From Team America: World Police to Avenue Q to The Happytime Murders, puppets have long stopped being innocent pieces of wood or felt. Sometimes that works out hilariously, and sometimes it doesn't — but newcomer Umami Mermaids might just have the most intriguing and out-there puppet comedy concept there is. In Anna Straker's world-premiere show across September 18–22, mutated mermaids are looking for revenge in a post-apocalyptic realm. Gothic meets gore, fairy tales meet feminism, and Brisbane Festival ensures you'll never look at characters fashioned out of fabric the same way again. All performances take place at La Boite, and after the session on Wednesday, September 19, you can also enjoy a conversation about the production.
Over the past few months, many Australians have been working from home, which means many of us are have been leaning on our bar carts a little more than usual. This has lead to a level of experimentation — whether that's ordering in cocktails, trying our hand at making our own fancy drinks or getting some fun wines delivered. Another way you could get creative is by ordering a bottle of Unico Zelo's yuzu vermouth. The tasty child of Adelaide Hills winery Unico Zelo and sister distillery Applewood, this second batch of untraditional (but ever-so-tasty) vermouth is made from a combination of Adelaide Hills merlot grapes, some native Australian botanicals (usually used to make Applewood's Okar bitter amaro) and yuzu from Mountain Yuzu — a 20-acre farm located in northeast Victoria, on the foothills of the Australian Alps. As you can see, its an all-Australian affair, unlike a lot of traditional vermouths, which are made in Italy and France. Eco-minded founders and winemakers Laura and Brendan Carter are committed to using native botanicals and sustainably produced grapes in their entire range of wines and spirits, aiming to create products that truly taste Aussie as. As it's not a traditional sweet vermouth — it's really quite far from it — we forgive you for not knowing exactly how to drink it. But, thankfully, we've done some testing for you. On the rocks? Yep. Instead of sweet vermouth in a negroni? Do it. With a splash of soda? Definitely. If you want something a little fancier, the Unico team has a couple of cocktail suggestions for you. Try your hand at the Natty-Cano, a spin on an americano, but with pét-nat instead of soda water. To make it, mix 45-millilitres of Unico Yuzu, 15-millilitres of Økar Island Bitter (or Campari) and 120-millilitres of pét-nat in a highball glass and garnish with an orange twist. Unico (the parent company of Unico Zelo and Applewood) has also been steadily dropping a heap of other exciting spirits throughout the year, too, including a pretty-in-pink coral gin. All of Unico's limited releases only available in very small batches, so if you want it, don't wait on it. Unico's Yuzu Vermouth is available to purchase via the website from Friday, July 17. Priced at $34.99 per bottle.
To see The Drums in concert is to enter into a frenetic hip shaking haze for a few hours. Once it's over you might not know exactly what happened to you. One minute you were casually sipping your beer, the next you were in amongst the crowd with limbs flailing, challenging lead singer Jonathan Pierce to a dance off. So is the genius of The Drums. It's all oh-so-simple but oh-so-fun. The impressive success of 'Let's Go Surfing' is prime example of The Drum's infectious 1950s bopping beats. Even if you've never set foot on a surf board in your life, you're jiving and whistling with them all the way to the beach. But the now three piece Brooklyn band have proved to be so much more than the trendy surf genre they were partly responsible for reviving. Last year's hits 'Forever and Ever Amen,' 'Best Friend' and 'Me and the Moon' from their self titled debut album headed in a more soulful direction, away from the beach and into the big and serious smoke. The Drums are now heading to some of Australia's big smokes - Brisbane included - as part of Groovin The Moo. You can catch their live show and contagious dancing disease at The Hi-fi this Wednesday.
Thirty films, four weeks and more famous faces than you can dream of — that's what to expect from this year's MINI British Film Festival. Reading through the fest's lineup is like scrolling through a who's who of English talent, with Helen Mirren, Ian McKellen, Dev Patel, Tilda Swinton, Hugh Laurie, Kristin Scott Thomas, Bill Nighy, Keira Knightley, Timothy Spall, Peter Capaldi, Gwendoline Christie, Kate Beckinsale, Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones and even Liam Gallagher all set to grace Brisbane cinema screens between October 30–November 24. While Kristin Scott Thomas will lead the way in war-set opening night drama Military Wives, legends Mirren and McKellen will help close out the festival in thriller The Good Liar. Meanwhile, outspoken Oasis frontman gets the documentary treatment in Liam Gallagher: As It Was, and The Theory of Everything's Redmayne and Jones reunite for a high-flying adventure in The Aeronauts. The list goes on — and if you're already feeling spoiled for choice, we're here to help by picking out our four must-see highlights. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysjwg-MnZao SORRY WE MISSED YOU When Ken Loach won the Cannes Film Festival's coveted Palme d'Or for 2016's I, Daniel Blake, he did so with a moving social-realist drama that exposed the cruelty underpinning a standard facet of British life. That's the veteran director's speciality, so it should come as no surprise that his latest film follows in the same footsteps — or that it's just as astute and stirring. Swapping government benefits for the gig economy, Sorry We Missed You follows ex-construction worker Ricky (Kris Hitchen) as he leaps into the courier business, thinking that'll provide security for his family's future. Instead, he discovers the gruelling reality of impossible targets, zero benefits, uncaring corporations, spiralling debts and working around the clock. Shot with Loach's usual naturalistic eye, this timely and topical movie proves as impassioned and infuriating as its stellar predecessor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbhAt1vLxXA A GUIDE TO SECOND DATE SEX George MacKay is one of Britain's rising acting talents, with standout roles in For Those In Peril, Pride, Captain Fantastic, and 11.22.63 to prove it. Soon, he'll be seen in the upcoming Australian drama True History of the Kelly Gang — playing Ned Kelly, no less — but before that, he's jumping into the romantic comedy realm. In A Guide to Second Date Sex, MacKay plays Ryan. On his second date with Laura (Alexandra Roach), he knows that they have plenty in common; however, they're both still feeling more than a little awkward. First-time director Rachel Hirons adapted this screenplay from her own hit Edinburgh Fringe Festival play. Embracing, unpacking and subverting all the usual dating and rom-com tropes, this is classic British comedy territory. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVwbeA4Ff9Y CITIZEN K From the collapse of enormous corporations to huge political sex scandals and CIA-sanctioned torture, Alex Gibney has chronicled the big stories of the past two decades. Sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, Julian Assange's Wikileaks, Lance Armstrong's doping ban and the Church of Scientology have all fallen into his purview as well, with the American documentarian amassing quite the hard-hitting resume. With Citizen K, he dives into a topic he was bound to cover: Vladimir Putin's Russia, the country's murky political realm and the fate awaiting anyone who speaks out against the powerful president. Focusing on Mikhail Khodorkovsky, Citizen K tracks the Russian businessman's journey from wealthy oligarch to prisoner to "the Kremlin's leading critic-in-exile". As the most fascinating tales are, it's the kind of story that has to be seen to be believed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gm17B-nOgZ8 FARMING How does a Briton with Nigerian ancestry end up in a white supremacist gang? That's the tale that Farming tells. The title refers to a practice common in the 60s, 70s and 80s when babies were fostered out to white parents in the hopes that they'd receive a better upbringing. In Enitan's (Damson Idris) case, growing up in Tilbury leaves him questioning his identity, feeling like an outcast with both his foster family and his natural family, and seeking approval from the hateful skinheads who openly taunt, bully, beat and condemn him. It's a confronting and compelling story, especially given that it's based on the life of actor-turned-writer and director Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje — who has featured in everything from Oz, Lost and Game of Thrones to The Bourne Identity, Thor: The Dark World and Suicide Squad over the past two decades. The MINI British Film Festival will take place at Brisbane's Palace Barracks and Palace James Street from October 30–November 24. For more information, visit the festival website.
