Sitting on my couch is a soft toy called Little Friend, made by the much-missed, very brilliant late artist Mike Kelley. He's a blue, furry abject creature the size of a pillow with big googly eyes and pale pink appendages. When you smack his bottom, he says things like "don't play with your genitals, play with me" and "when you do naughty things, I see you." My favourite phrase, however, is emitted in a low, needy whisper, "hug me... foreverevereverever...". A similarly creepy breathiness is intoned all throughout the latest film from Harmony Korine (Gummo, Trash Humpers), Spring Breakers. "Spring Break foreevvvveerrr" over the top of gratuitous bare breasts jiggling, "spring break foreevvvveerrr" in the dorm room, on the beach, on a murderous rampage. Whereas Little Friend is confined to the living room, the sirens of Spring Breakers are not terribly interested in staying put. There's nothing subtle about this film. Three bored, blonde college girls who may as well be nameless (Vanessa Hudgens, Rachel Korine, Ashley Benson as Candy, Cotty and Brit respectively) put the pressure on their tamer brunette Christian pal named Faith (Selena Gomez) to ditch deadsville and head to the beach for a change of hedonistic pace. When Faith can't cough up enough money, the remaining trio hastily rob a chicken restaurant and they're all on their way. PARTAY! Once there, it's everything they ever hoped it could be and perhaps nothing they really wanted. A drug bust at a party gets them all landed in jail — in their bikinis — until they're bailed out by a limply horrifying bruiser named Alien (James Franco nailing it in cornrows and grills). Hilarity actually does ensue, surprisingly, but so does that sickening feeling that will make you want to stop off for a quick washbasin shower in the cinema bathroom when it ends. So that's the plot, but who really cares. Spring Breakers is about (as much as any of Korine's films can be about anything) the delusion of the American dream, excess (Alien will tell you all about that one) and objectification with a hazy outlook on racial divisions (cue: Gucci Mane). Yes, the women in the film hardly ever wear clothes, but they do possess a kind of unrealistic power we don't see very often on film. There are scenes of compromising sexual situations, but Korine doesn't err on that most vile of cliches, rape fetishisation — in fact it's flipped. The body shots are gratuitous — as they should be, given the vile Girls Gone Wild subject matter — but they're also tempered by Korine’s idiosyncratic beauty-out-of-garbarge long shots. It's of note that the cinematographer is Benoît Debie, most famous for his work on Gaspar Noé’s extreme Irreversible. After repeated viewings, my mind's still not made up on its complexity. That world is so ripe for a truly subversive, artistic reading and I would have liked Spring Breakers to be a bit more radical than it is. With an R rating already in place though, it's a morally obscure fever dream that is worth seeing on a big screen. Especially if you like Britney Spears.
What are you doing this Queen’s Birthday long weekend? With the Archive Pop Up Party being hosted in their car park - I mean, backyard – the answer just became very simple. Kicking off on Friday afternoon for after work drinks and continuing through to Monday evening, you’ll have plenty of time to fill in at Archive. Spend some time at the Out-Cider Bar, listen to live tunes and DJs, with more surprises unravelling themselves throughout the weekend. Archive is known as one of Brisbane’s premier beer boutiques; with over 400 different and rare craft beers from all over the globe, being spoiled for choice is a severe understatement. However, when it comes to selecting your watering hole in West End, this is the stand out choice. Details for this free event will continue to unfold until the event itself kicks off - to stay in the loop, head over to the website.
From the 3-9th June marks Refugee week in Queensland and there are plenty of activities that you can get involved in to show your support. One such event is the Lantern Parade Walk for Refugees. Held at dusk, join other everyday Queenslanders and refugee communities in a walk throughout the buzzing Southbank and surrounding Parkland area. The walk will begin at the Cultural Forecourt and finish at the Courier-Mail Piazza. A glorious walk through Southbank with lanterns isn't the end of the evening. The fun will be continued at the piazza with cultural performances and entertainment that serves to showcase the immense talent found within the refugee communities. Although this is a free event it is important for all walkers to register here prior to the walk. Meet like minded people at this free event that will welcome our new neighbours to the Brisbane community.
Former host of the popular ABC music quiz show, Spicks and Specks, and all round nice guy, Adam Hills is back in town for his first solo show in three years. Aside from being ridiculously likeable, Hills is also ridiculously funny and his show Happyism is a sidesplitting chunk of comedy gold. Hills has been gracing our television screens with shows such as Spicks and Specks and Adam Hills Tonight. His particular style of comedy has the ability to uplift and make you laugh until your abs beg for you to change the channel. He has received rave reviews from international critics for his latest comedic venture including The Guardian who said, “Hills delivers stand up so effortlessly brilliant you wonder why some comedians even get out of bed”. The Aussie favourite is a regular at sell-out comedy festivals dotted around the globe and always puts on a professional, yet hilarious show. To warm up your funny bone, check out this clip of Hills doing what he does best.
Catch psych-rock girl group Beaches as they hit up Black Bear Lodge. The Melbourne-based band have been causing quite the stir after their self-titled 2008 debut album was released and are eager to share their latest musical offering, She Beats, with you. Their '60s pop mixed with '70s psych sound earned them a place in the 100 Best Australian Albums, which is not an easy feat. The quintet of friends have collaborated with guitar genius Michael Rother of New/Harmonia, who features on two tracks on She Beats. One track is 'Distance', and this impressive kaleidoscope of psych-rock has clocked up nearly 30k Soundcloud plays. It's the kind of music that makes late Sunday mornings all the more enjoyable and takes on a life of its own after a couple of listens.
Be transported back in time to eras filled with free love, psychedelic highs and rapid changes. Carol Lloyd and Sue Ray present this knockout show that catapults the music hits of the 60s and 70s on stage. These delicious divas may be from differing musical backgrounds, but together the result is toe-tappingly, head-boppingly good. Carol is one of Australia's toughest rock chicks and her band, The Carol Lloyd Band has a bevy of fans across the country. Sue Ray is a music veteran and has recently released her latest album, Red Roses. Whether those were your golden days or you're just into all things retro you'll enjoy an evening filled with tracks such as the King's Love Me Tender and the Righteous Brothers You've Lost that Lovin' Feelin'. Bowie and The Rolling Stone's classics will also be performed (of course). Special guests include Christa Powell and John Babbahe.
End-of-year markets are always excellent for those of us who tend to leave gift purchasing until the last minute — and, thankfully, Etsy is bring its market back to Brisbane in November. Etsy Made Local is a grassroots initiative that celebrates crafters, collectors and artisans in local communities, and provides them with the opportunity to sell their creations both online and in a physical space. So whether you're on the hunt for handmade wares or vintage goods, these guys have got you covered. The market will take place in the Exhibition Building at the Brisbane Showgrounds on Saturday, November 30 from 9am–6pm and Saturday, December 1 from 9am–3pm. Because it focuses on the best local talent, every market is filled with different stallholders and unique creations. Supporting creative small businesses and scoring a few killer gifts (including for yourself) is a win for everyone involved, so head along and get your shopping sorted. Entry is via gold coin donation.
