UPDATE, May 21, 2021: Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles is available to stream via Docplay, Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. Marie Antoinette didn't actually say "let them eat cake", no matter how often the statement is misattributed to the 18th-century royal before her date with the guillotine. But New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art was surely hoping she would've approved of its hedonistic June 2018 food gala, which tied into the venue's Visitors to Versailles exhibition in the same year — and, in line with the place and period under the grill, put decadence on the menu. Overseeing the spread of desserts fit for a queen: renowned Israeli English chef and restaurateur Yotam Ottolenghi. He didn't make the Feast of Versailles' lavish cakes himself; instead, he trawled Instagram to source and select five pâtissiers known for delicious, innovative and aesthetically appealing wares. He found them, too, enlisting Dominique Ansel, the NYC-based French pastry chef who invented the cronut; Sam Bompas and Harry Parr, the London food artists known for their striking jellies and unique food events; architecturally trained Ukrainian Dinara Kasko, who approaches her desserts with the same design principles; Ghaya Oliveira, an award-winner and veteran at the Michelin-starred Restaurant Daniel; and Singapore's Janice Wong, who aims to turn chocolate into edible art. The exacting theme that approaches art and history through an untraditional lens, the melding of varying creative arenas, the roll call of significant names in their field, the theatricality on display, the iconic setting — if it all sounds a bit like a culinary version of The Met Gala, that was undoubtedly the intention, too. Celebrities didn't attend, paparazzi weren't on hand to snap photos, fundraising wasn't the name of the game and no one broke the internet, but this was no ordinary serving of sugar. So it shouldn't come as a surprise that, as the venue's fashion-focused event did before it, Feast of Versailles has also earned the documentary treatment. Where The First Monday in May chronicled the preparations for 2015's Met Gala, Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles does the same with the quest to recreate the Palace of Versailles' gardens with chocolate and multi-coloured fondant, whip up a tiered mousse cake that resembles the French castle's sculptured detail, and pair them all with swan-topped pastries, wobbling palace-shaped jellies and a cocktail-filled whirlpool fountain. Viewers of cooking-focused reality television will know what's in store. That may not be the comparison one expects with a doco about a Met event, but it fits. Documentarian Laura Gabbert (City of Gold) deploys the personable Ottolenghi as her guide, and gets him to chat through the task at opportune moments. Her film also spends time first introducing Ansel, Bombas and Parr, Kasko, Oliveira and Wong, then watching them work towards the big gala evenings. Periodically, Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles has Ottolenghi chat with Met staff about logistics as well, and to historical experts. The former reveal their horror at having liquid anywhere near the gallery's exhibits, and the awareness that events with a live component are so much trickier to control than inanimate displays; the latter discusses 18th-century Versailles in general, the culinary excesses of the royal courts, the fact that chocolate was used for drinking long before it was eaten and, only briefly, the fate that befell Versailles' most famous figures in the French Revolution. Combine all of the above ingredients in a 75-minute documentary, and it's as formulaic as it sounds — even if the gala itself, the chefs behind it and their dazzling desserts could never earn that description. The First Monday in May was helmed by a different director to Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles; however, both films struggle to bring their concepts to life. As a mere record of occasions that happened, they do a fine job of showing what goes into staging these types of extravagant events. They also capture the tension and drama beforehand, and the indulgence and luxury when everything comes to fruition. But it seems that docos about Met galas are fated to take a superficial and straightforward approach, despite striving for more, and attempting to mimic the layers and textures of the venue's exhibitions and festivities. In Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles' case, the NYC institution clearly didn't hold a lavish Versailles-themed feast without intending to get everyone involved and in attendance thinking about the vast disparities between the haves and have nots — aka the whole reason that the "let them eat cake" misquote exists. Alas, Gabbert's film is mostly content to depict rather than interrogate this idea. A few very late shots, including of Trump Tower's garish gold interior, endeavour to stress modern-day parallels between Versailles and today's one-percent, but hardly delve deep. Accordingly, Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles is glossy, gleaming eye candy for those with a sweet tooth. It never feels like a full meal, though. That may be apt given that it's about dessert, but there's more substance in the tables piled high with cake and confection seen within the movie's frames than in the documentary's examination of its subject — and of the topic driving Feast of Versailles, and therefore sparking the film in the first place. While interesting tidbits pop up frequently, relating to food and history alike, they're akin to an entree. Viewers keep expecting something heartier, only to be left intellectually hungry. The audience is left physically ravenous, of course, because roving over all those spectacular dishes is a sure-fire way to whip up an appetite for a treat. This pleasant, palatable but slight movie obviously can't leave stomachs satisfied either, but it will make mouths water. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uan6MDxf3wU
Hailing women shouldn’t really be cause for a special celebration, but any excuse for an art exhibit is good, right? Lust For Life's latest art exhibition, Viva La Femme, takes an empowered, Beyonce-style approach to promoting women in art. The showcase features a number of local artists so talented, they'd have Patti Smith and Gwen Stefani collaborating to rejoice the qualities of these gifted women. But wait, the female-singer-references don't stop there. In the wise words of Shania Twain, “the best thing about being a woman, is prerogative to have a little fun” (open the link at your own peril), and that's exactly what this exhibit is all about – showing Brisbane, in a fun and lively display, that our local female artists have really and truly got it going on. This showcase is all about empowerment and support, second to showing off an artistic collaboration that may currently be one of Brisbane's best. With contributors like Symone Male, Nila Vanwolf and Kristy Chambers - how could it not be. So pop into Lust for Life and have a squizz at an art collection that roars "I am Woman".
There's one thing most of history's greatest artists had in common — they knew how to hit the bottle. Picasso used to get on the grog with Henri Matisse, Joan Miro and Georges Braque, proving there's no sweeter combination than a paintbrush and pilsner. Now Junky Comics are getting behind the combo with their latest event, Drink and Draw. The premise is super casual, so if you're wont to show off your superior shading skills to all and sundry, maybe sit this one out. It's completely free. All you need to do is BYO drinks, sketch book and pens. You don't need to be as skilled as any of the aforementioned artists; you've just got to love drawing and be open to meeting people who share a similar passion. This event is limited to 15 people, so get in quick by emailing junkycomics@gmail.com.