Guzman y Gomez is no stranger to Brisbane — but when it opens a new store, it still hosts a big celebration. With the Mexican chain launching its latest outpost at Valley Metro on Brunswick Street in Fortitude Valley, it's marking the occasion with $5 specials on Tuesday, November 17. Taking place in-store, the $5 promotion applies to burritos and bowls — so you can choose whichever one your stomach prefers. The offer is available all day, too, from opening till close. Yes, that means you can decide to have burritos for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. Like everything this year, this is a COVID-19-safe affair. So, while you can expect to have company, you'll also be asked to maintain social distancing.
Sh*t Robot really isn't as shit as he claims to be. His seductive electronic melodies can make almost anyone feel like a sexy super model. I often find myself thinking I'm swathing down a catwalk upon hearing 'Take 'Em up.' An honest, musical-induced mistake I swear. The man underneath the cardboard robot mask is Marcus Lambkin, a 40 year old Irish born, New York native with a knack for DJ partnerships (he's besties with James Murphy of LCD Sound System and Alexis Taylor of Hot Chip) and a deal with DFA Records. He's also shit-hot at creating electronic tracks of his own with his album Cradle to the Rave, which was lauded as one of 2010's best house music albums. Sh*t Robot is now set to grace us with his up-beat presence as part of an Australian tour. He'll be making you girls and boys dance at Alloneword on Easter Saturday (yes something to do on the Easter Weekend!) along with resident Elsewhere DJ Audun and one half of the Rio Lobotomy duo, Adam Hunter. Just be careful not to strut too much – it can be addictive. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Fyw0Ypg92Lk
This weekend, the country's best First Nations musicians will come together for the 2020 National Indigenous Music Awards. Taking over TV screens, mobiles and social feeds, the annual music awards will be live-broadcast across NITV, Double J, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube from 7pm AEST on Saturday, August 8. And there'll be quite a few special guests making an appearance, too. For the awards part of the evening, the country's best musicians will be battling out across seven categories: song of the year, album of the year, film clip of the year, community clip of the year, new talent of the year, Indigenous language awards and, the big 'un, artist of the year. Electric Fields, Emily Wurramara, Jessica Mauboy, Mau Power, Thelma Plum and Baker Boy (who's back to potentially snag the prize two years running) are up for artist, while film clip contenders include 'House Fyre' by Briggs featuring Tim Minchin, Dallas Woods' 'If It Glitters It's Gold' and 'Drowning' by Miiesha. In between announcing winners, there'll be shows from the likes of Archie Roach, Thelma Plum and Mau Power, as well as a special performance of 'My Island Home' by songwriter Neil Murray and Christine Anu, in tribute to the song's original performers, the Warumpi Band. The one and only Midnight Oil will also be making an appearance. The Aussie rockers are back — with new music, no less. They'll be performing 'Gadigal Land' — their first new song in almost two decades — off their new mini album The Makarrata Project. The band is donating its share of profits from the project to organisations raising awareness about The Uluru Statement from The Heart. While you're waiting for the awards on Saturday, you can listen to NIMAs 2020 Spotify playlist over here. [caption id="attachment_778722" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Electric Fields[/caption] NIMA will be live-broadcast across NITV, Double J, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube from 7pm AEST on Saturday, August 8. Images: David Hancock
Wynnum Fringe doesn't just keep getting bigger every year. The arts and culture festival also expands its lineup by adding new reasons to head along. In 2023, Bay Pride falls into that category — the first-ever Pride fest in Brisbane's bayside. Taking place on Sunday, November 26 in the Wynnum Fringe hub precinct in and around George Clayton Park, the inaugural Bay Pride is celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community with everything from a march and music to performances and markets. It all kicks off at 10am, running through until late — with love, inclusivity, diversity and equality always centre stage. The march will start at 12pm at the Wynnum Jetty, making for both a welcoming and a scenic stroll — and sunny — that'll end at Wynnum Fringe's main site for the year. In the Wynnum Fringe Garden, LGBTQIA+ businesses will lead the market selection, with bites to eat, drinks from outdoor bars and rides also on offer — including hopping on the ferris wheel. Shows taking to the stage throughout the day span Lesbian Love Stories, the Pride Variety Show and GODZ, while Trevor Jones will be tickling the ivories in the piano lounge. Throw in an outdoor stage filled with tunes and drag, plus an afterparty from 6pm, and it's set to be a huge day.
If you're fond of spending your time browsing through stalls, looking at local wares and buying everything from arts and crafts to fashion and homewares, then you've probably made a visit to a BrisStyle market. The Brisbane group hosts several regular events around town, including the Brisbane Twilight Markets in King George Square and The Handmade Market outside the Queensland Museum. It doesn't usually focus primarily on greenery, though — which is one of the reasons that its returning Plant Market is so special. Here are two others: it's happening in spring, so it's the ideal time for it; and it's happening in Roma Street Parkland. From 9am–2pm on Saturday, September 24, you'll want to head to Roma Street Parkland's celebration lawn to get shopping. Yes, you'll be looking for greenery while surrounded by greenery. As well as plants, there'll be gardening accessories and floral-themed homewares on offer, and you can book into a kokedama workshop, too. Or, if you fancy learning how to make gum nut flowers, macrame pot holders or kokomodas, they're also part of the lineup of ticketed classes. Expect food trucks onsite as well, because we all know that trawling the markets is hungry and thirsty work. [caption id="attachment_784308" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Brisbane Marketing[/caption]
The Southside Tea Room is playing host to the Wrecked 'Em Markets this Saturday night. This cute kitsch heaven will be filled wall-to-wall with art, crafts, zines, posters, clothes and who knows what other goodies you'll get your hot little hands on. If you're keen to get in on the action, just bring along some coin and rummage around in search of a pretty item or two. Sellers are welcome to pitch a table and part with their pre-loved treasures. Make a night of it and grab a bite to eat or a cold one while you're finding the perfect item. We can assure you that there is no pot luck when it comes to receiving a tasty meal at the Southside Tea Room. So, snack on the happy pig pizza and select from a wide range of beers while you wile away your evening. Leaving an event with a full tummy and a couple of treats sounds like a successful Saturday night to us!