Another week, another chance to fill it with as much fun as possible. Thankfully, Brisbane is a place that knows how to deliver. Musical parodies based on top sci-fi TV shows on a Monday, weird and wonderful beers on a Thursday, iconic art on a weekend — that's just life in this busy city of ours. No day is ever the same, and no span of seven days either. Of course, we wouldn't have it any other way. Too much to do, too little time? If that's how you're feeling, don't worry, we've got you covered. To help you get the most out of every moment across this particular week, we've teamed up with Australian Red Cross and Uber to cast our eyes over the best events happening around town from Monday to Sunday. The result is a jam-packed agenda that not only takes care of your free time but makes sure you're having a mighty fine time while you're at it, too. If you need a ride to or from your destination, Uber can obviously assist — but the ride-sharing service and Australian Red Cross also have your Sunday sorted. That's when they're holding their annual Uber x Red Cross clothing drive, and will even send a driver to your house to pick up your unwanted threads. As well as helping clear out your wardrobe and helping those in need, it's the perfect way to cap off your busy week. Spend Monday to Saturday at all-you-can-eat taco nights, jazz and beer sessions and twilight markets, then chill at home, donate to a good cause without leaving the house and make a date with your couch.
Germany might've invented Oktoberfest, but celebrating the occasion has well and truly become a global affair. So, of course you can now head to a Scottish brewery's Brisbane beer bar to listen to Oompah tunes while pairing steins and pork knuckles — plus sausages, sauerkraut and pretzels as well — over two big September days. At BrewDog Fortitude Valley, the boozy German-themed festivities are taking place across Friday, September 29–Saturday, September 30. In Munich, the beer fest arrives in September, too — and BrewDog's Brissie version hits for Queensland's spring long weekend. There'll be beers. There'll be music. There'll be the appropriate bites. And, there'll be all the theming as well, giving the venue's beer hall an Oktoberfest revamp. Tickets cost $20, which gets you your first stein, with BrewDog pouring German-style lagers as well as wheat beer and pilsners (and its usual menu). After that initial drink, you'll pay for what you sip — and also the dishes lining your stomach (with both vegan and vegetarian options available). The fun runs from 4–11pm on each day, with lederhosen-clad, accordion-playing three-piece band Continental Chill providing the soundtrack from 7pm nightly.
Here's something you don't see, experience or even hear about everyday: a Shakespeare toga party musical. We'd say that Jukebox Julius Caesar Salad is exactly what it sounds like, but there's more in store. Yes, a staging of the bard's historical epic is the centrepiece of the show, but don't go thinking that you know what you're in for there. This lip-synched jukebox musical-style abridged retelling of William Shakespeare's roman tragedy features music by The Soul Rebels, Gnarls Barkley, Michael Jackson and AC/DC. No, that really doesn't happen often. Then there's the toga aspect of the evening — that is, you'd best dress up in sheets and sandals, and bring swords and shields along with you too. Throw in food and drink, including a caesar salad for dinner, and you just might have the kind of unique night out that old Shakes couldn't have even dreamed of.
We've passed the winter solstice and the temptation to hibernate is growing ever stronger — so, you probably need a little something extra to tempt you off the couch. Handily, online reservation platform The Fork has a winning idea up its sleeve: it's offering a huge six weeks of dining specials nationwide. Kicking off on Monday, July 1, The Fork Festival will see over 250 top restaurants across the country offering sit-down meals for half the usual price. Yep, 50 percent off your total food bill, folks — think of it as the proverbial carrot luring you out of the house. To snag a half-price meal, you just need to make a reservation through The Fork website or app at one of the participating eateries for any service (breakfast, lunch or dinner) during the six weeks. There are some great venues coming to the party, too. Brisbane folk can score discounts at the likes of Comuna Cantina, River Quay Fish and The French Bistrot. Find the full list here. You might want to revisit an old favourite or you could get a little adventurous and road-test somewhere new. Either way, there's ample time to squeeze in a fair few discount feasts before the festival wraps up on August 11. Image: Comuna Cantina
Do you ever find yourself wondering what is inside some of Brisbane’s most iconic buildings? Brisbane Open House is here to illuminate the answer. Held annually to coincide with World Architecture Day, this weekend-long, free event invites you inside some of the city’s prized buildings to allow the architecturally fascinated and generally curious the opportunity to poke around behind some otherwise closed doors. Some of the buildings set to open their doors to the public include Brisbane’s City Hall, Old Government House at QUT, the Queen Elizabeth Courts, QPAC and a host of the stunning churches populating the Brisbane skyline (the impressive list can be viewed here). Get the fully immersive experience by taking part in tours, attending concerts and conferences, taking in the short film competition and all up reacquainting yourself with this city of secret treasures.
Brisbanites, you'd best kick off your Friday and Saturday shoes — it's time to get footloose on the dance floor. As part of the 2018 Valley Fiesta, the Brunswick Street Mall is hosting free hour-long dance classes on August 31 and September 1. If you've always wanted to boogie your way through a public space, this is your chance. Held between 8–9pm each evening, the sessions are all about being comfortable and not feeling self-conscious. It's exactly what it sounds like: an inclusive class for everyone, with all skill levels welcome. Throw on whatever helps you move freely and unleash your best steps. It's free, bookings aren't required, and it's all going down in the middle of the mall — to a fitting retro soundtrack.
In 2023, for the 11th time, the wondrous cinematic world of Wes Anderson will expand. The beloved filmmaker's latest release Asteroid City is set to zoom into Brisbane picture palaces midyear, complete with all of the writer/director's trademarks — a star-studded cast, a quirky setup, symmetry aplenty and pastel hues all accounted for. And, it arrives just two years after The French Dispatch finally made it to screens in 2021. So, that's Anderson's new movie, plus his most recent one before now — aka what you're next eager to see from him, and likely what you last watched from his filmography. Because you can never have too much of a good thing from this filmmaker, 2023 is also delivering a retrospective of his work at Palace James Street: In Focus: Wes Anderson. On Thursday nights from Thursday, May 4–Thursday, June 22, cinema lovers can enjoy Anderson's distinctive visual stylings, compelling soundtracks and roster of familiar faces, with the venue playing seven of his flicks across the program's run. First up, catch the Jason Schwartzman-led hit Rushmore, then dive into the family dramas of The Royal Tenenbaums and wear matching tracksuits to The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou. There's also the stop-motion animation delights that are both Fantastic Mr Fox and Isle of Dogs, because no one does animated cute critters like Anderson. And, The Darjeeling Limited is here with its chaotic train trip, too, plus the exceptionally cast The Grand Budapest Hotel and The French Dispatch as well. Each session starts at 8pm, with tickets costing $10 for Palace Movie Club members and $15 otherwise.
