Young Hearts Run Free

Never let it be said that good things don’t come out of absolutely tragic heartbreak. Case in point: Romeo and Juliet. Very sad tale, Shakespeare was quite adept at spinning them, wasn’t he?

BUT. Here’s the good thing to come out of that. HOTA, also known as Home of the Arts, is hosting what’s sure to be an absolutely incredible masquerade-ball slash rock show and you should absolutely buy a ticket right this minute.

It’s the ultimate in 90s nostalgia with the entire soundtrack (from the movie obvs) brought to life by an epic lineup of musicians, performers and special guests, followed immediately by a 1997 DJ set.

It’s the greatest thing to hit the Gold Coast since, well, maybe ever actually and we will be there with glitter and those long cigarette holder things and masks and we are oh so excited.

ALSO masks because it’s a masquerade ball guys. What. A. Time.

All your favourites from one of the best soundtracks of all time will be on show including bands like The Cardigans. Radiohead. Everclear. Garbage. Desree. Butthole Surfers. The kid with the voice on the Prince song. And some other songs you somehow know all the words to.

Can you believe it’s been over 20 years since Baz Luhrmann turned the greatest love story ever told into the greatest soundtrack ever sold? Neither, but no doubt there’ll be big old sing-alongs aplenty.

Performers on the night include Patience Hodgson, known and loved as the lead vocalist from indie rock band The Grates (amazing) plus alternative Gold Coast pop singer, Rhea Robertson, also joins the party to sing the iconic track Love Fool (her voice is life-changing).

Brisbane band, Dubmarine, will join us with their unique blend of dub, dancehall, reggae, drum and bass and vocalists Billie Weston and DKazman are sure to give us an unforgettable evening thanks to their high-powered and energetic style of performance.

Singer-songwriter, musician and co-creator of the show, Tom Dickins, will lead the night with his velvety yet bittersweet voice and heartfelt ballads along with Abby Dobson of Australian pop-band Leonardo’s Bride, singer/songwriter Cash Savage, captivating Brisbane artist Airling and last but definitely not least, Greg Chiapello of Brisbane’s rich indie music scene, is bringing to life the epic Romeo + Juliet soundtrack.

It’s going to be one of the most magical nights the Gold Coast has ever seen.

Grab your finest, trashiest 90s masquerade garb and get yourself a ticket because Young Hearts Run Free is a night to absolutely not be missed.

LOCATION: HOTA Outdoor Stage, 135 Bundall Rd, Bundall
WHEN: June 1st from 7pm

Words by Kirra Smith