Here in Brisbane, we’re not jealous of Melbourne. We’re not jealous of their great coffee, cleaner river, and super dooper lamingtons. Or the fact they always get the best music sideshows, house Luna Park, or have a Fitzroy. We’re not even jealous of their Sneaker Freaker Swap Meets – but if we were, that would be okay, because it’s coming to Brisbane! Sneaker Freaker Magazine are packing their bags, fluffing their neck pillow, and jetting up to Brisbane to set up shop in the middle of the City for our own Sneaker Freaker Swap Meet. You’ll be able buy, sell, trade and upgrade yo’ sketches or Nike Airs and get on in on some sneaky-deaky goodness. Blake House, that spiffy art gallery in the city, will be playing host, and there will be a heap of sneaker, streetwear, toys and collectibles going around. Bring some cash, bring some friends, and don’t be the guy that doesn’t bring socks.
It has been six years since Nodo Donuts first gave Brisbanites the gluten-free doughnuts they were craving. That's six years of baked-not-fried pastries served at a growing range of stores, including at Newstead, South Bank, the CBD and Camp Hill. Obviously, this is an occasion worth celebrating — and so Nodo is doing just that with a $6 special. Head by a Nodo shop from 7am on Wednesday, November 18 — or from 9am at its pop-ups in Carindale and Chermside — and you'll score a doughnut and a coffee for $6. Given that Nodo's doughnuts usually cost that amount anyway if you're just buying one, you're basically scoring a free cuppa. At Carindale and Chermside, you'll receive a voucher for a coffee to use at other Nodo stores, rather than some caffeine there and then — but the deal remains the same. It's a one-per-person special, and it's only available while stocks last. If you needed an excuse to have a doughnut for breakfast, well, you just found one.
After playing nine sold out shows in Australia early last year, the European party animals have turned the Vengabus around and are back in Brisbane for another night of summer fun and frivolity. The Vengaboys are best known for their 90s party anthems such as 'We're Going to Ibiza', 'Boom Boom Boom' and 'We Like to Party!'. Their infectious tracks have the ability to make even the biggest party pooper get down and boogie. The Vengaboys put their heart and soul into the performances. Be prepared for total pop-tastic cheese that will take you back to the golden moments of the 90's. The fab foursome will be joined by fellow Dutch pop partiers, Twenty 4 Seven. So get out your sailor suit, glitter and platforms and don't miss the party bus as tickets are sure to sell out quickly!
Still the queen of zero-phucks-given cool, Kirsten Dunst has slammed the selfie in a brand new teeny, tiny short film. Directed by Matthew Frost for Vs. magazine, Aspirational follows Dunst out her Beverly Hills driveway and into an awkward celeb selfie moment. A cheeky WTF comment on social media-obsessed fangirls and celebrity 'moments', Aspirational is a nice little reminder that humans are freakin' idiots sometimes. Via Vs.
Following in the footsteps of previous instalments of the Expressions series, Chapter IV brings another night of cultural diversity to The Powerhouse. Featuring dance, music and poetry from a wide range of artists, Chapter IV hopes to raise awareness for world issues and even to provide some monetary support for good causes through donations. Chapter IV will display works of performance art on social issues in countries like Nepal, Rwanda, Colombia, Tibet and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Donations taken at Chapter IV will be used to support the Children’s Welfare Organisation of Nepal. The Expressions series is run by the UnMute movement, who raise awareness of social issues through performance art and expression.
Oh wow, I haven't used or heard the word 'auteur' since I was in uni, but now I have found a use for it again: John Waters is about to hit our shores and he is a shock auteur supremo. What does auteur mean though? It's pretty much a filmmaker who has creative control over their works and has a strong personal style, something that's prevalent in Waters' one-man show This Filthy World. This Filthy World is a celebration of his film career, the path he took and the things that influenced him – true crimes, art crimes and even fashion crimes. This vaudevillian look into trashy life is elevated by Waters' ability to entertain an entire crowd with his fascinations and innermost thoughts. This Filthy World is also drawing on material from his latest paperback, Role Models, which is a tribute to self-acceptance and a witty celebration of life. Don't take grandma, this one's more for the more youthful and easy-going among us: there's adult themes and lots of swearing involved in this one.
Ten years. 20 films. One massive cinematic universe. That's what Marvel movies have been serving up since Iron Man slipped into his robotic suit back in 2008 — and if you're keen to revisit the majority on the big screen, then make a date with the Blue Room Cinebar in August and September. Actually, make four dates. Because there are so many flicks to get through, the venue's Marvel Marathon will span four Saturdays. It all kicks off at 10am on August 25, and then runs again on September 1, 8 and 15 — starting with Iron Man, obviously, then working through everything from Captain America: The First Avenger and The Avengers to Guardians of the Galaxy and Black Panther. The list goes on, obviously, so your favourite superhero is bound to make an appearance. Each Saturday costs $30, and there are limited seats available, so expect them to get snapped up quickly. And if you need a rest during each four-to-five movie session, there'll be a 15-minute break between each film.
With racially motivated discrimination, oppression and injustice in the global spotlight over the past few weeks, one confectionery company has taken the opportunity to rebrand two of its lollies that have names with racist overtones. Nestlé has announced it will rename its chewy red lollies, currently called Redskins, an antiquated and derogatory term for Native Americans, and its chocolate-flavoured, people-shaped Chicos, which means 'children' in Spanish and is considered offensive to people of Latin American descent. In a statement released today, on Tuesday, June 23, Nestlé said it will change the names of the two lollies and "acknowledges the need to ensure that nothing we do marginalises our friends, neighbours and colleagues. These names have overtones which are out of step with Nestlé's values, which are rooted in respect," the statement said. New names have not yet been finalised, according to the company, but it is moving to change them "quickly". Race and discrimination is a subject that always demands action and attention, both worldwide and within Australia, however, it's been particularly thrust to the fore due to the ongoing Black Lives Matter movement, and protests over the death of American George Floyd at the hands of a police officer — as well as, at the local level, the ongoing fight to end the systemic mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and Māori by law enforcement. A similar long-running debate about the offensiveness of the Washington Redskins NFL team has ramped up again in the US, too, with The Washington Post calling on the team's owner Daniel Snyder to change the name in an editorial published earlier this week. Calls for Nestlé to change the names of its two products, which are manufactured in New Zealand and Australia under the company's Allen's brand, also isn't new — with the debate raging when they were featured in a 2013 episode of MasterChef Australia — and they're not the only controversially named product on Australia supermarket shelves, either.