Oxymorons are great. Wouldn't you automatically be a leader if you were a cheetah? Well, unless you were part of a pack of cheetahs and had won a race? Redundant band names aside, Adelaide's chief export Leader Cheetah are back in Brisbane after a short rest following their second Splendour in the Grass gig. They sound a little bit indie, a little bit Americana, and a little bit country. If you haven't heard them, you may have heard their stunning rendition of REM's Losing My Religion on Triple J's Like A Version back in July. Their sophomore album Lotus Skies has been a long time coming, and the Radelaide foursome are completely ready to show it off to keen audiences. They are joined by Belles Will Ring, who will also be playing off their second LP, Crystal Theatre, and according to Rolling Stone, are a band to watch. Best be stretching those legs and race down to Alhambra Lounge this Friday - you'll feel cheetah'd if you don't.
If jungle vibes inside a Coorparoo warehouse sounds like your perfect outing, head along to the Jungle Collective's indoor plant sale on Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10. It's the latest greenery-filled Brissie market from The Jungle Collective, a Melbourne nursery that stocks all kinds of weird and wonderful species. Yes, it is trucking its way up north again for another Queensland venture. Whether you're after a hanging pot plant, some palms for the garden or a giant Bird of Paradise, chances are you'll find it here. Have a reputation for killing your cacti? Overwatering your ferns? Don't worry — there'll be horticulturalists on site on the night to give you advice and chat through any questions you might have. Get inspired by greenery aplenty and learn to incorporate plants into your home and living spaces, all while browsing and soaking up some tunes. Best get in quick though — these markets are always popular, with more than 170 different species usually on offer. Due to expected demand, the sale will be held in four sessions on Saturday (8-10am, 10am-noon, 12-2pm and 2-4pm) and two on Sunday (10am-noon, 12-2pm), and attendees will need to register for free tickets in advance from Monday, November 4. Plus, if you wear a Hawaiian shirt — and spend at least $10 — you'll get $5 off your purchase, because this sale is 'tropicana'-themed.
If you've been gorging yourself silly on American-style beef, ribs and pulled pork over the last year or so, then you've firmly jumped on the bandwagon of the latest food trend — and you might not even know it. We're not talking about US-themed eateries, though they're endlessly en vogue at the moment. We're talking about meats cooked over long periods of time at a low temperature. Without anyone really realising it, low and slow barbecuing has become Brisbane's favourite style of food preparation, and now there's a festival to prove it. Come July, South Brisbane will be engulfed in the kind of smoky, spicy taste sensations that can only come from taking your time to lock in as much goodness as possible. At Brisbane's first Low and Slow BBQ Festival, as supported by the Australasian Barbecue Alliance (it's a thing), a convoy of food trucks will converge on Wandering Cooks to prove their culinary patience. They'll be starting up their ovens long before their doors open, and you'll get to devour the long-simmering rewards. Between sampling from the likes of Joe's Texan BBQ, Bella BBQ and Char Baby, sipping frosty bevs at pop-up bars and learning up at masterclasses and workshops, you'll also watch teams of professionals battle it out to be crowned the low and slow champions — while scoring free samples of their creations. Look what happened in Port Macquarie: If your own gastronomic itches need scratching, you can then browse the boutique marketplace for barbecue-related products to help you whip up a storm at home. The sounds of DJ Cutloose will provide your ultimate barbecue soundtrack, including his inventive ‘Cut and Cook’ project — which hopefully tastes as good as it sounds. If that seems like too much fun for just one day, that's because it is. Expanding due to popular demand, the festival kick things off on Saturday and keep things cooking on Sunday . Now that's a party that's low and slow by name and by nature. The Low & Slow BBQ Festival takes place on July 18 and 19 at Wandering Cooks, 1 Fish Lane, South Brisbane. Visit their website for more information. Image: Brent Hofacker.
If jungle vibes inside a Brisbane warehouse sounds like your perfect outing, head along to the Jungle Collective's indoor plant sale on Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2. It's the latest greenery-filled Brissie market from The Jungle Collective, a Melbourne nursery that stocks all kinds of weird and wonderful species. Yes, it's trucking its way up north again for another Queensland venture — and this time, it's focusing on pet-friendly plants. Whether you're after a hanging pot plant, some palms for the garden or a giant Bird of Paradise, chances are you'll find it here. Have a reputation for killing your cacti? Overwatering your ferns? Don't worry — there'll be horticulturalists onsite on the night to give you advice and chat through any questions you might have. At a Moorooka warehouse, you'll be inspired by greenery aplenty — and learn to incorporate plants into your home and living spaces — all while browsing and soaking up some tunes. Best get in quick though, as these markets are always popular. With more than 150 different species usually on offer, of course they are. Due to expected demand, the sale will be held in four sessions on Saturday (8–10am, 10am–noon, 12–2pm and 2–4pm) and two on Sunday (10am–noon, 12–2pm), and attendees will need to register for free tickets from noon on Monday, May 27. Plus, if you dress up like a cat or dog — and spend at least $10 on plants — to fit the pet theme, you'll get $5 off your purchase.
Whether you're a big nature nerd or err on the indifferent side to the science of it all, chances are you've seen at least some of Sir David Attenborough's Planet Earth. The BBC nature documentary series — narrated by the man himself and accompanied by an epic score from Hans Zimmer — first aired back in 2006, and its follow-up second season, Planet Earth II, was released just two years ago. But the bits you've seen on TV or YouTube are sure to be belittled when the live show comes to Australia this April. Like the performances of Harry Potter and Star Wars we've seen in recent months, Planet Earth II Live in Concert will see the documentary screened in all its glory accompanied by a live orchestra. And it's a big sore. The music has been composed by none other than Hans Zimmer (responsible for epics like The Lion King, Gladiator, The Dark Knight Rises and Inception) alongside Jacob Shea and Jasha Klebe. In Brisbane, the score will be performed by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre with conductor Vanessa Scammell and, in lieu of Attenborough, Eric Bana will be narrating in real time.
If jungle vibes inside a Coorparoo warehouse sounds like your perfect outing, head along to the Jungle Collective's indoor plant sale on Saturday, October 5 and Sunday, October 6. It's the latest greenery-filled Brissie market from The Jungle Collective, a Melbourne nursery that stocks all kinds of weird and wonderful species. Yes, it is trucking its way up north again for another Queensland venture. Whether you're after a hanging pot plant, some palms for the garden or a giant Bird of Paradise, chances are you'll find it here. Have a reputation for killing your cacti? Overwatering your ferns? Don't worry — there'll be horticulturalists on site on the night to give you advice and chat through any questions you might have. Get inspired by greenery aplenty and learn to incorporate plants into your home and living spaces, all while browsing and soaking up some tunes. Best get in quick though — these markets are always popular, with more than 150 different species usually on offer. Due to expected demand, the sale will be held in four sessions on Saturday (8-10am, 10am-noon, 12-2pm and 2-4pm) and two on Sunday (10am-noon, 12-2pm), and attendees will need to register for free tickets in advance from Monday, September 30. Plus, if you wear a flower crown — and spend at least $10 — you'll get $5 off your purchase, because this sale is 'springtime splendour'-themed.
