A new beer will flow through Brisbane this week — but if you'd like to give it a try, you'll need to head along to BIGSOUND. For the first time ever, the four-day music showcase will boast its very own brew, thanks to a partnership between the event and Mountain Goat Brewery. And, the tipple has been created with the assistance of BIGSOUND programmer Maggie Collins. Called BOB: Beer of BIGSOUND Hazy Pale Ale, it combines pilsner and wheat malts with Mandarina Bavaria and Calypso hops, resulting in a brew that's light golden in colour and tropical in flavour. Expect to smell and taste notes of citrus and pineapple in the mildly bitter full-strength brew — befitting BIGSOUND's annual location. It's a pairing that suits the event, with seeing a gig — let along seeing this year's lineup of more than 150 bands — always going hand-in-hand with a cold beverage. "I've always considered music to be the fifth ingredient when making great beer," said Mountain Goat brewer Shane 'Naz' Edwards. "First job in the morning is to select the day's soundtrack, then the brewing can begin — so it's great that we've been able to create a beer for BIGSOUND." The beer will be available across BIGSOUND's 2018 run between September 4 and 7, with the festival taking over a heap of venues across Fortitude Valley. Image: Bec Taylor
Bavarian Bier Cafe is lightening up. The legendary beer house has long been associated with the biggest and tastiest of traditional dishes — from Klaus’s Gulaschsuppe (spicy beef goulash soup) to the mighty German sausage tasting platter, crowded with bratwurst, kransky and frankfurter. But now, those who don’t have the heart for the hearty are being catered to, too. The Cafe has added a page to its menu, introducing a range of what’s been dubbed ‘new modern favourites’. So rather than having to commit to a serious, meaty feast, you can eat as light and as fresh as you like. All nine of Bavarian Bier’s Australian venues are making the addition, with exact options varying from place to place. What all dishes have in common, though, is that they’re inspired by Bavarian flavours and dashed with creative, modern twists. Depending on which BBC is your local, keep a look out for light and fluffy steamed prawn dumplings ($16) and popcorn shrimp ‘dampfnudel’ steamed buns ($19) on the sharing menu. Meanwhile, for salads, expect the likes of spicy sesame chicken ($16), crispy calamari ($18) and grilled pork and Asian vegetables ($15). As far as mains go, dishes include pan-roasted salmon with lentils, root vegetables, beet pickled red onions and dill ($23); crisp roasted wild New Zealand hapuka with sweet and sour red capsicums, lemon puree and roasted garlic ($25); and lemon and herb marinated chicken breast with pesto scented orzo and shaved vegetable salad ($25). Whatever you choose, there’s no doubt that one of the Bavarian Bier Cafe’s pure biers, made with just four natural ingredients (malt, hops, yeast and water), will chase it down without any argument.
Before the division, Terry Hooley (Richard Dormer) was a popular man. But then his native Belfast bitterly split along sectarian lines, leaving the gregarious but staunchly apolitical Hooley to his own devices. He's DJing to nobody at a sad bar surrounded by barbed wire and run by the baleful Pat (Dylan Moran) when he finds a kindred soul in outsider Ruth (Jodie Whittaker). Emboldened by the support of Ruth, Dooley then decides on a whim that what his ailing city needs is a record store and he borrows over his head to set up the shop on a street famously known as the most bombed in Europe. Despite its perilous location, Hooley's boundless enthusiasm for the soothing power of music proves infectious and he watches in delight as it becomes a real cultural hub, quickly expanding into a record label as the city's burgeoning punk scene sparks into life. It's hard to think of another film which captures the fervour of discovery of music as thrillingly as Good Vibrations. As played by Dorman, Dooley is a genuinely fascinating character, flawed but endearingly quixotic. His faith in the music is complete, and completely moving. "These punks aren't the problem with Belfast," he enthuses to a news crew at one point "They're the solution!" After signing proto-punk band Rudi (later Rudi and the Outcasts) to his hastily formed label, he stumbles upon gold when Derry upstarts The Undertones push their demo on him. Initially reluctant to get involved with the brash youngsters, he has his mind changed for him when he hears 'Teenage Kicks', a song to die for. His championing of the song leads to airplay on John Peel, who famously loved the single so much he took the unprecedented step of playing it twice in a row. Despite the stunning cultural impact of both the Good Vibrations label and store, Hooley's complete gormlessness as a businessman means his beloved pet project is forever on shaky ground. Adding to his stress are (largely self-induced) marital woes and growing antipathy from local hoodlums to the store. If there's a downside to Good Vibrations it the story's stubborn refusal to organise itself into anything resembling a neat three-act structure. The final act may neither be thrilling nor as satisfying as the fist-pumping material that preceded it, but it's ultimately hard not to be stirred by the fire and life on display here and won over by this scrappily loveable ode to the energy and abandon of punk rock. https://youtube.com/watch?v=SE17U5ML9dQ
If you were about to get out your poorly constructed aluminium communication devices, there is no need. Tin Can Radio are back in town for their album Chase The Sun, Hold The Night's launch. For those of you who are unsure of the Brisbane locals track record, let me spell it out for you: these guys are kind of a big deal. Triple J and Triple Zed love them, and there is nothing but good things to be said about their engaging live shows. Despite their growing popularity, that is, their latest single Skeletons becoming a live favourite, anyone who hadn't heard of them could accuse the guys of being indie. Lead singer Tom Wearne has a sense of humour about it all, “The word ‘indie’ puts you in this box of having an asymmetrical haircut and skinny jeans and singing songs like [puts on yelpy falsetto] ‘You! And me! And you! And me!” But if they aren't indie, what are they? Apparently, art-rock, which sounds a bit synthy and a bit like soft rock with a tad of electro. Essentially they sound like Temper Trap crossed with The Holidays, and that is definitely worthy of a listen. Check out the last show of their exhaustive 20-date tour tonight at The Zoo, it's gonna be a big one!
Eight months after Australian same-sex couples could first formally and legally tie the knot, Brisbane Festival is celebrating the occasion in an appropriate fashion — by throwing a free wedding for eight LGBTIQ pairs. While Sydney Festival put together a huge reception earlier in the year, Brisbane's equivalent is going one better by hosting the actual nuptials. And, if you're a LGBTIQ couple looking to get hitched, you might just be able to take part. Called Qweens on King, the Saturday, September 8 event is one of the three-week-long fest's opening celebrations for 2018, turning Bowen Hills' King Street precinct into a garden party filled with merriment and real-life matrimony. Entries are now open for all interested parties, with winners saying 'I do' on stage before a celebrant named Gai Lemon, scoring a wedding party filled with Brisbane's queer performers, nabbing free wedding bands and receiving a $500 voucher towards holding their reception at adjacent food truck hangout Welcome to Bowen Hills. Everything from the music to the flowers to the photographer has been arranged, with couples simply needing to register, make sure they're available on the date and pick their own outfits. Of course, if that sounds like your ideal way to spend your big day, you'll also need to be willing to share your happy moment with a considerable crowd. "I'm hoping that the eight couples we find will represent a broad spectrum of personal experiences, from those who have been through the Bjelke-Petersen time when homosexual acts were still illegal, to newcomers and the multitude of various cultures within all those letters: L-G-B-T-I-Q-plus," says Brisbane Festival artistic director David Berthold. The ceremony will also launch the 29th annual Brisbane Pride Festival, with Brisbane Pride vice president Michael James dubbing the event "a gathering of rainbow sophistication and flair". Entries close at midnight on Sunday, July 22, with Qweens on King taking place on Saturday, September 8. To register, or for more information, check out the online application
From Monday through until Saturday, each and every week, the aroma of freshly made coffee wafts from Botero House. Come Wednesday, April 10, we expect that it'll smell a little stronger. Just for this specific date, the CBD cafe will be serving up free brews — so expect its baristas to be busy. The free coffee is in honour of Botero's anniversary, which is as good a reason as any to share the hot caffeinated beverages around. Unsurprisingly, there is a caveat: just one regular coffee per person. Still any free coffee is better than no free coffee, especially when you're on your way to work, craving your morning hit and not really feeling like you're awake just yet. You'll also be able to try out Botero's new menu, although that part isn't free. It will be tasty, however. And if you're an early bird, good news — the Adelaide Street cafe opens at 6.15am on weekdays.
Paddington hotspot Darling & Co is gearing up for its annual New Year's Eve bash and you're invited. While you might be spending December 31 in Brisbane, you can image you're elsewhere as the venue transforms to mimic a warm summer night in the Mediterranean from 7pm–midnight. Apart from the coastal decor and seaside vibes, the evening's all-inclusive package will feature five hours of European canapés and food stations, along with a summery drinks package. Expect Aperol spritzes and bellinis, plus wine, beer and premium spirits. In addition to those tasty bites and drinks, there'll also be live entertainment, with plenty of space to dance your way into 2019. Tickets start at $99, with the option to add on a bottle or magnum of Veuve Champagne — something that's sure to come in handy for the night's many bubbly toasts. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the website.
Australians can't travel far in 2020, but domestic flight sales have been doing big business. When Jetstar launched a heap of cheap options in mid-June, it sold 70,000 seats in just five hours. And when Alliance Airlines offered $99 trips from Brisbane to the Whitsundays, it understandably received plenty of interest, too. If you're a Queenslander still eager to head north for a getaway in the next few months (to salvage what's left of 2020, perhaps), it's now Virgin Australia's turn to help your holiday plans. The airline is holding a sale on flights from Brissie to Hamilton Island — costing $129 each way. The sale has already kicked off, and is available until it sells out — so there's no official end date but, obviously, it's likely to be popular and seats will probably get snapped up quickly. In terms of making the trip, you can get tropical between Monday, October 12–Sunday, December 13, giving you a hefty two-month period to slot in your island vacation. And, heading to Hamilton Island won't require you to navigate Queensland's borders, given that you'll be staying within the state. Via its app, Virgin is also offering 20 percent off a selection of other fares — not just to Hamilton Island and back — between Wednesday, October 13–Wednesday, December 9. To nab those cheap flights, you'll have to make a purchase before midnight on Thursday, October 8, or until they're sold out. Virgin Australia's $129 sale on flights between Hamilton Island and Brisbane runs until sold out — and its 20-percent-off app sale runs until midnight on Thursday, October 8 (or until sold out).
