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.
When Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art fills its halls with art on a particular subject or theme, or by a certain artist, it doesn't just stop at drawings, paintings, sculptures and installations. That's the joy of being an art gallery with your own cinema — pairing what's on display upon those white walls with movies mean to be enjoyed in a darkened space. Accordingly, free exhibition Still Life Now comes with an also-free screening program, with Still Lives also musing on existence. Here, must-see movies such as Flux Gourmet, The Death of Mr Lazarescu and The Lobster anchor a program that contemplates life, death and transformation, with the rotating array of flicks showing on Sundays from October 9, 2022–March 12, 2023. The lineup falls under four sections, with 'Stillness' seeing the beauty in the everyday, as epitomised by features such as Coffee and Cigarettes and 24 Frames. Then, in 'Excess', indulgence and extravagance is in the spotlight, which is where the likes of The Cook, the Thief, His Wife and Her Lover and Carnivore Reflux come in. 'Transition' explores life, death and rituals attached to both, with a lineup that includes A Pigeon Sat on A Branch Reflecting on Existence and Vitalina Varela. And 'Transformation' favours films about the natural meeting the unnatural, including Death Becomes Her and Little Joe. And yes, there's two films actually called Still Life — Jia Zhangke's 2006 title and Sima Urale's 2001 effort — on the bill.
Get ready to hop into the mosh pit like its the 90s and early 00s at massive alternative, metal and punk music fest Good Things, which is living up to its name with its ace 2022 lineup. Headlining the tour are Bring Me The Horizon and Deftones, plus NOFX — who'll be playing 1994's iconic album Punk In Drublic in full. They'll also be joined by The Amity Affliction, Gojira and Millencolin, spanning everything from Queensland favourites to infectious Swedish punk. Oh, and just none other than Australia's own TISM playing their first live shows in 19 years. Will TISM take to the stage naked? That's now the question of the summer. 'Tis the season — and the times in general — for Ron Hitler-Barassi and company to drop their clothes but keep their masks, after all. Whatever they're decked out in, or not, expect plenty of legendary Aussie songs. Expect to have 'Greg! The Stop Sign!', 'Whatareya' and 'Ol' Man River' stuck in your head right now as well, obviously. Good Things' impressive bill also features Kisschasy playing 2005's United Paper People in full, fellow Aussie faves Regurgitator — because, just like the 90s and 00s, it wouldn't be a festival without them — and Lacuna Coil, Soulfly, ONE OK ROCK, 3OH!3, Cosmic Psychos and more. The fest is headed to Brisbane Showgrounds on Sunday, December 4. Whether you're a yob or a wanker, you'll want to be there. GOOD THINGS 2022 LINEUP: Bring Me The Horizon Deftones NOFX (performing Punk In Drublic in full) TISM The Amity Affliction Gojira ONE OK ROCK Millencolin Polaris Sabaton 3OH!3 Blood Command Chasing Ghosts Cosmic Psychos Electric Callboy Fever 333 Jinjer JXDN Kisschasy (performing United Paper People in full) Lacuna Coil Nova Twins RedHook Regurgitator Sleeping With Sirens Soulfly The Story So Far Thornhill
The Big Pineapple Festival boasts a lineup worth travelling an hour out of town for. John Butler Trio, The Jezabels, Violent Soho and Dune Rats are just a few of the bands who will be making their way to Nambour for one of this country's juiciest music events. We suggest you pull out the swag and get prepping. If you had a seriously deprived childhood and have no idea what or where the Big Pineapple is, it's on the Nambour Connection Road. It's literally a 16 meter high yellow thing surrounded by 400 acres of farm. You can't miss it. This is the festival's third year, with the previous two selling out. To meet the growing demand, they've moved venues; while last year's festival was at the Big Pineapple, this year's festival will be across the road from it. So just find the yellow thing then rotate 180 degrees. And if the usual festival attire seems a bit too easy for you, The Pineapple Festival is running a competition to find the craziest outfit on the day. The winner will receive two nights accommodation at the Beach Club Resort Mooloolaba and two half-day whale watching passes.
When you've already filled Brisbane with towering bubbles, Antarctic icebergs and giant bird nests, what comes next? For Curiocity Brisbane, everything from cats and robots to seesaws and seven-metre-tall living artworks are on the agenda for 2023. This annual festival doesn't just celebrate art, but showcases its intersection with science and technology — it does fall into World Science Festival Brisbane's program, after all — and it has quite the array of pieces planned for its next event. 2023's Curiocity Brisbane will run for 12 days from Wednesday, March 22–Sunday, April 2, featuring a lineup of interactive works delivered by Queensland Museum Network and curated by Jay Younger — 14, in fact, from artists around the globe. To enjoy the full (and free) program, Brisbanites will need to hit up several inner-city destinations. South Bank Parklands will host seven installations, plus another at the Cultural Centre. The CBD will also welcome a piece, while four others will pop up at various schools. And, there's also a digital-only inclusion. Among the highlights, feline fanciers will be keen on Cat Royale by the UK-based Blast Theory, which'll be meowing in the Queen Street Mall. Livestreamed from the other side of the globe, it features three cats living out a life of leisure. So, yes, doing standard cat things. The catch? Their utopia is controlled by robots, with a dedicated artificial-intelligence system watching them eat, sleep and play — and learning what they like. Prefer seeing how robots interact with each other? A habitat for them is also part of the program, thanks to Hochschuh and Donovan's Cybernetic Intimacy. It focuses on 15 semi-autonomous droids and, like Cat Royale, peers on. This one also has its robots craft a real-time soundtrack, and ponders how species communicate with each other. Or, on South Bank's Little Stanley Street Lawn, Curiocity attendees can seesaw up and down thanks to Madeleine Flynn and Tim Humphrey's PIVOT. It features a field of what's being called "semi-intelligent seesaws", because the park equipment talks, sings and creates conversations with its riders, all by listening for texts and replying via word recognition. Other standouts include Simone Eisler's seven-metre-tall The Climate Wars, as inspired by the myths of the Trojan Horse and Noah's Ark; Amplify/Defy by Indigenous artist Jennifer Herd, which explores camouflage and speaks out against the silencing of First Nations' perspectives; and T.H.E.M., a collaboration between Interactive Media Collective and Griffith University that's about electronic and human kinetic energy. Plus, there's Martin Edge and The Culture Crusader's I SEE Martin Edge, which uses augmented-reality playscapes to focus on inclusive cultural experiences for young people who are neurodiverse. Curiocity Brisbane will pop up around the city between Wednesday, March 22–Sunday, April 2, 2023. For further information, head to the World Science Festival website.
Every Friday night between July 5 and August 23, one patch of Brisbane will boast flames, snow, warming food, toasty booze, ice-themed stage shows, fire performers, a snow globe photobooth, music, markets and more. That place: Rocklea's Brisbane Night Markets, as part of the weekly event's eight-week Fire & Ice Food Festival. Running from 4–10pm each Friday, this fest gets into the swing of winter — because even though it's never all that frosty in this sunny city of ours, it's always fun to pretend. Here, snow machines will make you think you're somewhere colder, while fire pits will heat you up. Plus, when you're not eating creme brulee crepes and Gaytime ice creams that've been wrapped in marshmallows and then torched (and served with Nutella), you can drink pumpkin spiced lattes, craft brews and mulled wine. The food lineup also includes low-and-slow cooked pork knuckles, Philly cheesesteaks with chilli marinade, wood-fired pizzas, flame-roasted meatball subs, and bacon s'mores with bacon strips, chocolate and toasted marshmallow, so arrive hungry. Entry costs $2.50, and ugging up is recommended — you'll be getting wintry in a huge warehouse.
