Back in September 2015, a group of talented gals rocked The Foundry, and Brisbabes was born. The female-focused music showcase has popped up plenty of times since then, but, sadly, all good things must come to an end After more than a year of achieving some very significant feats — aka shining a light on women in the Brissie music scene, inspiring female artists to take to the stage, sourcing some of the city's finest female-fronted acts, and just generally discrediting the idea that there's no female talent out there — Brisbabes is saying goodbye. It's a farewell for now kind of deal, but it's still an occasion worth marking in the only way possible. This time — this one last time —Pink Matter, Izadora, Jesswar and Tiana Khasi will be taking to the stage to let their talents loose, and show just why an event like this is so important. It wouldn't be a Brisbabes gig without a variety of kick-ass women doing what they do best, after all. Image: Todd O'Rourke.
You've probably heard the saying "the best laid schemes of mice and men often go awry," but do you know its history? It was coined by Scottish poet Robert Burns, and provides the name of a novella written by The Grapes of Wrath's John Steinbeck. That text has also been turned into several films and plays, which is why you probably keep coming across the titular phrase. So, quick primer over. Now, it's time to see just how those famous words come across on the stage. Brisbane Arts Theatre is kicking off their 2017 season with their take on the tale of farmer George and his pal Lennie, their depression-era dreams and the way their hopes don't always turn out as planned. Pondering friendship, kinship, kindness and more, Of Mice and Men runs from January 14 to February 18, with the cast treading the boards from Thursday to Sunday. The play itself has proven quite the hit since it first graced a New York stage in 1937 — it won best drama at the awards that preceded the Tonys, and the 2014 staging featured James Franco and Chris O'Dowd.
Think feeling nostalgic about epic songs is the only way to spend your evenings, Brisbanites? Think again. Given the trauma of 2016, showing your love for the artists we've lost is an urge we all just keep scratching. Combine it with a right royal goodbye and good riddance to the year in question, and you have the New Globe Theatre's latest event. The name RIP 2016 says all it needs to, really. In typical NG style, there'll be clips on the big screen, dancing in the aisles — and local music and cabaret talent celebrating their fallen heroes as well. That's how you farewell David Bowie, Prince, Leonard Cohen, George Michael, Alan Rickman, Carrie Fisher and more, en masse. Sadly, you know that the list of dearly departed pop culture figures that the night will honour doesn't stop there. Want more opportunities to pay tribute? Well, this is the weekend for it. RIP 2016 isn't the only shindig of its type on January 20, with a Leonard Cohen-focused evening happening over at The Brightside. Then, head to Bistrotheque on January 21 for a bit of David Bowie action.
Folks, there's a new trend in town. Just last week, Black Bear Lodge dedicated an evening to paying tribute to what just might be the greatest song of the '80s, Toto's 'Africa'. From 8pm on January 19, The Brightside are joining the fray by celebrating its '70s counterpart. Here's a hint: open your eyes, look up to the skies and see. Actually, prepare to see a little silhouetto of a man and do the Fandango, because the Queen song that just makes you want to sit in a car, sing along and bang your head back and forth (thanks Wayne's World!) is in the spotlight. Enjoying all that's great about the almost six-minute track that is 'Bohemian Rhapsody' will send shivers down your spine, but hopefully won't leave your body aching all the time. Yes, this is real life. No, it's not just a fantasy. But, you will be caught in a landslide of the song in question all night long, and there's no escape from that reality. Any way the wind blows, The Brighty promises to get their 'Bohemian Rhapsody' on at least once every 15 minutes, and only play power ballads in between. And if you want to dress up for the occasion, you can either take your cues from Freddie Mercury, Brian May and company, or Wayne Campbell and Garth Algar. Party on!
What does a world-renowned photographer snap when he's not shooting advertising campaigns for every big brand imaginable? That's the question at the heart of Time After, Maud Creative's latest exhibition, which shines a spotlight on the private works captured by Alex Buckingham. Even if you don't know Buckingham's name, you've probably seen his pieces somewhere given that he's been plying his trade since the 1970s. Smirnoff, Moet, Guinness, Tetley's, Strongbow, Carlsberg, Kelloggs, Cadbury and Nokia are just some of the companies that have used the award-winning photographer's images — and yes, the list goes on. You won't see any of that at Time After, though; instead, you'll spy intimate garden shots, still life and floral arrangements given a new look, polaroid transfers and a journey to Cuba. The exhibition first runs from November 28 to December 2, 2016, then returns for a second leg from January 25 to February 18, 2017. Image: Alex Buckingham.
On January 28, a new year begins. Forget partying all night and feeling hungover the next day, though. Chinese New Year comes with kung fu, tai chi, dragon dancing and ice carving, which all form part of Sunnybank Plaza's five-day celebration. That's how you mark entering the year of the rooster, with more fun in store as well. You'll watch lion dance performances, have a new year's message inscribed in Chinese calligraphy and discover the ancient art of vegetable carving. And to think you were always told not to play with your food. Or, why not learn how to make hand-pulled noodles? That's a skill that's certain to come in handy again and again if you're fond of whipping up a storm in the kitchen. Traditional arts and crafts will also be on display, plus Chinese silk embroidery. Given that you'll be surrounded by the city's best array of Asian cuisine, it's okay if all of the above makes you more than a little hungry.
We've found it. We've located the holy grail, the night of nights when it comes to spending a great evening out. "What's that?" you're probably wondering. Well, lets just say that as far as parties go, shindigs celebrating the launch of a new kind of beer have to be every booze-lover's favourite. No further explanation is really necessary, other than the time, place and the brew in question. From 6pm on January 25 at Alfred & Constance, Balter Brewing Co will unleash their new pilsner. Be there, or don't be among the first folks to taste it. For those not already in the know, Balter isn't your regular purveyor of yeasty beverages. The boutique operation is based on the Gold Coast, and counts three-time world surfing champ Mick Fanning among its guiding hands, along with a couple of other pros. You know how well the beach goes with beer? Well, imagine that in a can.
