day, Tuesday February 14. With the slogan ‘Love is priceless; so is a free night’s stay in a hotel’, the initiative is open to everyone, whether in a couple or not, single, married or simply just friends. The initiative aims to encourage shopping in Alhaurin and boost the local economy at this time of year. In the words of the mayor, the businesses are welcoming this type of campaign as it gives them ‘visibility’ and helps them to promote sales.The town is holding a raffle with prizes of 10 double spa session vouchers, one hotel night for two people in a superior
room and one hotel night for two people in a premium room. The hotel where the prize is to be won is the Elba Estepona & Thalasso Spa. The campaign is open until February 14, except for bars and restaurants which are open until February 18. To participate, a minimum purchase of €15 must be made in the establishments (€30 in the case of bars and restaurants) on the weekend before or after St Valentine’s Day or on the 14th itself, and the business will give you a stamped ticket which can be inserted into the ballot box which will be installed at the town hall building. The public draw will take place between February 21 and 23 and can be followed through the social networks of the town hall.
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Music Hall
David Hart A WHIMSICAL Wonderment of Sensational Song, Dance and Showmanship will take you back to The Good Old Days at Salón Varietés Theatre in Fuengirola from Wednesday February 14 to Sunday February 18. The Great British Music Hall was a cultural phenomenon that thrived in the early Victorian era as an entertainment venue for theatre and musical acts. The popularity of the music hall made it a vital cultural and social institution embedded in British history. The music hall derives its origins from the 18th century coffee houses, saloon bars and taverns that existed across Europe. By the 1850’s music hall theatres solely dedicated to entertainment had evolved, providing a variety of acts with catchy songs and theatrical displays to entertain whilst people ate, drank and smoked. The music hall became synonymous with affordable entertainment in the Victorian era. The public were treated to a wide range of performances, from gymnastic acrobatics to singing
Photo: Simant Duo
Photo: Wikimedia CC
and dancing routines. Most people will remember music hall from TV’s ‘The Good Old Days’ which ran for 30 years on the BBC from 1953 to 1983. The audience dressed in period costume and joined in the singing. The show was compered throughout its whole run (except for the first two shows) by Leonard Sachs and, in the course of its run, featured about 2,000 performers. The Monumental Music Hall now comes to Fuengirola and shows are at 7.30pm each night apart from Sunday when the performance starts at 7pm. Tickets are available from the Theatre’s website.
Back to the 80s Michael Carrington THE Musical Duo revives the greatest hits of the 80s on their new national tour. Simant Dúo, consisting of he international trumpeter and European Culture Prize winner Rubén Simeó and the talented pianist Antonio Morant, return to the music scene with the new ‘Back to the 80s’ tour to present their third studio album, which, with the same name, was released in January. They will be stopping at Malaga on their tour, at Elcamm on Saturday
March 9 at 9pm. Tickets are available now from emotionalevents.es. Following the line of their previous and successful ‘Skyward tour’, the two virtuoso musicians will continue to demonstrate their ability to fuse genres and styles, making a tour of great international hits of the 80s. As the first preview of the new album, in November, Simant Duo premiered ‘Livin’ on a Prayer’, the timeless Bon Jovi classic that became an anthem of hope and motivation in 1986, which
now, 27 years later, the duo has reimagined, with a unique and audacious interpretation. The combination of talent, innovation and passion ensures that Simant Duo continue to make their unique mark on the contemporary music scene. The young Spaniards Rubén Simeó and Antonio Morant, together known as Simant Duo, have been working together since 2018, making recordings and performing more than 50 concerts annually.
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Photo: Pick Pik and Eddy’s Music Factory
Stage Buzz Live
Kevin Fraser Park PAUL SCOTTON and Eddy Durlacher are collaborating to launch a digital magazine in March dedicated to lovers of live music on the Costa del Sol with the idea of showcasing local bands, entertainers, singers and live music venues. On Monday February 19, they are holding a launch event at Eddy’s Music Factory in Malaga. This is the first venture of its kind:
a networking initiative for the music business here on the Costa del Sol. The purpose of the launch is to present the upcoming magazine and Eddy’s music production venue, but also to get everyone together in one place to put artists and venues together. Local TV stations will be covering the event which is being held in two sessions at 4pm and 7pm.Anyone with an interest in live music or who is
working here in the music business is invited to attend to meet each other and collaborate. Local bands are encouraged to submit articles to the magazine about their experience as a band, singer, entertainer or music promoter here on the coast. The venue owner, Eddy Durlacher, will talk about his venue as well. It’s free to attend and their will be a free drink on arrival plus tapas. See you there.