It's not every day that an inner-city street shuts down for an onslaught of music and fun. No, just Big Gay Day. Now in its 19th year, the annual event returns to The Wickham and the surrounding roadway for an afternoon and evening of music and celebratory mayhem. Topping the bill is a name that Brisbanites will be more than familiar with: The Veronicas. The local pop duo will be joined by Sheldon Riley, Emily Williams, Maribelle, The Marion Cranes, Being Jane Lane, a heap of DJs and the Big Gay Extravaganza — which'll feature more than 30 drag performers. Consider them the icing on the cake on what has proven the city's most colourful and diverse street festival for the past 18 years, and will continue to do so again in 2019. Roving carnival acts, multiple performance spaces, food trucks, themed bars and plenty of partying people are also on the agenda, as is raising funds for six charity partners that help the LGBTQIA+ community.
Making music can be just as political as personal for some, especially if you're Melbourne trio The Basics. Their 12-year career has seen the band go through its fair share of ups and downs, with 1000 shows locally and abroad and even a three year hiatus from the music scene (seeing frontman Wally De Backer embark on a little ol' solo venture as Goyte). Then, 2014 casually saw The Basics' Tim Heath and Kris Schroeder enter the Victorian political sphere as the Basics Rock'n'Roll Party (BRRP), to many a divided opinion. But stronger than ever with brand new material, The Basics are headed back to the stage, hitting Brisbane's Old Museum to launch their brand new EP 'The Lucky Country'. Using music to spread their messages of innovation and education, these boys are going from strength to strength (tackling an election while recording a bunch of stellar tracks at Abbey Road). Supported by fellow Melburnians The Gun Barrel Straights, this promises to be a high-energy set from the reunited De Backer, Heath and Schroeder.
If ever a dive bar needed its own festival, it's Brisbane's Death Valley. Sinking drinks in the Morningside mainstay's beer garden, chowing down on a meal from Red Robin Supper Truck, tapping your toes to whatever's pumping through the stereo and chilling out with your friends almost feels like hanging out at a festival anyway — but now, the boozy offshoot of Southside Tea Room is about to take that vibe to the next level. Meet Death Valley Fun Camp, the brand new, must-attend weekend event you're going to want to grab a ticket to as soon as they go on sale. Part festival, part campout, it combines the best of both recreational activities. Think music, food, beverages, activities, marshmallows and sleeping in cabins at Lake Moogerah in the Scenic Rim district south-west of Brissie. Attendees will try their hand at flag-making, slosh through a mud course, paddle around on a kayak, and learn the art of pickling veggies — and that's just the beginning. When the sun goes down, they'll also help the Southside Tea Room crew and Jacob Knauth from Lucky Egg whip up dinner. A fireside gathering is on the agenda too, so brush up on your spooky stories. Afterwards, Top Shelf Wedding Band will bust out some live tunes, with members of Velociraptor and other Brisbane garage rock alumni — including Southside owners, The Grates' Patience Hodgson and John Patterson, we're betting — strutting their stuff. Sounds like the kind of weekend getaway that only exists in movies, doesn't it? Stop pinching yourself — it is really happening. Tickets start from $149, and include all meals and activities, a welcome pack complete with a camp t-shirt and a bunk bed for the night. Add an extra $79 for a refillable beer mug — the perfect container for all the Young Henrys beer and cider you can consume — with all food and drink proceeds going to Kids Helpline. Death Valley Fun Camp takes place from May 21 to 22. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Thursday, March 31. For more information, visit the event website. Image: Josh Felise.
4 Walls, Brisbane's biggest all-ages music festival, is back for 2013, boasting a collection of some of the biggest local names of the underground scene. Favoured by the airwaves, Jeremy Neale, Pigeon, Go Violets, Cub Scouts and Tourism are some of the acts featured on the line up, with a host of other bands and artists across three stages for the full-day event. This event is not just about the music — Four Walls is a day of live acts, plus DJs, as well as spaces to relax, and food and drink, adding up to a great-value day out. Brought to you by Youth Music Industries and the Queensland Academy for Creative Industries, each aims to promote the music of young people by facilitating performances, recording, publishing and broadcasting their work. This event is known to sell out, so be sure to grab your tickets online prior to the day.
This article is sponsored by our partners, the State Library of Queensland. Fast with words and fleet with a turn of phrase? Then you might just be the next poetry slam champion. The Australian Poetry Slam '14 is looking for a fresh batch of lyrical voices to brave the stage and battle it out in a war of pithy, punchy prose — be it traditional poetry, hip hop-inspired rhymes, a story or a monologue. It all starts with local heats around the state, including in Brisbane on September 5. Winners then progress to the Queensland State Final on September 26 at the State Library, where creative wordsmiths will wield their verse in two-minute bursts of their own original material. The ultimate prize: bragging rights, of course, but also qualifying for the national final in Sydney (where $12,000 of cash and prizes await). For those new to sharing short spoken word poems with crowds, a series of workshops precede the heats to help equip the poetically keen but practically inexperienced. Develop performance skills, fine-tune stage technique, build confidence as a writer, or simply enjoy plenty of time getting used to addressing a crowd. Not interested in performing? The State Final offers plenty of other fun, too. Live music will set the mood, and the audience isn’t just there to watch — they’re also the judge.
It's been 133 years since Woolloongabba's The Princess Theatre first opened, but this heritage-listed building still knows how to party. Restored, revamped and now reborn as a new arts and music venue, the Annerley Road spot is officially welcoming the community back in with a huge two-day, all-ages housewarming on Friday, October 29 and Saturday, October 30. A smorgasbord shindig that boasts something for everyone, Open Housewarming at The Princess Theatre is a come one, come all type of affair. Expect a packed lineup of local music, art and performances, plus drinks and bites to eat from the onsite Fables Bar and Cafe. You'll dance, watch, listen, sip and celebrate, with tickets costing $10 per day. Tickets to the all-ages event will be available at the door. The doors will open at 1.30pm with live entertainment kicking off at 2pm and continuing until around midnight.
Always wanted to be part of a show but felt too nervous about being seen on stage? Well, The Confidence Man may be just the ticket. This crime thriller from Side Pony Productions offers a one-of-a-kind participatory theatrical experience. The story is one of skulduggery in the suburbs, in which an ordinary family get drawn into a series of tragic events by the arrival of a bag containing a large sum of money. Each night, several audience members are invited to play characters in the tale. Anonymous inside large cushiony masks, the co-opted actors listen to an audio stream including instructions for their performance by headphones, providing an experience that, while unfolding publicly, is also intensely personal. Whether from within a mask, or watching and listening in from the audience seats, it is sure to an unusual, intimate and perhaps even chilling experience.
Comedic duo, Sammy J and Randy are back in Brisbane this week to dish out belly laughs and tons of giggles. The pair have returned to Australian soil after participating in comedy festivals in Montreal and Edinburgh and have hit the ground running. Their show, Sammy J and Randy in The Inheritance, promises to be a light-hearted and entertaining performance. The show focuses on Randy's discovery that he is an heir to an impressive fortune. Moral questions of honestly and jealousy will arise as the two bicker over the cash and of course, hilarity ensues. The show's duration is just a little over an hour and combines puppetry and musical comedy with a theatrical spin. Catch this hilarious Australian act on either their Friday or Saturday night show. The Powerhouse recommends this performance for those over 15 years.