Brisbanites, if you like cruising the river, you'll soon will be able to head to Breakfast Creek to hop on an eco-friendly picnic boat — all thanks to Denmark-born outfit GoBoat. But if you're keen to enjoy a meal, a few drinks and the general experience of floating on the river with your mates before then, you can, because the company has popped up in Kangaroo Point first. You can still look forward to GoBoat's official launch a bit further north of the CBD, or you can jump the gun and jump aboard in the city first. Yes, it's time to start getting excited about cruising along the river in a different way, with the vessels setting sail from Dockside Marina for a limited time. Aimed at making the whole boating caper more accessible for everyday folk, the Scandinavian-designed vessels are slow-moving, a breeze to operate and don't require a boating licence, making for some fun, fuss-free sailing sessions. In a win for the planet, they also run on silent, pollution-free, electric engines, and are crafted from a mix of reclaimed timber and recycled PET bottles. Each of the contemporary GoBoats clocks in at 18-feet long, and boasts a central picnic table with room for eight people (and for all the necessary snacks and booze). And despite what you might be thinking, they're even affordable enough to fit your budget — simply BYO food and drinks, find enough eager sailors to jump aboard and a GoBoat session will start at around $15 per person, per hour. That's $119 hourly for the first hour, but the longer you book, the cheaper it gets. And, in great news for your pooch, the company's vessels are pet-friendly — surely you've got a very good boy who deserves a river jaunt. Images: Lean Timms. Updated August 17.
On any given weekend, you'll find a Brisbane bar, pub or other boozy establishment hosting a festival somewhere around town. We all know what those kinds of events are about — and while celebrating beer, wine, gin, whiskey or whichever alcoholic tipples take your fancy is all well and great, healthier alternatives also deserve their time to shine. Like having a few drinks, but prefer to do so with low- or no-alcohol beverages? Whether you're giving your liver a rest for a month, you're often the designated driver or you're staying away from booze for health, cultural or other reasons, the Healthy Hedonism Festival has your back. As the name suggests, this day-long fest is all about treating yo'self while still taking care of yourself. Taking over X Cargo from 8am on Sunday, February 2, the event will feature a heap of brands and companies in the wellness, mindful drinking and sober space — such as Lyre's Spirit Co, with its non-boozy spirits; Gold Coast-based Sobah, who sling alcohol-free craft beers; and mixer outfit Fever-Tree. Aperol will also be there, so expect spritzes, while Heineken's no-alcohol beer is also on the menu. Plus, the day will include fitness and wellness classes — think swimming, boxing and yoga. Also on the bill: DJs, food and guest speakers chatting about a range of topics. Tickets start at $59, which includes a gift bag, a cocktail on arrival, access to more than six classes, and sessions on healthy snacks and making cocktails.
What’s better than having an espresso bar in an old loading dock? Adding a gallery space out the back, obviously. That’s just what happened at Loading Dock Espresso – they’ve joined forces with the Sunny Coast’s Just Us Gallery and have created yet another space in Brisbane to look at lovely works of art – with the added perk of easily acquiring a perfectly brewed cuppa joe in case your caffeine levels drop to unmanageable lows. Just Us throws its doors open this Friday (actually, rolls up the rickety garage door), and it’s going to be a little something special. Exhibiting for the first time outside of his homeland of the U! S! A!, Scott Toepfer brings his Furthest Horizons exhibition to the Dock, coinciding with the Australian launch of his book, Chasing Horizons. With a penchant for capturing the idyllic American West, Toepfer works for the likes of Converse and Harley Davidson and has had work featured in Monster Children, amongst many others. It’s the American dream! The upcoming weather is perfect for a road trip to nowhere, and after viewing Furthest Horizons it’ll seem like you’re on Route 66 as opposed to the M3.
Is there a better name for a reggae festival than Jammin, which instantly gets the sounds of Bob Marley stuck in your head? Probably not. And at 2024's Jammin, the event is living up to that moniker by featuring Julian Marley, one of the Jamaican icon's sons, on its lineup. His set list is known to feature his dad's songs — 'Jamming' among them. Marley will take to the stage in Brisbane when the festival plays the Riverstage for two days across Saturday, February 3–Sunday, February 4. He has plenty of big-name reggae company, starting with Sean Paul, UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and Shaggy — yes, Mr Boombastic himself. From there, the roster of talent includes Stefflon Don, Fiji, Oxlade, J Boog, Third World and Common Kings, as well as Maoli, Spawnbreezie, The Green, Pia Mia, Latasha Lee, Josh Wawa, Eli Mac and Sione Toki. Plus, Sons of Zion, Sammy J, Nesian Mystik, House of Shem, 1814 and Three Houses Down are hopping across the ditch from New Zealand's reggae scene. In Brisbane, Shaggy headlines the Saturday, while Sean Paul and UB40 featuring Al Campbell do the honours on Sunday. Top image: Bieniecki Piotr via Wikimedia Commons.
Think Taps, the Brunswick Street bar that lets you pour your own beers, is just about the beverages? Think again. On Australia Day, they're also about combining a pint with a few friendly competitions. If ever there was an occasion for drinking games, it's this one. Given they're calling the event the Taps Olympics, you can safely expect more than a few rounds of shenanigans. Plus, there's something fitting about celebrating our great multicultural nation by embracing a sporting contest first started in Ancient Greece many, many centuries ago.
There's always something unique and cutting edge rearing its head at the Brisbane Judith Wright Centre, and this coming week is no exception. In fact, An End To Dreaming promises to be a warped fairytale so fantastically unnatural it will leave you in a spell long after the stage is cold. This pop cabaret fairytale is a unique showcase of Queensland talent. It has brought together Matilda Award nominee, Emma Dean and Green Room Award winner, Jake Diefenbach, fusing their musical flair into an eerie masterpiece. The uncanny duo sway, sing and step through ten Brothers Grimm inspired short stories, each complimented with their often ambiguous and haunty musical creations. Dean and Diefenbach's vocal and piano arrangments are sure to make the hairs on the back of your neck creep up! An End To Dreaming will journey through the dark and treacherous world of fiction bringing fairy tales to light. In other words, be prepared for at least a little of the warm and fuzzies. This cabaret will introduce you to a hurly-burly of whimsical tunes and twisted characters. This show is one night only so be quick and get your tickets fast!