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David Hart A TOUCH OF CLASS is an amateur entertainment group and they’re ready to go for the new season. The director has been working hard designing their new 10-year anniversary show and they started rehearsing at the end of January. They really need some new members, so if you know of anybody who would be interested in joining them then tell them to get in touch via the addresses below. No experience is necessary, if you can sing, do a little dancing or just want to work backstage or making the tea, that would be great. They are a very friendly group and if you’re interested just go along to one of their rehearsal nights at St Andrews Church in Los Boliches on a Monday or Thursday starting at 5pm. Otherwise get in touch on 684 395 018 or email tocsecratary bird@gmail.com.
Photo: Facebook / La Comarca del Swing
Duquesa swings
DON’T miss this new date to see the live concert by ‘Comarca del Swing Band’ on Friday February 16 at 9pm at the Gatsby Lounge Bar, Plaza del Coral, Puerto de la Duquesa. An evening of swing, rhythm and blues and entry is free. Comarca del Swing Band is a group of swing enthusiasts (music and dance) that in 2016 was created as a non-profit Cultural Association, ‘La Comarca del Swing’. Among the dance activities offered by the association are Lindy Hop, Jazz Steps, Jive, Balboa classes and the organisation of social dances and concerts. The only requirement to be able to attend the classes is to belong to the Association by paying a registration fee of €10 and a monthly fee of €5. If you are interested in joining please contact by email lacomarcadelswing@gmail.com or go along on February 16 to the Gatsby Lounge Bar in Puerto de la Duquesa. your brains to the test on Monday February 26, Charity PUT 7.30pm at Bridges Bar in Calahonda There will be four separate quizzes: general knowledge, music, a picture quiz round and a marathon. There’s a hot buffet at €15 per Photo: FRawpixel
Photo: Facebook / TOC
A touch of class
person and to book you can call 620 786 772. The best thing is, it’s all for charity in aid of PAD (Protectora De Animales Domésticos), an animal shelter for domestic animals in Mijas. Like all charities they depend on events like this to keep going so book your space and go along to test your knowledge and raise funds at the same time.
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Craftmanship! DISCOVER the pinnacle of burger craftsmanship at MoMag Burgers & Gin, the brainchild of Magnus Morgen, nestled on the bustling Paseo Marítimo in Fuengirola. This gastronomic haven is renowned for serving up the freshest artisan burgers along the coast, offering an unparalleled culinary experience. Each burger is a masterpiece, bursting with flavours so memorable, they’ll have you eagerly planning your next visit. Magnus, hailing from Denmark, has made Spain his home for the past five years. His journey in the culinary world began with the launch of Bentleys Burgers, a family venture that enjoyed three years of success. Building on this triumph, Magnus rebranded to MOMAG, a nod to his own name, further cementing his status as the youngest Danish entrepreneur to make a mark in Spain. Located on the scenic seafront, near the castle, MOMAG Burgers & Gin is a beacon for burger aficionados. The restaurant’s popularity is evident from the long queue of patrons eagerly awaiting their turn to indulge
Photo: Momag
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in what many claim are the best burgers in town. Advance bookings are recommended to secure a spot at this coveted dining destination. The success of MOMAG is not solely attributed to its delectable burgers but also to the dedicated staff hailing from Spain, Morocco, Argentina, and Ireland. Their passion and commitment to excellence are palpable, making each dining experience truly exceptional. MOMAG isn’t just good; it’s a testament to Magnus’s genius and a reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses. Join the ranks of satisfied customers and let MOMAG Burgers & Gin redefine your burger expectation. T. 674 886 928 momagburgers.com.