After a three-year hiatus, we are to be once again graced with the Brisbane Indesign Festival. By bringing Brisbane a bevy of local and international talent from a diversity of fields, Brisbane Indesign aims to showcase all that is great in the world of design. If a treasure trove of inspiration from the four corners of the world isn’t enough for those considering attending, real treasure is also on offer this year. The festival’s official partners are offering the opportunity to win some truly awesome prizes, including a collection of Art Series Abstract homewares from Dinosaur Designs, and a trip for two (including return flights and accommodation) to Melbourne for the Saturday Indesign festival courtesy of Stylecraft. The event kicks off on Saturday the 26th May and will continue until Sunday evening throughout various showrooms and pop up stalls along the length of James Street, Fortitude Valley. Free shuttle buses will be running to ferry avid explorers between locations and a host of street performers and artists will also be showcasing their varied talents. Entry to the festival is free. Simply visit the official website and register your intent to attend. For anyone seeking design inspiration, or for those seeking to inspire, this is your time to shine.
Forget all other music rivalries; since the 1960s, nothing has eclipsed The Beatles versus The Rolling Stones. One seemed like the friendly guys next door, the other like edgy bad boys - and while the iconic groups themselves largely played nice, their fans have argued for supremacy over the past five decades. For the second instalment of their 'Choose Your Weapon' series, The New Globe wants to resolve the issue once and for all. To do so, four bands will showcase their takes on a catalogue of classics, on this hard day’s night where it’s only rock ’n' roll. All Hawkmoon and Drawn From Bees need is love to strut their stuff, though they might get by with a little help from their friends. Switchblade Suzie and Stone Majesty are certain to have sympathy for the devil as they start things up and paint it black. Of course, the real winner is you, the audience, gifted with a night of legendary tunes interpreted by great local acts. Those in the Stones camp might want to arrive early for something extra special — infamous tour documentary Gimme Shelter screens at 6.30pm, before the bands start battling it out.
If there's ever a time to treat yo'self, it's the end of the year. The very end. The last day, in fact. It's your final chance to soak in everything that 2018 has to offer, whether you're celebrating a stellar 12 months or eagerly looking forward to 2019. If poolside parties with killer views and plenty of vodka are your idea of treating yo'self — aren't they everyone's? — then W Brisbane has your plans covered for Monday, December 31. Marking the new hotel's latest decadent party for 2018, it's ramping up the shenanigans on the WET Deck. Also on the agenda: tunes spun by Emily Scott, with help from W's music curator Kane Dignum. For your $220 ticket, you'll also get a four-and-a-half hour food and drink package. Think a welcome glass of Champagne, two different types of cocktails, and a range of wine, beer and cider — plus an oyster bar, king prawns, gin and tonic spheres, a charcuterie and cheese station, three varieties of sliders and four kinds of dessert. And given the location, you'll be in the perfect spot to peer out over the river when the fireworks start brightening up the sky. The party starts at 8pm, running through 12.30am.
Move over New York — it's time for New South Wales to be overrun by a simian civilisation. Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes doesn't swap the Statue of Liberty for the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Rather, it was just made in Australia; this franchise is long past needing to anchor itself in a specific location, but America's west coast is the in-narrative setting. No it-was-earth-all-along twists are necessary, either, as France's famous gift to the US signalled back in 1968 when Pierre Boulle's novel La Planète des singes initially made it to the screen. More than half a century later — plus four sequels to the OG Planet of the Apes, both live-action and animated TV shows, Tim Burton's (Wednesday) remake and the reboot flicks that started with 2011's Rise of the Planet of the Apes — the saga's basics are widely known in pop culture. The titular planet is humanity's own. In this vision of the future, a different kind of primate runs the show. Since day one, every Planet of the Apes tale has been a mirror. Gazing into the science-fiction series means seeing the power structures and societal struggles of our reality staring back — discrimination, authoritarianism and even the impact of a world-ravaging virus should ring a bell— but with humans no longer atop the pecking order. These are allegorical stories and, at their best, thoughtful ones, probing the responsibilities of being the planet's dominant force and the ramifications of taking that mantle for granted. Not every instalment has handled the task as well as it should've, but those that do leave a paw print. Coming after not just Rise of the Planet of the Apes but also 2014's Dawn of the Planet of the Apes and 2017's War for the Planet of the Apes, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes falls into that category. First helmed by Rupert Wyatt (The Gambler), with Matt Reeves (The Batman) taking over for the second two titles, the most-recent Apes trilogy had Caesar (Andy Serkis, Andor) at its centre. Raised by humans before the simian flu devastated the population and evolved apekind, he spearheaded the latter's uprising. That said, Caesar also retained his compassion for homo sapiens, especially as he gleaned how the worst traits in all primates are the same no matter what they're covered in. His time has now been and gone in the franchise. Swapping from one dystopian saga to another, The Maze Runner, The Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials and The Maze Runner: Death Cure director Wes Ball picks up briefly with a farewell to Caesar — but then, for the bulk of the picture, he takes Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes forward through many generations and several hundred years. The influential figure's name is now revered, and his wisdom — but, like humans, apes mould the plights and teachings of historical leaders to suit their own agendas. To some, Caesar is the reason to treat people, or "echoes" as they've been dubbed after losing the ability to speak, with kindness, understanding what the species once was and how it has fallen. For others, particularly of the power-hungry variety, he's the justification for retaining control of the planet by violence and at all costs. But in the peaceful eagle clan, birds not long-ago commanders are the main focus. So, when adolescent Noa (Owen Teague, You Hurt My Feelings), his crush Soona (Cowboy Bebop) and pal Anaya (Travis Jeffery, Before Dawn) leap into the story early, they're collecting eggs to take home, nurture and then rear the hatchlings, one of their community's rites of passage. In a narrative penned by Josh Friedman (Foundation) that nods eagerly to classic westerns, the pursuit of dominance at its most vicious at the hands of a warrior tribe taints young Noa's life quickly. Soon, everything that he knows is gone, sparking a hero's journey to rescue those among his loved ones that he can. When he crosses paths with orang-utan sage Raka (Peter Macon, The Orvill), he receives guidance, including about Caesar's pleas for ape unity. He's also counselled to tamper down his anger at and disdain for the feral human (Freya Allan, Baghead) shadowing his tracks, who he partly blames for his status quo turning to tragedy. Proximus Caesar (Kevin Durand, Abigail), the ruler directing a monkey regime of carnage, only has eyes for as much authority and supremacy as he can amass — and so in him, the encampment that he's made where apes enslave apes and his staunchly anti-human ideology, Noa finds a threat. Decades since dressing up actors in costumes to play the series' apes was the norm, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes doesn't just have thematic and emotional realism on its side — it's never been hard to spot the franchise's parallels with reality — but also the verisimilitude gifted by its motion-capture approach (with Wētā FX doing the honours). That's how Serkis inhabited his part, and how Teague and company (everyone except Allan and Ricky Stanicky's William H Macy from the top-billed cast, in fact) follow in his footsteps. Serkis was a special consultant on the production, aiding the actors with their simian performances; the feelings conveyed through their work as a result are deep and affecting. Whether Teague is charting Noa's coming-of-age arc away from blissful naivety, the scene-stealing Macon is making Raka's appeal for empathy resonate or Durand is commanding every second that he's in sight as the hubristic Proximus, their portrayals are rich and insightful. Yes, you could call the performances that drive Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes' "human". Painted with pixels over the top, the film's digital fur looks so vivid that audiences can be forgiven for thinking they can touch it — and that combination of naturalistic, grounded and relatable portrayals with special effects that get viewers investing in the movie's animals as animals is potent and pivotal. In a saga that's always been committed to aping the state of the off-screen world, that reflective effect is essential. Ball and his team, cinematographer Gyula Pados (Shazam! Fury of the Gods, plus the last two Maze Runner flicks) among them, also do detail and world-building well, rendering the planet a mix of lush greenery and decaying human relics that equally appears as authentic as CGI can. Their biggest struggle: that there's so much to explore in this new Planet of the Apes beginning that not everything is told as gracefully and clearly as it could be, even across 145 minutes. As with almost everything that hits screens of late, this has been conceived as the catalyst for more to come — and it earns the enthusiasm to keep swinging.