How often of late have we seen trailers for 'comedies' without a single funny clip in them? Their only virtue is in ensuring you never actually go see the final product when it comes out. But then there are those deceptive (and infuriating) films where the trailer does elicit laughter, only for you to go along to the full feature and discover you’ve already seen all the best stuff. Our first glimpse of Ted, by Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane, arrived back in April and felt distinctly like that latter variety. The trailer (banned in the US) was equal parts crass and dumb, but also featured one of the funniest bits of dialogue we’d seen all year (the ‘white trash names’ exchange). Pursuant to the 'formula', then, Ted seemed set to be the unfunniest disaster of 2012. Thankfully, though, the formula isn't foolproof. Ted is not just a funny film; it's side-splittingly so and manages to maintain that level throughout. Beyond the writing (which is excellent), so much of its success owes to the remarkable CGI of its lead character 'Ted' — a stuffed teddy bear miraculously brought to life by a young boy’s Christmas wish. Had audiences not been able to completely accept Ted's existence alongside his human co-stars then this movie would've crashed from the opening scene; however, thanks to the extraordinary efforts of his animators, the foul-mouthed bear (voiced by MacFarlane) is as believable as he is hilarious and steals almost every scenes he's in. Mark Wahlberg plays Ted's owner-come-best friend John, and again proves an appealing (if also surprising) comedic actor. His familiar 'just woke up and still haven't quite figured out where I am or what's going on' expression works perfectly as the immature stoner in his 30s forced to choose between his fluffy hedonistic teddy and the love of his life, Lori (Mila Kunis). Joel McHale plays a great supporting role as Kunis's sleazy boss, while Giovanni Ribisi cameos beautifully as the 'villain' hoping to buy Ted for his own son. The main 'threat', however, is simply John's reluctance to part with all 'childish things' and finally embrace adulthood. Fans of Family Guy will recognise other familiar faces and voices in supporting roles, along with MacFarlane's signature political incorrectness and constant pop-culture references (including a recurring jab at the 1980 shocker Flash Gordon). The writing occasionally dips a little too far towards the purely offensive; however, it's easily outweighed by the constant laughter and, surprisingly, several moments of genuine tenderness.
Snow White and the Huntsman (or as it might alternatively be known: "The Girl Who Forgot How To Smile"), is the second version of the famous Brothers Grimm fairytale to hit screens this year, and it's certainly the better of the two. Pursued by an evil witch and loved by two men sworn to protect her, Kristen Stewart plays the eponymous 'Bella', a withdrawn teenager whose...I'm sorry, I meant 'Snow White' - a withdrawn teenager whose unmatched beauty represents the witch's best chance at everlasting life - or as she tautologically describes it: "immortality forever". Charlize Theron plays the villainous queen Ravenna: murderer of Snow White's father and narcissist extreme. Her magical beauty (which rather awkwardly trumps Stewart's to all but the most subjective observer) is maintained by the dastardly act of sucking the youth directly out of the mouths of all the kingdom's attractive girls. Snow White manages to escape Ravenna's clutches before her own beauty can be tapped, setting up the dogged pursuit with which the bulk of the film is concerned. All the familiar elements are there in the story, like the poisoned apples and the seven dwarves (played both remarkably and controversially by some of England's leading regular-sized men, including: Bob Hoskins, Ian McShane, Ray Winstone and Nick Frost), along with some new elements like Chris Hemsworth's character Eric the Huntsman. It's darker than one might expect for a film clearly hoping to cash in on the Twilight/Tween market, though just the right amount of dark for a standard Grimm tale. Stewart brings a certain Joan of Arc quality to her version of the heroine, donning chain-mail and leading the charge during the film's climax, however even in its dialled-down capacity her trademark 'dour intensity' seems at odds with the 'fairest in the land' label. It's all a little 'Snow Grey' for what's meant to represent the diametric counterpoint to Ravenna's dark heart and sonorous demeanour, and it's actually Theron's scenes that ultimately shine brightest. Snow White and the Huntsman marks the directorial debut for Rupert Sanders, whose previous work was predominantly in commercials. It's a visually rich production and Sanders should be praised for his determination to favour real locations over green screens and CGI. However, he sometimes feels a little too preoccupied with appearance while too light on substance; something one might easily say of Stewart's performance, too. Snow White and the Huntsman is a good film with some great scenes, but too many characters and an unconvincing lead keep it from achieving any real distinction.
Although the majority of Brisbane is back up and running after the January floods, those who live in and around the Lockyer Valley, a region that got hit pretty badly, are still in need of a little help. In order to throw some much needed financial support their way The Fox Hotel and Bundaberg Rum are joining forces to throw a good old fashioned street party. The WATERMARK Flood Relief Street Party is bringing out all the stops with some amazing music acts. Australian DJ Muscles will be making the trek back to Brisbane to perform at the party, while local heroes The Cairos will add some indie cred to the event. Filling up the impressive bill will be Vasy Mollo, Avaberee, Moonfleet, Misere and Too Shoes. In between all this musical goodness you can enjoy some yummy barbecued products, served to you by Brisvegas celebrities, as well as a Grand Auction that will raise money for Baked Relief. So what's it going to cost you to enjoy all this frivolous fun? Depends on how big your heart is. The lovely people at the door will be accepting gold coin donations as an entry fee, but we here at Concrete Playground are encouraging you to dig a little deeper. Considering the calibre of acts performing, and the fact that donations will be going towards flood affected families, giving as many gold coins as possible is an easy way to help those less fortunate.
Kathy McCabe from The Daily Tele described British India as being ‘hotter than Vindaloo’. Lame punny comments aside, she’s right. The four-piece who formed in Melbourne during their high school days, are constantly on the up and up, playing sets at festivals like Big Day Out, Pyramid and Splendour, having a cameo appearance on Neighbours (yes, really), and releasing three critically acclaimed albums in the past four years. In 2011 they’re gearing up for their fourth studio release by launching their first single off the new album, ‘March Into The Ocean’ and going on an appropriate three-month long, Australia-wide tour for it. If, by some miracle, you haven’t heard of British India yet, no need to go back on your DVR’d Neighbours archive to catch a glimpse, because they’re coming to The Zoo, where you’ll be able to see them sans Ramsay Street, plus a couple of comrades in the form of Adelaide’s City Riots and fellow Melbournians Boy In A Box. If we’re going by what Kelly McCabe tells us, they’ll be the Khakra to your Bhakhri.
Unpredictable American comedian Reggie Watts is returning to Australia with his Why Sh*t So Crazy? show. Blending hip-hop, 80's alternative pop, nu-metal and classical opera, Reggie does whatever the hell he wants on stage, showing off his crazy vocal range and making the audience laugh along the way. If you have already been lucky enough to bare witness to a Reggie Watts performance, then you probably won't need any explanation or reasons why you should go see him again. When he came to Brisbane two years ago, a friend of mine decided that we were going to go see him because 'he makes funny noises' and I went into his show with somewhat confused expectations. I can't even begin to describe what went on during those few hours. Reggie Watts seems to have more split personalities than Robin Williams and he can do a sarcastic American teen voice better than any character on Daria. His unique form of comedy is free of fart jokes and awkward moments and full of amazing voices, energetic beat boxing and erratic changes in persona. In short, if you ever get a chance to see him perform, its best to go in blind and come out crying with laughter.