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Magnificent El Muro Mijas AFTER a well deserved holiday, El Muro Restaurante in Mijas has once again opened its doors, with a few surprises in store for their customers coming in 2024! If you are looking for a dining experience that not only offers quality, international cuisine, but also breathtaking and panoramic views, look no further than El Muro Restaurante Mijas. Situated at the foothills of the mountains, their outdoor dining area offers incredible views of not only the dramatic hillsides, but also goes as far out as the Mediterranean sea, allowing diners to enjoy their meals in a stunning, picturesque setting. The rustic interior of El Muro Mijas offers a cosy and charming atmosphere that perfectly complements its natural surroundings. Stepping inside, the restaurant is adorned with warm wooden accents and rustic decor, even boasting a fireplace for those chilly winter nights, creating a welcoming ambiance for guests. The menu at El Muro represents their dedication and love for their international clientele by providing a variety of dishes from di-
fferent cuisines in their a la carte menu. However, the firm favourite is their famous Sunday roast, which consists of the traditional trimmings, all made fresh in their kitchen, which is notable due to the delicious taste and unique shaping of the unbeatable Yorkshire puddings! As mentioned, guests from all over the world have fallen in love with El Muro restaurant, and the staff are not only friendly and attentive, but also speak both English and Spanish, being passionate about ensuring that each and every guest feels cared for throughout their dining experience. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the family atmosphere at El Muro is sure to make you feel invited and at home. Both children and small dogs are permitted to enter the restaurant, and 2024 will see a brand new playground built especially for the little ones! The staff ask only that both are well behaved and at the responsibility of their carers. El Muro restaurant also offers ample parking, with space for more than 80 cars in their private car park. Access for wheelchairs
is ensured, as it is important to this welcoming restaurant that everybody feels personally invited and catered for. Coming up on February 14 is their Valentine’s Day special, where a three- course, set menu is available for a price of €40 per person. Delicious dishes, including the much loved succulent lamb shank with creamy mashed potatoes and a red wine sauce are on offer, in addition to an array of carefully selected and specialised dishes. To set the romantic ambience, live music will be performed by Ami Lloyd, who’s beautiful voice will add the perfect background to what is sure to be a magical evening for all. Due to the popularity of El Muro Mijas, booking as early as possible is recommended, and can be done online or via Facebook: EL MURO MIJAS. Alternatively, call 951 911 555 for further information, as well as all other general bookings. Please note that they also cater for private events. The restaurant is currently open Wednesday to Friday 5pm to 11pm and Saturday and Sunday 12am to 11pm. aicorestaurants.com
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Here to play! The Zona Kids Opening Party! ADVERTISING FEATURE
ZONA KIDS CAFE is officially open for fun, and they are here to play! Located in Alhaurin el Grande, this play centre and cafe is a fantastic venue for children to explore and have fun, where parents and carers can relax and enjoy refreshments while keeping an eye on their little ones. Euro Weekly News had the pleasure of attending their grand opening party on Saturday, February 3, which began
at 10am. By 11.30am, the venue was already packed, with excited children playing in every direction and adults happily drinking, eating and chatting to their neighbours. The space consists of five different and immersive play zones, including a soft play centre, a toddler’s area, a perfect princess dress-up booth, a sports pitch and a gaming zone. The cafe at Zona Kids is a game
changer for parents and carers, as it provides a convenient space for them to relax and socialise close to their children playing. The menu offered a variety of tasty options, catering to both children’s preferences and more sophisticated tastes. The pitta and hummus followed by creamy carrot cake is hard to beat. One of the highlights of this opening party was without a doubt the presence of some beloved children’s characters, which included Mickey and Minnie Mouse, the Paw Patrol squad and Pikachu! Their appearance added a touch of magic to the day, and sparked excitement in all the young attendees as they ran to greet them, hug-
ging, kissing and even dancing with the special guests, creating unforgettable memories. Zona Kids is not only a fun space for play, but will also undoubtedly be a pillar within this community. Neighbours could be heard chatting about school and recent events, whilst at the same time new connections were being made, as parents bonded over hot coffees and croissants. Euro Weekly News spoke to Jennah Bachelor, who was in attendance with her mother Michelle and son, Logan. Jennah lives locally, and explained that there are no other establishments like this in the area. “We will definitely be back!” she said,
adding that “it’s such a great place for all three of us to socialise.” Also present and happy to express her appreciation of the new venture was British grandmother Dianne, who looks after her granddaughter Lily full
time. She told EWN that: “This is a tremendous place for Lily to play while I relax over a coffee!” Zona Kids has created a wonderful and imaginative space for children to play, learn,
and socialise, and is an ideal destination for families in Alhaurin el Grande and its surrounding areas. The opening party was a resounding success, showcasing the dedication and commitment of the staff to provide a magical and memorable time for all. Zona Kids Cafe is located on Calle Gondola 2, Alhaurin El Grande and is open seven days a week from 9am to 9pm. Ninety minutes of play for children is €5 or €3.50 for under two’s. They are also available for private party hire. For bookings and further information WhatsApp +34 672 879 144. Visit their website: zonakidsparty.es.