When a play has the tagline “engagement ring, wedding ring and suffering...” you know you're in for a wild ride. Created by a team of talented writers, Mixed Doubles is a series of eight short plays depicting various marriages. The production is filled with witty dialogue and stories that serve to show marriage, warts and all. Basically, Mixed Doubles portrays marriage from the heart fluttering, butterfly inducing honeymoon days right to the double plot in the cemetery. The play will be performed from 1 February to 1 March at 8pm Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 6.30pm Sundays. If you're an arts buff, why not buy a season pass to the Brisbane Arts Theatre and get your regular theatre fix.
When David Bowie starred in 1976's The Man Who Fell to Earth, playing an alien who crash lands on our planet, it became one of the musician's iconic on-screen roles. It's also one that he returned to nearly four decades later, in a fashion — co-writing the musical Lazarus, as inspired by the Walter Tevis novel that the sci-fi film was based on. Written with playwright Enda Walsh, and one of Bowie's final projects before his passing in January 2016, Lazarus opened off-Broadway in December 2015. The production made the jump to London in 2016, and brought its otherworldly story — and its soundtrack of 18 Bowie tracks — to Melbourne in 2019. But if you haven't seen it yet, you can now do so from your own couch. When Friday, January 8, 2021 rolls around, it would've been Bowie's 74th birthday. When Sunday, January 10, 2021 hits, it'll mark five years since his death. In honour of those two occasions, a stream of the London production of Lazarus will be available to watch. It was captured live on stage during the show's run, and stars Dexter's Michael C Hall, who followed in Bowie's footsteps by taking on the part of Thomas Jerome Newton — and it's streaming at 7pm AEDT on Friday, January 8 and Saturday, January 9, and at 3pm AEDT on Sunday, January 10. Tickets cost $28.50. Those eager for a date with this starman — and to start loving the alien, again — can expect a sequel of sorts to The Man Who Fell to Earth. The enigmatic Newton remains on earth, unable to die; however, the arrival of another lost soul might offer the solution that he's been looking for. As for the familiar songs that this story plays out to, it's basically a best-of catalogue of Bowie's greatest hits. 'Heroes', 'Changes', 'Life on Mars?', 'The Man Who Sold the World' and 'Sound and Vision' all feature — as do four of the star's final recordings, including the title track 'Lazarus'. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9iw6yoMk3I
The wonders of the animal kingdom are coming to Brisbane Powerhouse, courtesy of a huge exhibition of nature photography. Headed to the venue for the first time ever, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year showcase comes direct from London's Natural History Museum — which has run the prestigious competition since 1965. Highlighting the astonishing sights that the natural world has to offer, this year's contest attracted nearly 50,000 entries from 92 countries. That not only sows how much we all love creatures great, small, cute, majestic and everything in-between, but how much we love both taking and looking at snaps of them as well. From that huge number, 100 winning pics were chosen for their creativity, originality and technical excellence, and then tour internationally. You can see the eye-popping, awe- (and 'awwwww') inducing results during its Brissie stop from September 1 to November 4. Prepare to rove your eyes over everything from up-close-and-personal shots of gorgeous creatures to astonishing visions of sweeping landscapes, and prepare to do so for free, too. It'll be open every day of the week during its two-month season — from 9am–5pm on Mondays, and 9am–9pm from Tuesday to Sunday. Image: Laurent Ballesta.
Combining sustainability, style and shopping, the Recreate Fashion Show and Twilight Market returns for 2018. You'll stare at fashion made from reused materials, and you'll wonder what creations you could whip up yourself (if only you knew how — unless you do, then good work to you). You'll also browse and buy at the accompanying markets. That's what's on the agenda from 4–8pm on Friday, November 16. Recycling is the theme, with the event forming part of this year's National Recycling Week. In the part that definitely won't be recycled, there'll be food trucks onsite to keep your stomach happy too. Expect the preloved and the repurposed to star when it comes to both the outfits worn down the catwalk, and the accompanying chance to do a bit of perusing and purchasing as day turns to night. Expect one-of-a-kind clothing sashaying along the runway as well, all thanks to local Brissie designers. Finally, as tends to happen at markets in general — let along markets in the lead up to Christmas — expect plenty of items to tempt your wallet. Images: Brisbane City Council.
Last year, Jim Beam once again proved its love and support for live music via its hit series Welcome Sessions. The online event series was aimed at bringing people together, albeit virtually, by connecting music lovers and artists when they needed it most. It's returned for 2022, only this time it has stepped outside of the digital realm. Brisbane music fans, listen up. You have the opportunity to score a free double pass to an exclusive and intimate DJ set from Australia's favourite musical corp dorks Client Liaison on Saturday, July 16, at Buffalo Bar. As far as we're concerned, bopping to electronic beats with pals — and a Jim Beam in hand — is a recipe for a great Saturday arvo. Want to head along to this money-can't-buy experience? You'll need to enter the ballot. Simply enter the competition for your chance to win one of 85 double passes up for grabs. All you have to do is tell Jim Beam what your most memorable live music moment is and why. But be quick, entries close July 8. Want to find out what's happening at the Melbourne Welcome Sessions? Visit the website.
Your must-see movie list just keeps growing, but your wallet doesn't want to play ball. Call Dendy Cinemas' returning special a case of great timing, then, with the chain offering up discount tickets that'll solve your problem. Every night of the week until Wednesday, November 13, 2024, as long as you head to the flicks from 8pm onwards, you'll only pay $8 for your movie of choice at Dendy Coorparoo. Buy online or buy at the box office — either way, you'll nab a bargain. The one big caveat: there is still a booking fee if you get your tickets via the Dendy website, but your 8pm movie-going will remain at a discount — just with that fee on top. With everything from Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Kneecap, Alien: Romulus and Deadpool & Wolverine currently screening — and Joker: Folie à Deux, Smile 2 and plenty more on the way as well — there's a heap to watch if you're keen to spend as much time in a darkened room as possible. The offer isn't available for special events, previews, film festivals or Dendy Arts sessions, but remains valid for everything else.