Thirteen years ago, Korea's cinema standouts scored their own showcase Down Under, with the inaugural Korean Film Festival in Australia debuting in 2010. Since then, the festival has grown from a one-city event to a four-stop tour celebrating both the latest and greatest flicks that South Korea has to offer. It was playing Bong Joon-ho films before Parasite swept the Oscars. It was revelling in Korean thrillers prior to Squid Game becoming an international success, too. It loved Korean genre fare before Train to Busan as well. And, in its just-dropped 2023 lineup, KOFFIA keeps heroing the nation's must-see titles — this time via a 13-film program that'll hit Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and Brisbane. 2023's KOFFIA has a date with Event Cinemas George Street from Thursday, August 24–Tuesday, August 29, before heading to Palace Electric from Friday, September 1–Sunday, September 3. Then, it's time for an ACMI stop across Thursday, September 7–Monday, September 11, before wrapping up at the Elizabeth Picture Theatre from Thursday, September 14–Sunday, September 17. In each location, it'll endeavour to give audiences a new Korean favourite, or several, from a selection that spans everything from murder-mysteries and detective dramas to revenge thrillers and musicals. There's no such thing as a standard Korean film, which is true of every country's movie output; however, this national cinema is mighty fond of twisty tales. Accordingly, it should come as no surprise that Confession and Gentleman are both on the 2023 bill. The first is a locked-room mystery with an IT company CEO suddenly finding himself the prime suspect, while the second involves a private detective agency's head honcho being falsely accused of a crime. Also on the lineup: The Devil's Deal, which sees a political candidate disqualified, then out for revenge; and The Night Owl, about an acupuncturist who is blind in daylight, can see clearly at night, and witnesses a tragic event one evening. The latter opens the festival, and the directors of both films — The Devil's Deal's Lee Won-tae and The Night Owl's An Tae-jin — are coming to Australia for KOFFIA. Elsewhere, comedy 6/45 hits the Korean Film Festival after proving a box-office smash at home, focusing on soldiers from both North and South Korea finding a windfall; Hero heads back to 1900s Korea to hone in on independence activist Ahn Jung-geun's plight battling Japanese colonial rule; musical drama Life Is Beautiful sees a husband trying to locate his wife's childhood sweetheart; and Next Sohee, which played Cannes 2022, is all about an exploitative work situation. Or, the standouts also include Switch, where a celebrity wakes up one morning to discover that he's living a completely different life — and romance Nothing Serious, about an aspiring novelist who writes a sex column. If it seems like a diverse lineup, that's wholly the aim. "Our 2023 festival program is designed to appeal to a broad audience, offering something for everyone — be they casual viewers or diehard film enthusiasts, promising a vivid and enriching journey through the multi-faceted realm of human experiences," said KOFFIA Programmer Francis Lee. "We hope that KOFFIA continues to facilitate the appreciation of Korean film artistry and culture in Australia, bringing audiences closer to the unique blend of storytelling, cinematography, and performances that have garnered global recognition." KOREAN FILM FESTIVAL IN AUSTRALIA 2023 DATES: Thursday, August 24–Tuesday, August 29: Event Cinemas George Street, Sydney Friday, September 1–Sunday, September 3: Palace Electric, Canberra Thursday, September 7–Monday, September 11: ACMI, Melbourne Thursday, September 14–Sunday, September 17: Elizabeth Picture Theatre, Brisbane The Korean Film Festival in Australia 2023 runs across August and September, touring to Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Brisbane. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the KOFFIA website.
Opera and a cocktail party? You can be forgiven for thinking that the two might not mix. Opera Queensland disagrees, however, and they're throwing a second singing soiree to convert you to their way of thinking. At Cloud Song 2 — held within the decadent walls of Cloudland, where else? — the idea of getting a drink and going to a show gets a new twist. Think cocktails and canapés, DJs, pop-up performances, aerial stunts and flamenco, plus extravagant costumes amid indulgent spaces. Given the first event earlier in 2015 was wildly successful — not to mention just plain wild — we're confident this is something no one wants to miss. Other than an abundance of arias, the actual details of the lineup won’t be announced patrons step through the doors, but we do know that there'll be something for everyone — whether you're already an opera aficionado or even if you're a first-timer. And if you're keen to take part in this rare, roaming experience, you'd best plan ahead, as tickets are only on sale until midnight on August 26.
Already in 2021, fans of the DC Extended Universe — the interconnected franchise that started with Man of Steel, and also includes Wonder Woman and its sequel, Aquaman and Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) — have sat down to watch an extended new version of Justice League like it's still 2017. Next on the series' viewing list: The Suicide Squad, the confusingly named sequel to 2016's Suicide Squad (because no one has challenged themselves thinking of the upcoming flick's title). Margot Robbie (Dreamland) returns as Harley Quinn, Joel Kinnaman (The Secrets We Keep) does the same as Rick Flag and Australian actor Jai Courtney (Honest Thief) also makes a comeback as Captain Boomerang. As the government agent overseeing this band of world-saving supervillains, recent Oscar-nominee Viola Davis (Ma Rainey's Black Bottom) is back as well. But don't expect to see the rest of their original costars this time around. A new group of nefarious folks joins Harley and the gang, including Idris Elba (Cats) as Bloodsport, John Cena (Playing with Fire) as Peacemaker, Peter Capaldi (The Personal History of David Copperfield) as Thinker, Pete Davidson (The King of Staten Island) as Blackguard and Sylvester Stallone (Rambo: Last Blood) as the voice of King Shark. Taika Waititi (Jojo Rabbit) has a yet-to-be revealed role, and Guardians of the Galaxy alums Michael Rooker and Sean Gunn show up, too — which makes complete sense given that GotG filmmaker James Gunn is behind the lens and has also penned the screenplay. By hiring Gunn, DC is clearly looking for his sense of humour, as well as his lively and OTT style. In the just-dropped first trailer for The Suicide Squad, all of the above is on display. So yes, if it feels more in line with goofier Marvel Cinematic Universe flicks than most of DC Comics' big-screen output, there's an obvious reason for that. When the film hits cinemas Down Under on August 5, it'll initially head to Belle Reve prison, where supervillains are kept. Asked by Task Force X to participate in a secret mission in exchange for time out of incarceration, Bloodsport, Peacemaker, Captain Boomerang, King Shark, Blackguard and their pals are more than willing to help. Their job: travelling to the island of Corto Maltese on a deadly quest. It's dubbed a suicide mission in the trailer, because of course it is. Check out The Suicide Squad trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1EbSXxrZ34 The Suicide Squad releases in cinemas Down Under on August 5.
Some films are long, slow and serious. Others are brief, quick and fun. There's a place for the former, of course; however Radical Reels champions the latter category, combining the most action-packed mountain movies it can find into a compilation of high-octane shorts. Radical Reels is the adrenaline-loving little brother of the Banff Mountain Film Festival, the most prestigious international film competition and annual presentation of short films and documentaries about mountain culture, sports, and environment. From the most recent festival’s 350-strong submissions, a subset of daring displays have been singled out for their own showcase. Over a three-hour session, eight shorts approach the very edge of action sports and natural highs: the wild rides, long lines, steep jumps, and skilful stunts, as well as the rugged playgrounds thrill-seekers explore on their mountain bikes, paddles, ropes, skis, snowboards and wingsuits. Expect the world's best extreme athletes getting fast and furious when the Radical Reels Tour 2014 stops in at the Brisbane Powerhouse.
Labour Day 2022 might be several public holidays away, but it's worth marking in your diary right now. Across the long weekend leading up to the May day off, southeast Queensland's newest music festival will unleash three days of live tunes on the Gold Coast — on Surfers Paradise beachfront, and with a jam-packed lineup. Between Friday, April 29–Sunday, May 1, Golden Shores will make its debut right by the water. Yes, it's making that moniker count. Attendees will check out Youngn Lipz, HP Boyz, Safia, The Presets, Vera Blue, San Cisco and more, all while getting some sand between their toes — and dancing against a killer backdrop. The new fest comes from Cross Promotions, the Gold Coast entertainment outfit who were originally behind festivals such as Beachlife and SummaFielddayze. And while giving music lovers a stellar three-day festival experience by the sea is one of the event's key aims, so is helping the local entertainment industry recover after a difficult couple of years. Tickets start at $89 per day, with Youngn Lipz and HP Boyz headlining the Friday bill, Safia and The Presets (doing a DJ set) hitting the stage on the Saturday, and Vera Blue and San Cisco doing the honours on Sunday. They're joined on the lineup by Triple One, Wombat, Lastlings, Motez, Winston Surfshirt and Last Dinosaurs — with the list going on. Check out the full details below. GOLDEN SHORES 2022 LINEUP: Day one: Youngn Lipz HP Boyz Triple One Wombat Day1 Jesswar Barkaa Skrub YNG Martyr Yung Gwopp Day two: Safia The Presets (DJ set) Lastlings Motez Stace Cadet Young Franco Dena Amy DVNA Day three: Vera Blue San Cisco Winston Surfshirt Last Dinosaurs King Stingray Teenage Joans Yorke Golden Shores hits Surfers Paradise Beachfront from Friday, April 29–Sunday, May 1, 2022. For more information, or to buy tickets from Thursday, November 25, head to the festival's website.