Pretzels. Pork knuckle. Sauerkraut. Schnapps. Steins of weissbier. They're all part of a damn fine night out in Germany, and, thanks to Brisbane's home of all things Deutschland-related, the same is true in Woolloongabba. That applies whenever the Brisbane German Club is open, and even more so on February 25. Because there ain't no party like a German party — or, es gibt keine Party wie eine deutsche Party — the Vulture Street favourite is throwing a Karneval, aka an evening of eating, drinking and fun that dates back to the middle ages. You know that the first two will be taken care of given that their menu includes the biggest range of German beers in Brisbane, plus staple foods such as schnitzel, wurst and fried potatoes. As for the latter part, expect live performances of both the music and dancing kind, which means that the one-man-band that is DJ Andrew is likely to pop up. Plus, really get into the spirit by dressing up, and you could take home a prize.
The best kinds of performances, including in the art form that is circus, make one thing happen. While you're watching wondrous feats occur before your very eyes, you completely forget the most important question: how did they do that? That's what comes with truly being immersed in the spectacle in front of you — and it is something Circa has been trying to achieve since 2004. Of course, only you can judge whether their latest effort, a collaboration with Merrigong Theatre Company called Landscape with Monsters, achieves that aim for you. However, you know it is going to do its very best to try. That starts with the concept behind director Yaron Lifschitz's physical show, which tells of a world in which post-industrial cities are in decay. Sans all of the usual apparatus usually associated with circus, the Circa crew create the magic of movement using little more than wooden boxes, a hard floor and tall metal structures — and, all set to a soundtrack that blends pop and electronic music.
For their latest evening of tunes and good times — aka most nights at The Brightside — the Valley venue is taking things outside. In fact, there's no better place to be than out in the open air on February 24, particularly if you want to see an LA-based Aussie duo do what they do best. Just what is happening at the Bag Raiders Carpark party really is all there in the name, and those four words should be enough to make you head along. Yes, Bag Raiders will be on site, spinning a DJ set. Yes, it's all taking place in the car park. Yes, it sounds like an ace start to the weekend. Here, you'll watch the sunlight fade, try to spot some shooting stars, maybe drink some fun punch and look for turbo love. Or, you could do plenty of other things that aren't inspired by a Bag Raiders track, but where's the fun in that?
In the song that helped cement his fame in the late '90s, Elliott Smith half crooned, half whispered a lyric that would go on to prove oh-so-prophetic: "I'm never gonna know you now, but I'm gonna love you anyhow". At the time, they were words of solace for anyone that hadn't had their romantic affections shared. Come 2003, when the singer-songwriter passed away, they took on a very different tenor. The track in question, 'Waltz #2 (XO)', came from his 1998 album XO; however, both sprang from a seemingly overflowing well of excellent efforts, as his short career would prove. For many fans, it all started with Either/Or in 1997. For some, it was 2000's Figure 8 that truly demonstrated his genius. Others had been listening since 1994's Roman Candle. All four, plus posthumous release From A Basement On The Hill, will get a spin at The Brightside's Elliott Smith Tribute — and, in typical tribute style, a heap of other great talents will be on hand to help. Join McKisko, Paper Hearts, Lisa Crawley, Tom Cooney, Laura Mardon, Ben Mastwyk, Tom Ware, SS.Sebastian and Megan Cooper as they mark twenty years since Either/Or's release by celebrating Smith through song.
Laser shows, live tunes, learning to make crafty wares and looking at art: they're just some of the fun on offer at southeast Queensland's newest festival. When Generate takes over the Caboolture Town Square on October 21 and 22, it'll do so with installations, outdoor galleries, roving performers, food trucks and more. Yep, it's enough to make you head north of Brisbane for the weekend. Highlights include a kaleidoscopic display of lights, Brisbane-based percussion group Soundstruck doing their stuff, belly dancing, a pair of giant headphones and a man made out of milk crates — and that's just the beginning. Throw a sculpture trail, huge photo frames just demanding to feature in your selfies, discovering how to turn t-shirts into totes and taking part in a street art workshop into the mix, and just try not to feel creative. Or entertained for that matter.
When it comes to celebrating the deliciousness of chocolate, one day a year isn't enough — but the powers that be have picked a specific date anyway. That'd be July 7, which is credited as the day that chocolate was introduced to Europe back in 1550. While you're snacking on a piece of cocoa-filled goodness, take a moment to think about the poor chocolate-less folks before then. In fact, why not do so while you're getting your dip on with some chocolate fondue? That's how the Regatta Hotel has chosen to mark the occasion. Come 4pm on Friday, they'll be slathering their courtyard with warm, runny chocolate so that you can slather it all over your tastebuds. Don't worry, it won't be all chocolate all night long — where fondue is involved, there's usually cheese, fruit and other edible non-choc items ready for plunging into the gooey hotpot as well. Still, we'd recommend eating something savoury for lunch because it's going to be quite the sweet evening.
Think opera, and a particular picture probably comes to mind; however there's more to the art form than melodic melodramas. Take Opera Queensland's latest production as an example. From July 14 to 29, they're going gothic with Ruddigore, or the Witch's Curse! — and amusing as well. An opera that combines history with hilarity, Ruddigore was penned by Gilbert & Sullivan back in the late 19th century, first performed in 1887, and ranks as the tenth of their 14 comic operas. Here, a farmer must try to escape a wicked curse — and ghosts — so that he can be with the woman he loves. Sounds like a cheeky comedic romp with just the right amount of eccentric touches, right? That's what's in store at QPAC's Playhouse under the direction of Lindy Hume. Those keen on really getting in the swing of things can also attend an opening night feast, which includes an exclusive presentation and a two-course meal. Image: Opera Queensland.
A hop, skip and jump over to France might be out of the question this Bastille Day, but a mosey on down to Madame Rouge most certainly isn't. Getting into the spirit of the occasion, they're feasting French-style all day long — and over multiple courses. Swing by for lunch at midday or drop in for dinner at 6pm, with both proving a three-dish affair. Or, hang out for a five-course degustation from 8.30pm. Each of the three options boasts its own menu, ranging from a midday array of seared scallops, steak and frites, and eclairs; to an evening meal of bouillabaisse, beef fillet with potato gratin and truffled triple-cream cheese; to plates of crispy skinned duck breast, scallops on the half shell and raspberry souffle. With meals costing between $59 to $89 per person, this serving of French delights is both affordable and delicious — and certain to prove a hit. Bookings are necessary, and, let's be honest, so is spending July 14 eating by candlelight, surrounded by thick red curtains and pretending you're in Paris.