Over the past few years, El Camino Cantina has been spreading its Tex Mex vibes around southeast Queensland — and, from Friday, September 9, Surfers Paradise is next. When the chain's new store opens in the heart of the Gold Coast, it'll come with beach views. Yes, the usual taco and margarita-fuelled menu is on offer as well, because of course it is. There is something different about this El Camino Cantina's food lineup, however. It'll be the brand's first to also serve up breakfast, with brekkie tacos coming packed with grilled sirloin and scrambled egg, refried black beans and queso fresco, and streaky bacon with jalapeno and cheddar. Already hungry? Fancy giving them a try for free? Just make your way down to the Paradise Centre joint as soon as the doors swing open on launch day. Welcoming itself to the neighbourhood in the best possible way, the eatery is handing out free breakfast tacos — 500 of them from 10am on Friday, September 9. You'll need to be one of the first 500 customers to book in to get your complimentary breakfast taco, and there's a limit of one per person. And, yes, those reservations are essential. And if you miss out, the venue is kicking off a six-week Ritapalooza festival the same day.
Feeling a little chilly, Brisbanites? There's a reason for that. But it's not just the usual wintry temperatures that's making the city shiver — rather, it's Brissie's coldest morning of 2020 so far. While the mercury will hit the 21-degree maximum mark today — and continue to hover between 9–23 degrees for the rest of the week — the morning started with a frosty 3.8 degrees at the airport and 7.6 in the CBD. Weatherzone reports that "on top of that, southwesterly winds made it feel three degrees colder". To put the temperatures in context, while July is only five days in, 21.7 degrees is the month's average maximum temperature to date, while 10.6 degrees is the minimum. In fact, 21.8 is the usual July average maximum historically, while 10.2 degrees is the usual July minimum average, according to data spanning from 2000 to 2016. In the CBD, it's the first time the temp has dropped into single digits this month, and lower than June's lowest minimum of 9.1 degrees. https://twitter.com/BOM_Qld/status/1279522726819106817 If you're not too keen on the extra dose of chilliness each morning, a minimum of nine degrees is forecast for Monday, before rising to ten degrees on Tuesday, 11 on Wednesday and Thursday, and 13 on Friday and Saturday. It is the middle month of winter, though, so that's hardly surprising. And yes, we can stop saying that 'winter is coming' — because winter is definitely here. Via Weatherzone.
Film festival time is about to roll around in Brisbane, but things look remarkably different this year. BIFF is gone, with BAPFF taking its place. That’s the Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival, a showcase of 80 movies from more than 30 countries in the region. A new event organized by Brisbane Marketing that aligns with the Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA), the inaugural BAPFF remains true to its specific focus. Primarily screening at Palace Barracks Cinemas and the Gallery of Modern Art’s Australian Cinematheque, the festival opens with Indian effort The Crow’s Egg, closes with Zhang Yimou’s anticipated Coming Home, and features 20 films from the APSA shortlist. As the bookending picks show, BAPFF isn’t about movies familiar to the average cinemagoer – it’s about celebrating the diversity of work from its titular locale. Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk advised that in the festival’s first year, “it is brave act, in some regards, but it is an important act, because our future lays in the Asia Pacific and we need to make sure we engage in that space.” With titles direct from the international festival circuit, dedicated cinephiles have plenty to get excited about. In their Australian premieres and arriving with much critical fanfare, comedy The Owners shows another side of Kazahkstan, and documentary The Iron Ministry rides China’s railways. If you can sit still for long enough, long-form master Lav Diaz offers six hours of From What Is Before. Cherry-picking from the Sydney and Melbourne film festivals, as well as a host of smaller cultural festivals that have toured the country since, BAPFF will also feature Sion Sono’s latest chaotic epic Tokyo Tribe, Australian time travel rom-com The Infinite Man, Wim Wenders' photographic tribute The Salt of the Earth, eclectic South Korean black comedy A Hard Day, Chinese crime thriller Black Coal, Thin Ice, and what shapes up to be the feminist vampire film to end all feminist vampire films, Farsi-language effort A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night. Taking a more universal approach in looking not just at films made in the region but also at themes relevant in the Asia Pacific and beyond, BAPFF also includes Jean-Luc Godard’s eye-watering Goodbye to Language 3D and Russian endurance test Hard to Be A God, both must-sees on a big screen. Events form a sizeable part of the BAPFF schedule, including the previously announced collaboration with World Movies Secret Cinema in a Brisbane first. As part of a focus on his films, festival guest and this year’s APSA jury president Asghar Farhadi will share highlights of his career at an in-conversation session, while a Women in Film panel brings together female film practitioners at the top of their game to explore roles both in front of and behind the camera. Gala showings of five films, including New Zealand foreign-language Oscar submission The Dead Lands and Palme d’Or winner Winter Sleep, include drinks either before or after the session. Music and movies will mix at the remastered screening of Korea’s oldest surviving silent film Crossroads of Youth, the second Korean retrospective title alongside 1960’s The Housemaid. If you like free things (and who doesn’t?), Movies on the Green features two evenings of lengthy Taiwanese cinema at QPAC. The young at heart can head along to the South Bank piazza for sneak peek screening of Australian family-friendly effort Paper Planes before it opens in January, complete with actual paper planes (well, the sheets of paper to make them, we’re guessing). Indeed, at a time when going to the cinema only seems to be getting more expensive, BAPFF does boast good news in general for film fans’ bank balances. Adult tickets are $12.50 this year, with a 20% discount available for buying 10 or more tickets in one transaction. Alas, though the festival has only been bubbling away in the city’s consciousness since June, not everything it first promised has come to fruition. If you were excited about seeing a restoration of the original Godzilla to celebrate the film’s 60th anniversary, we are sad to report that there’s no signs of everyone’s favourite monster movie in the schedule. We blame Mothra. The Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival runs from November 29 to December 14. For more information, visit the BAPFF website.
When the evil spirit known as Pitch (voiced by Jude Law) sets his sights on world domination, the immortal guardians must assemble for the first time to protect the hopes, innocence and imagination of children the world over. This mixed bag of classic fairytales includes the likes of the Tooth Fairy (Isla Fisher), the Easter Bunny (Hugh Jackman), Jack Frost (Chris Pine) and Santa Claus (Alec Baldwin) like you’ve never seen them in what is sure to be the Christmas flick of the season. The animated tale, directed by Peter Ramsey (Monsters vs Aliens), is based on the children’s tale written by William Joyce. This is sure to provide entertainment for the kids, many a chuckle for the kid at heart, and add to the excitement of the yuletide season.