No one should spend their lunch break eating at their desk, but breaking that habit isn't always easy. From Monday, March 7–Friday, April 8, the Howard Smith Wharves precinct is giving you plenty of motivation to step away from the computer. Head to the riverside precinct from Monday–Friday for a middle-of-the-day meal, and your lunch will start at $20 — and that includes a drink as well. Eight HSW venues are getting in on the deal, so you can pick between Stanley, Yoko, Greca, Mr Percival's, Felons Brewing Co, Felons Barrel Hall, Fiume and Ciao Papi. Or, you can work your way through them all (and stare at their slightly different views of the water) across the five-week period. You'll just need to keep an eye on each eatery's opening hours — and, while you can just rock up, bookings are recommended. As for what you'll be eating during the month-long Let's Lunch festivities, each place has its own special. Soy-poached Brisbane Valley quail and a glass of red, wine or Felons beer are on the menu at Stanley; Yoko is serving up chicken ramen with a choice of drinks; and Greca is doing lamb souvlaki with house spritzes, beers of bubbles for instance. There are three different dishes on offer at each of Mr Percival's, Felons and Felons Barrel Hall, too, giving you even more options. Most meals will cost you just $20, while some kick in at $25 and Stanley's deal will set you back $45.
We all need some time off with a poolside cocktail every now and then. Or just to hold on to the dream of getting it one day. But in reality, do we want to pass our whole holidays like that, while our children are off making a completely different set of memories? Not so much. A lot of family holidays aim for segregation: massages and mud baths for the big people; predictable 'kids clubs' for their offspring. But for those who are in the mood to get imaginative and adventurous, we've teamed up with Holden Equinox, the SUV for parents with nothing to prove, to round up five getaways to gratify you. If you want to share memorable — and, quite possibly, educational — experiences with your kids, then read on to find five of the best contemporary regional holiday ideas for families wanting to clear out of the city and have fun. Together. COURAN COVE Want a private beach and more water activities than you can poke a paddle at? Head to Couran Cove, which is not your typical island resort. Set yourself up in one of their self-contained eco-cabins, load up on essentials at the general store and take advantage of a crazy range of on-site facilities, including a lap pool, children's pool, playground, beach volleyball, basketball, tennis and mini-golf. While on paper this may seem like any other beach holiday, the resort has a very independent vibe, allowing you to build your own perfect escape on the island, without the run-of-the-mill structured activities. Hit the water via kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, trampolines and water slides, or take advantage of the long boardwalk by foot or bike to explore the rainforest trails. 2 hours' drive south of Brisbane via the Pacific Motorway MURPHY'S CREEK ESCAPE Leaving the iPad at home and going completely off the grid may induce a slight state of panic, but we promise once you arrive at Murphy's Creek Escape campgrounds, you won't look back. Aptly named, it is your chance to completely escape the hustle and grind, and have the whole family connect with nature at a leisurely pace. Thrill-seekers are catered for with a medium ropes course and flying fox on site, while chill-seekers can relax on the banks of Murphy's Creek. Those with little experience camping may want to opt for the army tent accommodation. The dorms come with timber floors, lighting and power, and can be pimped with stretchers for sleeping. 1.5 hours' drive east of Brisbane via the Warrego Highway TANGALOOMA Give Little Johnny plenty of material for Monday's show and tell with a trip to Tangalooma on Moreton Island. His tales of hand-feeding the wild dolphins there will impress even the most critical audience of five-year-olds. Boasting an unpretentious island resort, uncrowded beaches and a vast array of wildlife, Tangalooma is a great balance between creatures and creature comforts. Sign up the fambam for ATV quad biking, sand tobogganing, kayaking, fishing and snorkelling over shipwrecks. A 75-minute catamaran cruise northwest from Brisbane BINNA BURRA LODGE Binna Burra Lodge in the Gold Coast Hinterland prides itself on having plenty of options, so for those who want a break from the kids as well as some proper family bonding time, this is your place. It's located in the thick of Lamington National Park, in a world that channels strong 'Lost Boys running amok in the forests of Neverland' vibes. Gather the tribe for archery, wild walks and a ride on the 165-metre flying fox (or the mini version in the Adventure Playground if one/all of you chicken out). 1.5 hours' drive south of Brisbane via the Pacific Motorway BESTBROOK MOUNTAIN RESORT Cracking the whip will have a whole new meaning once you've stayed at Bestbrook. Here, you can lead your progeny around on horseback, and expose them to wagon rides, boomerang throwing, whip cracking and yabby fishing in Gap Creek. This is a hands-on farmstay holiday. Feeding the animals is not so much encouraged as it is essential. See the process from start to finish as you participate in cow milking and butter churning to go with the homemade damper — best enjoyed with billy tea by the fire. 1.5 hours southeast of Brisbane via the Cunningham Highway Drive your family on adventures in and outside of town in the Holden Equinox, the SUV for parents with nothing to prove. Find out more on the Holden website.
Gold Coast favourite I Like Ramen has set up shop in Brisbane, slinging its brothy vegan noodle bowls out of The Flying Cock. It's a case of one door closing and another one opening, with the Fortitude Valley watering hole saying goodbye to chicken-focused eatery The Coop in mid-October. I Like Ramen now takes its place in the freshly revamped space, following a number of pop-ups onsite in late August and early September. It's a permanent arrangement, so punters can slurp their way through a range of meat-free dishes from Wednesday to Saturday each week. I Like Ramen will open for dinner every night, and for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays too, slinging seven types of ramen and a smattering of other options. It's a mix of old classics from the Gold Coast menu, plus a few additions. When it comes to the main dish, Brisbanites can choose from chick'n white miso, mushroom in an earthy shiitake and soy soup, kimchi with plenty of spice, 'mean green' with spinach, bok choy and wakame, and cauliflower and onion with crispy beetroot and charred corn. If you can't decide, you can nab a combination of two flavours — and if you're extra hungry, the loaded option includes almost everything. Those after a more adventurous type of noodle can also opt for activated charcoal ramen. Among the non-ramen highlights sits the panko mushroom po'boy, which is made with panko-crumbed mushrooms that are flavoured to taste like sour cream and onion. And as for sides and small plates, the range spans panko mushroom and kimchi bao, shiitake mushroom croquettes and agedashi tofu with shiitake dashi, as well as garlic soy Asian greens, kimchi potatoes and panko mushrooms on their own.
It wouldn't be the end of October without Fortitude Valley's favourite tattoo studio, art gallery and espresso bar boasting an exhibition to mark the occasion. As they have every year since they opened in 2011, Lust for Life is hosting an annual horror show with a name as apt as its theme: Dead Scary. Specifically contemplating the notion of bringing out your dead, the creepy concoctions of more than 30 Brisbane and interstate creative will delve into the fearful and frightening side of the artistic spectrum. Expect axe-wielding animals, masked faces, contorted bodies, broken bones and burning flesh, plus ideas and images even more potentially twisted and terrifying. An event for the easily afraid, this is not, so consider yourself warned. If you're not scared off, attending the opening night festivities on October 29 is recommended. Dress in your eeriest outfit to go in the running to win a tattoo voucher, or just come prepared to soak up the spooky atmosphere.