The face of gaming has changed drastically since The Fresh Prince of Bel Air enjoyed pressing buttons on his Sega (Or is it a Nintendo?) From joy sticks to hand held devices, black and white to hyper colour, pixels to three dimensions, the world of gaming is forever evolving and leading the way with the latest in technologies and lifestyle trends. As part of Game On, a series of QUT talks focussed on the world of gaming and game design, In Your Face, Interface will discuss the face and user interface of today's games. Current trends have seen games such as Nintendo's Wii, Microsoft's Kinect and Sony's Move utilise new and exciting forms of control systems, while other games are swapping controllers and User Interface for AR technology. Are you confused or enthused with all this cyber chat? In Your Face, Interface will feature a panel of experts that will explain things far better than this tech novice. The talk will also give gaming and design enthusiasts the opportunity to express their own views about the changing face of interface. Are the latest game control systems gimmicks or the way of the future? Let the debate begin.
No Art, the hypnotic and experimental group from Sydney, will be celebrating their atmospheric strand of music at Black Bear Lodge on September 14. Their debut EP “Exotica”, produced by Patrick Santamaria (Lost Valentinos), is an exploration of the ritual, the symbolic and unexplored territories. They’re known for interweaving familiar melodies with stark minimalism and emotive harmonies, the result being ambient sound and unbridled energy. They will be supported by Nite fields, the local electronica, post-punk and overall experimental rock group that has garnered attention through their live shows, as well as their self-recorded and released single. Also on the bill are Kids Cryptic, the duo who are often described as “slope rock” with their fast build-ups, abrupt descents and Nordic influences. They’ll be stopping by Black Bear Lodge before taking their live show on the road.
On the eve of his fifth album and double-album release “Sundark and Riverlight” which is set to be released later this month, Patrick Wolf will be bringing infectious energy and charismatic live show to The Tivoli when his intimate Australian kicks off in Brisbane this Friday. Only one other musician will join the British singer and multi-instrumentalist on the stage as he strips back his usually grand and flamboyant performances for a more retrospective and cosy affair. After an exciting and diverging decade in the music industry, he will be performing songs from all of his five albums, creating a new set list for each of his Australian shows. Surprises aplenty, but a guaranteed joyous evening. Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 8:00pm.
The 2013 season for the Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) will be launched in style in the Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s Concert Hall on September 10. Hosted by Chief Conductor Johannes Fritzsch, it is set to be a night of unveilings, as the repertoire, soloists and conductors for the coming year are revealed. Among the developments will be updates on the Orchestra’s move to the new ABC headquarters in the Cultural Precinct of Southbank, just next to QPAC. To celebrate, the QSO Brass Ensemble will perform a number of pieces, including Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition “Great Gate of Kiev”, as well as excerpts from Mozart’s Haffner Symphony No. 35, Bruckner’s Symphony No. 4 and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6. The Orchestra will also perform Rachmaninov’s Vocalise, accompanied by local soprano Milica Ilic. All tickets to this free event have been snavelled up, however, for the first time, the Orchestra will be streaming the Launch live online. It can even be viewed via Smart Phone, Tablet or computer here, so don't miss out.
Following the success of their debut at the prestigious Woodford Festival, Nicholas Ng, Julian Wong and Anna Yen present a fusion of traditional and contemporary Chinese music and movement. Nicholas, a composer, performer, researcher and artistic advisor to the BrisAsia Festival has performed alongside ensembles such as the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and in venues such as the Merkin Concert Hall in New York. Julian is a Perth-based physical performer and musician, and was part of the band Sirocco, while currently participates in the duo Rahu and is a member of Shaun Parker & Company. They join Anna, a performer, movement teacher and theatre maker and director. Her acclaimed one-woman show “Chinese Take Away” has toured to festivals in Asia, Europe, Australia and the US and has since been adapted to screen. Together, they present an evening of traditional and contemporary movement and music. Tickets are available on the door for this one-time-only performance.
Networking can often be painful and/or anxiety inducing – it’s a strange and un-natural mating ritual, complete with uncomfortable silences over swilling drinks, maybe with some ambient music filling the gaps if you’re lucky. But if you know your way around a pen and paper added with the comfort of Kerbside, you might be saved. Dr. INK & Draw is a networking event - with a difference!: armed with a sketchpad in one hand and a beer/cocktail in the other (if you so desire), participants test out or develop their skills in drawing in a supportive and collaborative environment. Digital artist? Bring your tablet down. Don’t have anything to draw with? No problemo, there are sketchpads supplied or you can join in the communal drawing table. Whether you can draw intricate landscapes or are just finally getting the hang of the stick man, Dr. INK & Draw is a supportive and inclusive environment of all skill levels, while providing a hub for people to meet friends (old and new) and let their creativity flow naturally. Who knows who you’ll meet while polishing off the finer details of your lastest masterpiece? Image Credit: Stacey Lia Photography
I haven’t been in Brisbane for quite a while and upon my ungracious return to my hometown I performed the standard catch-up-with-your-friends-and-have-too-many-Jagers thing. After feeling that last sweet aniseed sear down my esophagus, my rowdy delinquent associates and myself made our way down town to the cliché yet satisfying bearing of the Valley. A short train ride and brisk walk sobered me up enough to stop worrying about standing and enquire as to where the hell we were going. “Oh Hello,” I was told. “It’s a new club, where Mono used to be.” “Right,” I responded. “Don’t I need fluro shorts and a lousy singlet to get in there?” To my pleasant surprise, I didn’t and my first Oh Hello experience was great. The place is better, the people are better, the music is better and god damn the bar tenders are SMOKIN’! Which brings me to this coming Friday night. I don’t know about you, but when I was 14 I was pretty excited that I saved up enough money to purchase Burnout 4. I tell you what, that game had a sick sound track. One incredibly memorable song was a track by Bloc Party and since that era I’ve always admired that band. So when I found out there’s a Bloc Party DJ set this weekend at Oh Hello, BAM! I sold Burnout 4 to sponsor myself getting boozy and wild. See you there!
With Parklife having been and gone, you’d think Brisbane would be sick of dance music festivals (and the things that go with it – over-roided male shirtlessness, denim underwear, enough fake tan to orange the entire world thrice) by now. Sadly it is not, and Parklife was just the beginning. Every day we’re shuffling, apparently. Surprisingly, not everyone loves dance music as much as these festival fiends would have us believe. South of the Riverstage there’s a little bit of musical love that doesn’t go at 180bpm, and instead rolls along the gentler post-rock line. Who is this act, you may ask, and do they know that they’re in Brisbane? The answers to those questions are: Mono, and probably not. The Japanese four piece will be taking to the Hi-Fi this Wednesday, and it might be one of the only gigs for the rest of the year sans bros and overpriced drinks (just kidding, it’s a joke! It’s just that it’s festival season, and festivals suck 99% of the time. But Mono rule).