Think the AFL grand final is the only Aussie rules game worth paying attention to at this time of year? Think again. At Brisbane's first-ever Reclink Community Cup, the city's musos and media played a friendly but spirited match at Pine Rivers Showground, with the former emerging victorious over the latter. Captained by Eat Laser Scumbag! and Eyes Ninety's Xavier Poropat, Brissie's musicians proved too good for their industry counterparts, leading the Rocking Horses to a six-point win against the Brisbane Lines. After kicking the first goal of the game, they maintained their lead across the afternoon, weathering a half-time spot of rain and fending off a second-half fight back in the process. Final scores were 8.9 (57) to 7.9 (51). A who's who of local musos lined up for the Rocking Horses, including members of Nova Scotia, Smudge, Gazar Strips, Flangipanis, The Ring-Ins, Tits On Strings, Doozy Daze, Scabz and indie label Dew Process. On the media and industry side, 4ZZZ and Triple J veteran Stephen Stockwell guided a team dominated by 4ZZZ staff, plus representatives from a smattering of other outlets. And, because a couple of pollies normally join in, Senator Murray Watt took to the field for the Rocking Horses, while Senator Anthony Chisholm joined the media. The Reclink Community Cup isn't just about see your favourite bands kick a few goals; it's also about supporting a good cause. Since 1993, the event has been turning musos into footy players for an annual charity match, with the Melbourne game drawing more than 10,000 people and raising over $100,000 each year. Sydney's been going strong for years too. Every dollar raised at the game goes towards Reclink's efforts to improve the lives of Queenslanders suffering from disability, homelessness, substance abuse and economic hardship through participation in sport and the arts. Yep, even though the Rocking Horses won the match, a heap of deserving folks are the real winners.
Six years goes mighty fast when it's filled with food, markets and a great riverside vantage, as Eat Street Northshore now knows. After opening its doors back in 2013, the Hamilton spot is celebrating hitting half a dozen years of doing what it does best — that is, letting Brisbanites wander through its alleyways and feast on its spoils. Across the weekend of Friday, November 8 to Sunday, November 10, Eat Street's sixth birthday shindig will well and truly commemorate the occasion with a heap of performances, food and fireworks. Whichever day you decide to stop by, you'll find a packed agenda of entertainment. You'll also find plenty to eat, of course. The three-day shenanigans run during Eat Street Northshore's usual weekend trading hours, so head along between 4–10pm on Friday and Saturday, and 12–8pm on Sunday. The usual entry price of $3 also applies, but bring your wallet for whatever you'll be consuming. Image: Eat Street Northshore.
Eagle Farm Racecourse's giant screen is getting another workout — and this time, it comes with bumps and jumps. After taking Brisbanites to Middle-Earth with a session of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, Big Screen on the Green is back for Halloween, spiriting viewers away to a haunted house. Perhaps that should be conjuring them away? Yes, The Conjuring is the horror movie getting the huge treatment, with the screen measuring a massive 44 metres long. Head by from 7pm on Wednesday, October 31 to revisit the scary flick that has started not only a franchise, but a whole spooky cinematic universe — including its own sequel, the Annabelle series and now The Nun. If you need a pre-film refresher, the supernatural effort follows the Perron family, who move to a Rhode Island farmhouse and discover that things aren't quite right. When everything starts getting a little too unnerving, they call in demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren — who are real figures, with this James Wan-directed effort supposedly based on actual events. Gates open at 5.30pm if you're keen to get cosy as early as possible. Tickets cost $10, which gets you a spot on the public lawn — or you can spend $20 and get a large popcorn as well, plus your choice of wine, sparkling, house beer or a non-boozy beverage. You can't BYO food or drinks, but there'll be more available to purchase. Or if you'd like a picnic, bring a pal and nab a $55 gourmet hamper package for two, which includes charcuterie, a cheese platter and breads. And, if you need something to sit on — or to keep warm — you can hire picnic blankets for $12, blankets for rugging up for $5 and bean bags for $8. Image: Big Screen on the Green.
Queensland songstress, Emma Louise has returned to Australia after three-months of writing in New York and has also recently supported Missy Higgins and Gurrumul on their national tour. Last year was a good one for Emma Louise as she sold out shows internationally and was honoured with Queensland Music Awards such as Song Of The Year and the Pop Award. Emma Louise has maintained her energy into 2013 and is releasing her debut album very soon. She is heading into the new year with a tour across Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. Head to The Powerhouse to hear a tantalising sneak peak of her album on her first major headline tour since July and enjoy this stunning chanteuse's showcase of heartfelt and masterful songs.
If your working week runs from Monday–Friday, then we know exactly what you look forward to while the 9–5 grind ticks by. Everyone loves Friday afternoons — that glorious time when you can stroll out of the office, stop thinking about everything that's filled up your brain for the week, and kick back and relax. Two days off awaits, after all. For many, this past week has marked the first full week back in the office for 2021 — and if that's left you extra eager to celebrate the weekend, that's understandable. So, Cloudland is helping you do just that at its Champagne and Oyster Pop-Up, which runs from 5–7pm on Friday, January 15. Your $40 ticket gets you a flight of four champagnes (in 90-millilitre servings), all hailing from France. You'll also be able to slurp up four oysters — two served natural, and two with Italian vinaigrette. While you're enjoying both the sparkling and the seafood, all you need to do is sit down with your mates and celebrate the weekend. Yes, that's something worth saying cheers to.
Deerstalker caps at the ready — Sherlock Holmes is coming to Brisbane. The most portrayed literary human character in film and television history is heading to South Bank, all thanks to world-premiere production The Mystery of the Valkyrie. Yes, Brissie gumshoes, the game is definitely afoot. If you've watched Benedict Cumberbatch, Robert Downey Jr, Henry Cavill, Jonny Lee Miller, Ian McKellen and Will Ferrell's takes on the Arthur Conan Doyle-penned character (and that's just in the past decade or so), now's the time to see Eugene Gilfedder (Babyteeth) unleash his deductive powers. In The Mystery of the Valkyrie, he plays Holmes back in 19th-century London. His task: to solve the murder of a scientist. Watson and Moriarty both feature in this detective-focused play, because it wouldn't be a Holmes story without them — and you can expect QPAC's Playhouse to look the part thanks to a savvy staging and projection setup. All that's left is to sleuth yourself a ticket to the show's run between Saturday, March 11–Sunday, March 19. If it all sounds familiar, that's because The Mystery of the Valkyrie was initially meant to debut in 2022, but was postponed due to QPAC's flooding.
They’re a band of many influences yet they are one most capable of providing good times and good vibes. The five piece Melbourne adoptives Drunk Mums are a smashed plate of punk and stoner garage, with slices of pub rock, which makes for one tasty Saturday night delight. This is a night to not only indulge in the feel-good times, but to celebrate their latest release, ‘Plastic’, as they pass through Brisbane on their national tour. Drunk Mums have developed a reputation for the loud, the raucous and often the outrageous, an act not to be missed - particularly when they play the relaxed, uber friendly Trainspotters, your regular dose of local talents. Supporting Drunk Mums is the floating, psychedelic stylings of The Good Sports, soaring indie tunes from Surfin’ Bird, the danceable garage rock of White Lodge, alongside WOD. Head along to that bar next to Central Station, where the drinks are cheap and the snacks are free, which is just the icing on the indie rock pop cake you will find yourself devouring face first, hands free, with careless abandon into the night.