It's impossible to watch a movie directed by Wong Kar-Wai and mistake it for the work of another filmmaker. As he has kept proving over his 33-year career to-date, his work is just that distinctive. And while the opposite is true, too — no one will ever confuse a movie helmed by someone else for one of Wong's efforts — his influence on cinema and his peers is evident in every neon-hued tale of yearning, every mesmerising and aching love story that says as much through its imagery as it does with dialogue, and plenty of martial arts fare as well. Wong makes films to luxuriate in — to truly feast your eyes upon — and, unsurprisingly, the Gallery of Modern Art wants to celebrate that fact, and his work. Accordingly, it's teaming up with the Australian Centre for the Moving Image and Sydney Film Festival to present touring program Love & Neon: The Cinema of Wong Kar-Wai. It showcases 11 of the filmmaker's titles, surveying his entire career, and will screen in Brisbane from Friday, April 30–Sunday, May 16. In the Mood for Love is on the bill, of course, but it isn't the only movie worth checking out on the silver screen. You can also see his debut feature As Tears Go By; Chungking Express, which is inspired by a Haruki Murakami short story; and the touching Happy Together — plus the rebellious Days of Being Wild, the gorgeous 2046, and Wong's first English-language film My Blueberry Nights. Or, there's also his two martial arts epics: Ashes of Time: Redux and The Grandmaster. You'll be watching restored versions of most of the above, too, including glorious 4K restorations. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EfbLJh7-hQY
The ‘Delta of Venus’ Life Drawing Club is back after its smashing debut that had keen artists turned away at the door. First it was the 1920s themed evening of bohemian Paris, a model dolled in a sultry gown, heels, lingerie, then posed in classic nude. This round brings 1950s beach pin ups and the best of Australian surf ‘n sand culture. Think beach brollies, high waisted skirt-bikinis and sun-kissed cheeks. Bring your easel and drawing tools of choice, but first be sure to pre-book your ticket to save disappointment. All artisans welcome, from seasoned pros to stick figure aficionados. There will be the good old butcher’s paper and charcoal available for those who are struck by inspiration. You can participate, or for a little extra you can get the themed cocktail to sip while you scribble. This event is held on the second Thursday of every month, so you’ll have the chance to flaunt your talents on a regular basis.
Can your canine companion cut a rug, instead of just lazing about on one? Is your four-legged bestie as good at boogying as it is at barking and being cute? If you don't know the answer, now might be the time to find out, because a Woof Doof silent disco is on its way. First, take a second to marvel at the concept. We're guessing that headphones will be reserved for humans, not puppers — but hitting the dance floor with your doggo isn't something that you get to do everyday. If you'd like to take a few seconds to wonder just how it's all going to turn out, that's fine, too. Again, making shapes while surrounded by mutts isn't on the regular agenda for most folks. There are a few caveats, of course, with your dog needing to stay on a leash the whole time. But, while Rover is being a very good pooch, DJs Kates Brother, Cheq, Dulcett and Lurke will be spinning tunes. Also, you'll be able to browse through vendor stalls selling dog-related products. If you're as keen as Fido when dinner comes around, the silent disco will take place at Ivy Blu Rooftop on Caxton Street from 12–4pm on Saturday, April 30. Tickets cost $20 for early birds and $25 otherwise, with all proceeds going to Guide Dogs Australia.
Spring Hill Reservoir is one of those Brisbane spaces that everyone really should've been to — but when you live in a city, rather than play tourist in one, it's easy to miss some of the regular must-see sights. Consider Opera in the Reservoir just the excuse you need to venture six metres below Albert Park, then. On the agenda: a night of arias and duets deep underneath Wickham Terrace. The concept is all there in the name, and this is one of those events that owes an enormous debt to its location. Whether you're a seasoned opera lover or a first-timer, there's really nothing like watching a show in a heritage-listed subterranean space that's more than a century old — and in the middle of the city at that. Underground Opera's latest season of Opera in the Reservoir shows runs from Friday, November 11–Sunday, November 20. This time, the focus is on heroes and villains. Head along on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings, and Sunday matinee sessions, to to listen to a greatest hits tour of opera classics — all while spending time in the historical depths of Brissie. Images: Underground Opera.
El Camino Cantina is known for its colourful interiors, cheap Tuesday tacos and giant margaritas, including at its venue at South Bank. Those oversized drinks are a huge drawcard, and they're on offer every day — but every now and then, the lively Tex Mex chain throws a huge Ritapalooza festival. Brisbanites, it's that time again. From Monday, October 24–Sunday, November 27, El Camino's South Bank outpost is celebrating those easy-to-down slushie margs with a five-week-long festival dedicated to the frozen cocktail. Head by from to sip 24 limited-edition flavours — there'll be varieties like Skittle, Hubba Bubba and marshmallow available. Also on the menu: classics like mango, strawberry and passionfruit — and other more creative varieties like Wizz Fizz, Jelly Belly, Lifesaver, fairy floss, salted caramel, popcorn, grape Nerd and fairy bread as well. Even better: you can nab them as part of four-flavour and metre-long 12-flavour tasting paddles. El Camino's ten-cent Wing Wednesday tradition will be on offer throughout Ritapalooza as well, plus $2 tacos on Tuesdays. Really love your 'ritas? Opt for the Palooza party package for $99 per person, which covers a three-course menu — including a range of limited-edition fajita flavours — and a two-hour beverage package.
After wreaking havoc in north Queensland earlier this week, ex-Tropical Cyclone Debbie is making its presence known down south. The wet and wild weather system is doing a hefty job of shutting down Brisbane, generating heavy rainfall throughout the city, and sparking widespread road and business closures. With the weather set to intensify, complete with thunderstorms, flash flooding, between 200mm and 500mm of rain, wind gusts of up to 100 kilometres per hour and power outages, many organisations have taken a proactive step to shut their doors. When the Queensland Government delivered every kids' dream by cancelling school for the day throughout the region — covering an area from Agnes Water in central Queensland to the New South Wales border — it was clear that this wasn't an ordinary shower. The Queensland University of Technology, Griffith University and the University of Queensland will follow in their footsteps from noon. ABC Brisbane is reporting that Queensland Police Commissioner Ian Stewart recommends shops and businesses should do the same. So far, the Gallery of Modern Art and the Queensland Art Gallery, the Queensland Museum, the State Library of Queensland and the Schonell Theatre are among the organisations taking that advice, while new technology festival Myriad will do the same, and James St Up Late has been completely cancelled. Brisbane Airport remains open at the time of writing, but keeping an eye on individual airlines is recommended. For those looking to travel around town rather than out of it, public transport will be free throughout southeast Queensland from 10am to get everyone home and off of the roads. Importantly, while Gelato Messina's Coolangatta store is closed, South Brisbane's new store is remaining open for now — it just opened yesterday, so we can't blame them for wanting to hold out. As reports of flooding around the city increase, the list of places closing their doors for the day is only expected to grow, and unsurprisingly, Brisbanites are encouraged to remain indoors. Keep an eye on the Bureau of Meteorology website for the latest weather updates — and stay safe and dry, folks.