A thousand monkeys working at a thousand typewriters couldn’t create as great a masterpiece as the Blurst of Times lineup. Last year, the fresh face arrived on the Brisbane scene and blew festival-goers away with its immaculately curated bill. A pre-'Covered in Chrome' Violent Soho headlined, and every band that preceded them were just as impressive. Now, with a year of fine-tuning under their belts, Blurst of Times has pulled out just as stellar a lineup crammed full of the creme de la creme of Australian music. This year's headliners, trash rock duo DZ Deathrays, are selling point enough. They’ve built up a reputation for their stage antics and being ‘one of those bands’ that’s radically better live than on mp3 (their continually sold out tours are a testament to that). Lazy-listening Dick Diver will be jetting up from Melbourne, and Aussie punk legends The Hard Ons will be making a much anticipated appearance. And from the local circuit you can catch Salvadarlings, Major Leagues, The Good Sports, Babaganouj and a heap more of our musical do-gooders. Check out the full lineup here. Venue wise, the festival hops between Brightside, its carpark and The Zoo. Tickets for The Blurst of Times can be purchased at Outpost, Jet Black Cat or online. Don’t be a silly monkey, and grab your tickets asap.
No one feels like stepping into the kitchen on a Sunday, but we all feel like eating. Hangovers, end-of-weekend malaise or just wanting to relax over a good meal that you haven't cooked yourself — whatever the reason, you know it's true. So, with that in mind, there's no better Sunday meal than a barbecue someone else has made for you. Once a month from 2pm on December 17, that someone is Death Valley. As part of a new regular event, they're heating up the smoker for a meaty barbie feast. There's two options available: decide on whatever combination of dishes you'd like, or opt for their all-in-one $29 offering. If you choose the latter, you'll get hickory brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, burnt end barbecued black beans, pecan slaw, maple tater salad, mac 'n' cheese, blackened corn, Texas toast, dill pickle and house BBQ sauce. It's safe to say that you won't go hungry — but booking in advance is recommended, because you know this feast is going to be popular.
De-generator is dreadfully dire, but in the most remarkable of performance means. This installation dance performance, ignores boundaries, crumples criteria and pulls its audience into a desolate black hole, where the stage is not only a platform, but also portal to apocalyptic nightmares. This is the world of De-Generator – it’s the last battle of earth, with humans expelling the last of their pains and cries. Is it worth facing fears? Or is acceptance the only way out of isolation. Choreographer Nerida Matthaei is renowned for creating sinuous movements that are both sensuous and emotionally menacing. Paired with the unconventional form and content of Pluxus2 Dance Collective, De-Generator takes everything you think about dance, turns it on its head, and drills into the audience’s mind the beauty that lies in the corrupt. De-Generator will be at The Judith Wright Festival from the 14th to the 21st of June.- check out the preview here.
The Glass Menagerie tells the story of a family in turmoil. Laura Wingfield is pathetically shy, her mother Amanda particularly domineering and wistful of youth, and our firecracker narrator Tom dreams of a life of creativity rather than supporting his sister and mother. A product of their broken home and poor living circumstances, they struggle to survive and move on with the adult chapters of their lives, and through disagreeing personalities, hilarity and drama is sure to ensue. This is the prized play from great American playwright, Tennessee Williams, and with the modern touch of director David Berthold, this timeless classic of family dynamics is brought to life. This presentation of The Glass Menagerie is in partnership with The University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee. This is the latest of La Boite’s classic re-tellings, following such tales as Julius Caesar, As You Like It and Hamlet, to name only a few. They have a knack for presenting old stories for new imaginations, to bring greater appreciation to the stories that have helped shape the stage.
Once a year, for one night, a New Farm street transforms into a fashion party. Given that James Street already boasts plenty of boutique selling designer threads, you wouldn't think it'd have to try hard — but boy oh boy do they know how to put on a sartorial celebration. That's what James St marie claire Up Late is all about: exploring the precinct's many outlets, stocking up your wardrobe, getting tempted by specials and browsing the latest collections. A number of designers will be on hand to chat about their wares as well, including Adrian Norris and Edwina Robinson of Aje, Lucy Folk at Camargue, Louise Olsen at Dinosaur Designs, Daniel Oliver at Assembly Label, Gail Sorronda and Natasha Chipman of Natasha Schweitzer Jewellery. marie claire will be giving out gift bags to 1000 lucky attendees, so arriving early is recommended. Entertainment will be part of the proceedings, so make sure you wear your best partying outfit. Given that James Street is also known for its restaurants and bars, dropping by each one to enjoy a themed cocktail and hop between after parties is also on the agenda.
You've heard that a hard-earned thirst needs a refreshing alcoholic beverage, or words to that effect. Have you heard that a stint of getting sweaty should immediately be rewarded with wine, too? The latter mightn't stem from an advertising jingle, but it still proves a motto to live by — and to put into practice at Workout Wine Down. Held by the folks at Sweat Social, with the class itself taught by Tyler Eve, Workout Wine Down will have you stretching through a yoga class then sipping boozy beverages. You'll certainly be in the right place for the latter, with the session taking place at Cloudland. On the bill at this year's Valley Fiesta, the event hits the Ann Street bar from 12.30–3.30pm on Sunday, September 2 — and, even better, attendance is free. You will need to register in advance, however, and bring your wallet for the tipple part of the afternoon.
Craig Waddell’s art is dangerously intrusive. It holds the kind of perfection, artistic gestures, and tactility that gets right in side your noggin, has a good feel around, and leaves without so much as a goodbye kiss. From birds, to flowers, to the most perfect strawberry glazed donut in the world, his art presents a world we know, in a dimension that’s far more intuitive. Now, he’ll be showcasing his latest work at Edwina Corlette Gallery until the 28th of June. Waddell has exhibited throughout Australia and racked up a number of awards to match. He won the Mosman Prize in 2010, the Woollahra Small Sculpture Price and the Tattersalls Art Prize for Landscape Painting in 2005, and the Paddington and the Norville Australian Landscape Prizes both in 2004. And he's also been a finalist in the Archibald Prize- no big deal. All of Waddell’s pieces will be for sale, so if you’re stuck on a birthday present, and have a spare grand or two in the couch, don’t be afraid to invest a little. Waddell isn’t an artist whose up and coming – he’s one that’s beyond uped and camed, and still going miles in his sublime and imperfect art.
Even if you're not that fond of cold weather — even if you live in Brisbane, basically — everyone has a favourite thing about winter. Maybe you love rugging up and wearing every woolly item you own. Perhaps you just like a short respite from summer. Or, you could love the crisp feeling in the air, the excuse to drink mulled wine or tucking into hearty menus. Love fondue? That's one of winter's big drawcards, too — 'tis the perfect season for it. Woolloongabba's Ooh La La Rooftop at C'est Bon clearly agrees, because it's dedicating an entire night to making supremely gooey and cheesy dreams come true. At WTF! Where's the Fondue? from 6.30pm on Thursday, July 21, you'll obviously get dipping. A masterclass is part of the evening, showing you the ins and outs of fondue — and, naturally, there'll be plenty to eat. As well as the complete traditional fondue setup with all the accompaniments, you'll get a cocktail upon arrival. And, there'll be a post-cheese dessert, plus a nightcap picked by by C'est Bon sommelier Sebastian Langkamer. This is a gather-the-gang type of event, too, with tickets costing $135 per person — but four guests needed for each fondue setup. Ooh La La images: Mitch Lowe.
