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HOTA CELEBRATES ONE YEAR AS HOME OF THE ARTS

Announcement posted by HOTA 07 Feb 2019

Celebrating a milestone, HOTA reflects on the year that was, twelve months after unveiling their new name as the Home of the Arts.
In early 2018, HOTA unveiled their new name, brand and launched their spectacular outdoor stage after more than 30 years as the Arts Centre; signifying it was time for a new vibe in the arts precinct.
 
A line up of big-name artists and a huge program of exhibitions and events over the past 12 months ensured HOTA made a significant impact on the Gold Coast’s arts and culture scene, as the centrepiece of the city’s cultural masterplan.
 
Within the first year as HOTA, they presented sell out concerts in their new purpose-built $37.5 million open-air venue by superstar Tim Minchin and music icon, Neil Finn; a residency by legendary avant-garde artist, Laurie Anderson; a night with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra; a pop opera by superstars, Il Divo; and an unforgettable dance party with Ministry of Sound: Orchestrated.
 
Selling over 275,000 tickets and welcoming more than 146,000 visitors to the cinema, HOTA hosted performances by Circa, Sydney Dance, Ross Noble, Opera Queensland, Monkey Baa, Shake & Stir, Arj Barker, Anh Do and Nick Barker to name a few.
 
HOTA was also the centre point of various community events and school holiday activity, with their popular Kids Take Over mini-fests. Additionally, the Gallery played host to twelve exhibitions, showcasing works by more than 534 artists and was visited by more than 38,600 people.
 
HOTA CEO Criena Gehrke expressed that the Home of the Arts is making its mark on the Gold Coast and they have big plans for 2019.
 
“This past year we’ve been excited to roll out a fresh, new approach to our programming and are delighted that the Gold Coast has embraced our new direction. There’s a really vibrant creative scene here and people have high expectations,” she said.
 
“You can expect more big things from us this year. We plan to keep the surprises coming with more unexpected art in our beautiful parklands, and plenty of amazing events for everyone.”
 
HOTA worked with more than 400 local artists and creatives in 2018, joining forces with Bleach Festival, the Gold Coast Film Festival, The Farm and Storyfest, reinforcing their mission to collaborate and share resources to make big things happen for the city. 
 
“As an arts and culture hub for the Gold Coast, we will continue to shape this space and keep artists at the heart of what we do.”
 
“From employing local artists, commissioning work and providing new opportunities through our Creative Development Program, we will continue to ensure that there are opportunities available for all creatives,” Criena said.
 
In 2019, a new green bridge will connect the precinct to Chevron Island, and in early 2021, the highly anticipated HOTA Gallery will open its doors with a host of world-class international standard exhibitions.
 
For more information on HOTA, Home of the Arts or their 2019 program go to: www.hota.com.au

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Amy Stalinescu | M10 Collective
M: 0411 789 195 E: amy@m10.com.au