The first half of Before Midnight made me excited for my early forties. Mediterranean holiday tans, wild-haired children running barefoot in another room, expansive dinner table conversation with a circle of worldly friends — it's a dream for a more carefree age. But then comes the second half of the movie, an epic, exhausting fight that will either be the end of the couple's relationship or just one of several milestone feuds that mark a long commitment. That's when the rare quality of Before Midnight emerges; this is not a film about idyllic love, this is a film about real love. This is the tarnished ever after. The couple is one we know oddly well, Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy), who, in a typically Gen X act of slacker romanticism, spent one night walking and talking around Vienna in 1995's Before Sunrise and were finally reunited for a further afternoon in Paris in 2004's Before Sunset. In the nine years since, it turns out they've stuck with each other, but the insouciance of those early encounters has gone. "When was the last time we just walked around bullshitting?" Jesse says in one beautifully self-aware moment, as they rediscover the pastime on holiday in Greece. Instead, they've both been learning to deal with each other's crazy while simultaneously pushing a few years' worth of upset under the carpet. Jesse hates having to be separated from his pre-teen son, who's in the custody of Jesse's estranged ex in the US. Celine feels Jesse neglected her and their daughters while on his book tour and resents his general man-childness. Celine picks fights; Jesse papers over them. They might not ever resolve these deadlocks, but they have to move past them. With this series of films, dialogue is everything. In Before Midnight, it sparkles, dances and defies the bounds we expect of film. All three instalments are the product of a unique collaborative partnership between director Richard Linklater, Hawke and Delpy; from the start the actors have written parts of their own selves into the characters, and the possibility for honest exploration seems to have deepened with the passing of time. With nine years so far separating each film, the release of a sequel is becoming an event, so it's particularly great to see Before Midnight not only meeting expectations but raising the bar. People love Jesse and Celine with the intensity normally reserved for several-season TV characters (or real people, even). If we see fifty-something Celine and Jesse next decade — 'Before Noon', I imagine they'll call it — we'll be a very lucky audience.
The biggest and most boisterous acts of the Sydney Comedy Festival are road-tripping to sunny Queensland to deliver the hilarity straight to you. For one night only, you can catch the best international and local comedians who cannot be contained by stages south of the border. The 2013 line up features the hilarity of Damien Power (straight from his tour with Tenacious D), El Jaguar (of Mexico), Nick Cody, Rhys Nicholson, Steen Raskopoulos, Bruce Griffiths and Oliver Phommavanh. Be warned, the crack-ups are not for all ages (15+ due to coarse language), however the full ticket prices are. You’ll want to get in quick to catch this annual event, which is proving bigger and better than ever. Here’s a taste of what you can expect, which isn’t for the faint of heart. watch?feature=player_embedded&v=CQcsVQohw9A
It’s time to give up your lousy attempt at the Dukan diet and chow down at this year’s Southbank’s Regional Flavours! Boasting a line-up of Masterchef stars, celebrity chefs, food stalls and activities, this year’s festival promises to be bigger, better and more scrumptious than ever before. Stretching from River Quay on Sidon Street, through the length of Little Stanley Street and into the Courier Mail Piazza you best plan to spend the whole day savouring the sights and tastes of this unique festival that best typifies what Brisbane food is all about. Featuring more food demonstrations than you can count on your fingers and toes and food stalls that would have Gordon Ramsay crying with pride, it might be a good idea to swap your skinny jeans for some comfortable sweats to tackle this two-day event. See how different Gary Mehigan looks off the TV screen, swoon over Poh and most importantly, treat yo' self at this year's Regional Flavours.
Folk-inspired indie rock with a whole lotta soul. That is what you will get on the Brisbane leg of Bears With Guns’ east coast tour in support of their new EP, Only The Quick And The Hungry. It was only a year ago that the Sydney outfit made their recording debut, and have since created an irrefutable reputation for live performance. They’ve been described as wise beyond their years, playful on mandolin, ukulele and keyboards, with a dash of the gut-wrenching melodies that give true depth to songs. The lads will be supported by Brisbane's own Brother Fox and Andrew Markwell. Make a point of catching this five-piece in an intimate, local setting while you still have the chance – these guys are set for bigger things, and bigger arenas to contain their sound.Also be sure to arrive early for door tickets, they'll sell quick!
As part of the Mono15 Exhibition, the artists themselves will be taking you into their own work that examines the ever-changing landscape of sound by way of Open Frame, an annual celebration of music and media. The first concert in the this year’s program, featuring two international sound artists, Akio Suzuki (Japan) and David Toop (United Kingdom) will be free to attend. This is a joint project with Room 40. On August 22 you can also attend the Mono Panel, hosted by Amelia Barkin and Greg Hainge (both from the University of Queensland) alongside David Toop to discuss this year’s Open Frame theme, and also celebrating the launch of Hainge’s book “Noise Matters: Towards an Ontology of Noise”. This year’s Open Frame theme is “The Future is Noise”; the performers and speakers, who are linked through their own interpretations of the varying qualities of sound, will be responding to Italian futurist Luigi Russolo’s 1913 manifesto L’Arte dei Rumori (The Art of Noises). Immerse yourself in an art to be felt, rather than just seen, and gain a new appreciation of sound.
If you happen to be back at uni this year, join the club. It seems like everyone is either starting their degree this year, finishing up one, or going back because they can't bear the 'real world'. And why would you want to give up all the perks of being a student? Student nights, endless happy hours, tardiness without reprimand, cheap movies and transport, Oh Hello! Uni Socials... Try as you might, you may never be able to give up the glory days, so thank your lucky stars that Oh Hello! has got you covered pre-semester. Before you head back to the books/bludging, why not indulge yourself in the cheapest student night in town? The popular kids, YouTube sensation Hey Geronimo!, will be there to get the party started and as usual, the Cobra Kai DJs are in the house, making this social better than any lame school disco. Did I mention Oh Hello! have added Rekorderlig to their list of tasty drops? Oh yes they have. Paying off your HECS debt is not an option, so make sure you're on Cobra Kai's roll.
It's time to shine up those shoes Brisbane because the prodigal son of stand up comedy has returned! Ross Noble will grace the not-so-quaint stage of QPAC theatre with his new show Nonesensory Overload for four highly anticipated nights from the 21st - 24th of March. Following a string of successful Australian tours, countless festival and television appearances, and pockets full of awards that have earned the loveable Englishmen the honorary Aussie title, Nobel is back in Brisbane bringing back his gift of giggles. The appropriately named show promises everything we've come to expect from Noble - illogical and uncontainable hilarity. His unique performance style is almost hard to keep up with as he whimsically bounds about the stage spouting streams of improvisation, and encouraging his audiences to participate in everything from light heckling to conga lines. There's no denying Noble knows best when it comes to comedy. Don't miss the great improvisor in all his glory. Enjoy an evening of unpredictability and uncontrollable laughter.