When it comes to cinema, there's something rather cool about being ahead of the curve, watching the latest and greatest flicks unfold on the silver screen well before anyone else. Well, at Flickerfest Short Film Festival you can do just that. Yep, break out the popcorn, the internationally acclaimed festival is back. After its official launch in Sydney earlier this year, it's headed up north, and there's a swag of world premieres on the bill. This year, the folks at Flickerfest received 2700 entries from more than 100 countries around the world. And across two nights, you'll get to see the best picks from the bunch at Palace James St Cinemas. On Thursday, February 21, the cinema will host the Best of Australian Shorts program, a handpicked selection of eight shorts by Australian filmmakers. Standout shorts from the homegrown lineup include All These Creatures, which picked up Best Editing in an Australian Short Film at the Flickerfest 2019 Awards ceremony in Sydney; Della Mortika: Carousel of Shame, which scooped Best Australian Animation; and Desert Dash, a film written, directed and starring formidable Australian artist Gracie Otto, which questions what life would be like in the Aussie outback if it was all just a game (spoiler: it's slightly twisted). Tickets for the evening cost $25 and include drinks and snacks after the screening. The following evening, the festival will present the EU Short Film Showcase, featuring some of the gems uncovered from our overseas friends. You'll see the Oscar-shortlisted stop animation Untravel and Best Game Ever — a film about CCTV technicians battling an AI machine, which was awarded the Best EU Short Film. Tickets for the EU Short Film Showcase cost $20, or you can purchase a Festival Pass for both evenings for $40. To see the full Flickerfest Brisbane 2019 program and grab tickets, head to the website. Plus, we've got five double passes to the EU Short Film Showcase to give away. Enter with your details below, cinephiles. [competition]706319[/competition]
If sitting down for a beverage, asking the bartender to whip you up something special and getting a drink tailor-made to your niche, niche tastes sounds like your idea of boozy heaven, then prepare to become a regular at The Stuffed Badger. Opening in Bowen Hills on April 11, the new tapas bar is all about crafting alcoholic concoctions to suit each and every customer. Don't even try to peruse a cocktail list — you won't find one. The venture from experienced hospitality trio Terry Tai, Thomas Marshall and Peter Clark has been five years in the making, and it aims to convey that passion in its food and drink selection. A small, carefully picked range of wines from France, Italy, Spain, Australia, New Zealand and the US is also on offer, but snacking on Spanish-influenced, locally-sourced dishes is the main attraction. Drawing upon his experience in England and his previous role at an Italian restaurant in Brisbane, Clark's menu will change seasonally. Expect the likes of beetroot-cured salmon and four-cheese and serrano arancini, with all dishes under $16. It wouldn't be an Aussie tapas joint without breads, dips and charcuterie boards, of course, while dessert offerings include dark chocolate and beetroot brownies, cheese and chutneys, and red fruits with vanilla anglaise and black pepper honeycomb. Find The Stuffed Badger at Shop 1, 9-11 Bowen Bridge Road, Bowen Hills from April 11. For more information, head to their website and Facebook page.
After revealing its December and January programming late last year, Moonlight Cinema has unveiled the next part of its 2018–19 program. As always, one piece of advice bears repeating: pack your picnic basket and get ready to watch a heap of flicks under the summer evening sky. While the outdoor cinema runs until Sunday, March 31 in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, it's latest announcement focuses on February — so if you're keen to catch a movie under the stars while it's still officially summer, take note. As always, plenty of recent favourites are on the bill, plus a smattering of all-time greats and a few sneak peeks at new movies coming out soon. The March lineup will be announced in February. Tried-and-tested highlights include Aquaman, Can You Ever Forgive Me?, Bumblebee and The Favourite, plus the return of A Star Is Born and a sing-along session of Bohemian Rhapsody. You'll also be able to catch retro titles such as Crazy, Stupid, Love, The Devil Wars Prada and The Princess Bride, and new nerve-wracking rock-climbing documentary Free Solo just as it hits regular cinemas. In the sneak peek camp, there's gender-flipped rom-com What Men Want, Ruth Bader Ginsburg biopic On the Basis of Sex and Natalie Portman as a pop star in the must-see Vox Lux, too. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMCYE9hKP68 Moonlight's usual food truck and licensed bar offering will continue, as will its reserved bean beds. You can also BYO booze everywhere except Brisbane. And Brisbanites have been benefiting from two big changes, with Moonlight Cinema saying goodbye to Brisbane Powerhouse after a more than a decade and settling in at Roma Street Parkland instead. Even better — it's running all the way through until March 31 for the first time, like its interstate counterparts. MOONLIGHT CINEMA 2018–19 DATES: Sydney: Nov 29–Mar 31 (Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park) Melbourne: Nov 29–Mar 31 (Central Lawn at the Royal Botanic Gardens) Brisbane: Nov 29–Mar 31 (Roma Street Parkland) Perth: Dec 1–Mar 31 (May Drive Parkland, Kings Park & Botanic Garden) Adelaide: Dec 8–Feb 17 (Botanic Park) Moonlight Cinema runs until March 31. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the Moonlight website.
Feel like you've eaten every great Japanese meal in Brisbane? Given the city's range of eateries, that's no mean feat. You haven't feasted into this five-course degustation, however — on the menu at Bacchus, it's a special addition to the South Bank restaurant's lineup, and it's only on offer until Saturday, September 7. Available Tuesday–Sunday, Bacchus' Japanese Degustation spans five courses, each as enticing as the last. Head chef Massimo Speroni is getting experimental, tinkering with traditional flavours, but giving them his own interpretation. It all starts with blue tea sashimi, naturally, before moving on to tempura octopus, then spaghetti with mushrooms in a shiitake broth. Next, tuck into wagyu with shoyu, before devouring yuzu and caramel yoghurt mousse. As usually tends to be the case at Bacchus, diners can choose from two options. Just enjoy the food — which also includes bread, amuse bouche and petit fours — for $99, or pair the five courses with wine or sake for $174. Images: Bacchus.
When you can't venture to a crowded pub to watch your favourite sport on the big screen, recreate the best parts of game day in your own home instead. Whether you're into the AFL or NRL, you can take inspiration from these five suggestions to amp up the at-home viewing party to suit your code. We've partnered with leading bourbon brand Jim Beam to bring you tips on entertaining your mates without missing any of the highlights. [caption id="attachment_786097" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] COOK UP YOUR FAVOURITE PUB CLASSICS First thing's first: food. Any good party host knows you need to plan ahead when it comes to feeding your guests, but that doesn't mean you need to spend heaps of cash or lean on the same-old chips and dips combo. Give yourself a theme and opt for handheld, small bites. For example, buffalo wings with blue cheese dipping sauce and loaded potato skins with bacon and sour cream for easy-to-serve snacks that you can prep in advance and your friends can graze on throughout the game. Make a classic hot dog more grown-up with fresh lettuce, jalapeños and mustard, or create a nacho topping station so everyone can serve themselves when they're peckish. [embed]https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7pS5D5MnYe11rtrRcjeMTk?si=d6yoaggsQnaTvog48eh0IA[/embed] CREATE A PUB PLAYLIST Channel the mood of your local, wherever that may be. If yours usually busts out Powderfinger, Crowded House and Paul Kelly, lean into the theme and create your own playlist that's two parts nostalgia and one part fresh Aussie hits. Or, if you want to pretend you're at the Gabba for this year's AFL Grand Final, pull together a playlist that honours the local acts taking to the stage come Saturday, October 24. Brisbane bands Sheppard and Cub Sport will be performing, along with singer-songwriter Thelma Plum and Rockhampton's blues duo Busby Marou. Plus, Sydney's DMA's and Adelaide-based duo Electric Fields. If you're short on time, head to one of the act's own selections, like DMA's Radio above. More of an Amy Shark fan? The indie-pop star is headlining this year's NRL grand final and the Gold Coast artist has a sweet playlist of equally cool Aussie acts like East, Lime Cordiale and Wafia that you can find here. [caption id="attachment_786936" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dan Burton[/caption] PULL OUT THE LAWN GAMES When you're drinking at the pub there's often time for playing games and getting competitive — whether that's around the pool table or facing the dart board. Bring a sense of playful competition into your get-together with bocce, giant Jenga, Finska, Twister — or whatever games you might have stored away at home. Create a break-out zone away from the TV so your friends can dive into an active game whenever the mood takes hold. Don't have any games at home? You'll find a good selection of outdoor games at Opus, which has free delivery if you spend over $75, and at Sunnylife, which has a $12 flat rate for delivery. [caption id="attachment_787026" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kaleidico[/caption] PLAN A SURPRISE PUB QUIZ FOR HALF TIME No one wants to listen to the game analysis come half time, so bring all your sports fanatics together over some brain teasing. Can you name the date of the very first AFL match? What's Daniel Ricciardo's driver number? How many times has Dylan Alcott represented Australia at the Paralympics? Who is Australia's fastest female bowler? No matter what sport you're celebrating on the big screen, you can test your collective knowledge in a quick quiz to lighten the mood. Create one of your own, or hit up the sports quiz of the week from The Guardian, or the ABC's news quiz for a mix of sport and general knowledge. Or, if you want to play along live, Jay's Virtual Pub Quiz runs weekly quiz sessions on YouTube. [caption id="attachment_784939" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] STOCK UP YOUR BAR Rather than making sure there are enough glasses in the house, or having to fight over space in the fridge for cold drinks, make things easier on you and your guests by filling up your bath or a bucket with ice and stocking it with premixed drinks. That way everyone can dip into the bathroom or kitchen for a fresh bevvy when they like, and you don't have to worry about chopping citrus for cocktails, or smashing glasses you don't have time to replace. Jim Beam has a range of premixed drinks to suit all your mates' tastes. You can pick up a pack of seven Jim Beam & Cola cans for $29 at BWS stores. Or go one better and enter Jim Beam's competition to win your own Tiny Stillhouse, which comes decked out with bluetooth speakers, a mini fridge, four bar stools, an esky, bar mats, a Jenga set, a case of Jim Beam and Cola and a bottle of Jim Beam White Label to really up the ante for your next get-together. Top image: Cassandra Hannagan
David Bowie, Mick Jagger, Martha and the Vandellas, The Kinks, Little Richard, Van Halen, the Grateful Dead: when they all sung various versions of 'Dancing in the Street', they were onto something. There's nothing quite like partying on a roadway when it's closed to cars, with traffic replaced by stalls and bars as well as stages filled with live music. Stones Corner Festival knows more than a little about that setup, and the fun it brings — and it's back to do it all over again in 2024. Some events feel like they've always been part of Brisbane's cultural scene and this is one of them, although it'll only host its ninth fest this year. That's the sign of something special, with this free street party swiftly becoming one of the city's must-attend celebrations. In 2024, it'll return on Sunday, May 5. On the agenda: another big day of food and music in the inner south, with a lineup headlined by The Potbelleez and Screamfeeder. For tunes from 12–10pm, they'll be joined by Never Ending 80s, Vixens of Fall and Lontano, alongside Later Daze and John Hanley with Don't Shoot The Hurricane. As always, the music bill is only part of Stones Corner Festival's attractions. You can also expect 19 craft breweries pouring beers, including Green Beacon, Stone & Wood, Aether, Gages Road, 4 Pines, Better Beer and CBCo. Eating-wise, a heap of food trucks and stalls will pop up to keep your stomach lined, which usually means everything from burgers and pizza to paella and tacos. And as for what else awaits on the corner of Logan and Old Cleveland roads — and during the Labour Day long weekend, handily — there'll also be market stalls via The Market Folks. If you're planning a big one, that public holiday the next day is oh-so-convenient. Also, entry remains free but, as in past years, giving a gold coin donation to the MND and Me Foundation is recommended. Stones Corner Festival 2024 Lineup: The Potbelleez Screamfeeder Never Ending 80s Vixens of Fall Lontano Later Daze John Hanley with Don't Shoot The Hurricane Stones Corner Festival 2024 takes place from 12–10pm on Sunday, May 5 on Logan Road, Stones Corner. For more information, head to the festival's website.