Meyne Wyatt has been nominated for a Sydney Theatre Award, a Logie and an AACTA, and featured in everything from The Sapphires and Strangerland to Redfern Now, Neighbours and Black Comedy. Now, he's making a splash on the Brisbane stage as part of City of Gold's world premiere season. A collaboration between Queensland Theatre and Griffin Theatre Company, the new production sees Wyatt play an aspiring Aboriginal actor who finally gets his big break — only for the job, in a high-profile television advertisement, to cause considerable repercussions. Partially inspired by his own experiences, Wyatt also wrote City of Gold, which takes a no-holds-barred approach to pondering race, culture and Aussie identity in today's society. Specifically — and in an unashamedly frank, raw and sometimes provocative manner — the play explores the Indigenous experience in modern-day Australia. Joining Wyatt on-stage is a stacked cast, including Anthony Standish (An Octoroon), Jeremy Ambrum (Mabo, Cleverman, Secret Daughter) and Shari Sebbens (The Sapphires, Top End Wedding). City of Gold's debut season runs until Saturday, July 20 at QT's Bille Brown Theatre. Image: Tim Jones Photography.
It's an event that has been six years in the making. Damon Albarn's been busy with Blur, so we won't hold the sizeable wait between albums against him. But hey, when you start a virtual band as a side project and people start listening, they're going to want more music. Bistrotheque's Feel Good: Gorillaz Party could've happened before new tracks dropped, of course, but it just wouldn't have felt good enough. Jump back and forth, and do more than feel like you were there yourself as Feels Club, Reckless and the Bistrotheque DJs take you to plastic beach and beyond.
Sometimes, watching a movie is all about escapism. Sometimes, it's a thought-provoking and eye-opening experience. You won't forget the world's troubles at the Environmental Film Festival Australia, but you will find out more about them — especially as they relate to the state of this planet we all call home. As its name makes plain, EFFA shines a spotlight on cinema that puts the environment in firmly focus. The 2021 event is going virtual, hosting its lineup online; however, the same remit remains between Thursday, October 14–Sunday, November 14. So, eco-conscious cinephiles can explore the struggles and splendours of the natural world, all from their couches. Leading the charge is The Weather Diaries, which sees Australian director Kathy Drayton chronicle her daughter's teen years as the planet is increasingly affected by climate change — and it's joined by The Fourth Kingdom, about illegal immigrants living in a New York recycling centre; That's Wild, where teens traverse Colorado's mountains; and The Forum, focusing on the World Economic Forum. The list of flicks goes on, including documentaries about everything from Nobel Prize-winning scientist Jacques Duboche and local farmers on the French island of Martinique to the School Strike 4 Climate movement.
With a new year brings new wines — and if you're a fan of vino, then that's probably why you love busting out a new calendar. We might still be a few months away from hitting 2020, but it's never too early to start thinking about next year's favourites, particularly when you can get the jump at Young Gun of Wine: The Joy of Wine. Formed 14 years ago, Young Gun of Wine showcases emerging wine producers, with The Joy of Wine highlighting the latest tipples that might just be all over menus for the next 12 months. As the name suggests, it's also about enjoying the sensual experience that is drinking wine — savouring the tastes, scents and everything that makes vino great. The one-night tasting party will feature 25 winemakers pouring their best, with around 50 tipples on offer for you to sip your way through. If you like knocking back vino with a view, the three-hour shindig is taking over the main Howard Smith Wharves lawn from 7pm on Saturday, November 23. Tickets cost $65 per person and include plenty of wine to taste, plus a Riedel crystal wineglass. You'll also be able to purchase bites to eat to line your stomach. Image: Howard Smith Wharves.
It has dragons, shape-shifting, power struggles and Kit Harington — and someone is told that they know nothing, though not the man best known as Jon Snow. We’re not talking about Game of Thrones. If only. Instead, the latest effort to wave the fantasy flag is Seventh Son. The film is based on the novel The Spook's Apprentice and was actually shot three years ago, but it clearly really wants to be everyone’s favourite TV show. It also wants to be every other story about epic quests, long-held feuds, strange creatures and supernatural powers that has reached a screen — large, small or kindle — over the past ten years or so. The bad news: shared dashes of drama, magic and medieval theming aside, and there's plenty, trying to be just like everything fantasy fans know and love doesn’t do this movie any favours. The worse news: it also leaves it looking like a pale imitation of better work. From the computer-animated monsters to the lukewarm love story, Seventh Son comes second in every category. The title and the tale tell of a young man, Tom Ward (Ben Barnes), whose birth order sees him selected to learn the witch-hunting, realm-protecting trade. He’s not just a seventh son — he’s the seventh son of a seventh son — so legend has it that he’s something extra special. Master Gregory (Jeff Bridges) tries to teach Tom new tricks, but time isn’t on their side. A once-in-a-century blood moon is a mere week away, with evil enchantress Mother Malkin (Julianne Moore) planning to use the occasion to take over the world. If it all sounds like your average good-versus-evil scenario, that’s because it is. More than that, it’s dull, familiarity not quite breeding contempt but certainly not inspiring much interest. That every plot point just feels like an exercise in ticking the requisite boxes doesn’t help, including the complications added when half-witch Alice (Alicia Vikander), the nicer niece of Malkin, falls for our hero. The 3D action sequences do the same; even when they’re trying to ramp up the spectacle with giants, tumbles down waterfalls and shape-shifting henchmen, everything is firmly in by-the-numbers territory. What Seventh Son does boast is ample talent, though two-time Oscar nominee Sergei Bodrov (Prisoner of the Mountains, Mongol) doesn’t fare so well with his slapdash efforts in the director’s chair. Thankfully, 2011 best actor Oscar winner Bridges and newly minted best actress Oscar recipient Moore do better — or as well as they can given what’s being asked of them. Indeed, the veteran performers are the most watchable part of the movie, one grumbling, mumbling and stumbling, the other relishing an over-the-top role, and both as cartoonish as you can get. That Barnes and Vikander — and everything else — seems bland in comparison is hardly surprising. As an adaptation of the first book in a now fourteen-strong series, Seventh Son was obviously once seen as the start of a new film franchise. If there’s any real magic in this movie, it is in ensuring that that doesn’t happen.