Prepare to see red, wine lovers — and not just during a lively discussion about your favourite varietal. The Grand View Hotel's annual celebration of crimson tipples is back, packed with grapey goodness and ready to stain your lips with tell-tale colour. For five hours from midday on June 15, Red Wine Affair takes over the Cleveland pub, serving up excellent views and more than 90 wines of the burgundy-hued persuasion. While staring out over North Stradbroke Island, eager vino fans can taste as many splashes of red as they can sample from local, Australian and international wineries. If you've been looking for a new go-to bottle, you won't just find one here — you'll find several. We won't apologise if you now have 'Red Red Wine' stuck in your head; soon enough, you'll have the real thing flowing over your tastebuds. Tickets cost $40, and include a tasting glass, all those delicious sips and live entertainment, with seafood and steaks available to purchase.
When Legends Speakeasy opened its doors earlier in 2017, it did so in a cloud of mystery. In fact, if you want to drop by for a cocktail or several now, you still have to find the password first. It's a bit like Alice trying to get to Wonderland — she couldn't just waltz on in, but had to stumble across the rabbit hole. On October 8, that search will be rewarded with more than just another realm to hang out in, with the venue opening for a rare Sunday session. Feeling curiouser and curiouser? Don't be late for this very important date, with the North Quay bar holding a Mad Hatter's Tea Party to celebrate the launch of their new spring and summer cocktail menu — and their new ongoing fun on the last day of the weekend. Whether or not the beverages in question come with labels saying "drink me", that's what you should do. More themed shenanigans are certain to be on offer — and don't forget to RSVP. While entry is free, that's the only way to get the password.
Making a cup of tea is easy, right? Everyone knows the method: pop a bag into a cup, add hot water, throw in your chosen amount of milk and sugar, and then stir. That's one way of brewing up a cuppa; however there's more to this 5000-year-old beverage than that. Giving tea the kind of celebration that's usually reserved for coffee, Wandering Cooks' Tea Essentials Workshops will step you through the history of pure leaf tea, the knowledge needed to spot a good cup from an average one, and the skills to prepare and brew your own. Discover different types, styles, flavours and techniques, all over some tasty bites from Indie Treats. Consider it the most informative morning tea you'll ever have. Given that the session kicks off at 11.30am on October 1, we can technically still call it morning tea. For your $47.50 ticket price, you'll get all of the above served up with the wisdom of The Steepery's Kym Cooper — plus the main event: tea tasting.
As anyone who loves caffeinated beverages knows, not all cuppas are created equal. Indeed, there's a reason there is an entire type of beans called speciality coffee, which are grown in microclimates to create full flavours and unique tastes. And whether you can always tell the difference or your brew-loving tastebuds are now salivating at the thought of better coffee, Brisbane's newest festival is dedicated to them. Hosted by Wolff Coffee Roasters, aka a bean-loving roaster and supplier focused on providing specialty coffee to everyday coffee drinkers, the Speciality Coffee Festival promises an entire day of celebrating the very best beans and brews. Taking place at Wolff's Hendra warehouse on September 2, the free fest will showcase everything from cupping to roasting, offer up tours of the facilities, and serve up coffee in various forms. Highlights include classes and chats with Costa Rican coffee producer Alejo Castro of Volcán Azul, plenty of caffeinated goodness at the fest's specialty laneway, and food trucks galore, including That Greek Truck, Mr Burger, Wild Rissole and the coffee ice cream selling Queen of Pops. Anyone eager to get roasting themselves can pay for a two-hour roasting experience (although at $295 per person, it isn't cheap), while those keen on watching coffee experts do their best can check out the AeroPress Championships for $10, which includes free beverages and a dance off. More details are set to be announced; however it's shaping up to be the coffee fiend's equivalent of Christmas in September. The Specialty Coffee Festival also helps cap off what's proving to be a great time for firsts in Brisbane, and an ace time for devouring deliciousness as well, coming hot on the heels of Brisbane's maiden espresso martini festival and Japanese festival.
There are two types of gig-goers: those who like bands to start their sets on time, and those that are happy to see where the evening takes them. And while we're not saying that the acts gracing the stage at Oh Hello!'s Late Nite Band Nite won't commence promptly, being a bit late is what the new addition to their calendar is all about. Here, the bands start when it's usually finishing time at most gigs, which is perfect for anyone keen on live tunes to take them into the early hours. Sets kick off at 11.30pm, with local and national bands hitting the stage for some up-late action. First cabs off the rank: Landings, Hooch and Cheeki. Launching on August 11, Late Nite Band Nite will become a regular occurrence, although future dates are yet to be revealed. Tickets are free if you arrive before 11pm — with DJs setting the mood from 9.30pm — and $5 afterwards.
You've seen his films, tapped your toes at his song choices and probably bought a soundtrack or two, but have you been to a Tarantino Appreciation Night dedicated to his movie's tunes? If you're a fan, it's the evening out you've always dreamed of — and it's on offer at Black Bear Lodge on August 9. Prepare to get stuck in the middle with plenty of other QT aficionados, pretend you're whistling your way through a hospital corridor and dance like you're entering the Jack Rabbit Slims twist competition. The list of tracks likely to get a spin cuts deep, with everyone from David Bowie to Johnny Cash to Urge Overkill fitting the bill (and Madonna too, if the venue throws in artists that have earned a mention in memorable pieces of dialogue). Plus, as well as jumping through Tarantino's greatest hits, BBL will be letting the projector do its thing and serving up film-themed beverages to match. Grab your pals, give yourselves names based on primary colours and jungle boogie on down. And when we say watch your ears, Reservoir Dogs' lovers will know we're not just talking about the music's volume.