It’s that time of year again: the sun is out – oh, wait, hang on, no it’s not, we’ve had torrential rain for most of the past month. Well, it’s still time that time of the year for alternating and interchanging between the three Bs: the beach, beers and bands. Our favourite saint, St. Jerome, is delivering the last B with gusto this Saturday – taking place once again at the RNA Showgrounds, this year’s Laneway Festival is sure to impress. The impressive lineup boasts Active Child, Feist, Jonti, Toro Y Moi, Yuck and more. In addition to a ridiculously amazing lineup over three stages, there are markets and foodstalls to make sure you’re well-clad and well-satiated throughout the day. Rain, hail, or shine, St. Jerome will ensure that his Laneway Festival will be an unforgettable day – and, if there does happen to be rain/hail, well, the RNA Showgrounds are covered (for the most part). You're all set to get down.
Want to go on a journey to the Mediterranean without having to depart from the port of Brisbane? Look no further than the Powerhouse this Friday, when worldly Mzaza take to the stage and transport you to another continent with their range of sounds. Singing in French, Spanish and Turkish, Moroccan-born Pauline Maudy is the crooning, multi-lingual frontwoman of a band that includes the violin, bendie, kaval, darabuka, guitar, kamanche tarhu, the accordion and more familiar and not-so-familiar elements in their instrumental arsenal, which, in writing, looks like it would sound terrible; a strange multi-cultural mix. It's not - in fact, it's the complete opposite. Mzaza’s latest release Journey Over Skin has seen the band sell out venues (including a previous Powerhouse performance) and dominate stages at the National Folk Festival in Canberra. Fresh out of a string of gigs in Tasmania, Mzaza will see that all who enter the Visy Theatre of the Powerhouse can aurally stamp all the pages in their passport this Friday.
There was once a shop not far from where Percolator Gallery now stands, in which I had an experience that simultaneously confirmed everything my parents have ever taught me about stranger danger, and increased my secret and rather silly adulthood sense of trepidation in entering unfamiliar stores on the Paddington strip. Imagine Hansel and Gretel meets high-end vintage dress shop and you’ll have an idea of the traumatic experience that I underwent (I was actually locked in a shop by a cranky op-shop lady while she berated me and shoppers like me who come in to browse but not buy). Rest assured that particular store is no longer there, and gone with it, the idea that browsing is not allowed. Despite popular opinion, commercial art galleries are among the best places to browse and Percolator Gallery is no exception. Percolator is a rental art space available for hire to emerging and established artists, and this month Mark Thomas’ beautiful photographs provide the drawcard to passing shoppers and foodies. Although Thomas’ photographs themselves are well worth a special trip into Paddington, I won’t tell anyone if you also take the opportunity to pop into Sassafras for some ricotta hotcakes afterwards.
Two strangers. Two days. One ridiculously large wad of money. This is the unmissable Midsummer! After it's sell out debut in Edinburgh on the Traverse Theatre stage in 2009, David Greig and Gordon McIntyre's story about love and lack of it has left a trail of laughter through the Uk, USA and now Australia. La Boite Theatre is proud to introduce this smash hit to Brisbane with the original Edinburgh cast in tow. The play follows Bob and Helena through two hangover fuelled days of rebellion and hedonism. The two are plagued by the discontents of life and love, and see only one sure fire way of escaping the drown of day to day life for an evening: by jumping into bed with each other. Little do they realised that once the shoes are back on, they will be thrown into an adventure filled with car chases, vengeful gangsters, Japanese rope bondage and song sining . If you are not a Broadway fan, do not fear. The songs, written by McIntyre, lead guitarist of the Scottish band Ballboy, are each modern, whimsical and quirky acoustic masterpieces that accompany the story momentarily to offer a treat for the ears and even more laughter. The Roundhouse Theatre is a perfect performance space for this play, as it's size and structure allows the audience an intimate view into Bob and Helena's world, whether they are prepared to be pulled in or not. Don't miss this play on love. It's sure to sell fast. Grab your tickets fast!
Get ready Brisbane, it's time to shine those shoes and head on down to Easy Street! One of the most adored musicals of all time is returning to the Brisbane stage this April and is sure to delight eagerly awaiting audiences. The Tony award winning musical Annie has wowed fans of all ages and from all parts of the world for the past thirty-five years. The smash hit takes us to New York City through the eyes of young orphan Annie as she searches for her family. After escaping the neglectful orphanage supervisor Miss Hannigan and her cunning crew, luck drops Annie into the care of zillionaire Oliver "Daddy" Warbucks and her world begins to spin. After bringing Annie to life over twelve years ago, producer John Frost is eager to do it all over again with a stand out Australian cast, lead by theatre icons Anthony Warlow and Nancye Hayes. Whether you're a stranger to Annie's exciting world, have seen a live production or watched any of the countless film adaptations, this treasured musical is sure to have you humming and tapping for days. With it's loyal fan base and limited season, tickets are sure to sell fast!
Fairy tales, fantasy and adventure are what's promised for this years trio of productions from the Queensland Ballet. With interpretations of classics such as Fairy Tales: Stories of Hans Christian Anderson and Miguel de Cervantes adventurous novel Don Quixote to come through out the year, both stakes and expectations are high for Queensland's premiere dance company. The 2012 season begins on a very whimsical tune. Artistic director and choreographer Francois Klaus has taken up the challenge of adapting two of Lewis Carole's most beloved works of fiction, Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. The story follows young Alice's journey through the rabbit hole, into the beautiful and uncanny world of Wonderland. The boundaries of reality and fantasy are steadily broken down as she makes her way through Wonderland, meeting with a wise caterpillar, a homicidal Queen and a rabbit very preoccupied with his schedule. With countless works of art, stage, and films based off it, Carole's story of the strange and magical land and it's insightful heroine has become a kind of cultural phenomenon steeped in nostalgia. Queensland Ballet are eager to meet the challenge of re inventing this classic and giving audiences of all ages what they have delivered on in their past productions: a wondrous visual and musical display. Tickets are sure to sell fast so don't be late for this very important date!
Please sir, I want some more. "The innocent request of a hungry orphan boy living in London in the mid 1800s. Sound familiar? The famous phrase can only be associated with Oliver Twist, the Charles Dickens novel that has been adapted, perhaps a little more famously, into a musical. Oliver tells the story of the young boy who is sold off from a workhouse after asking for more gruel, and incidentally finds his way into a criminal underworld of child pickpockets. While on the run he encounters the Artful Dodger, who takes him to meet Fagin, the trainer of the little thieves. The criminal life may suit some people, but Oliver is not one of them, and his friendship with Nancy, the girlfriend of burglar Bill Sykes, shows potential for a brighter future. Oliver was first performed in 1960, and ran for 2618 shows! It has since been made into a film, and has been revived numerous times by major companies. This production is by Queensland Musical Theatre, and there are only 6 shows in the season. Catch it while you can!