Brisbane's beer-drinking calendar just received a new entry, with The Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular announcing its first-ever Brisbane festival. Better known as GABS, and considered by most as the best craft beer and cider festival in the Asia-Pacific region, the fest began in Melbourne eight years ago. It has now expanded to cover four cities and two countries to date — including Brissie when it joins the fold in 2019. GABS Brisbane will hit the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday, April 27, with fest creators Steve Jeffares and Guy Greenstone (The Local Taphouse, Stomping Ground Brewing Co.) wrangling up the best breweries from the region. Previous events have offered up over 500 brews in total, including up to 170 festival beers and ciders, with 100 of these often wacky specialty brews — created just for the event and are generally the festival's main draw — set to come to Brisbane. GABS' exclusive beers give attendees the rare chance to try brand-spanking new beers, while also meeting the brewers behind them. 2018's tipples included ingredients like Great Ocean Road snails, crickets and durian. There was also a laksa ale, a whisky sour beer and an umami beer with miso, soy and seaweed, in case you're wondering what might be in store. Apart from beer, the fest's interstate legs have played host to everything from Holey Moley pop-up courses, gin and whiskey cocktail bars and an 18-metre-high beer Ferris wheel, as well as wandering performances and local food stalls. Just which activities will make the jump to Queensland has yet to be revealed. The single day event is categorised in two sessions, with session one taking place in the afternoon and session two an evening affair. If you're a super keen craft drinker, you'll be able to purchase tickets to both sessions when they go on sale at a yet-to-be-advised date — we wish those ticket holders the best of luck. The Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular comes to Brisbane on Saturday, April 27, 2019. We'll keep you updated when tickets go on sale.
International Taco Day is coming in hot this Friday, with spicy sauces and jalapeños aplenty. So, you'll want to be feasting on as many tacos as possible. And where could be better to do so than at one of the world's most renowned taco slingers, Taco Bell. Better yet, this year, Taco Bell is marking the occasion with a brand-new, limited-edition menu. Head on down to any Taco Bell in Brisbane on October 4 and you'll score the first taste of Taco Bell's Lava Burst range, featuring its hottest menu yet. Planning on being on the Gold Coast this long weekend? The limited-edition range will be available there, too. Spice up your life with the Lava Burst Taco, which comes with seasoned beef, crisp lettuce, cheese and the all-new fiery lava sauce, loaded into a bright red crunchy taco shell. Taco Bell's stacked nachos and chips also get a hit of Lava Burst flavour, loaded with beef, jalapeños, sour cream and lashings of both nacho cheese sauce and that fiery new lava concoction. Plus, when you buy any taco in-restaurant this International Taco Day, you'll also get a free pair of limited-edition Taco-patterned socks. A Taco Bell pop-up will also be hitting Brisbane's King George Square from noon until 2pm on the day, handing out a stack of freebies, from Lava Burst tacos to limited-edition merch. And while the Lava Burst menu won't be available outside of Queensland, at least Victoria and NSW can look forward to getting their own taste of Taco Bell, with new restaurants opening in both states later this year. Taco Bell's limited-edition Lava Burst range is launching on Friday, October 4 for International Taco Day. It will be available at all Brisbane and Gold Coast restaurants for a limited time only.
Ahh, September in Brisbane. The days are getting warmer, the sun has made its glorious return, and it marks one of the most exciting months on the local calendar. The Brisbane Festival is back for 2014, boasting a bigger lineup of events than ever before. There is bound to be something for all tastes and temperaments — from the loud and raucous to immersive artistic experiences that tingle the senses. The hardest part is simply choosing which sight, sound or sensation to indulge in next. Never fear, the overwhelming task is made easy, courtesy of your friends at Concrete Playground. Here are our picks for the Brisbane Festival season. Juana Molina Heralding from Argentina, the enigmatic Juana Molina makes her Brisbane Festival debut in 2014 for a one-night-only performance guaranteed to dazzle. Described as “Spanish-sung folktronica”, Juana’s performances are as unique as they are playful, full to the brim with experimentation and honest passion in song. Continuing soundscapes full of surprises, never dull or anticipated. Some have attempted to pigeonhole Juana, tried to fit her into a niche genre or have compared her to other songstresses such as Beth Orton or Bjork while trying to describe her sound; one of the most admirable characteristics of Juana is her very selfness, her unique sensibilities and authentic original sound. September 25, Spiegeltent Prehistoric Cast your mind back to Brisbane in the 1970s. We had the first round of flooding, a tumultuous political climate, the fashions were fantastic and the music still as good today as it was some 40 years ago. Prehistoric looks at Brisbane’s flowering music industry during the ‘70s, following the lives of four young adults as they learn what it means to express themselves under an intolerant government. This is a tribute to the sparks of creativity, those who had their time in the spotlight who gave it their all but perhaps were not to be heard from again. September 23-27, The Loft (QUT Creative Industries Precinct) Com Truise Seth Haley, known to fans as Com Truise, will make the air in the Spiegeltent a little harder to breathe. Heavy, silky synths meet funk in its minute, trudging detail; Com Truise slows down the beat, bringing to mind gems from the ‘80s, but with a twist on a darker, seductive side. New Order meets Knight Rider as heard through a pounding crowd, a Sega standalone arcade game that has had a grape-flavoured Slush Puppy poured over its controls. Punchy, confident, eerily familiar but not as you remember it… Com Truise is your hero of parachute pants with a suit jacket. September 11, Spiegeltent Squidboy What happens when you combine the imagination of a squid and a sailor’s stories of a long, lost love? Well… nothing immediately comes to mind. Thankfully, the creative genius of Gaulier-trained clown Trygve Wakenshaw can, and will, connect the dots. This award-winning, critically acclaimed one-man-show is leaving audiences in stitches from Melbourne all the way to the Edinburgh Fringe. It’s as innovative as it is outrageous and, considering the singular mind it comes from, has to be seen to be believed. Trygve is also (thankfully) responsible for the parallel production of mime and mouthsound masterpiece, Kraken – a side-splitting tale that takes place on the ocean floor, of course. Join in the fun that will take you to the deepest depths of your imagination. September 16-20, La Boite Studio Bombay Royale The most exotic and exciting corners of the globe converge for Bombay Royale, a pop-culture fan’s dream. Taking the best from modern day cinema, classic theatre, traditional performance and all taken a little tongue-in-cheek, Bombay Royale have been celebrated the world over, finding homes and fans wherever they go. Think the drama of Quentin Tarantino, the thrills of Indiana Jones, the spectacle of Bollywood and the fun of Goldfinger, and you’re halfway there. This is a must-see for the entire family, or perhaps a group of friends looking to let their hair down. September 24, Spiegeltent Scotch and Soda The whimsy of daring acrobatics clashes in the most spectacular way with the rambunctious sounds of inspired music-makers to bring us Scotch and Soda. The stars of circus acts ‘Cantina’ and ‘Smoke and Mirrors’ are the misfits who bring the trouble to the hazy music hall of madness. They’re joined by The Crusty Suitcase Band, aptly named for their nomadic nature, taking big, brassy and boisterous sounds wherever they wander. This production has received rave reviews from the Sydney Festival, and it’s no mystery as to why. With character a-plenty, this is not your typical circus ring, but a dirty, raw show that will leave you sweating in your seat and wanting more. September 23-27, Judith Wright Centre Tawdry Heartburn's Manic Cures Have you got something to get off your chest? Visit Tawdry, the six-foot-five “manic-curist” who is here to prep your pinkies and settle your nerves, ready to share those secrets that keep weighing you down. Tawdry will professionally paint and polish your nails and read your palm before placing in front of you a typewriter, or “gossip machine”. Here you are invited to share your secret, something that has worried you, held you back, something you no longer need to hold on to. The anonymous secrets are locked away, and posted later on on Tawdry’s web wall in the hopes to lift the burden off the millions and heal the consternation of millions, one set of hands at a time. This is a free, interactive art exhibition, one which will be a one-of-a-kind experience as well as a wonderful work in progress to view throughout the festival. September 9-27, Theatre Republic The Shadow King Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, King Lear, is given a hard-hitting facelift by way of The Shadow King. Provocative, and enduring, the tale of two Indigenous families in Australia’s north is one of nation and of family, questioning what we know about the notions of country and loyalty, interlinking itself with the history of our nation. The Shadow King boasts a live rock score, a star-studded cast and a story that is told through modern English and Kriol languages. Premiering in late 2013, The Shadow King has since been nominated for Best Play at the Helpmann Awards, and won Best Director. A