Wonder Woman and Atomic Blonde are two of 2017's best blockbusters, and there's no missing the one thing that they have in common. They're not the only stellar ladies doing great things on screen, however — and Screen Queens Movie Nights has more examples. Taking over Metro Arts' Lumen Room at regular intervals — Friday nights, and close to monthly — the screening series has its sights set on showcasing great flicks with ace female characters. Expect watchable women aplenty, and ample variety in movies, too. Teenage awakenings, a transformative love story with its own transition and magical childhood jaunt are all on the upcoming agenda, for example. On August 11, The Diary of a Teenage Girl graces the big screen once more, giving anyone who missed it the first time round a perfect cinema catch-up. September 29 sees Xavier Dolan's Laurence Anyways get a rare Brisbane screening, while Hayao Miyazaki's Spirited Away does the honours on November 3. And yes, Studio Ghibli movies seem to grace every retrospective film program around, but there's a good reason for that.
Every Friday night, in the middle of the CBD, getting crafty is as easy — in fact, it's as easy as taking a trip to the Museum of Brisbane. Whether you're eager to unwind by thrashing a couple of knitting around, or you're just keen to learn a new creative skill, Making at MoB is the end-of-week inner-city crafting session you didn't know you needed. Running until July 28, each session steps through the art of making beautiful things with your hands, with a different field covered in each class. Embrace the wonders — both fashionable and therapeutic — of crocheting, or whip up your own lace jewellery. If rustling paper is more your style, discover how to make paper cut portraits (without suffering from a paper cut yourself, ideally), or expand your mind with accordion scrapbooking. Classes kick off at 5.45pm each Friday, run for an hour, and cost $20 per session.
Five courses. Five beers. Doesn't it just sound like culinary heaven? That's what's on offer at the Suburban Social Beer Dinner, with the Chapel Hill bar and eatery joining forces with Stockade Brew Co for a delectable meal. If you've ever struggled to find the right brew to match salt and pepper calamari, coconut laksa, crispy pork belly or lemon curd tart, then you're in luck. They're all on the menu, and they'll all be paired with just the right yeasty beverage — including a jalapeno porter for fans of extra spice. Are you thinking what we're thinking? Yep, you can deem the whole evening a learning exercise — as well as an eating and drinking one, obviously — with Stockade's Anna on hand to help boost your boozy knowledge. Tickets cost $60 per person, aka more than you'd usually pay for one plate and five beers, let alone five whole courses. Bookings are essential, with only 40 seats available.
Any time is a good time to head to Noosa; however anyone needing an additional excuse will find plenty between July 21 to 30. That's when Noosa Alive! takes over the Sunshine Coast hotspot for ten days of artistic entertainment, delicious meals and all-round enjoyment — and if heading north for a spot of fun at this time of year sounds familiar, that's because the event in question was previously known as the Noosa Long Weekend Festival. Whether it's theatre, literature, music, dance, film, visual arts or cuisine that you're after, you'll find it here in the fest's first year under its new moniker, and 16th in total. And while it might seem like a tease to Brisbanites to offer up so much entertainment on the coast, we choose to take it another way: as a friendly suggestion to take a couple of days off for an extended trip. Highlights include the latest iteration of the international One-Act Play Festival, a full-scale staging of Opera Australia's The Marriage of Figaro, Queensland Ballet doing their best and Lior playing with a string quartet. There's also cabaret aplenty, a roaming seafood lunch, surfers discussing the life-changing wonders of their chosen water sport, salsa by the sea and a huge beach closing party. In other words, it's just the kind of program you'd expect at a vacation destination. Image: Noosa Alive!
If you love movies and the magic that goes into making them, it's easy to get spirited away when you head to the cinema. Come late August, however, that will definitely prove the case, because Studio Ghibli's moving castles, cat buses and cute balls of fluff are taking over screens across Brisbane. From August 24, the acclaimed and adored Japanese animation house will be floating across movie theatres thanks to a month-long Celebrate Studio Ghibli showcase. The jam-packed program spans all 22 of their gorgeous flicks plus a behind-the-scenes documentary. Yes, that means devouring everything from Hayao Miyazaki's early efforts such as Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind and Laputa: Castle in the Sky, to perennial crowd-pleasers My Neighbour Totoro and Spirited Away, to later efforts like Ponyo and The Wind Rises. Of course, while Miyazaki might've become synonymous with the studio he helped build, he's not their only filmmaking force — as doco The Kingdom of Dreams and Madness demonstrates. Ghibli's other stars also get their time to shine, with the likes of Isao Takahata' Grave of the Fireflies, Only Yesterday and The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, Tomomi Mochizuki's Ocean Waves, Hiroyuki Morita's The Cat Returns, and Gorō Miyazaki's Tales from Earthsea and From Up on Poppy Hill also on the bill. Basically, whichever Ghibli movie is your favourite, you'll get the chance to revisit it on the big screen.
Your mates at Concrete Playground know how much you guys love Nutella. Sydney went nuts over those damn Tella Ball milkshakes, Melbourne eats so much of the stuff they caused a temporary nation-wide shortage back in 2015, and Australia lost its collective shit when, last year, a toaster-shaped Nutella food truck started rolling around the country. Long story short, the food truck will be hitting the road again this month, this time embarking on a road trip from Sydney to the Sunshine Coast. We figured you'd want to hear about it — especially since all the goodies on board will be free. Alistair Fogg, the man behind Sydney's Nighthawk Diner, must have had excess Nutella lying around, because he's once again devised the menu for the food truck. This time, he'll be drizzling Nutella on crumpets, pancakes, granola, bagels, egg waffles and, most interestingly, smashed sweet potato on brioche. And, yes, it's all free — although there is a limit of only one item per customer per day, unfortunately. The 12-stop road trip begins in Sydneyon Thursday, June 22, before heading up to the Central Coast, through Newcastle, Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay and the Gold Coast before pulling up in Brisbane's Reddacliff Place on Monday, July 3. It will round out the trip in on the Sunshine Coast the day after. Find the complete list of dates, times and locations for the Nutella Road Trip at their website.