You've heard about starting something how you plan to go on. Now, here's another approach — ending something with the same spirit, excitement and enthusiasm that you'll be taking with you. When this year's Valley Fiesta comes to a close, that's the only way to handle it, particularly when you're listening to live tunes on a Chinatown rooftop. To finish up the 2018 with a big ol' bang, 4ZZZ are letting the masses onto 31 Duncan Street's upper level for one massive blowout from 2pm on Sunday, September 2. Gabriella Cohen, Sweater Curse, Whalehouse and The Ancient Bloods will be doing the musical honours, rocking on through until 6pm in what promises to be quite the Sunday session. And, because this little shindig is called the 4ZZZ Rooftop Oasis Party, it'll be tropical-themed with lilos, palm trees and tiny umbrellas. Entry is free, but bring some cash to grab a bev from the bar — it'll be raising money for 4ZZZ and Backbone Youth Arts.
The realisation that eventually comes to everyone underscores Once My Mother, one that dawned slowly upon filmmaker Sophia Turkiewicz. She grew up listening to stories her mother, Helen, would tell of her life, but could only see as far as the intersection with her involvement. More immediate family history weighed upon Sophia, driving a desire for distance as she grew from a girl into a woman. Unforgiving about time spent in an orphanage, she also demonstrated an unwillingness to look past the emotional scars of her upbringing. It follows that Once My Mother takes a universal process — that of discovering the real personality of our parents, of understanding the true impact of their past not just upon their lives but our own, and of showing compassion for any missteps along the way — and relates it to the audience in the only way possible: as a personal journey. Turkiewicz's documentary is dedicated to dissecting Helen's resilience through decades marked by difficulties of destruction, discrimination and displacement; however, it is also shaped by a daughter's burgeoning awakening to things only age and experience could help her appreciate. Many laudatory words are directed towards Helen in the film's narration, written by and told from Sophia's perspective as a letter from the latter to the former but actually voiced by another. The extolling of virtues is justified by the accounts of Helen's epic ordeals in Poland and Siberia during the Second World War, then in Africa in the aftermath, and finally in Australia in an attempt to establish a new life as a single mother. The language remains lyrical and love-fuelled, sensitive and sentimental, even if the revelation that it is uttered by someone else (Jen Vuletic) somewhat skews the sense of intimacy. Of course, the spoken component is just one part of the documentary, with the visual complement impressive in its detailed assemblage. Starting with Helen in an aged care centre, then going back to the beginning, Sophia combines archival footage and photographs with contemporary-shot interviews and visits. The most fulfilling and fortunate element comes from work filmed many years ago, in the fledgling days of her career and with the flame of inquiry into her maternal genesis just beginning to spark, of earlier chats with Helen. Turkiewicz's career has spanned a significant slice of Australian film and television since the early 1980s, most notably the AFI-winning feature Silver City. It is fitting that it similarly took stock of familiar circumstances, albeit in fictionalised form. Here, she confronts the true tale with obvious emotion, but also insight and information. Once My Mother is a time capsule of a unique bond, and a testament to the impact of tenacity, both resonant and relatable. https://youtube.com/watch?v=-fos7dm2inE
Excellent news, marshmallows. In fact, if you're a Veronica Mars fan, this past year just keeps delivering. First, we found out that the beloved series was coming back for a fourth season. Then, not one, not two, but three teasers and trailers showed us just what kind of sleuthing fun we were in for. Now, Australian streaming platform Stan has announced that it'll become Ms Mars' new home for the fictional private eye's upcoming run of episodes. This news isn't minor — until now, just when and where Aussie were going to be able to watch Veronica Mars' fourth season was unknown. And if you've got a long-enough memory, and can recall how poorly the original first three seasons were treated by local TV back in the mid 2000s, you might've been worried. With the show launching on Friday, July 26 in the US, it'll hit Stan here on Saturday, July 27 — at the same time, thanks to the time difference. In America, it appears that all eight new episodes are dropping at once, so expect that to be the case here as well. Story-wise, the fourth season sees Veronica (Kristen Bell) back in her hometown of Neptune, still in the P.I. game with her dad Keith (Enrico Colantoni) and still solving mysteries. This time, a series of bombings and a shady ex-con turned businessman (JK Simmons) are on her radar. As well as plenty of twists and turns to follow, expect a heap of other familiar faces in the form of Jason Dohring as Veronica's on-again, off-again love interest Logan, Percy Daggs III as her bestie Wallace and Ryan Hansen as her sleazy ex-classmate Dick. Check out the full trailer, from US network Hulu, below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pt0QuaQ0huk Veronica Mars will hit Stan on Saturday, July 27, with an exact launch time yet-to-be announced. We'll update you when it is.
The BrisStyle team is a rather busy bunch. A few times a year, it puts on twilight markets in King George Square, but that isn't its only regular event. If you're particularly after a treasure trove of handmade goodies — and who isn't? — it hosts another opportunity to browse and buy that's dedicated to exactly those kinds of objects over at the Queensland Museum. And, because it's that time of year, it's putting on a Christmas version of the latter. Fashion, art, jewellery, homewares — if someone's been using their nimble fingers to make it, then you can probably trade your hard-earned cash for their hard work. In fact, there'll be a long list of artisans selling their wares. And, while you're shopping, you'll also be able to grab a bite at the onsite cafe and listen to live tunes from local musos. The BrisStyle Handmade Christmas Markets take place on Saturday, December 11, so that's when you can take care of your gift-buying needs. Head along from 9am–3pm, with it all taking place in the Queensland Museum's whale mall. Image: BrisStyle.