play that asks more questions than it answers and cuts to the core of the founding priorities of community, this is a rare chance to see a play worth talking about. September 9-13, Brisbane Powerhouse Spiegeltent Garden Bar In amongst the festivities of this gem of an event, you’ll possibly want to take a load off, maybe catch up with friends, grab a nibble or a bubbly beverage of some sort and soak up the atmosphere of the heart of the Brisbane Festival - the Spiegeltent Garden Bar is just the place that ticks all of these boxes. Not only is this an open-air bar, it’s an eatery, a venue for live entertainment throughout the month with river views and overflowing attraction. Each year there is a different art installation to walk or wade through, lights lacing every possible direction and you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to ordering from the menus. Even if you are keeping your festival itinerary light and casual, this is a must-see stop on every festival experience. September 5-27, South Bank Cultural Forecourt Santos GLNG Twilight Music Series As the Brisbane Festival continues to evolve, so too does the scope of possibilities presented by lounging on the river front, sipping on a glass of wine at dusk. This year, there are a host of performances designed to accommodate just that, and they are as varied and exciting as the rest of the festival’s offerings. Pack the picnic blanket and basket, your snacks and drinks of choice and head to the green grassy area just over from the Spiegeltent area, and you will find a live act to perfectly complement your evening. The likes of Steve Smyth, Sophie Hutchings and rising star Japanese Wallpaper are just some of the selections of artists who will take to the alfresco stage throughout the month. Be sure to check the schedule, as well as what you can and cannot take into the picnic area. September 6-26, River Quay Green And also… There are a number of familiar faces gracing stages throughout the Brisbane Festival. The likes of Andy Bull, Phil Jamieson (Grinspoon), Miami Horror and Brisbane’s own The Kite String Tangle are making a special pit-stop at the Spiegeltent on their way around the country. Sessions designed to inform as well as entertain will take place throughout the month, with the folks from the ABC sharing their stories, along with creatives opening up their minds and sources of inspiration - Festival Conversations and the Creative Forum might be worth a look whether you are business- or creatively-minded. And don’t forget, September 27 is the night the Brisbane River ignites for the Sunsuper Riverfire!
After a sold-out season in Sydney and a current run in Melbourne, Muriel's Wedding the Musical is coming to Brisbane in 2019. A co-production between Sydney Theatre Company and Global Creatures, the musical adaptation of Muriel's Wedding is like a perfect high school reunion — maximum 80s nostalgia without having to tell any of your old friends you're in HR now. When Muriel Heslop realises that the small town of Porpoise Spit has nothing in store but grim futures, she decides to take off, with only her parents' chequebook, a couple of ABBA albums memorised note for note and a vague sense that the wider world has something that she is hungry for. PJ Hogan, who wrote and directed Muriel's cinematic adventure, has adapted and updated the script for the stage, while Kate Miller-Heidke and Keir Nuttall have built the music around ABBA's towering back catalogue. There's a real buzz around Muriel. Sure, it's a chance to re-immerse yourself in the unadulterated joy of Muriel's hijinks, but it's also because Muriel hasn't stopped holding the mirror up to our desperate, fame-hungry society since she first hit the screen. As director Simon Phillips points out: "Muriel's governing delusion is becoming a celebrity and becoming famously married. The world has caught up with Muriel." Running at QPAC's Lyric Theatre from September 19 to October 26, the Brisbane season comes after the show won a slew of awards at last year's Helpmann Awards, Australia's annual awards for live entertainment and performing arts. Muriel's Wedding the Musical picked up five gongs across the two nights of awards, including Best Original Score, Best Music Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Sound Design and Best Choreography in a Musical. Image: Christine Messinesi.
Christmas markets are always excellent for those of us who tend to leave gift purchasing until the last minute — and, thankfully, Etsy is setting up their markets all over Australia in the final weekend of 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 markets will be held in Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra. Because each market focuses on the best local talent, each market will be filled with different stallholders and unique creations. Supporting creative small businesses and scoring a killer Christmas gift is a win for everyone involved, so head to City Hall on Saturday, November 28 and get your festive shopping done early, for once.
We all know that solid dose of 'the good feels' you get after you've done something nice for yourself/your body (like exercise). And from Monday, October 4–Saturday, December 4, you can expect those feelings to increase two-fold. Thanks to the return of Brisbane's Feel Good Program for spring and the beginning of summer, the city will welcome a series of outdoor fitness classes — and, unlike that fancy new yoga studio in your neighbourhood that smells like acai berries and only serves charcoal tea, these classes are all entirely free. Ranging from sessions to get your blood pumping (Zumba) to classes to get your zen flowing freely (yoga, tai chi), plus aqua classes held at the Boat Pool, the Feel Good Program is an initiative designed to suit any and all fitness levels. Classes are held at both South Bank Parklands and in the city at Queens Gardens. BYO water bottle, towel and, where required, a yoga mat — the ones provided are subject to availability. Adapting to the times, you'll also need to check in when you attend. Classes happen every day except Fridays and Sundays, and they all run for between 30–45 minutes. Get started early and face the day with a 7am bootcamp session, or finish it with pilates from 5.30pm — or ballroom or Bollywood dancing from 6.30pm. Whichever you choose, it'll have you embracing the warm outdoors and feeling good — check out the timetable online.
Maybe exploring graves on the outskirts of the Brisbane CBD, singing songs adjacent to a cemetery and pretending to be a corpse that's being washed and prepared for burial is your idea fun. Maybe it isn't. Either way, indulging in morbid-leaning pastimes or challenging yourself to face the end that awaits us all is on the agenda at Brisbane's newest festival, Deathfest. Running from November 12 to 20, Metro Arts' latest program of live art, music, film, visual art, discussions and social events wants attendees to confront death, literally. No, the grim reaper won't be there, but you will have to contemplate the weighty subject. We know, we know, it's a topic most of us choose not to think about, other than in a vague, YOLO-like way by reading trashy vampire fiction, or crying when the killer year that is 2016 keeps offing our artistic heroes. The Brissie arts venue knows this too, in fact, increasing death literacy in the community and finding a new way to embrace grief are among its chief aims. No wonder it's the first arts and culture festival of its kind in Queensland. And, no wonder it has compiled an array of out-of-the-box (or coffin) events and activities designed to push attendees out of their comfort zones. Taking place at a number of locations around the city, they include a concert of songs about leaving people and life behind, a theatrical dance piece about love and loss, a Yarn storytelling session focused on the experience of mourning, and a musical performance that uses sounds of endangered and extinct animals. And, plenty of talking: about dying in general over wine and cheese, and in an artist-filled panel session on what it means to die well. Elsewhere, you'll spy divination cards in Fish Lane that draw attention to bigger existential questions, and images of wildflowers in Eagle Lane stressing the importance of thinking about what came before. Plus, tying in with Metro Arts' newly revamped Lumen Room, a feast of appropriately themed films also feature. Griefwalker provides a poetic portrait of dying people talking about their predicament, while Oscar-winning Japanese effort Departures follows a man working at a funeral home. Or, relive what still ranks as Hayley Joel Osment and M. Night Shyamalan's career highlight, aka The Sixth Sense. You know exactly why it's appropriate.
Brisbanites, it's time to crack open your piggy bank, fumble for coins in your wallet and look for loose change under your couch. That's all you'll need to nab yourself a chicken schnitzel on Wednesday, October 30, with Rashays serving them up for $1. Available all day for one day only, the special includes hand-crumbed schnittys, a serving of chips and plenty of mushroom sauce — a dish that's been on the Australian chain's menu since it opened 21 years ago. A few caveats apply, as tends to be the case with these kinds of deals. You can only order one schnitzel meal per person, they're only available for folks dining in, and you'll have to walk in and try your luck because the eatery won't be taking bookings. You can't order through a third-party app, either, and the schnittys are only available while stocks last. To get your fix, you'll need to head out to the suburbs and get cosy at Rashays at Toombul Shopping Centre — but if $1 schnittys aren't worth the trek, then nothing is. Rashays also has stores at Redbank and Ipswich, if you're closer to that side of town. All proceeds from your schnitz fix will go to a good cause, too, with Rashays donating funds from the day to Miracle Babies — a foundation that helps premature and sick newborns, their families and the hospitals that look after them.