Laura Palmer said she'd see us again in 25 years. She was right — and aren't all us cherry pie-loving, damn good coffee-drinking, doughnut-stacking folks happy about it. Happy enough to head to a party celebrating all things Twin Peaks, of course. Sure, every Monday night, your living room becomes a haven revelling in David Lynch's wonderful and strange world; however, let Barbara tempt you off of your house and into theirs. Two things are on the agenda at Damn Good Coffee! A Twin Peaks Party: basking in the red-tinted glow of a show that's still like no other, even after so many years; and dressing up like you've just stepped out of the series. We're guessing that oversized lime jackets are going to be rather popular, thanks to Dougie. Or, go classic with one of Dale Cooper's trademark black suits, wrap yourself in plastic, or take along a fish in a percolator. Grab your own log, wield a gold-painted shovel, sport your best waitress uniform or find a pair of red and blue-lensed glasses — there's plenty of costume options. Expect tunes spun by Aimon Clark and Adam Hunter to set the mood, and expect plenty finger-clicking fun.
When it comes to food events, there's nothing quite like the Sunnybank $2 Food Trail. It's all there in the name, with the Brisbane suburb's shopping hub becoming a diner's delight in the most affordable fashion. Think of it as the ultimate self-guided foodie adventure, for nothing more than spare change. At your own pace, you'll walk between more than 40 participating local cafes and restaurants featuring a range of authentic Asian cuisines, with newcomers Golden Lane, Narati Noodle & Grill, Chongqing Street Food and Mr Curry joining the fun in 2017. You'll feast on Chinese, Japanese, Hong Kong-style, Vietnamese, Korean and Taiwanese dishes, and you'll only pay $2 per tasting plate. With such an array of steaming soups and sizzling stir-fries on offer, we don't recommend eating lunch first; in fact, you'd best arrive feeling as hungry as possible. Snacking on signature dishes is the main course — or several — but there's also plenty of non-edible appetisers, too. Enjoy some live music, lion dancers and roaming entertainment as you feast and wander, adding the perfect garnish to every meal by setting the mood.
Another day, another new brewery popping up in Brisbane. That's how it feels, at least, not that you'll hear us complaining. Slipstream Brewing Co are the latest beer-making folks helping quench our boozy thirst, setting up shop in Yeerongpilly — via a quick pitstop in Milton. They're saying hello to the world in a rather fitting manner: a good ol' fashioned tap takeover at The Scratch. From 5pm on June 8, the Park Road dive bar will be oozing their tipples, with a rye pale ale, XPA, Vermont-style IPA, German pilsner and American brown ale all available. But wait, there's more — yes, more than however many brews you can sip. A bunch of growlers and squealers will be given away, complete with vouchers to ensure you can fill them up at Slipstream. Now there's something to say cheers to.
When you go to the theatre, you often seen it in two specific modes. First, it's a blank canvas waiting to come alive. Then, it's a place where absolutely anything could happen (and does). You watch, you're entertained — and then the curtain closes, and the venue seemingly goes back to normal. It's a bit of magic happening right before your eyes, but what about all of the bits and pieces that help contribute to the theatrical wonder? Dramatic Imaginations shines a spotlight not only on the process of staging a performance, but on the sketches, notes, set models, costume designs and finished outfits needed too. Alongside production photographs of the finished words, as well as other objects drawn from both the QPAC Museum collection and private collections, the three-month-long exhibition highlights the ingenuity, resourcefulness, skill and creativity (and yes, that's just another word for imagination) behind making great theatre.
If there's a silver lining to the far-from-fun year that has been 2016, at least as far as music icons are concerned, it's that tragedy is always met with many a tribute. So, just as the late, great Leonard Cohen has joined the list of artists that the last twelve months have claimed, he's also the latest to receive a public outpouring of love in concert form. The Songs of Leonard Cohen will gather a bunch of Brisbane musicians to honour the influential figure, and invite as much of Brissie as can fit into the New Globe Theatre to watch. Everybody knows that it's a must-attend gig. Everybody also knows that 'Hallelujah' will pop up more than once. Here, tonight will be fine — and hey, that is the way to say goodbye. Tuxedo Kitten, Dave di Marco, SS Sebastian, Bones Fogarty, Karen Anderson, The Wicked Messenger and more will help, at what's certain to be a heartfelt evening. Image: Takahiro Kyono.
D'you know the great thing about hit new films or TV shows that take their cues from great movies or programs from a few decades ago — other than being enjoyable in their own right, that is? They're likely to inspire you to dig through your DVD collection or head to your favourite streaming service and feast on a heap of beloved classics. Take any buddy comedy made since 1989, for example. If they haven't made you want to re-watch Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, then we don't know what will. And if you are craving some time with the time travelling duo, Crowbar has you covered at their regular Wednesday evening pizza, movies and beer shindig. Eat, watch, drink and enjoy the acting talents of a young Keanu before he became a surfing FBI agent in Point Break, navigated The Matrix or shot everything in sight in John Wick. Enjoy reliving a highlight of everyone's childhoods, too. The booze is just a bonus.
For some, the end of year means Christmas, shopping and planning for the next year. For highschoolers, if often means another tradition. They're finishing school and having a party to celebrate — and for everyone who's already been there and done that, the Brightside is putting their spin on the classic coming-of-age shindig by throwing their yearly prom. Yes, it's back. Yes, it's the excuse you need each to party like you've just finished school. So frock up in your finest, fanciest attire, collect your date in style and then prepare to make some memories. You'll do all of the above dancing the night away, pulling faces in the photobooth, smooching in the kissing booth, wearing free bowties and roses, and drinking lovesick bucket cocktails. Masketta Fall, Glory Days and Josh Setterfield will provide the live soundtrack, and make sure you stay until midnight, as that's when 2016 Brightside prom king and queen will be crowned.
We've all been talking about curds and whey since we heard our first nursery rhyme; however actually doing something with them is a completely different thing. Sure, you've eaten cheese and yoghurt plenty of times before — but have you actually made them? Wouldn't you like to? Enter Work-Shop's Cheese and Yoghurt Making Workshop, aka the path to a full fridge and a happy stomach. After learning all the ins and outs of your favourite dairy products and how they come to fruition, you'll taste test more than a few, watch a pot-set yoghurt demo, make some labneh and even take some concoctions home with you. Plus, with Sydney-based artisan cheese maker Kristen Allan as your guide, you're certain to pick up the kind of knowledge that you can't just read on the internet. With her help, you'll be sitting on a tuffet eating your own dairy delights in no time. Yes, this class is guaranteed to be cheesy in the best kind of way. Image: Anita Peeples.