"It's actually a western" is a fairly common call these days, directed towards everything from superhero films to horror flicks. In the case of Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, the comparison really sticks. In the latest biting black comedy from writer-director Martin McDonagh (In Bruges, Seven Psychopaths), a horrific tragedy inspires a determined crusade, as a lone hero commits to doing whatever it takes to see justice done and a small town gets caught up in the chaos. Shots are fired, in the form of controversial signs, scuffles with dentists, cursing at priests, and hurling both people and Molotov cocktails through windows. Clad in faded boilersuit rather than cowboy hat and holster, Mildred Hayes (Frances McDormand) leads the charge. After spotting a trio of weathered billboards on the rarely used Drinkwater Road outside of the titular locale, she hires them out with the purpose of sending one hell of a message. Still mourning the death of her teenage daughter seven months earlier, and equally furious and frustrated about the lack of progress in the local police investigation, Mildred arranges for the signs to bear three statements. "Raped while dying," reads the first. "And still no arrests?", asks the second. "How come, Chief Willoughby?", pleads the third. The origins of the film's fantastic title might be immediately apparent, but the directions that Three Billboards heads in from there are far from predictable. The movie wears its rage as prominently as Mildred wears her wilt-inducing glare, while at the same time chronicling her grief with empathy and understanding. It's a delicate balance, never downplaying either her ire or her pain, and it's one that McDonagh gets just right. It also proves essential as Mildred crosses paths with other townsfolk, such as the well-respected Chief (Woody Harrelson) named on her signs, and the easily angered Officer Jason Dixon (Sam Rockwell), who's known for his brutal racism more than his law-enforcement prowess. Packed with dark, hilarious, nigh-unprintable dialogue, McDonagh's script mightn't be subtle, but it is teeming with complexity — much more than some of its seemingly simplistic takes on race and gender might initially indicate. Taking his cues from gunslinging revenge tales gone by, the filmmaker crafts a complicated rumination on humanity's contradictions, including the way that the right intentions can still lead to murky outcomes, and vice versa. His storytelling approach demonstrates a similarly stark contrast in action, convincingly flitting from scathing to thoughtful to loud, foul-mouthed and attention-seeking, and back again, in an instant. From the second that McDormand's Mildred locks eyes on the billboards, there's no doubting the movie's other big standout. It's hardly surprising given the actress' track record, but it bears highlighting all the same. While Harrelson and Rockwell are in terrific form, they've got nothing on McDormand, who seems certain to pick up another Academy Award nomination more than 20 years after scoring her first playing the polar opposite type of role in Fargo. She's in total command of the movie from beginning to end, though in true western style it's the small gestures, more than the witty speeches, that really leave a lasting impression. The range that she shows — whether in a momentarily faltering gaze, an unthinking act of kindness in a confrontational situation, or a look of troubled realisation — many actors can only dream of. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aZ3r-84EQc
It has proven to be a massive year for Big Scary, who have released their highly anticipated follow-up record to 2011's debut, Vacation, and now have a freshly announced national tour that will see the Melbourne duo popping into every corner of Australia. Not Art, the band's second record, saw Tom Iansek and Jo Syme shift into a new direction in terms of sound and production. Though they're primarily known for their alt-rock aesthetic, Iansek has this time sought out new influences from the likes of Kanye West and has thus produced a record that dips into hip hop whilst still maintaining elements of their signature pop sensibilities. On tour, the duo will expand into a four-piece live band — something they've never tried before — in order to fulfil the complex and lush textures heard throughout their record, most prominent in lead singles 'Luck Now' and 'Phil Collins'. Kicking off the proceedings will be Melbourne singer/songwriter Courtney Barnett, whose latest musical adventure and stellar songwriting can be heard in the form of her new single, 'Avant Gardener'. https://youtube.com/watch?v=K_EjSuYWzxA
Everyone stares at screens these days instead of talking. No one remembers trivia because they can just look it up online. Handwriting looks like chicken scratch because we're so accustomed to typing. Future generations will never own a standalone calculator or alarm clock. They're some of the common criticisms levelled at our technology heavy world these days; however, one thing is definitely changing: our memories. Pics or it didn't happen is also a way for us to record and catalogue our lives, rather than burn them into our brains. At the Queensland College of Art from December 8 until March 11 (excluding a seasonal break between December 11 and February 1), The Mnemonic Mirror will contemplate this subject, as well as other ways in which we try to remember. 12 artists offer their take on the topic, exploring the past, communicating the issues of the future and questioning both the good and bad repercussions.
Wandering around a market while the sun shines is all well and good, but there's something extra appealing about the nighttime variety. Happening every Friday and Saturday night in Brisbane's north — and back for 2021, too — BITE Markets fits the bill. And, it serves up plenty of food, because that's what every night market attendee really wants. Created by caterer Tom Burke, the twice-weekly setup boasts more than 30 'flavour makers' on its lineup, all trying to keep your hunger in check. Fancy a big heap of pasta? Sweet treats in the form of cakes, doughnuts, churros and poffertjes? Dumplings, bao, banh mi, wings, calamari, German sausages and Japanese eats? They're all on the menu, with the likes of Bamboo Street Asian Kitchen, Calamari Canteen, Hong Kong Dumplings, It's a Wing Thing, Oyster Shack and Moreton Bay Mocktails coming to North Harbour to sling their wares. A shipping container setup like Hamilton's Eat Street — complete with landscaping and a dining precinct — BITE Markets showcases local talents, so prepare to feast on meals whipped up by the best producers, food creators and artisans in the area. Running from 4–10pm each Friday and Saturday, the huge foodie gathering calls a patch of Nolan Drive in Morayfield home. Entry costs $3 for adults — and for those driving north, there's more than 600 car parks onsite.
There’s not much going on (music-wise) in Brisbane, our sunny, but sleepy city. Or is there? We have good bands here, and we have good venues for them to play in, right? But for some reason the stigma that Brisbane just don’t got it goin’ on still hangs around like a bad smell. And then Unconvention came around. The inaugural conference first started in 2010 and is a not-for-profit, grassroots-led music conference which focuses around creating sustainable careers within the local independent music industry. In short: Melbourne Schmelbourne! Sydney Schmydmey! We can do it all, and right here in Bristown. There’ll be forum discussions, workshops and networking events over the two days of Unconvention, and it’s open to pretty much anyone: independent musicians, promoters, labels, entrepreneurs, writers, technologists, innovators and artists. It’s time to shut down that sleepy city stigma – Unconvention’s a good place to start the revolution. Buy tickets here. Image credit: Unconvention
What happens when some of Brisbane's most beloved burger bosses go head to head? Well, you're about to find out. Come June 16 and 17, the likes of Mr Burger, Ben's Burgers, Salt Meats Cheese, Notorious E.A.T, Bearded Brothers and more will all descend on the Welcome to Bowen Hills lot for Brisbane's first Burger Invitational. If there's one thing that Brissie loves, it's burgers, after all — and to celebrate, the event will offer a weekend's worth of meat and other goodie between two pieces of bread. Expect some fierce foodie competition as each vendor vies for burger glory. Plus, if you gather up five mates, you can sit in a booth and pair your burg-eating experience with bottomless booze for three hours. General entry is free, and — as always — you can bring your four-legged BFF along. As for the burgs, everything on the menu will be available at regular prices on the day.
Falls Festival might be gearing up to celebrate a quarter-century, but it feels a bit like we're the ones getting the birthday presents instead. Helping to ring in the art and music festival's 25th year is a pretty buzzworthy gang of musical mates, headlined by Australia's own wunderkind Flume, as he returns to the Falls stage for the first time since wooing the Lorne crowds in 2012. He's joined on the bill by international names like Seattle-based Grammy nominees Fleet Foxes (who were here earlier in the year for Sydney Festival), Oxford four-piece Glass Animals (who were also just here for Laneway), Californian indie-pop darlings Foster The People and The Kooks, who'll be celebrating a milestone of their own, having clocked up ten years since their debut album. If you've had your ear to the ground, you'll already know the part about Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher dropping in for his first-ever Aussie headline shows. True to form, the Falls 2017 local lineup is equally exciting, and every bit as broad. Homegrown acts hitting the stage include the party-ready Peking Duk, Brisbane rockers Dune Rats, Melbourne natives The Smith Street Band and Total Giovanni, and indie duo Angus & Julia Stone, off the back of their soon-to-launch album Snow. And it looks like you can start limbering up those vocal chords for a gutsy rendition of 'The Horses', with the legendary Daryl Braithwaite also slated for an appearance. As always, the tunes are backed by a colourful curation of art events, performances, pop-ups, markets, wellness sessions and gourmet eats. You can, however, say goodbye to the usual drink ticket situation, which has been ditched in favour of paywave and cash-enabled bars. It's all happening over New Years at the usual spots in Tassie's Marion Bay, Lorne in Victoria, and the North Byron Parklands, with WA's 2017 Falls Festival landing itself a new home within the Fremantle Oval precinct. But here's the full lineup. FALLS FESTIVAL 2017 LINEUP Flume (no sideshows) Fleet Foxes Run The Jewels The Kooks Glass Animals (no sideshows) Peking Duk Angus & Julia Stone Foster The People Liam Gallagher Vince Staples Jungle Dune Rats The Smith Street Band D.R.A.M Daryl Braithwaite Everything Everything Allday The Jungle Giants Thundamentals Methyl Ethel Slumberjack D.d Dumbo Anna Lunoe Dz Deathrays Confidence Man Julia Jacklin Bad//dreems Cosmo's Midnight Winston Surfshirt Luca Brasi Alex Lahey Camp Cope Flint Eastwood Ecca Vandal Dave Total Giovanni + More to be announced
They've been spoiling Sydneysiders with their vegan Mexican fare since early 2017, and now they're heading north. A collaboration between restaurateurs Toby Wilson, Sean McManus and Jon Kennedy, Bad Hombres is all about traditional, authentic, regional-style, meat-free cuisine — which is just what'll be on the menu for five weeks at Alf's Place. From Wednesdays to Saturdays from November 15, the eatery will set up shop at Brisbane's new rotating supper club to put on quite the Mexican spread, plus ten beers on tap and a selection of natural Aussie wines. And while they're not giving away the exact menu, hungry patrons can expect share plates that blend Mexican street food with locally sourced Australian and Asian ingredients and flavours. In other words, you won't find Tex-Mex here. You won't find meaty dishes that simply swap in veggies, either. Yes, vegans, rejoice. As Kennedy explains, "we're also not about 'trying' to be vegan and replacing certain elements with imitation products. It's about really tasty, plant-based Mexican food with big, authentic flavours and having some fun."