The Queensland winter is about to hit, and, while it's usually very mild, it's easy to spend your weekends curled up indoors with a mug of cocoa and a few binge-worthy series on Netflix. But this is an event you should definitely be leaving your house for. For four glorious days, the Best of Brisbane Style and Design Market will be taking over Indooroopilly Shopping Centre with a lineup of dynamic retail brands and online businesses. This means you'll get to spend the wintry weekend in the company of the city's cleverest, most imaginative, hardest-working designers and makers. Stacks of independent creatives will be peddling their newest offerings, across fashion, accessories, art, craft, homewares and food. Look out for Marvel-inspired leggings by Black Milk, linen dresses by LJC Designs, leather jackets by Winston Wolfe and t-shirts dotted with dancing brolgas by Jericho Road Clothing. If you're looking to add a splash of colour to your wardrobe, then nab a pair of Yippy Whippy's fun earrings, which range from blobfish to broccoli florets, or Concrete Jellyfish's resin jewellery, which takes its inspiration from Australian plants, animals and landscapes. The inner west market will also present shoppers with exclusive discounts and offers, including free leather jacket fitting sessions with Winston Wolfe, 20-percent off select items from sustainable fashion label Why Mary, new styles from Jericho Road Clothing (that will only be available at the market) and the unveiling of Gail Sorronda's exclusive Brisbane Style and Design Market line. In between browsing, modelling and making purchases, there'll be free canapés: platters loaded with antipasto, accompanied by lemonade and kombucha. There'll also be luxe brownies from Dello Mano and a steady stream of live performances across the weekend. You'll find the Best of Brisbane Style and Design Market on Level Two, under the chandelier. Opening hours are Thursday 7 June, 9am–9pm; Friday 8 June, 9am–5:30pm; Saturday 9 June, 9am–5pm; and Sunday 10 June, 10am-4pm.
We can think of the world in terms as simple as black and white, but often this perspective is shallow. It's the grey areas of life that are the most interesting and require an emotive response. Art is one of those areas and Anna Varendorff's latest exhibition, Sort of Free Objects, perfectly blurs multiples mediums to create something extraordinary. Anna's practice collapses all barriers between jewellery and sculpture. She has described her pieces as “jewels for a room” because of their similarity to the function of jewellery. Delicate, linear, beautiful and precious – these stunning sculptures would add charm to any room in the same way that a great piece of jewellery sets off an outfit. Just like a jewel should be worn and enjoyed, Anna encourages the viewers of her art to interact with her sculptures and enjoy them. Head to A-CH Gallery and get lost in Anna's gorgeous world.
It's a scientific fact that you can't have too much laughter — or if it isn't, it really should be. Giggling is good for you. A hearty laugh is a heck of a good workout. And checking out the hilarious stylings of up-and-coming comedians doesn't just offer amusement for eager audiences, but supports aspiring talent. That's what's on offer at Bris Funny Fest, which returns for a third year of rib-tickling, side-splitting fun. From August 1 to 26, the fringe comedy festival will showcase the comic stylings of a few recognisable names and whole host of others that aren't quite household fodder yet — but one day, they just might be. Check out Matt Okine on his return home, or other locals such as Mel Buttle, Luke Heggie and Damien Power. Let improv masters get you guffawing, or catch one of the breakout favourites of this year's Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Laugh along with amusing ladies, see which show has the best name ever (our vote: Rage Against the Washing Machine) and enjoy more sketches than Saturday Night Live has ever aired. Okay, so the last one is a bit of an exaggeration, but hey, whatever kind of comedy you're looking for, you'll probably find it here.
Watching television and subscribing to a streaming platform are both cheaper than going to the cinema. Should watching Netflix on your phone be even cheaper still? That's something that the international streaming behemoth is testing out, offering cut-price mobile-only plans — in Malaysia at present, although it has also flagged lower-price subscription options throughout Asia. Malaysia's The Star reports that the mobile-only option is currently available for 17 Malaysian ringgit (approximately AU$5.58) per month, offering unlimited viewing on one handheld device only — be it a phone or a tablet. The content is only available in standard definition, which is good news for anyone with a low data plan but bad news for anyone who loves high-definition viewing. Malaysian residents can only access the new plan by signing up via the Netflix mobile app, or by accessing the Netflix website on a smartphone. Still, it's cheaper than Australia's three tiers, with the basic $9.99 per month package allowing viewing on one screen at a time, including a laptop, tablet or mobile; the standard $13.99 tier upping the simultaneous screens to two and including HD; and the premium $17.99 option including ultra-HD and four screens. Variety notes that the tests are designed to appeal to smartphone-centric users in Asia — so if you do all of your film and television viewing on the smallest of screens (that is, your mobile), then you'll be hoping that Netflix expands its trial Down Under. The company hasn't given any indication that that's the case, but it does love to toy with new options — including, at the other end of the scale, possibly getting into the bricks-and-mortar cinema game. Via The Star / Variety.
Sure, we know of Samoa, but how much do we really know about the peoples' stories? It's easy to forget that many other countries have grown up with similar worries, cares, hopes and dreams as us Australians. One production that will change and open your mind is the beautifully honest and hysterical coming-of-age story of 1970s Samoa, Where We Once Belonged. Life is hard for Alofa, who is privy to violence, religious and colonisation disputes at home. Amidst her personal turmoil, Alofa and her friends Lili and Moa still manage to be typical teenagers, teasing the local boys, acting up at school, and dreaming of their fairytale weddings. Our generation has come to expect not so flattering book adaptations, but this one is a winner on the stage. Watch Sia Figiel's award-winning book come to life when 14 talented young Pasifika performers take to the stage in an unforgettable way. Come and celebrate another world and time you may have never explored before – rest assured there'll be a lot of singing, dancing, laughing and crying out loud at the celebration of the Pacific life.
There's never a bad time the Gold Coast's shores; however, from March 31 to April 16, driving down south comes not just with surf, sun and sand, but with an added dose of arts and culture. Don't worry, beachgoers — at Bleach Festival, both often combine into one glorious package. The annual event returns with a 2017 program that's equal parts outdoor and indoor fun, and spanning theatre, music, art, sport and more. If performance is your kind of thing, then Frank Enstein and Blanc de Blanc are definite drawcards. One reimagines one of the greatest tales ever written, the other combines cabaret, circus, champagne and salacious sights. Or, enjoy a beachside concert, spy giant illuminated figures on the street, catch a footy-focused play at a football club and watch a man run 42.2 kilometres on a treadmill. Plus, skateboarding displays, '60s-style parties by the waves, an Indigenous art tour and blues on the sand are all also part of the lineup. Image: Lamp Photography
What’s better than grabbing a meal from a food truck? Trying to choose from a whole street filled with food trucks, of course. The Truck In & Tuck In Street Food Festival rounds up Brisbane’s favourite mobile eateries at Bridge Street, Fortitude Valley for an evening of culinary fun. The Bun Mobile, Char Baby, Fork in Food, Fiery Deli, Vira Lata, Sushi Neko Food Van, Pizzantica, Gourmet H-Dogz and the Local Mobile Deli will be on the scene serving their culinary treats — joined by Chocolate Kromberry Co. and their famous cronuts. There’s more than just food on offer, too, with local DJs spinning tunes from 5pm, followed by live sets from Inigo, Laneous Lane and MKO. An all-ages street party, the Truck In & Tuck In Street Food Festival is the latest — and quite possibly tastiest — event in Brisbane City Council’s Friday Night Laneway series.
You won't want to be late to this very important date, even if it suits the occasion. It's not every day that all things Alice in Wonderland take over the Brightside, after all. Think mad hatters, giant rabbits, teacup cocktails and much, much more. Feeling curious? A lantern-lit forest awaits upon entry, and the beer garden will become a whole lot rosier. Feeling curiouser and curiouser? There'll also be bunny ears for early arrivals, plus a soundtrack by A Night in Texas, Tomb of Doom, Enfield, Wildheart and Thriller DJs. Yes, it really be a land of wonder. The theming is only the beginning of the fun, with the rest coming from you. Whichever interpretation of Lewis Carroll's story you love, here's your chance to celebrate. The best dressed will win prizes, but everyone who tumbles down the rabbit hole really should break out their best Cheshire cat grin, too.
UPDATE, FEBRUARY 25, 2022: Due to Brisbane's wet weather, Beer Fest On the Grass has been postponed from Saturday, February 26 to Saturday, April 9. This article has been updated to reflect that change. Thirsty? If you're not now, you will be once you've read this. That's the only appropriate reaction to a festival of beer, after all. Just think of all the amber liquids and foamy goodness. Okay, enough drooling; here are the important details that every ale-lover needs. When Beer Fest On the Grass returns from 11am on Saturday, April 9, 2022, more than 130 beers and ciders will be on offer. To line your stomach, there'll also be a range of international food trucks. Basically, if there's a beer heaven, this is it. It's the ninth year that Eatons Hill Hotel has hosted the tipple-fuelled shindig, once again celebrating drinking, eating and enjoying a day in Brisbane's glorious outdoors. If you're serious about your beverages, you'll want to taste, sip, sample and chat to folks from a huge selection of breweries. And if you're serious about fun, you'll want to gather some mates and take part in the event's other fun activities — in previous years, there's been an inflatable beer obstacle course, a keg-stacking comp and a life-sized game of foosball. Tickets are on sale now, with entry starting at $18.70. Top image: Brisbane Beer Fest.
As part of the flurry of new streaming services competing for our eyeballs, FanForce TV joined the online viewing fold during the COVID-19 pandemic. That's great news all year round, but the service is also going the extra mile for NAIDOC Week, which is when it's bringing back the Virtual Indigenous Film Festival. VIFF has already popped up once in 2022, for National Reconciliation Week in May — but this is obviously a fest that's welcome to hit screens to celebrate Indigenous stories and voices as often as it likes. For its second run this year, the event is hosting films between Monday, July 4–Friday, July 8, with four titles on the bill. Screening solely online, this returning festival boasts Araatika: Rise Up, Off Country, Where the Water Starts and Wash My Soul in the River's Flow on its lineup, showcasing First Nations talent both in front of and behind the lens. That means you can watch your way through an array of Aussie content focused on Indigenous stories, with each title showing twice on its allocated day — at 1pm and 7pm AEST. And, viewers can tune in on a film-by-film basis, or buy an all-access pass to tune into everything. Top image: Sandy Scheltema.
