Idea strikes chord with students
BAMBOO Restaurant and Lounge Bar Kingscliff is supporting budding musical talent.
Kingscliff High School Year 10 music students Tom Martin and Eliza Klatt have been playing at the venue for the past three Friday nights.
Manager Craig Robertson said it was a good way to improve his winter business and student confidence.
"It's generally a guitarist and a singer that we have here each Friday so far," Mr Robertson said.
"They tend to do covers, like last week's performance in which Pink Floyd featured.
"It's good in a way that we haven't been too busy because it would have been daunting for the students."
Mr Robertson said the arrangement resulted from "brainstorming" by the restaurant's staff to bring in more diners during the off-season.
"And everyone likes live music, especially if there's kids playing.
"I contacted the high school and they thought it was a good idea.
"It's been up to the students to market themselves by making up little flyers to distribute throughout the area."
School head of creative arts Robyn Ludeke said Tom and Eliza were lucky to have gained the opportunity.
"They've loved it and I think it can take them to a different level, being out there in the community.
"It will definitely improve their confidence, performance levels and consistency."
She said "over many years" the school's music, dance and drama had a high focus on performance.
"But I think this is the first time we've worked with a local restaurant on a performance basis."
The students perform each Friday from 6-7.30pm at the 9 Dianella Dr restaurant.
