All ages and abilities celebrated in Those Who Rock

A participatory arts and community-focused event led by internationally acclaimed artist, Joseph O’Farrell (JOF), Those Who Rock will bring together people of all ages and abilities, offering the opportunity to rock out on the big stage for the ultimate celebration of all things rock and roll.

With the callout officially open on Wednesday, April 20, community members are invited to grab a guitar and register, to join in the free community workshops from May to June across the Gold Coast.

Everyday rockstars and guitarists of all ages, experiences, and backgrounds, are invited to join JOF and his team to rehearse a set list of iconic rock anthems at the free workshops to be held in community centres across six areas of the Gold Coast – Tugun, Robina, Carrara, Runaway Bay, Helensvale and Pimpama.

The culmination will be a huge concert under the stars, featuring hundreds of our local guitarists and some of Australia’s rock music legends on HOTA’s Outdoor Stage, hosted by Australian television personality and radio presenter, Myf Warhurst.

Rockers will perform on stage with some bona fide Aussie icons, including Sarah McLeod (The Superjesus) and Dave Gleeson (The Screaming Jets).

Each guitarist group will have their moment in the spotlight, banding together to perform a song learnt throughout the workshop process.

Rock jams include ‘You’re the Voice’ by John Farnham, ‘Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again’ by The Angels, ‘Enter Sandman’ by Metallica, ‘Horses’ by Daryl Braithwaite, ‘I Love Rock’n’Roll’ by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, and ‘We Will Rock You’ by Queen.

In an epic finale, all groups will take to the stage and join forces to perform ACDC’s classic rock anthem, ‘For Those About to Rock’.

“I’ve been digging around my garage looking for that old acoustic guitar from my college days,’’ said Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate.

“It’s probably a good thing I can’t find it … my fingers aren’t shaped for guitar strings, but I’ll be front-of-stage to watch these classic jam sessions. What a fantastic event.’’

HOTA CEO, Criena Gehrke said: “Since 2018, the HOTA Outdoor Stage has hosted some incredible artists. From Ocean Alley, L.A.B., to Ministry of Sound, and our very own Amy Shark, projects like Those Who Rock will bring out the next generation of rock stars.”

“What better way to celebrate the return of live music after some undeniably difficult years for the industry – rocking out as only Gold Coasters can,” she said.

Those Who Rock Creator, JOF, said this is a one-of-a-kind event that’s only been seen once before when the concept premiered in Melbourne in 2019.

“Get your guitars ready Gold Coasters, I am so excited for everyone to experience this rocking good time and intergenerational event that is going to rock the community,” he said.

“We encourage everyone to get involved. It really doesn’t matter if you’re a complete newbie to guitar or an experienced player, our team will be there to guide the group towards an amazing show.”

“Those Who Rock is about the community, being part of a once-in-a-lifetime experience and promoting diversity, while celebrating and giving live music some glory following the pandemic,” added JOF.

Participants of all ages will need to bring their own guitars and attend a minimum of two workshops, plus a rehearsal and the main concert.

Workshops kick off on Saturday, May 28 until Sunday, June 26 and will be held at Tugun Community Centre, Robina Community Centre, Carrara Community Centre, Runaway Bay Youth Centre, Helensvale Cultural Centre and Pimpama Community Centre.

The Those Who Rock concert will be held at HOTA, Home of the Arts on Sunday, July 3 and tickets go on sale late May, with a waitlist for the concert already available on the HOTA website.

Those Who Rock is presented by HOTA, Home of the Arts and City of Gold Coast and supported by Everybody NOW!.

To find out more or sign up to get involved, visit HOTA’s website.

Media release supplied.