America's avant-garde pop group, Xiu Xiu, have returned to our town to celebrate the release of their latest album, Always. The band are fascinated with the horrors that bubble just under the surface of society and their disturbing visions of the world flicker through their music. Xiu Xiu are notorious for their unique electro-pop sound that has a distinct flavour of post-punk. Their latest musical offering, Always features tracks that explore relevant topics such as pro-choice and immigration. Xiu Xiu aren't afraid of blending their political views with their music. These guys are a long way from home and are only playing one show in Brisbane for a power-packed 90 minute set. Xiu Xiu's performance is not to be missed. Strap yourself in for a night of experimental tunes, fresh lyrics and lush synths - it'll be one to remember!
If you thought home grown talent, Hungry Kids of Hungary, had fallen off the radar in the past couple of years, you would be mistaken. In fact, the boys have been busy recording their second album and jet-setting across the world playing to international audiences. Their second album, You're a Shadow, is due for release in March 2013 and has fans of the band's catchy indie pop tunes waiting with baited breath. This Thursday night, catch Hungry Kids of Hungary at The Zoo as they embark on their national tour. The Brissie boys are playing in smaller venues this time around, so head along for what will be a special, intimate show. The foursome will be playing a mix of old favourites such as, 'Set it Right' and new tracks including 'Sharp Shooter'. These guys are old hands in the music scene, so you are guaranteed a night of infectious and perfectly polished tunes.
The Deadshits festival is back in its fourth year and is bigger than ever. This year the annual festival is boasting its best lineup yet as artists are both home-grown and international. The festival is held across four different venues over three big nights. On Friday, the opening night, the lineup includes USA bands Woods and Hunx & His Punx. Saturday night promises to be just as entertaining as bands such as Leighton Craig and Outerwaves will be accompanied by the Jet Black Cat DJ's who will keep the party vibe rockin'. There will also be a veggie BBQ and this event is BYO. Also on Saturday night head to The Hideaway for a late night cocktail celebration and treat your ears to Superstar and Angel Eyes. The closing night of the festival is at Black Bear Lodge and will feature Terrible Truths, Spire House, Black Vacation and Fig. Buy a festival pass or a ticket to one of the nights and make the most of your long weekend!
Brisbane’s own man of immeasurable talent, Tim Rix, is showcasing his diverse skill and vision by way of a solo exhibition at Love Love Studio. Entitled ‘Public Witness Program’, this is your opportunity to see the latest and greatest from this reputable artisan, a rare glimpse inside the mind of a true craftsman. A tattooist by trade at Westside Tattoo, his works are as realistic as they are surreal, lifelike and intricate adding whimsy to the everyday. His hand-created portraits are wearable as majestic large-scale tattoos or framable as painted creations. His newest, yet-to-be-seen paintings will be on display, alongside some of his most revered works spanning across his notable career. Join fellow fans of Tim’s for the opening night celebrations, a reception held at the studio. Love Love is an artist-run initiative to support emerging artists; help them warm their new establishment with an evening that is not to be missed.
If the people want juice, give the people juice.. If they want entertainment, give them comedy. And if they want that comedy to be a-grade and well played, then give the people directions to Fat Louie’s. Fat Louie’s Comedy for the People might just be the most high set, underground comedy night that’s hitting the Brisbane entertainment landscape. Marrying rather nicely with cheap drinks, the option of snooker, and the musty, dim lit scenery that’s become synonymous with Fat Louie’s, Comedy for the People is the new laugh-out-loud go to. The line-up of comedians is unannounced, but if anything this just adds to the thrill and shrill – cross fingers for Jerry or Tina. The night debuts on February 6 at 8pm, so shift around your Friday night plans to accommodate for this sneaky slot – if it’s not as funny as we expect, just drink up until it is.
Adored babyboomer playwright David Williamson is back with another witty tale of human nature when faced with extreme circumstances. Brothers Ian and Ben don’t always see eye to eye. When they go to visit their father for his birthday, they find all is not as expected. Their old man has come into a decent sum of money — $100 million, to be exact. Dad has fallen for a beauty queen heralding from the States, so far in fact that he has married her without a thought to any prenuptial safety net. How will they face this unreal situation? Is there more to Fury than her stunning good looks? One thing’s for sure: this is first and foremost a tale of people behaving badly. For fans of Williamson's previous work, such as The Removalists and Don’s Party, or for those with a love for a darker laugh, be sure to secure your tickets for this strictly limited showing season.
Brisbane’s own slice of the international stage, the annual World Theatre Festival, is back for its 11-day long spectacular, with myriad performances to immerse yourself in. From highbrow to raised-brow, grandiose to the minimal, WTF has got your theatrical cravings more than catered for. Moreso, WTF will challenge your preconceptions of theatre, leaving you with a deepened appreciation for the art form in itself, or tempting you with a favourite you might not otherwise consider. To get your creative juices flowing, why not visit Yum Chat, a free event for artists to delve into the influence of Asian cultures on art and its creation; it’s free to attend, and will offer a wonderful networking opportunity. Then there’s The Great Spavaldos, a fully immersive, high-flying experience of a circus unlike any other. There is also a spoiled-for-choice line-up of masterclasses to attend for the trained professional right through to the budding youngster. To see more information about the festival, and to start booking your tickets, head along to the official Powerhouse page.
The yearly, furtive question of “so… what are you doing for New Years?” could be heard whispered on the lips of Brisbane’s vanguard party-ers over a month ago. Those die-hard party innovators began listing off their criteria for an awesome New Years Eve 2011 when the rest of us were still yawning and blinking into the bright reality of the festive season. If you’re looking to bring in the New Year without really doing ‘New Years’, then No Years is the answer to your question. Literally. No Years has got it all. With the Brisbane Powerhouse as its backdrop (an excellent defensive anti-zombie fort should 2012 apocalypse predictions prove accurate), this mini-festival features a superabundance of Australian and international bands including headliner Dum Dum Girls, as well as some amazing local visual art. *Here’s a tip: if you gather together a group of 5 or more (which shouldn’t be difficult given that this will be the place to be come December 31) you can get a significant discount off ticket prices
It’s time to get your best tux or your best gown because Beethoven is coming to Brisbane! The very talented Queensland Symphony Orchestra will bring Beethoven’s Symphony no. 7 to life along with Wagner’s Prelude and Liebestod from Tristan and Isolde. The concert will also feature the thought-provoking piano prodigy Sergio Tiempo, who, has sold out concert halls across the globe will grace Brisbane by playing Liszt’s Piano Concerto no. 1. The Orchestra will reach a fever pitch under Evind Aadland’s highly acclaimed baton (I suppose that would make him highly acclaimed too). Aadland has previously conducted the Trondheim symphony orchestra for seven seasons including their tour of China, so the orchestra will be bound for glory with this conductor at their helm. Put on your smartest duds and bring someone special along to QPAC for what is certain to be a magical evening of music and song.