Arj Barker is probably the coolest friend a guy or gal could have – well, almost exclusively according to Bret and Jermaine of the Flight of the Conchords. Arj Barker is even more probably the funniest friend a guy or gal could have– well, according to most of Australia, with Kochie riding a strong second. Arj Barker just gets Aussie culture – while most of our politicians remain in the dark – and as his satirical, analytical humour gets sharper, we’ve been seeing Arj on our shores ever more. It’s been two years since he graced our holy ground with his Flight of the Conchord pals, and he’d been touring pretty much non-stop ever since. His trail of sold out shows, adoring fans, and stocking filler DVD sales is just a testament to how poignant and funny he actually is. And now Arj is coming back! His new show Go Time will be showing at the Powerhouse for nearly a fortnight, packed full of everything we love, from his dress style to special skills, about Mr Barker. Tickets are only $36, so skip along and witness a man who sports Dave Grohl facial hair, Chris Rock's comedic prowess and a pretty mean Owen Wilson impression.
The fierce, animalistic and unrelenting force that is Lightning Bolt is steamrolling their way back to the Brisbane stage, for a show like no other. With the band’s inception prioritising art as well as music, it’s not hard to guess where the group got their left-of-centre approach to performance. They’re known for literally immersing themselves in their audiences, while annihilating their instruments with a talent so overwhelming, you won’t believe it. This is not for the faint of heart. Fans of performance metal and the heaviest of bass rock will find themselves right at home. However, for those looking to expand their horizons, you will be witness to some of the most finely choreographed and explosive drum-and-bass combinations this side of garage fuzz. It’s been three years since Lightning Bolt dragged us by the collective collar down the path of musical mayhem; these tickets will go faster than you can say “what did I just see?”
Variety might be the spice of life, but it seems that alcohol helps spark creativity — at least where Brisbane's art classes are involved. So far this year you've been able to paint a picture in the middle of the Night Noodle Markets, whip up a portrait of your own pet, head to the city's permanent boozy studio and its new pop-up, and partake in any number of other combinations of watercolours, pastels and plonk. Now, you can also sketch live models with a beer in your hand. Milton dive bar The Scratch is putting on the brew-fuelled session from 10am–12pm on Sunday, October 7, with local artist Aaron Micallef overseeing the class. You'll draw the human form, using nude life models as your guide, and the $20 fee also includes a pot of beer or cider. Yes, Life Drawing and Beer is basically your high school art class — just with an alcoholic beverage — and spaces are limited. There'll be a number of art boards supplied, but it's best to bring your own supplies. The Scratch, obviously, will supply the beer.
Before a few rounds of inner-city putt putt meant heading to a church-turned-bar, Victoria Park was Brisbane's go-to central mini-golf spot. There's more to the Herston space than that, of course — including over eight decades of history, a full-sized golf course, a driving range, weekend cart markets and an alfresco restaurant with an adjacent pizza kitchen. Now, they're also adding roasted rotisserie meats to the mix. Meet The Rotisserie Kitchen, the new addition that opens its doors on October 4. From Wednesday through until Sunday each week, it'll serve up roast chicken and porchetta with sides of roast potato and seasonal salads, aka home-style cooking that you don't have to whip you yourself. Like its neighbouring pizza counterpart, which opened in late 2016, the roast-focused eatery isn't just an extension. Cooking spinning, succulent poultry and pork is an important task, so the kitchen boasts its own dedicated staff, with two chefs taking care of the site's meaty needs. They'll be working with a Rotisol oven from France, which is "designed to seal in meats' natural juices while reducing fat throughout the rotation process," explains Victoria Park Bistro executive chef Jason Peppler. Yes, that sounds like the perfect meal once you've tap, tap, tapped your way to putt putt victory. Find The Rotisserie Kitchen at Victoria Park Gold Course, 309 Herston Road, Herston from October 4. Head to their website for further details.
Jugglers Artspace presents Brisbane artist BoHDi? Yep, but in Me, Myself and I, he's not alone. They're also presenting his infinite catalogue of bold-featured characters and tense-faced animals, plus everything else he's been able to create with aerosol paints, intaglio printing and a whole can of talent. BoHDi has been exhibiting his work around Brisbane for the last seven years. His art works with the central theme of the human condition, preferring to show the human form as awkward instead of elegant. "Doesn't matter what I'm doing or how I'm doing it, my work must always be balanced and honest; if they don't achieve these two values I don't feel my work is successful," he says of his own practice. You can check out a whole range of his past work on his website, then head along to see his latest stuff at Me, Myself and I at Jugglers Artpace from July 24 to 29.
This autumn, the Regatta is giving its courtyard a temporary makeover. The theme: bohemian. That means soft textiles aplenty, oh-so-many patterns, rustic-hued plants almost as far as the eye can see and a relaxed atmosphere. Who said feeling chill was just for summer? Running through until the end of May, this pop-up also serves up food to match. Tuck into seven types of pizza, including a garlic prawn number, plus another with assorted mushrooms and truffle pesto — or, opt for a salumi share plate with your mates. Baked haloumi and brisket loaded fries are also on the menu, as are reuben sliders and smokey beef tacos. Drinks-wise, expect cocktail specials and red wine sangria, all available during the pop-up's Wednesday–Sunday time slot — starting at 11.30am each day. The hotel's regular beverage lineup is on offer as well, so you won't be going thirsty. Entry is free, reservations aren't required and the pop-up runs till late.