Thanks to the soothing tones of waves lapping against the shore, a trip to Burleigh Heads always comes a soundtrack. But if you're a fan of Japanese cuisine, it now also features slurping noises aplenty. The reason: RaRa Ramen, which has opened its doors on James Street. It's the Sydney-based chain's first outpost in the Sunshine State, adding the Gold Coast site as a sibling venue to its four New South Wales stores. On the menu: creamy, brothy, stomach-warming tonkotsu ramen, which has proven quite the hit at RaRa Redfern, RaRa Randwick and RaRa Chan in Eveleigh. Taking its cues from the chain's vegan offshoot Lonely Mouth, RaRa Burleigh Heads does three-types of meat-free bowls, too — so you can choose between a soy shio with grilled tomato and housemade chilli grind, a miso version that features grilled tofu, and the vegan tantanmen with its plant-based mince. For snacks, both chicken karaage and cauliflower karaage are on offer, the latter with vegan mayonnaise. Or, there's also corn tempura, pork gyoza, Japanese pickles and vegan kimchi. While a great bowl of broth and noodles is always a drawcard, RaRa Burleigh Heads boasts another reason to drop by, all thanks to its neon-lit cocktail bar. Glowing hues are a feature of the company's other sites, too; however, in this case, the vivid lights nod to the area's history. When on the Gold Coast and all that. Drinks-wise, sours are a highlight, alongside a lineup of beers that includes Japanese brews. And, the venue's decor reflects its beachy setting in other ways, including in the curved lines featured in the fitout. View this post on Instagram A post shared by RaRa Ramen (@rara__ramen) Burleigh Heads locals and visitors can find RaRa's new store at the back of an arcade on James Street. If you're wondering why owners Scott Gault and Katie Shortland have decided to make the leap, Gault is originally from Brisbane — and, on a trip this way to see family after navigating border closures and restrictions during the peak of the pandemic, the pair spotted the property. "We let it percolate in our heads, and thought it could be a good opportunity to bring RaRa to the Gold Coast," Gault tells Concrete Playground. "Initially, we didn't have any plans to expand interstate, or to open a new store at the time." Like most Brisbanites, Gault has fond childhood memories of spending ample time on the coast, and identified Burleigh as an exciting food hub. Also a factor in the decision: the Gold Coast's existing culinary range. Gault notes that the city has boasted "great options for Japanese food over the years, which have informed everyone's palate." RaRa Ramen is now open at 21A/50 James Street, Burleigh Heads — open 1130am–10pm Friday–Saturday and 1130am–9pm Sunday. Images: Kitti Gould.
Gin and sunshine go together like cheese and crackers, a pairing so perfect that nobody is really sure where it came from. We just know it works. It makes sense to celebrate all things gin as we approach the warmer season, hence why Four Pillars Gin is celebrating a brand new ready-to-drink flavour across a huge series of live music events. For Brisbane, the riverside eatery Byblós has been chosen to bring the vibe to the River City. Taking place across October, Gin Tins & Tunes is putting tins in hands and smiles on faces across the country. The events will serve up weekly offerings of the Navy Strength Gin & Ginger RTD alongside performances from local music talent and venue-specific ways to get your very own Four Pillars bucket hat (it's as stylish as it is sun-safe). The Queensland outpost of Gin Tins & Tunes is taking place at none other than Byblós Bar + Restaurant in riverside Hamilton. It's a standout choice for fine, waterfront dining in Brisbane's east with or without a special occasion, and it will now host these vibey Sunday sessions every Sunday from October 8 to October 29, 3pm to 7pm. Gins Tins & Tunes runs weekly from Sunday, October 1 to October 22. For more information or to make a booking, visit the website.
UPDATE, December 21, 2021: Black Christmas is available to stream via Netflix, Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. A fun, feisty remake with a female perspective and a refreshing sense of sisterhood, Black Christmas is a college-set slasher flick for the #MeToo era. The latter gets thrown around a helluva lot of late — with Unsane, Ocean's 8, Booksmart and last year's latest Halloween instalment among those recently earning the label — but with this updated version of a 1974 cult movie, writer/director Sophia Takal (Always Shine) firmly leans into the term. Indeed, Black Christmas circa 2019 lives and breathes its #MeToo mindset, particularly in its story and characters. Here, a masked predator stalks women as the festive season swings into gear, specifically targeting sorority sisters at a stately university. There's a mounting body count, but these gals aren't merely a parade of powerless, disposable victims. It all starts with a setup that's familiar by design: a silent night, an empty street and a woman walking home alone. Hawthorne College student Linday's (Lucy Currey) pace quickens when her phone starts jingling with creepy messages from someone using the 200-year-old school's founder as an avatar — and, when a man pops up right behind her shortly afterwards, she even threads her keys through her fingers. This all happens in Black Christmas' opening reel, so it's no spoiler to say that she's soon making snow angels in a rather gruesome way. But the winter break carnage is just beginning, ramping up after MKE sorority members Kris (Aleyse Shannon), Marty (Lily Donoghue), Jesse (Brittany O'Grady) and the very reluctant Riley (Imogen Poots) attend a Christmas party held by fraternity DKO — and sing a traditional ditty that's been rephrased to call out campus sexual assault. In too many by-the-numbers horror films gone by, the way in which women are killed and the perpetrators behind their deaths are given more attention than most of the ladies themselves, but not in this new take on Black Christmas. From the moment that Takal introduces MKE's sisters, they're lively, interesting and sport distinctive, sometimes clashing personalities — especially when debating the best way to address the college's historic male leanings, such as petitioning for the inclusion of women authors on literature Professor Gelsen's (Cary Elwes) reading list. Kris is fearless about fighting for equality and empowerment, and about making as much noise as possible while doing so; however Riley has seen firsthand what speaking up can bring. Earlier in her studies, she was attacked by a DKO frat boy, but her assertion that she was raped fell on deaf ears. Accordingly, before these MKE ladies even twig to the psychopathic ho-ho-horror in their midst, Takal and co-writer April Wolfe fill Black Christmas with different renderings and facets of modern womanhood that are all highly relevant to the broader conversation today. The constant battle against societally entrenched misogyny, the quest to be seen as more than an object for male gratification, the fact that victims are routinely disbelieved — these notions all find a place among the film's multi-faceted key characters. Also pondered strongly and thoughtfully is the pain and terror of falling prey to shattering violence, then attempting to pick up the pieces afterwards, a struggle that Poots conveys with weight and substance in a textured and engaging performance. This is a movie that's keenly empathetic towards those usually treated like fodder by the savage and entitled, and Poots' Riley is far more than just a final girl. In a film that throws a hatchet through the idea that women constantly compete and squabble amongst themselves, too, she has plenty of company. Still, this is unashamedly a slasher movie. And while it's based on an ahead-of-its-time example of the genre — just forget the dire first 2006 remake with Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Katie Cassidy and Lacey Chabert — Black Christmas has tropes to play with and conventions to toy with. The mood is knowing and winking, with the film not quite venturing into Scream territory, yet clearly deploying well-worn elements on purpose and with a smile. So, when cliched lines of dialogue are shouted by various women in states of duress (including old favourites like "there's someone inside the house!"), this slick flick knows what it's doing. It knows that audiences might roll their eyes briefly as well, but reshaping the slasher formula to make a statement requires a hearty bout of nodding to all the genre's usual components. Admittedly, taking a few cues from forgettable 2000 horror film The Skulls doesn't prove the best move, but it's one of the picture's few mis-steps. Well-executed bumps and jumps, including inventive slasher scenes and creative use of Christmas decorations; a smart reworking of a classic with an incredibly timely message; fleshed-out female characters with flaws, complexities and agency played by a great cast — thanks to all of these, Black Christmas overflows with entertaining festive horrors. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gF4yRYbo1WE
In February, Brisbanites who normally pay for metered parking received a welcome gift: free parking across the Brisbane local council area. Brisbane City Council switched off its parking meters for the majority of the month, in an effort to encourage folks to head back into the CBD following the Omicron wave — and it's now continuing the move all throughout March as well. The reason that parking meters won't be turned back on yet: the devastating wet weather that the city just endured. Obviously, it's been a rough year for Brissie so far. So, extending the free inner-city parking is designed to offer some help to residents doing it tough, and to businesses in the city that've struggled through COVID-19 and now the floods. "They were turned off to aid Brisbane's economic recovery and now they're staying off as we emerge from one of the worst natural disasters our city has ever faced," said Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner. Parking meters will stay off until the end of March. They were turned off to aid Brisbane's economic recovery and now they're staying off as we emerge from one of the worst natural disasters our city has ever faced.#brisbanefloods pic.twitter.com/E0fAT4guBI — Adrian Schrinner (@bne_lordmayor) March 7, 2022 If you're now keen to drive into the city and park for free, you will still need to abide by parking time limits; however, you can ignore the meter — and save your change — otherwise. This time around, while metered on-street parking won't cost a thing until Friday, April 1, King George Square and Wickham Terrace, the council's two major car parks, are back to their full prices. Brisbane City Council operates 7869 metered parking spaces around the city, mostly in inner-city areas. Brisbane City Council's parking meters will remain switched off for the entire month of March, switching back on on Friday, April 1. For more information about parking in Brisbane, head to the council's website. Top image: Kgbo.