What happens when you bring ten of Brisbane’s best filmmakers, animators, motion designers and video artists and get them to collaborate with ten of Brisbane’s best musicians? You get Ten10: an audiovisual exhibition showcasing the natural relationship between sound and image. The Ten10 initiative is a fresh concept exhibiting for the first time in Brisbane with hopes to move to other cities in the future. This Friday’s debut presentation includes the likes of Axxonn, Cured Pink, Brodie Rocca and Chih-Han Hsu, amongst many more (well, sixteen more to be precise), collaborating to create works that are unique and diverse compared to anything any of the artists have been a part of previously. Unlike other exhibitions, Ten10 is a one-night-only event, held in the boutique location of Lightspace in the Valley – don’t miss out! If you do, though, don’t get too worked up – the whole thing will be on Vimeo in the weeks following the event, as well as a behind-the-scenes documentary noting the creative process behind the concept. But, at ticket prices sitting pretty at only $20, that works out to be a performance for two bucks apiece – a creative bargain!
Half naked guys. Girl on girl action. Gay boys singing and questionable choreography. It's either a boozy night in the Valley or a [title of show] performance. Either way, you’ll end up aroused... Back by popular demand, Brisbane audiences will be entertained once again by the Oscar Theatre Company’s [title of show] (yes that is the actual title of the show). Featuring a cast of Brisbane’s regular theatre actors and director Emily Gilmore, this musical is bound to have you [tos]sing about with laughter and breaking out your Jazz Hands in no time. The show follows the lives of Hunter and Jeff who happen to be gay and nerds as well as their close lady friends Susan and Heidi as they try to make the best play for the New York Music Theatre Festival and make loads of people with loads of money love them. But this isn’t going to be easy as Jeff refuses to nude up to sell tickets, Hunter procrasturbates, Heidi is a professional understudy and Susan would prefer to create the ultimate Drag Queen name. Like Dora Jar. Or Wilma Fingadu.
To everyone that’s still calling Brisbane the east coast’s sleepy city, are you even reading this website properly? Stop pooh-poohing little old Bristown Madeline, you’d see there’s a lot going on if you stopped chasing after Pepito and his bad hat. This week is huge for things to do, especially when it comes to music - the BIGSOUND three-day conference and showcase is happening, while also celebrating its tenth anniversary. With 80 bands playing in eight venues, it’s massive. But there’s more. Cue Break and Enter – or BnE. It’s a two-night showcase allowing more than twenty up-and-coming musicians currently without label/management/agent backing to flaunt their wares to audiences old and new. See the likes of Blonde on Blonde, Young Men Dead, Charlie Mayfair and Tiger Beams in some of the Valley’s best venues – Barsoma, X & Y and Oh Hello! And you know the saying – the best things in life are free. So is Break and Enter. There’s really no excuse to miss out on this one.
I feel like a proud mother. It's like my baby has grown up so fast. It seems like only yesterday I spent an entire night in the smoking area of X&Y, enjoying the company of some cool peeps, sipping on my halloween cocktail, complete with dry ice. Alas, those days are not gone, and X&Y still gathers an epic queue that meanders halfway down Ann Street. Sucked in, Cloudland. The point of the matter is that the Valley's coolest uncool club is turning 2. X&Y is independently owned and has spent the last two years not only hosting local, national and international musicians and DJs, but also serving up decently priced alcohol and having a pretty impressive (ahem, award-winning) cocktail bar. To celebrate their terrible twos, X&Y bar is having a massive two-night party with free entry! On Friday, Six Ft Hick will be rocking a live show with support Esteban Vihaio, followed by a 3-act DJ set. The Cairos will show the crowd up on Saturday, along with support from Vasy Mollo, and later taken over by Charlie Hustle and LL Cool James, who are sure to rock the party to the morning light. Two is a very vital age. Make sure you get down and enjoy the party so lovingly thrown by the birthday boy/girl (hey, they have both chromosomes), it'd be almost a shame to miss out on such a momentous occasion!
No one could accuse Ty Segall of being lazy. At the tender age of 23, Segall’s already got nine albums under his belt, including four solo albums since 2008 and three with The Epsilons, his former band. That’s nine albums in six years; six years of Ty whittling his unique brand of lo-fi garage punk rock, while also finding time to be a sometime member of the Sic Alps. Goodbye Bread is the latest release for Ty to add onto his arsenal of albums. It’s classic Segall, dark and reverb-drenched but shows development, being mellower and more psychedelic than previous releases. It’s the follow up to 2010’s Melted, and with its release comes Ty’s first Australian tour. First stop is Woodland this Thursday, where the one-man-wunderkind will be supported by Tiny Migrants and Martyr Privates. If you ever needed motivation to get down on a Thursday, Ty Segall is the perfect catalyst for you.
In a time when social media reigns supreme, how can we distinguish between what is real and what is not? Our RTs on Twitter, our reblogs on tumblr, our wall posts on Facebook, our pins on Pinterest – they create a virtual self that may or may not reflect how we actually act on a day to day basis. It’s kind of like that episode of Portlandia – which I fear is becoming a reality for me and my friends more and more every day. Choreographer Liesel Zink has taken this into account with her latest theatre work A Collection of Various Selves, a performance based on months of conversations between Zink and more than 800 people via social media networkers. A Collection of Various Selves explores where people stop and their online personas begin amongst 140 character tweets and rapid-fire status updates, through an eclectic performance by Zink and her crew of movers and shakers. Head down to Metro Arts from Wednesday to experience a self that varies from the usual – if you can bring yourself to tear yourself away from your computer.
UPDATE, DECEMBER 13: Go Boat has announced its Gold Coast launch date, setting sail from January 2020. The below story has been updated to reflect this. Southeast Queenslanders will have another excuse to hit the water this summer when GoBoat splashes into the region. The Denmark-born company has been busy launching its eco-friendly picnic boats in cities all over Europe, as well as in Canberra and Melbourne — and come January 1 2020, it's set to make its Gold Coast debut, giving punters a fun new way to cruise through Sanctuary Cove, the Coomera River and the Goldie's canals. 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. [caption id="attachment_701554" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Lean Timms[/caption] Each of the contemporary GoBoats clocks in at 18-feet long, boasting a central picnic table with room for eight people (and 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 you less than $13 per person, per hour. That's $99 hourly in total. GoBoat's Queensland fleet will set sail out of Sanctuary Cove Marina. Oh, and did we mention they're pet-friendly? Surely you've got a very good boy who deserves a river jaunt this summer. GoBoat will launch on the Gold Coast on January 1, 2020, with bookings available now. Top image: GoBoat Gold Coast.