Think you've seen every underdog sports movie there is? Think again. The Golden Globe-nominated, Academy Award-shortlisted The Fencer doesn't quite thrust and parry its way into new territory, but it still does much more than offer an Estonian-set answer to The Mighty Ducks, or swap bobsleds for fencing foils. It's with tones of beige and grey that The Fencer tells its tale, made up of familiar components. Indeed, as a champion seeks a new life in a small town, largely by instructing eager students in the titular pastime, there's no escaping the been-there, done-that vibe that matches the film's colouring. And yet, feel-good sports films are typically shinier and more spirited as they work their way towards the uplifting outcome the audience knows is coming. Tempering Finnish director Klaus Härö's addition to the genre is the shadow of reality, with the film's narrative ripped from the plight of a man fleeing Soviet persecution in '50s-era Estonia. Part against-the-odds drama, part portrait of life after wartime, The Fencer doesn't attempt to brighten up the story of Endel Nelis (Märt Avandi). Instead, it offers a faithful depiction of a dark chapter in his life, coupled with hard-earned slivers of hope for viewers to hang on to. The bland shades that fill the film's frames reflect its quest to recreate a period and setting; however, emotionally, they couldn't be more fitting. Working with a script by first-timer Anna Heinämaa, Härö is keen to emphasise the dull drudgery that surrounds Endel in a place where fear or blind allegiance have become the only modes of thinking. The town is stifled, wearied and lifeless, and it's reflected in the film's visual palette. When Nelis takes a job as a sports teacher in Haapsalu, he's feeling much the same — and the way that his new headmaster (Hendrik Toompere) dismisses his fondness for fencing doesn't help. Add the fact that he's neither keen on children nor eager to get to know anyone, and he seems set for a dire time in hiding. Then he decides to start a weekend sports club, and is pleasantly surprised by the significant turnout. Standout pupils Marta (Liisa Koppel) and Jaan (Joonas Koff) prove particularly enthusiastic, welcoming the escape from their own respective troubles, and eventually pleading to participate in a national tournament in Leningrad. Despite its historical basis, there's little in The Fencer that doesn't play out as expected, but don't discount the impact a predictable tale can have when it's couched in empathetic performances and built from small, intimate moments. Even when the film threatens to overplay its hand — which is unsurprisingly often given the combination of a brooding protagonist, endearing kids, enduring hardship and a sporting competition — it still infuses recognisable scenes with intimacy and earnest affection. Here, seemingly simple exchanges between characters say more than clichéd training montages and climactic contests ever could.
What's the sign of a truly great film? We're glad you asked. If a movie feels different every time you watch it, reveals new depths and treasures, or lends itself to endless fresh interpretations, you've hit the jackpot. Now, we all know that Stanley Kubrick did just that when he made perhaps the best sci-fi flick ever, 2001: A Space Odyssey. And, even if you have somehow managed not to see it yet, we all know that it's a big screen experience for many, many reasons. What we don't know is what 2001: A Space Odyssey — The 2017 System Cut will be like. No one does. The one-night-only event brings HAL, Dave and a revelatory journey through outer space to the New Globe Theatre with a re-interpreted score performed live by Brisbane band Three Point, a pre-film prologue performance by Benice, and a matching light show. Cinephiles and first-timers alike, you'd best open the pod bay doors and discover a classic the way that nobody else could've imagined.
Four days after the world lost an inspirational actress, writer and mental health advocate — and after a galaxy far, far away lost a general and a princess — fans have been gathering to pay tribute to Carrie Fisher in the brightest way possible. Lightsaber vigils have become common occurrences at movie theatres around the globe, and now it's New Farm Cinemas' turn to honour the memory of the Star Wars star. From 6pm on December 31, Jedis of all ages are invited to head to the Brunswick Street venue in their best franchise-appropriate costume, and brandishing their favourite plastic glowing lightsaber. The vigil will take place before a screening of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, but everyone is welcome — and we all know that the force will be strong at this event. Whether you were inspired by Princess Leia's no-nonsense attitude, have fond memories of Fisher being part of Drop Dead Fred, loved her books or recently caught her work on sitcom Catastrophe, here's your chance to commemorate her legacy. For those keen to see a film while they're there, New Farm Cinemas is offering $10 tickets all day (excluding Gold Room screenings).
Low. Slow. When it comes to meat, they're two of the best words in the English language. They're also what Hawthorne-based outfit Barbecue Mafia is all about — and they're putting on the event to prove it. Welcome to their latest Saturday meat-fest: Got Beef! There's one thing on offer here, and lots of it, as smoked over ironbark and oak all day long. Expect all the brisket you can eat, because that's what Barbecue Mafia is selling from 5pm until 9pm — or until sold out. And, it'll all be cooked for at least twelve hours. Hungry? Of course you are — and knowing exactly what's in store is only going to make that worse. For the first time at their east-side HQ, burgers will be the main attraction, with those juicy morsels getting all flipped, grilled and gobbled up ay $15 a pop. Expect beef brisket cheeseburgers, beef brisket Mafia Mac burgers and beef brisket cartel burgers, aka a trifecta of the three "b"s. If ribs are more your thing, expect smoked beef short ribs too, which comes with a slaw plate for $25. After all, we all need vegetables at some point.
If there's one thing that's better than being surrounded by shiny, pretty festive decorations, it's eating shiny, pretty, festively-decorated edible items. Even the biggest grinch can agree on that (just don't let them steal all of the tasty wares). At Work-Shop's latest food-focused session, there'll be plenty of treats worth coveting. Even better: you'll be making them. Sarah Gan from Ugly Food & Co will be on hand to show you how to do the most important job there is. Piping bags and icing mix at the ready. If you've been harbouring creative Christmas designs and haven't had an outlet for them, here's your chance — and if you just want to royally slather seven different cookies, here's your chance as well. At the end of the two-hour class, you'll have a batch of goodies that'll be good enough to give as a gift. As always, giving them to yourself still counts.
