Enough of spinning DJs, progressive tunes, and clubbers crowding the dance floor. For once, let's switch to a live band. If you're asking, “Why go to a live band performance while people are going to a rave party?” then you've never been to Centerstage.

At the lobby of the Hard Rock Hotel, Bali, Centerstage is indeed one of a kind. While other hotels either have a classical piano or an acoustic guitar player in their lobbies, Hard Rock Hotel distinguishes itself by getting a live band. No cozy sofas where you can sit and read the morning paper while sipping a strong, freshly-brewed espresso. More like a museum of Rock ‘n Roll than a hotel lobby, Centerstage boasts of its rare music memorabilia, like Madonna's all black outfit complete with her infamous pointed bra (she is a trendsetter, of course) from her Like a Virgin Tour way back in the 80's; Elton John's avant garde lime yellow suit complete with his diamond-encrusted glasses; and a suit from The Beatles (I believe it was Paul Mc Cartney's). Adding to the rock vibe are a display of guitars signed by famous rock stars and two drum sets mounted on the wall (one was Motley Crew's and the other was Guns ‘n Roses').

A 360-degree stage in the middle of the bar is also something you won't see everyday. See the action from all angles! Centerstage lives up to the Hard Rock Hotel's “The Leading Entertainment Hotel” catch-phrase. There's no need to become in-house guests to enjoy the bar, as it's open to the public. No meeting gorgeous fellows or doing dance floor moves however; all you can do is sit on the bar and get yourself a drink!

Centerstage's regular performers, such as the Siluet Band, are among the best in Bali. To maintain variety, the bar changes its lineup every two months. The bands start playing from 8:30 pm until midnight. Not all groups play rock; some play R&B, hip hop, and even current chart-toppers. Being inside a hotel, the sounds are set rather low, as these might reverberate through the rooms.

The friendly service is another reason to enjoy an evening at the Centerstage. Be a little more patient though during special nights (Girls Night Out on Wednesdays), as crowds start pouring in by 9 pm. Besides having a special treat for girls (a 50 percent discount on selected drinks), patrons get to enjoy dance performances on the side. Drinks are nicely done here. Centerstage even has a special promotion wherein you can bring home the bar's hurricane glass.

Expect to shell out more money here than in a usual bar, as a four star hotel's tax and service charges apply.

Let's switch from a dance floor to a rockin' live performance, shall we?

Pantai Banjar Mas, Kuta, Bali, Indonesia
Tel: +62 361 761 869