The golden age of Cabaret is upon us — if you discount the early 1900s — and Queensland is about to come alive with feathers, sequins and a lot of skin to celebrate. The Queensland Cabaret Festival is celebrating this fine performance art in the many cultural hubs of the Sunshine State. From the Judith Wright Centre, to Ipswich Civic Centre, there’s going to be a cavalcade of cabaret till June 21. The Festival itself will encompass a range of acts — if you’re a discotheque cabaret fusion gal, Dum Diva Disco is your go to. If you want something a little more smokey, Caroline Din will be showing off her Parisian chic appeal for one night only. And if you just want your run of the mill, stock standard cabaret, the Festival can accommodate to that too – check out all the events here. This festival is all encompassing of the cabaret ‘style’ – there will be comedy, social satire, exotic music, local legends, and a celebration of all things song, dance and sparkles. You’d be a fool to miss out, and an even bigger fool to assume cabaret doesn’t get better than the movie. Because trust me, Liza ain't go nothing on this.
The alarming amount of surf bands coming out of the music industry’s woodwork these days has left many wondering where the hype and love for all things surf, sand and stoned has come from. Turns out Californian band Wavves has a lot to do with it. He may be ironically poking fun at the recent indie surf infatuation, but the self proclaimed ‘King of the Beach’ Nathan Williams is riding the wave to critical acclaim with his band’s collection of lo-fi pop-surf-punk melodies. Most of us have probably never stood on a surf board in our entire lives, but this summer it seemed we were all dreaming of our own reckless beach bum lifestyle, making Wavves’ catchy tunes the ideal soundtrack for our sun drenched fantasies. Just in time to see the end of our summer, Wavves will be bringing their controversial live show to Australia. The band will be in the country for a five date tour including an appearance at the much loved Meredith Golden Plains festival as well as shows in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane. Traveling with Wavves but on a separate tour of their very own, is Williams’ girlfriend Bethany Cosentino’s band Best Coast, in what is being unofficially toted as the “Sweetheart Tour.”
4ZZZ and All Day Breakfast Enterprises are putting on a ‘do' to celebrate the year that was, with food, company and entertainment – the things they do best. They’ve dubbed it Turkey Breakfast (2) because the festivities will be served in two courses, one in the morning, one in the evening. The morning celebrations include a sit-down treat, breakfast served by Kat Martin, and sing-a-long performances by Marisa Allen, Enderie Nuatal, Gerald Keaney and Makeda Zucco. The A-CH Gallery will also provide the perfect backdrop for new works by Matthew Linde and Callum Galletly. Dining attendees are encouraged to purchase their tickets online before the event ($12 via paypal to alldaybreakfastenterprises@gmail.com, with personal details) while non-dining attendees are welcome to pay their $5 entry fee on arrival. The evening event will take place at the new Globe Theatre in Fortitude Valley, where attendees will be dazzled by performances from Angie, ASPS, Bitchratch, Per Purpose, Swim Between The Shags, Sarah Spencer and Nathan Roche. Multimedia works from Angela Garrick (Angie), Rachel Archibald and Jay Cruikshank will also be on display, culminating in a late night of merriment. Tickets ($15) for this event can be paid beforehand or on the door. There are also limited combined tickets for both events ($20) which are to be paid for via paypal before the event. You’ll be hard-pressed to find an all-inclusive event like this, and no better way to farewell a stellar year for the presenters.
If jungle vibes inside a Brisbane warehouse sounds like your perfect outing, head along to the Jungle Collective's indoor plant sale on Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28. It's the latest greenery-filled Brissie market from The Jungle Collective, a Melbourne nursery that stocks all kinds of weird and wonderful species. Yes, it's trucking its way up north again for another Queensland venture — and this time, it's focusing on pet-friendly plants. Whether you're after a hanging pot plant, some palms for the garden or a giant Bird of Paradise, chances are you'll find it here. Have a reputation for killing your cacti? Overwatering your ferns? Don't worry — there'll be horticulturalists onsite on the night to give you advice and chat through any questions you might have. At a Coorparoo location, you'll be inspired by greenery aplenty — and learn to incorporate plants into your home and living spaces — all while browsing and soaking up some tunes. Best get in quick though, as these markets are always popular. With more than 150 different species usually on offer, of course they are. Due to expected demand, the sale will be held in four sessions on Saturday (8–10am, 10am–noon, 12–2pm and 2–4pm) and two on Sunday (10am–noon, 12–2pm), and attendees will need to register for free tickets from noon on Monday, July 22. Plus, this sale has a Christmas in July theme — so if you dress up like the jolly figure (yes, the hat is necessary) and spend at least $10 on plants you'll get $5 off your purchase.
When acclaimed actor and musician Michael Tuahine saw the life and songs of Johnny Cash turned into film, he had an idea. He imagined Australian icon Jimmy Little receiving the Walk the Line treatment — and thanks to playwright Reg Cribb and director Wesley Enoch, his dream has become a reality. The result is Country Song, a fictionalised story inspired by Little. In 1973, the entertainer is about to take the stage to perform the national anthem in front of a loving audience. As he ponders the task ahead, he is whisked on a fictional road trip through his past. The show doesn't just tell his tale but explores major social changes; shares accounts of singers Auriel Andrew, Bobby McLeod and Lionel Rose; and pays tribute to both the 1970s era and to the tunes that provided the soundtrack for a generation. It's a celebration of the healing power of music, an ode to a legendary local talent, and the world premiere of a powerful play, all in one. Rehearsal photo by Stephen Henry.
Following the release of their fresh film clip for the catchy tune 'Create/Destroy', the favourite trio of Australian quirk pop ,Art Vs Science, have announced a national tour. Their show at The Zoo this Saturday will follow major appearances at the St Kilda Festival and the Channel [V] Open Surf event; they are ready and raring to hit the road, buzzed on the success fronting audiences in the thousands, armed with material to impress any long-time fan. Alongside their back catalogue of party anthems is their reputation for a stellar live show of bombastic proportions. These lads are not afraid to push the limits of sound and space—effects, costumes, audience participation are par for the course of a typical AvS show, being unlike any other. Tickets for this show are bound to sell out, so be sure to not miss out on an opportunity to see the best at their best.
Ever since Freddie Mercury teamed up with Brian May and company back in the 70s, Queen has never been out of fashion. Thanks to Bohemian Rhapsody, however, the band has been roaring up the charts again. You could call it a kind of magic. You could say that their songs must go on. Either way, if you're happy to let the British group keep rocking you — and you need something to fill the void until the remaining band members tour Australia next year — then head along to Black Bear Lodge on Wednesday, August 14. Been feeling a crazy little thing called love for Freddie and his bandmates? Then you'll be in the right spot this Ekka public holiday. And if your approach to the group's music is "I want it all!", that's what you'll hear. The one-night event will break free from 8pm, so get ready to dance with your fellow champions. Basically, prepare to step back in time — and if you miss out, you'll feel a little under pressure.