If you're looking for the shindig to end all shindigs this weekend, don't just head to the Valley — hop aboard the Hogwarts Express. Or pretend to, complete with all the Harry Potter costumes such a journey needs. Yes, the Brightside is once again celebrating a certain boy wizard, his wondrous world, and the books and films that defined many a childhood. Of course, their latest Harry Potter Party is a grown-up affair, complete with buckets of Butterbeer. The music certainly won't be kiddie stuff, with Pridelands and Diamond Construct in charge of the tunes. Apart from drinking and dressing up — which everyone does, so consider yourself warned — there's plenty of other potty party fun to be had. Play quidditch pong, grab some free HP glasses, find out whether the sorting hat thinks you're a Gryffindor or a Hufflepuff, don a deathly hallows tattoo and just generally magic the night away. It really does sound enchanting, doesn't it?
Sometimes, life gives you ladders. Sometimes, it brings you snakes. At The Mustard Seed's Board Game Play-Off, you can expect both — and yes, we're talking about the game. Luring all game lovers to Woollongabba from 3pm on December 10, the event is exactly what it sounds like: an excuse to find go (without going directly to jail), move pawns around a board, ask who is in the library with the candlestick, and discover just why those hippos are so hungry. Or, ponder whatever other questions your favourite game inspires. This is the kind of get-together where bringing your own along with you is heartily encouraged. Afternoon tea will be provided, and while the event is free, registration is required. And if we can offer a tip, the real game of champions is Uno. It fits in your pocket, it's a great multi-player option, and you know you just want to make your BFFs draw four just when they think they've got the round stitched up. Go on, admit it. Image: Lou Levit.
Choose life. Choose celebrating a movie that defined the '90s, made Ewan McGregor a star and instantly made everyone's favourite flicks of all time list. Choose spending 2017 revelling in all things Trainspotting. Film fans already have long-awaited sequel T2: Trainspotting (which is scheduled for a February release) to look forward to, and now theatre fans in Brisbane can choose something else: Trainspotting Live. Choose 75 minutes of intense, immersive page-to-stage antics, as based on Irvine Welsh's 1993 novel about Edinburgh heroin addicts, and first adapted for the theatre in the UK back in 1995. Yes, that means that Harry Gibson's award-winning original stage version was written before Danny Boyle's iconic 1996 movie — and you haven't really experienced the story of Renton, Begbie, Sick Boy and company until you've seen it acted out, live and in person, right in front of you. Transporting its all-Scottish cast and their distinctive accents to Brisbane Powerhouse from April 19 to 22, Trainspotting Live does more than that — it also brings the audience into the show, starting with an extended rave, and even including the infamous 'Worst Toilet in Scotland' scene. It's no wonder that the production has been selling out shows in London, and earning rave reviews for its no-holds-barred approach. The fact that it's being staged by In Your Face Theatre should give you an indication of what you're in for. Welsh — that is, the man who literally wrote the book, plus a sequel, prequel and Begbie-focused spin-off, and recently floated the idea of a TV adaptation — called Trainspotting Live the "best way to experience Trainspotting", in case you needed any more convincing. Just don't go confusing it with the BBC television program of the same name, which is actually about looking at railways.
Matthew McConaughey has been called quite a few things over the course of his career, but understated isn't often one of them. Whether he's grinning in one of the many rom-coms on his resume, gyrating in Magic Mike, or claiming that time is a flat circle in True Detective, he's the kind of actor that tends to make his presence known. But while that still proves the case in civil war drama Free State of Jones, what's most noticeable about McConaughey's efforts here isn't what he does, but what he doesn't do. As a conscripted Confederate medic who decides to desert his post, his portrayal here is far less flashy than we're used to. Of course, McConaughey's approach to playing real-life figure Newton Knight suits the movie he's in: a lengthy, slow-moving drama that's eager to stress the importance of its little-known true tale. If McConaughey displays a much more restrained brand of his usual charm, it's because writer-director Gary Ross (The Hunger Games) is determined to make the film as solemn as possible. Unfortunately, in doing so, the end result feels rather bland. Tired of seeing soldiers put their lives on the line for a cause that rewards the rich, Knight heads home to Mississippi while the conflict still rages. He's quickly labelled a deserter, hunted by the army and forced to hide out in swampland in Jones County – events that fuel his rebellion not just against the war and slavery, but against the government's excessive taxation of local farms. As word of his crusade spreads, others join his fight, sparking a new battle for equality between opposing factions of the Confederacy. Cue all the expected speeches about freedom and fairness, in a film that endeavours to highlight the varying levels of injustice and disillusionment that continue to haunt the United States to this day. And yet, though it does just that, there's no mistaking Free State of Jones' comfortable, cautious perspective. As Knight bands together with runaway slaves and falls for the kindly Rachel (Gugu Mbatha-Raw), the film remains content to focus on what these developments say about its hero. The words 'white saviour' aren't uttered, but they'll definitely pop into your mind. Given that Ross plays it safe with his story, and tasks McConaughey with doing the same with his performance, it's hardly surprising that the film looks the same as it feels. Knight and his fellow characters might get muddy and bloody, but there's little that's untidy about the way the decidedly muted movie is put together. Here, a polished but decidedly mediocre narrative gets an aesthetic to match, and proves all the less powerful for it. That many of Free State of Jones' most interesting details are conveyed as text on screen says plenty about the finished film.
The Stores might seem as though it's been part of West End for quite some time; however it's only been a year since the artisan food suppliers opened their doors. Notching up 365 days of trading at their Montague Road base can only mean one thing, though. You guessed it: it's party time. To celebrate the occasion, owner/operators Peter and Melinda Schulte are eager to share the secrets behind their popular endeavour. Throwing what's now become an annual Provenance Fare, they've invited the families behind some of their locally sourced products to come and spread the love. Yep, it's a day of makers and merriment, with the folks responsible for Yagaburne Beef, Ballandean Wines, Coolana Olives and SeatonFire Chilli Chocolate just some of the producers slated to attend. They join a bill filled with cooking demonstrations, tastings, barbecues and live music. Sounds like a pretty great way to mark a first birthday.