Summer holidays might be well and truly over, and the arrival of 2019 might feel like yesterday's news now, but that doesn't mean that boring old adult life awaits. If you're still in kidult mode (or still want to be), this time of year is perfect for indulging your inner child. Just head to the movies. To the joy of all-ages film fans everywhere, the big screen is the place to find a whole heap of family-friendly flicks that are tailormade for kidults and actual kiddos alike. Animated delights, nostalgic throwbacks, comedies based on true tales — they're all here. Specifically, they're all on the Sunset Cinema program that takes over Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens from Thursday, February 28 to Saturday, April 13. Think bean bags, beers and bubbles for adult viewers and a lineup of movies for audiences both young and young at heart. There's your next night out all planned — and to make things even easier, here are four all-ages flicks to watch. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMe7hUb3TpI MARY POPPINS RETURNS 2018 was a great year for Emily Blunt. She tried not to scream in terror — all while her pregnant character gave birth — in A Quiet Place, and then picked up an umbrella and floated in a completely different direction in Mary Poppins Returns. In both, she's fantastic. In Poppins in particular, she's a treat in the most delightful way. Stepping into Julie Andrews' shoes is no easy feat, but the English actor nails the job, and so does this five-decades-later sequel to everyone's favourite childhood film. Heading back to Cherry Tree Lane to revisit the now-adult Banks siblings (Ben Whishaw and Emily Mortimer), as well as the next generation, the charming affair has future classic written all over it. Showing: Friday, March 15 and Friday, April 12 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ay2fTiEi-RY RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET It's been more than eight decades since Disney made its first full-length movie, saying "hi-ho, hi-ho" to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. All these years later, it's still delivering hits — including Tangled, Frozen, Moana and Wreck-It Ralph in the last nine years alone. Now the latter gets a sequel, Ralph Breaks the Internet, which jumps from bringing to life retro arcade games to visualising what the online world might look like. Once again, the titular character (voiced by John C. Reilly) is our guide through this bright and lively adventure — though, his small offsider Vanellope (Sarah Silverman) steals the show this time around. Showing: Friday, March 22 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zW3AFC5uh4s A DOG'S WAY HOME Whether you couldn't stop watching Milo & Otis, fell head over heels for Beethoven, loved Air Bud or went old school with Lassie, a dog movie played a part in everyone's childhood. Thanks to Marley & Me and the Red Dog flicks over the past decade, pictures about puppers just keep charming hearts — and A Dog's Way Home wants to join that list. Adapted from the popular book of the same name by the author of fellow pooch-focused page-to-screen adaptation A Dog's Purpose, and based on a true story as well, this is basically the US version of Red Dog in a way. Story-wise, it tells of a four-legged cutie who does whatever it takes to make its way across 400 miles to get home to its owners, with Bryce Dallas Howard giving the doggo a voice. Showing: Friday, April 5 https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=5&v=a5BhAw-2peo STORM BOY Mr Percival flies again in the latest homegrown film to hit cinema screens. If you went to an Aussie primary school in the past four decades, you'll know what that means. Initially, a short children's novel by Colin Thiele, Storm Boy became a beloved local film back in 1976 — and now it's back in new 2019 packaging. The core tale remains the same, focusing on a pre-teen boy (an astonishingly naturalistic Finn Little) who lives with his reclusive fisherman dad (Jai Courtney) on the South Australian coast and takes in three pelican chicks when their lives are threatened by hunters. The original David Gulpilil-starring flick has remained a classic for a reason, and this version follows in its footsteps. Afterwards, if you'd like a pelican for a best friend, that's understandable. Showing: Wednesday, April 10 Sunset Cinema will take over Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens from Thursday, February 28 to Saturday, April 13. Check out the full film program and book tickets here.
Situated smack-bang in the middle of the city, Post Office Square boasts many things, including lunchtime eateries, a patch of grass amidst towering office buildings and a busy thoroughfare to Central Station. And come April 9, it'll also feature Brisbane's newest micro pub, Isles Lane. Slotting into the parkside space at 300 Queen Street, the 400-person venue comes courtesy of Trent Meade and Matt Blyth, the current team behind Fortitude Valley's The Met and GPO Hotel. For their foray into the CBD, they're whipping up a casual watering hole that'll segue from daytime eating to afternoon drinks every day of the week. Or, as Meade explains it, the venue will take cues from "classic big city eating houses, from New York to Barcelona", while adding its own modern Australian twist. While the beverage selection promises familiar brews and special rotational beers, plus a curated array of riesling, rosé, prosecco and Champagne, Isles Lane is placing a heavy emphasis on the food side of the gastropub equation. With head chef Lucie Woods overseeing the kitchen, diners can expect the likes of chicken and waffles, lobster rolls, whole suckling pigs and spicy barbecue beer can chicken, along with sides of haloumi chips and spicy fried school prawns with burnt lemon aioli. Decor-wise, the space will take inspiration from its surroundings; think natural light and greenery aplenty. And, it'll also spread the fun outside as well as part of its lineup of yet-to-be-revealed events. Isles Lane at will open at shop 10A, 300 Queen Street, Brisbane from April 9. Head to the venue's website and Facebook page for further information.
Twelve nights of street food eats, a one-off pasta party, decadent surf 'n' turf, a celebration of young chefs and a huge array of lunch specials. They're the first things on the menu at this year's Good Food Month in Brisbane, with the city-wide culinary celebration set to return for the entire month of July. Actually, the delicious spread of foodie events will extend beyond the month, all thanks to the annual favourite that is the Night Noodle Markets. It's back in 2018, obviously, complete with stalls from Black Star Pastry, Hoy Pinoy, Waffleland, Puffle, Sambal Kampung, Bangkok Street Food, Bao Brothers, Little Kyoto, Phat Elephant and more. And, it'll run from July 25 to August 5, once again taking over the South Bank Cultural Forecourt. While the full Good Food Month program won't be unveiled until June, a handful of other highlights have also been revealed. Leading the charge, two of the biggest names in Australia's Italian cooking scene will whip up a four-course dinner at Bucci's Pasta Party, with the restaurant's head chef Shaun Malone teaming up with Monty Koludrovic from Sydney's Icebergs Dining Room and Bar. Or, for those after some seafood and steak of the fancier persuasion, Ocean's Prime will see Walter's Steakhouse pair up dry-aged prime beef with Moreton Bay bugs. Both meals don't come cheap — $120 for the former, $150 for the latter — but they do come with matched wines. From the tried-and-trusty part of the lineup, the iconic Young Chef's Lunch is back for another round, once again showcasing Brissie's emerging chefs. And, after proving noticeably absent in 2017, the Let's Do Lunch series returns with a new batch of midday options. If the above events have already whet your appetite, consider them the entree before the main meal. Nope, you won't be short on food options come July — and you won't be left hungry, either. Good Food Month Brisbane takes place between July 1 and 31 at various venues around the city, with the Night Noodle Markets running from July 25 to August 5. The full program will be released in June; however tickets to the just-announced events are already on sale — visit the event website for further details.