When is a music festival more than just a music festival? When it's a fest, conference and all-round showcase of everything that makes the Australian — and the Brisbane — music industry great, all in one. You know we're talking about BIGSOUND, the three-day event that makes our little patch of the planet feel like the centre of all things sound-related each and every year. So, that's the stuff you already know about the extravaganza that takes place around the city from September 5 to 8. Here's some things you mightn't already be aware of, starting with the fact that everyone from Aussie icons Archie Roach and Tina Arena to Quentin Tarantino's regular music supervisor, Mary Ramos, will be chatting up a storm. And, as far as hearing people play rather than natter on, the absolutely jam-packed festival bill features more than 150 artists, including Polaris, Total Giovanni, The Cactus Channel, WAAX and Oh Mercy. Yes, the list goes on — as does the feast of unofficial parties, which really will turn every nook and cranny in Brissie into a music lover's haven. If you're in for the long haul, we've also put together a guide to spending the week immersed in ace sounds, chats and shindigs.
UPDATE, MARCH 2, 2022: Due to flooding in Brisbane, Ocean Film Festival World Tour's 2022 stop at Brisbane Powerhouse has been postponed until Thursday, June 16–Saturday, June 18, 2022. This article has been updated to reflect that change. There's something oh-so-relaxing about staring at the sea, even if you're feasting your eyes on the water via the big screen. That's the concept behind the Ocean Film Festival Australia. You can't always spend all your time at the beach, by the river or in a pool — but you can spend an evening peering at the next best thing in a cinema. From Thursday, June 16–Saturday, June 18, the festival will unleash a cinematic feast of water-focused wonders onto the silver screen at Brisbane Powerhouse. Sessions screen at 7pm each night, and there's a 2.30pm matinee on the Saturday as well. Film-wise, viewers will spend time both above and below the ocean's surface thanks to a compilation of shorts from around the world. Expect to chase big waves, explore a range of sea life and get a hefty ocean rush, plus a heap of other sea adventures. The program is united by a love of the ocean, an appreciation of the creatures who dwell in its waters and a curiosity to explore the substance that comprises more than two-thirds of the earth. It's the next best thing to diving in, all without getting wet. [caption id="attachment_840734" align="alignnone" width="1920"] John Kowitz[/caption]
Why would you want to celebrate a brutal day of 18th-century European history, you ask? Well, because there is cheese at stake here. French National Day, or Bastille Day, represents freedom, equality, fraternity, and now President Francois Hollande and his first ladies. It is a festive date celebrated by francophiles worldwide, and one we recommend getting behind. Below is a snapshot of all things French that you can get amongst in Brisbane around July 14. Festival Time This weekend the Brisbane French Festival is rolling into South Bank for two whole days of wining, dining, speaking, hearing and seeing all things French and French-inspired. The festival will be your one-stop shop to music, cuisine, culture, entertainment, products, services and information to celebrate La Fete Nationale. Don your beret and your best eyeliner moustache and clink your glasses to the sweet sweet sound of French culture. Eating Now, we could probably have filled this whole article with food, but we’ve managed to condense it to just half. Pre-prepared for your reading pleasure, check out our Top Ten French Eateries feature for the best of the best in French food, or head along to these culinary Bastille Day events. French-Vietnamese restaurant Libertine is doing a three-course shared set plus drink for $45 per person, and Emporium will pop the cork on a revolutionary five-course Canard-Duchene Champagne Dinner. Cheers! Cinema If you’re yet to experience the delightful quirks of a French rom-com, or just French cinema, Bastille is the best excuse yet. Well-known French funny-man Dany Boone stars in his latest rom-com hit, The Volcano, while Belle & Sebastian — once a book, then a TV series and now a movie — is a timeless tale of a boy and his dog. Both are playing on the big screen at Palace cinemas right now. Or if subtitles seem like too much effort, the new Yves Saint Laurent film will give you a French culture hit in your native tongue. Cheese Did someone say cheese? What would a French celebration be without a little fromage. Make like a French man, grab a baguette from Banneton in Woolloongabba, head next door to Pennisi Deli for your cheese and have an impromptu picnic atop the Kangaroo Point Cliffs. If you don’t like to venture south of the river, Rosalie Gourmet Market, Tognini’s, Black Pearl Epicure and Standard Market Co can help fill your wildest cheese dreams too. Cooking Duck l’orange, boeuf bourguignon, gratin dauphinois, ratatouille, crème brûlée, souffle, tarte tatin… salivating yet? Brisbane is home to a number of great cooking schools with a few running French cuisine classes to help get your culinary skills up to scratch. Take part in the modern French class at Vanilla Zulu on July 11, in French Classics at Spring on August 9, or gather some friends and organise a private French Country Cooking class with Giovanna. If you’d rather watch and drink than take part, The Golden Pig is hosting a Wine Tasting Workshop and cooking demonstration on July 16. Language Bonjour! Croissant! Fromage! Menage a trois? Je ne parle pas francais… Need a little help getting your French off the ground? It’s never too late to start learning a language and we say your best bets are Alliance Francais, French Lessons Brisbane or French Speak. If you’re already a master in the language of love, Alliance Francais also has a French language library, runs a book club and does a monthly French film night. Oui!
As we come to the beginning of a new month, this means many things. A pinch and a punch, a slap and a kick, but also, the Young Designers Markets are on again at South Bank. On the first Sunday of each month, the markets feature some of Queensland’s up and coming talented designers in areas such as fashion, home wares, furniture, artwork and jewellery. The bright and happy stalls prepared by the young, brimming-with-talent designers, are truly a delight for your eyes. If you need to buy a gift for someone, or even to treat yourself, then head to the markets on Sunday 5 August, from 10am – 4pm for an original and exciting new piece. If you are a young designer, then be sure to register and make your start.
If you’re the type of person who thinks of Sir Walter at the mention of grass, you might find it difficult to relate to Liam Pieper’s life. Born to bohemian parents who saw little harm in the occasional puff, Liam spent his early teen years with a fledging drug habit and as the local mule with aid of a trusty pushbike. Through his life he had highs – financial, chemical and otherwise – and dangerous lows, but now he’s managed to pen it all on paper, and ipso facto we have his Feel-Good Hit of The Year. To show off this bound memoir - as anyone who writes a whole entire book deserves to – Liam will be trotting over to Avid Reader this Tuesday for a reading and chat. He’ll even be doing a signing after, so bring a copy of the book or buy one there. For now though, do yourself a favour and get a taste for his work if you haven’t already. He has some stellar stuff in The Saturday Paper, Lifted Brow and Meanjin that will have your heart breaking, lips laughing, and literary intellect falling a little in love.