Brisbane has many claims to fame, and doubling as New York in the forthcoming Thor: Ragnarok is only one of them. Yep, before the city was known for being a Hemsworth-Hiddleston haven, it was known for plenty of things — such as pumping out video games like Fruit Ninja. That sounds like something worth celebrating, doesn't it? And isn't something as great and vibrant as Brissie's bustling game development industry worth honouring, too? The folks at the Brisbane International Game Developers Association certainly think so, which is why've they're heading to Brisbane Powerhouse for a day of home-grown gaming fun. Game On is the end result: a one-day pop-up exhibition of some of the fine titles made by local studios. Find out more about games as diverse as Ninja Pizza Girl, Assault Android Cactus and Steppy Pants, chat to talented people behind them, and even play one or more. It's the next best thing to spending all day in an arcade — and it's free.
If heading to a multiplex doesn't sound like your idea of a good time, then maybe the Institute of Modern Art's latest initiative does. At Green Screen, fans of experimental film and artistic performance will find a combination of both, featuring at both IMA and a range of off-site venues between September and December. First cab off the rank is Judy Watson's the names of places, a research-based mapping of Aboriginal massacre sites across the country. Launching with an opening event on September 10 and screening until October 8, the project is also participatory, asking anyone who might have any knowledge of the topic to contribute. Then, on September 17, Caitlin Franzmann, Dale Gorfinkel and Ross Manning offer something completely different: a selection of shorts curated by Queensland Film Festival's John Edmond, plus an accompanying audiovisual performance tied to artistic thinking and linked to artefacts from a 19th century warehouse found in Red Hill. Consider it a taste of what's to come, with a larger visual installation part of Green Screen's October lineup. And as for the exact details of the short film program that will roll out in November — well, that's a "watch this space" (or keep an eye on the IMA website for the next program announcements) kind of deal.
It was the scary sensation of 1999; a documentary-style freak-out that audiences were led to believe was real. A low-budget hit that reignited faux found-footage as an inexpensive but successful method of frightening filmgoers, without The Blair Witch Project, Paranormal Activity and a spate of other imitators might never have existed. And while the original movie already spawned one follow-up back in 2000, it was really only a matter of time before a new sequel wandered out of the woods and back into cinemas. You could be forgiven for not knowing much about Blair Witch, however. Filmed in secret under a fake name, its true nature was only revealed in July. Other than the involvement of director Adam Wingard and writer Simon Barrett (aka the folks behind playful horror effort You're Next and stylish action thriller The Guest) this initial misdirection is arguably the most intriguing part of a film that knows it has big shoes to fill, and tries to do so as faithfully as possible. Blair Witch treads a familiar path quite literally, sending a new group of camera-wielding college students back into the Black Hills Forest, albeit with some updated tech. For James Donahue (James Allen McCune), the creepy camping trip is personal, since it was his older sister Heather who disappeared in the original film. When his life-long quest to find out what happened leads him to an online video posted by fellow interested parties Lane (Wes Robinson) and Talia (Valorie Curry), he rounds up his pals Lisa (Callie Hernandez), Ashley (Corbin Reid) and Peter (Brandon Scott) to head off in search of answers. Decking everyone out with earpiece cameras and a short-range drone, Lisa films their trip for a class project. The on-screen characters mightn't expect the series of events that follows, but audiences certainly will. Immersed in their haunted surroundings, the crew soon starts hearing strange noises and begin to spy spooky stick figures suspended from the trees. When they inevitably try to flee, they end up getting lost and start walking around in circles. And yet, while Blair Witch mightn't chart new narrative ground as it constantly nods to its predecessor, it does conjure the requisite bumps and jumps. The range of visual sources at the film's disposal certainly helps, with Wingard employing urgent, erratic point-of-view shots, as well as lingering glimpses of the sea of trees captured by drone camera from above. Re-teaming with The Guest cinematographer Robby Baumgartner, enlisting seasoned television editor Louis Cioffi, and composing the score himself, where Wingard fares best is in evoking an unnerving mood. It doesn't always matter that you can see where the story is headed if you remain uneasy and anxious in the moment, with the sound design particularly unsettling. However that still only takes Blair Witch so far. When the third act drops its atmospheric ambiguity for more overt shocks, the movie suffers. Obvious dialogue and by-the-numbers performances likewise dull an otherwise effective rehash.
It's the typical culinary conundrum: sometimes, your taste buds are just screaming out for dishes from a few different restaurants. If you're in Brisbane, perhaps you feel like some French-leaning fare from Restaurant Two followed by a taste of Japan's best from Saké? Or maybe you want to munch on the much awarded and applauded goodness that is Esquire and Urbane's respective menus, one after the other? Thanks to a trio of local foodies, now you can (yet again). In fact, you can enjoy meals from all four — aka some of the city's best degustation places — at one event. If you missed it back in June, the unique eating experience is called Bite Sip Stroll after the European style of dining out. There, indulging in a plate at one place and then a drink at another, and just wandering between eateries in general, is a common occurrence. Basically, it's a moving feast of cuisine and wine pairings, as well as a brief walking tour of Brissie's best inner-city, river-adjacent spots. You'll pay $119 per head for the privilege, but when are you ever going to have a lunch like this again? Tickets are limited, so we suggest getting yours as quick as you can.
The weather might be heating up in sunny Queensland, but that doesn't mean you can't all spend a day pretending you're somewhere much, much cooler. How does an imaginary visit to Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Estonia and Iceland sound? All you need to do is head along to the Scandinavian Festival Brisbane. Now in its fifth year, the annual showcase of countries with colder climates offers a smorgasbord of authentic food, entertainment and shopping that'll make you think you're on the other side of the world. Yes, the festival does include two of the things Scandinavian nations are best known for: Ikea and Lego. It also includes more than 50 stalls serving up Swedish pastries, Finnish recycled products, Nordic homewares and other goodies, plus traditional folk dancing and music. There's even a Viking painting studio, which might be designed for younger patrons, but we think the young at heart count too.