In 2003, Aaron Eckhart starred in a film called Paycheck. That's not even a joke, it actually happened. It's pretty much the acting equivalent of ending a relationship and then sleeping with someone whose name is literally 'Rebound'. But then came Thank You for Smoking, followed by Batman Begins. All of a sudden, Eckhart was credible. He was bankable. He was Harvey Dent — the very best of us. Symbolically, if he were to fail, what hope was there for anyone else? Well, having just seen I, Frankenstein, the answer is apparently 'none'. So give up now. The Joker won. It's hopeless. It's...it's all just so hopeless. Here's the story. We pick up the action where Mary Shelley saw fit to end it: with Frankenstein dead and his monster wandering the countryside lonely and without purpose. Then some demons try to capture him, whereupon some gargoyles come to life and save him. As it turns out, that little back and forth was just round #45,678,001,235 in one of those 'secret wars that's been fought for millennia without man's knowledge yet could very well decide the fate of all mankind' kind of things. And now Frankenstein's monster is caught right in the middle of it: still lonely, still angry and almost certainly itchy from all those stitches. And that's the story. Good versus evil. Statue versus demon. Miranda Otto versus Bill Nighy. At one point, Otto has to deliver the line "I am Queen of the Gargoyle League", immediately capturing the 'je ne sais quoi' of paycheck movies and prompting memories of a theme-park-river-stoned Lisa Simpson. As Frankenstein's monster, Eckhart looks suitably buff and menacing, though his performance is so drab and monotone it robs the film of any semblance of fun. Nighy, at least, remains a delight to watch as the Satan-esque villain Naberius, whilst Aussie actor Jai Courtney phones in a 'hey, check out my guns' performance as Otto's bodyguard Gideon. The action is the only thing that keeps I, Frankenstein rolling along with any pace, but even that's just one CGI light show after another, and none aside from the first are of any real note. Ultimately, this is an animated corpse of a film about a reanimated one, so either save your money or buy a turkey, sew a vibrator inside of it and watch that roll around for 90 minutes instead. https://youtube.com/watch?v=pxOSPfUw3qw
Cheese wheel pasta will never stop being delicious. Cooking up everyone's favourite Italian staple, stirring it through a huge circle of melting dairy and then devouring the results — what's not to love? But, sometimes, even the best concepts need a little shakeup. In Salt Meats Cheese's case, it's now serving up cheese wheel risotto as well. Every Wednesday night is now Cheese Wheel Risotto Night at SMC's South Bank digs. The basic mechanics remain the same; however instead of whisking through spaghetti, linguine or some other type of pasta, SMC's chefs will be popping some arborio rice into a huge wheel of cheese. And, they'll be serving it to you at your table. There are three flavours to choose from — smoked cheese, truffle pecorino and gorgonzola — which sounds like a great excuse to have multiple helpings, or to head back multiple times. Feel hungry just thinking about it? The supremely cheesy meal will only set you back $25.
Man against the elements: it's the familiar staple of survivalist film fare, crafted as a feat of cinematic endurance as much as entertainment. J.C. Chandor's nautical All Is Lost adheres to that description to the letter, unraveling in near wordlessness with its emotion carried in Robert Redford's world-weathered face. The combination of existentialism and action on offer, however, reaches beyond the customary depictions of fortitude and perseverance. Details — names, places, dates — are rendered irrelevant; all that matters is "our man", his boat and the endless expanse of sea that forms his surroundings. Awakening to the thud of an adrift shipping container bursting through the hull of his vessel, the film's nameless protagonist pits his resourcefulness against the water, wind and weight of other worsening difficulties conspiring against his subsistence. For 106 minutes of running time and eight days of narrative, Margin Call writer/director Chandor crafts a tension-riddled thriller despite the sparseness of his cast and setting; again, Redford and his sea-faring abilities monopolise the movie to the exclusion of all else. Even the most mundane of tasks — including shaving, eating canned food and conserving water — seethe with suspense. The singular spotlight heightens the anxiety to unrelenting levels, the knowledge that any peaceful moment could take a turn for the worse unable to be shaken. Withholding information about Redford's character similarly amplifies the feature's focus, centring on the circumstances over the individual in its treatise on existence and mortality. As the stoic veteran is battered and beaten by forces beyond his control, eventually acquiescing to his inevitable fate as the title suggests, the feature's commentary upon the broader human condition is unmistakable — but its assurance doesn't hamper its haunting heartbreak. In such context, the who and the why just don't matter. It has been a big year for well-known faces stranded in inconvenient spaces (quite literally for Sandra Bullock in Gravity); however, Redford is the unsung hero in the survivalist race, as is his film. Eschewing dialogue, the actor conveys every ounce of resilience and weariness in his physicality and performance. Though storm-fuelled special effects enliven the drama in a deft display of Chandor's direction, much of the film's power comes from understated scenes of a man at nature's mercy. The sounds, sights and overall thrust emphasise solitude, swelling to operatic proportions due to striking visuals and an immersive score, yet what echoes loudest is the film's vitality. All Is Lost may leave viewers broken in its transcendent contemplation of the beauty and brutality of life, but it also embodies those very aspects. Nothing is easy in the feature's austerity, but nothing is lost either. https://youtube.com/watch?v=no1rl9Gvx-s
We've all done it at some point: drawn or painted a picture of ourselves. You were probably made to in high school, and before that you definitely committed your likeness to paper in primary school. Think of them as the original selfies. Every two years, the University of Queensland invites a selection of artists to craft a new self-portrait — and every two years, one of them wins $50,000 for their troubles. In 2017, that honour went to Jenny Orchard, with her sculpture piece Self Portrait as a Multispecies Activist, but she's not the only one getting introspective and creative. At the National Self-Portrait Prize 2017 exhibition, an array of artistic self-assessments are on display, spanning everything from ceramics to paintings to lighting to mirrors. Perusing their efforts, you'll be fascinated by the way these creative folks see themselves — and you'll likely be inspired to make your own attempt. Image: Julie Fragar, The Single Bed. 2017, oil on marine ply. 135.0 x 100.0 cm. Courtesy of the artist and Sarah Cottier Gallery, Melbourne.
From crunchy leaves to crackling fires, there are so many things to love about winter. And one of the best is the annual harvest. As the weather cools, farmers head to their orchards, wine makers to their vineyards and chefs to their kitchen gardens to reap the delicious rewards of an entire year's work. This year, if you'd like to get in on the action, plan a trip to the Central Coast. Over the June long weekend, the region will host the Harvest Festival. It's an epic celebration of local produce — and the mountains, valleys and waterways that nurture it. With scores of gatherings on the program — from property open days and tours to farmers' markets — you'll get to choose your own adventure. Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventure will host a food and wine festival across both days of the festival, while Dooralong Hall will host a country-focused market filled with stalls, exhibits, craft and workshops. Meanwhile, make tracks to Yarramalong for a masterclass in edible flowers ($25) or to Kulnura to try your hand at orange picking ($25 per group) or take part in a citrus juice factory tour at Eastcoast Beverages (free). You can also head to Mangrove Mountain for alpaca patting on a working farm, to Somersby for pecan picking with The Pecan Lady and to The Springs restaurant in Peats Ridge for cocktails inspired by the Australian bush. And these are just the tip of the iceberg. Harvest Festival will take place across Saturday, June 8 and Sunday, June 9. To see the full program, head over here. There'll also be a free shuttle service running between various event hubs. Check out the route here.