Feeling a little chilly, Brisbanites? There's a reason for that. But it's not just the usual wintry temperatures that's making the city shiver — rather, it's Brissie's coldest morning of the year so far. While the mercury will hit the 23-degree maximum mark today, the morning started with a frosty 6.9 degrees. The dip comes as part of a cold front across the east coast. In some areas in New South Wales and Victoria, temperatures are predicted to hit their coldest point in two years. To put the dip in context, 23.4 degrees is the month's average maximum temperature to date, while 12.5 degrees is the minimum. In fact, 11.8 degrees is the usual June average historically, according to data spanning from 2000 to 2016. It's the second time the temp has dropped into single digits this month, following a 9.3-degree low on Tuesday, June 12. If you're not too keen on the extra dose of chilliness each morning, we're sorry to advise that minimums of nine degrees and under are forecast until Thursdays, although maximums will reach between 19 and 23. Still, we can stop saying that 'winter is coming' — yep, winter is definitely here. Via The Courier-Mail.
The world’s biggest international live music event is almost upon us. There are no tickets, no seating, no supports and no headliners, just music – everywhere. Fete de la Musique is held in 350 cities around the world on the same day every year, and its message is simple: make music everywhere. 2011 marks the fourth year of Brisbane’s involvement in the festival, with 215 acts crooning and tuning all over the city from 7am ‘til midnight. Expect the unexpected with Fete de la Musique – the beauty of this event is that performances are held everywhere. Forget the stage in the middle of Queen Street Mall, the Fete performers are more likely to play on a bus, the shopping centre, the library, the street, even the CityCat will play venue on the day. Fete de la Musique is the one event this year that you literally cannot miss - you won’t be able to. Look out for Bang Bang Boss Kelly and Pear and the Awkward Orchestra! Where will they be? The Goodwill Bridge? Central Station? A… hair salon? Find out on Tuesday.
You've watched him judge many a culinary creation on television, and now it's South-East Queensland's turn to taste one of Australia's top chef's own kitchen wizardry. Yes, George Calombaris is setting up shop on the Gold Coast — and eyeing venues in Brisbane as well. Anyone keen on a jaunt down the highway can satisfy their hunger pains at his first permanent Queensland venture, which is also his first outside of Victoria. The sixth store in his Jimmy Grants chain will set up shop in Robina Town Centre and serve up Greek-style dishes aplenty. Just thinking about the likes of prawn and honey filled souvas, roast beetroot salads, slow-roasted lamb shoulder and baklava ice cream sandwiches should be enough to get your mouth watering. That's a pretty great way to mark three years since the first Jimmy Grants opened, though Queenslanders will have to wait until late October or early November to get their fill. And, it might not be the Calombaris' only Queensland eatery in the works. When the MasterChef judge was in town in July for Regional Flavours, The Courier-Mail noted that he was searching for restaurant sites in Brisbane. Fingers (or tastebuds) crossed. Find Jimmy Grants at Robina Town Centre from late October or early November. Keep an eye on the Jimmy Grants website and Facebook page for more information.
Back by popular demand, The Naked Magicians are bringing the cheek back to Brisbane’s Powerhouse to bare all as part of their internationally-renowned performance. Christopher Wayne and Mike Tyler leave nothing to the imagination with their act of style, raunch, wit and pure talent that will leave you in stitches as much as in a state of constant blushing. They promise the, ahem… full package; no need for hats, capes or misdirection, just a lot of R-rated full-frontal illusions. They’ve been selling out shows to millions of audience members all keen to discover just where they’ll be pulling the bunny out from. Be quick to secure your tickets, as this is sure to be the hottest show in town, unashamedly good fun and unlike anything you’ve seen before. Check out the discounts available for group bookings, or treat yourself to the VIP package. It’s safe to say these lads will have lots up their sleeves… well, sort of.
Death Valley – named in the Californian Gold Rush era after several pioneers perished in its conditions – is the hottest, driest place in the United States. Despite its seemingly barren environment, it is also a place of great biodiversity and stunning beauty. It is this side of Death Valley that Brisbane photographer Richard Muldoon showcases in his latest exhibition. The landscape unfolds in a dramatic wash of colour, with cloud-ringed mountain ranges giving way to undulating sand dunes and vast salt plains. Muldoon’s ability to capture both the hostility and serenity of the area earned him the Australian Institute of Professional Photographers' title of Queensland Professional Photographer of the Year. While the landscape takes centre stage, Muldoon doesn’t shy away from human intrusion; despite its inhospitality, Death Valley receives more than one million visitors per year. The presence of tourists in Muldoon’s photographs is a reminder that few places in the US exist in isolation, no matter how forbidding the environment.
Another year, another impressive milestone notched up by 4ZZZ. Time flies when you're playing top tunes and offering the River City its own local alternative station, obviously, with Brisbane's community radio favourites celebrating its 47th birthday in 2022. We can't stress how fantastic staying on the air for that long is — and clearly the 4ZZZ crew agree. So do The Brightside, with the venue turning into party central for one big evening. The radio station first started broadcasting on December 8, 1975, and 4ZZZ's 47th Birthday Party is happening on that exact same date this year. [caption id="attachment_711489" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Brightside[/caption] It's the perfect way to show your love for a local icon, and an excellent Thursday night activity, too. Plus, the event keeps the focus on great homegrown music — aka exactly what listeners love about the station — with The Double Happiness, Ethan Enoch, PhD and Sali Eri are taking care of the tunes. Tickets cost $15 for subscribers and $23.50 otherwise, and doors open at 6pm. Top image: John Robert McPherson via Wikimedia Commons.
Melbourne might be where Lune Croissanterie started its world-acclaimed pastry empire ten years back; however, Brisbane is where it has branched out with not just two bakeries, but also a wine bar. That tipple-slinging venue: Butler, which started serving drinks in mid-2022, and is now teaming up with its sibling for a day of pizza pastries and Italian natural vino. Sunday, December 11 marks the first time that Lune and Butler have joined forces, which makes their Fun in Pizzopoli events worth attending for that fact alone. Of course, the pairing of wine and pizza — the former from Fun Wines, with Giorgio De Maria doing the pouring; the latter baked fresh by Lune, with a special menu for the day — is a mighty hefty drawcard as well. Those tipples will be summery, while the Lune pizza escargots will be inspired by two of Italy's most popular pizza toppings. So, there'll be a margherita pizza dubbed 'pizza alla Giorgio', which'll feature anchovies, capers and oregano. And, Lune's cult-favourite cacio e pepe escargot will also be on offer. Rounding out the menu — and helping line your stomach — is a small range of classic Italian antipasti. Fun in Pizzopoli is taking place over two sessions: from 2–5pm and 5.30–8.30pm. And, tickets include entry and two pizzas, with wine being sold by the glass.