Two quintessential Aussie summertime treats are coming together in delicious harmony — and if you're quick, you can taste-test the clever fusion for free. The gelato maestros at Messina have once again teamed up with celebrated wine label Brown Brothers, this time creating both a limited-edition strawberries and cream moscato, and a gelato flavour inspired by the new wine. The new scoop captures all the same fruity dessert notes of the vino, featuring vanilla clotted cream gelato that's mingled with chunks of strawberry pound cake and layers of strawberry purée. The end result is a cooling, creamy gelato blend that's primed for a balmy summer's day. And, since the gelato itself has no alcohol content, it's a treat everyone can enjoy. But like most Messina creations, this beauty is here for a good time, not a long time. If you're keen to get your mitts on the moscato gelato, you'll find complimentary scoops being handed out at Westfield Carindale only from 12pm on Saturday, February 25. Free tastings of the new wine are also on offer for visitors over the age of 18. Missed out on your freebie? The strawberries and cream moscato gelato will be available to buy from all Messina stores nationwide from Saturday, March 4–Friday, March 10 (or until sold out). Images: Phoebe Powell.
360 is not just a moniker, it’s actually what the Melbourne rapper has done in the past couple of years. Hailing from the eastern suburbs, this Aussie hip hop pioneer probably had no idea in 2012 he’d be one of the biggest names in Australian music, or that he’d sound a whole lot better than his peers – ahem, Hilltop Hoods and Bliss n Eso. Much like the beginnings of a relatively unpopular guy called Marshall Mathers III, 360 gained leverage in the hip hop community because of his skills at rap battling. Imagine an underground club with a chanting group and you probably get the picture. He is best known for his collaborations with Pez, for example The Festival Song. The track did surprisingly well on the Australian charts and Triple J’s Hottest 100 of 2008, despite almost completely consisting of bogan-esque lyrics and rhyming eBay with BPay. Since emancipating himself from Pez (the artist, not the lolly), 360 has gone on to enjoy success all on his lonesome. His second album, Falling & Flying, topped the iTunes charts in 2011, as well as putting him in good stead to nab the Channel [V] Oz artist of the year award. In an arguably better honour, 360 also had two singles feature in last week’s Triple J Hottest 100 countdown; #84 Throw It Away, featuring the amazing Josh Pyke and #9, with Boys Like You, which features the vocal stylings of Gossling (not Ryan). Now that you’ve been schooled in all to do with 360, it's probably best that you catch the man in action at The Zoo this Friday and see what all the fuss is about.
Games of Thrones is the world’s most pirated TV show, The Avengers made more than $1.5 billion at the box office and even the President of the United States once collected Spider Man comics. In other words, it’s pretty cool to be a nerd these days. Just ask avid Dungeons and Dragons player Vin Diesel. The ultimate celebration of everything geeky, the Supanova Pop Culture Expo hits the Brisbane Convention Centre on November 27-29. From cosplay comps to comic book signings and photo opportunities with sci-fi and fantasy icons, it’s a three-day mecca of uninhibited, unironic nerdiness that attracts thousands of eager pilgrims every year. Of course such an event can seem overwhelming, especially to the uninitiated. So, whether you’ll be attending in your fully functioning Iron Man costume, or experiencing the convention for the very first time, check out our recommendations before you go.
When it comes to Australia's best food and drink regions, the Sunshine Coast punches well above its weight. It boasts rainforests, farms and the ocean all within extremely close proximity to one another, making for a unique ecosystem — and an interesting culinary landscape. And you can celebrate all of the goodness that this coastal pocket has to offer when The Curated Plate kicks off its inaugural season in August. Across four days, the region's best chefs and producers will be joined by Australian and international heavy-hitters for a series of long lunches, degustations, food markets, tours and much more. Events will take place in venues across the region's hinterlands, rainforests and beaches with a beachside pop-up restaurant acting as the festival hub. The Sunshine Coast's organic and sustainable produce, grown in the hinterland's rich volcanic soil, will be on display. The program includes long lunches and degustations that'll highlight the latest trends in fine dining. Top chefs from around the country, including Peter Gilmore (Quay, Bennelong), Clayton Wells (Automata, A1 Canteen) and Alejandro Cancino (ex-Urbane), will be taking over some of the region's best eateries alongside international heavy-hitters like Japanese chef Zaiyu Hasegawa. Hasegawa runs Den, a two-Michelin starred restaurant in Tokyo that was awarded the number two spot on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2018, and is celebrated for his creative spin on kaiseki (Japanese multi-course haute cuisine). He will be teaming up with head chef of Spicers Tamarind Retreat for Spicers Den — a special five-course degustation dinner on Saturday, August 10. Meanwhile, Black Swan Park in Maroochydore will host a three-day food fair, featuring a bunch of local eateries, stalls and live entertainment, and Caloundra's Moffat Beach will be running a beach cinema, with burgers, beers and limited-edition treats supplied by Gelato Messina. So, if you're looking for an excuse for a weekend jaunt or just a day trip up north, this may just be it. The Curated Place will take place across the Sunshine Coast from Thursday, August 8 to Sunday, August 11. You can check out the full program, including festival accommodation packages, here.
Most would trek to Istanbul to check out the Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar and or to grab a snazzy carpet, but that was far off artist Cailtin Franzmann’s agenda abroad. For three months, she worked at torna as a guest artist, and worked from this studio. But really, she cleaned cat poo from arcade corridors, ignored the smell, walked past strange patches of colour on the floor, and lost interest in looking at men walking in and out of the toilet at the end of her corridor She made friends with a coffee-house’s owner, they made a film, he read the newspaper, drank tea, offered some to Caitlin, and they both tolerated flickering lights. She listened to a water pipe in her studio, put dots on paper, turned the lights on and off, and in between all of this pieced together Invisible Movements, an exhibition of new work that explores the experience of the body in motion – its internal rhythms in relation to stimuli, spaces and speed. Invisible Movements will be hosted by Metro Arts, from July 16 to August 2. You can catch Caitlin talk about the exhibition and her experiences on July 23 – don’t bring up the cat smell.
The actual Olympics might have been postponed, but we've found a much cuter display of sportsmanship to fill the void this July. Namely, footage of four adorable guide-dogs-to-be participating in their very own paw-lympics. Yep, that's a thing and we're here for it. The folks at Seeing Eye Dogs have teamed up The Petbarn Foundation to host the inaugural Puppy Games, streaming on a device near you this Thursday, July 23. The event will see young trainee guide dogs Yaris, Meadows, Unique and Norris tackle a series of skill-testing challenges, with their every move captured on camera. Watch the pups hurtle through a time trial, take on a 'food bowl challenge' and battle it out for glory in the 'dogstacle distraction course'. The project aims to support fundraising efforts for the annual Seeing Eye Dogs Appeal, but also promises a much-needed boost of dopamine and general happy feels all round. Viewers can donate to the cause by hitting the link when they register to view The Puppy Games here. The appeal is shooting for a goal of $500,000 to help cover the costs of breeding, training and caring for at least ten Seeing Eye Dogs. Can't make Thursday's viewing? Fear not, the full event will be up on YouTube to rewatch any time you need a mood boost.
11 days. 25 sessions. One heck of an inclusive party. That's what's on the agenda at the 2018 Brisbane Queer Film Festival, which returns for yet another year of celebrating queer cinema in the best way it knows how: by screening a heap of ace LGBTIQ flicks for your viewing pleasure. Primarily running from March 8 to 18 at New Farm Cinemas, the 2018 lineup boasts everything from acclaimed international features and documentaries to an array of shorts to even a Brissie-made web series. We say primarily, because the fest will get things started early with a February 20 screening of the excellent Oscar-nominated transgender drama A Fantastic Woman. And, it'll also head to the Institute of Modern Art on March 8, for a free session of experimental classics in conjunction with the Queensland Film Festival. The main program officially kicks off with American high school comedy Freak Show, with a moving performance by Alan Cumming in After Louie and the beguiling Mexican-set effort I Dream in Another Language among the other highlights. More standout titles include South African drama The Wound, US comedy The Feels, the Ellen Page and Kate Mara-starring My Days of Mercy, Finnish film A Moment in the Reeds and 1985's landmark romance Desert Hearts.
After a hugely successful season in 2010, Ursula Martinez invites you to meet the ordinary and extraordinary characters of her life and her inbox. After her infamous magic striptease act Hanky Panky found its way to the illicit realms of cyberspace, Martinez started receiving some unbelievable emails from perfect strangers. A combination of stand-up, live art and character comedy, this tale of confessions, obsessions, miscommunications, relationships, loneliness, sex and identity provide the framework for what happens when your privates go public. “Martinez’s stage performances look deceptively simple; but this is a contrivance that allows Martinez to undertake highly complex investigations into reality and fiction, autobiography and lies, and the nature of identity itself, her own most of all” – The Guardian. Please note: recommended for those over 18 years. May contain really boring nudity.
Among the many things that happened at this year's Oscars, looking back on movies gone by ranked high on the agenda. The ceremony didn't just pay tribute to the films that won awards, but to a heap of flicks celebrating big anniversaries. It's a natural urge, and it's also a nostalgic one that Gold Coast Film Festival understands. See: the southeast Queensland event's 2022 lineup, which peppered with the same kind of tributes — including a big nod to features that are as old as this cinema-loving fest. This year marks GCFF's 20th, so it's hosting screenings of Scooby Doo, Blue Crush and Van Wilder Party Liaison, all of which are celebrating the same anniversary. None of these movies are your usual film fest fare, but here they're each being turned into events — so you'll venture back to Spooky Island as part of a gala session, commemorating the fact that the flick was shot on the Goldie; soak in the surf-movie vibes at a free outdoor beachside session in Coolangatta; and sip beers at Burleigh Brewing Company while watching a young Ryan Reynolds. GCFF isn't just peering backwards between from Wednesday, April 20–Sunday, May 1, however — although it does also include sessions of Shaun of the Dead and Zombieland as well. Still, the rest of the fest's lineup is filled with new titles, starting with opening night's How to Please a Woman starring Sally Phillips (Blinded by the Light), then wrapping up with the Luke Hemsworth (Westworld)-starring Bosch & Rockit. Between those bookends, highlights include a gala session of blistering Aussie revenge flick The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson, which is directed by and stars Leah Purcell; fellow Australian effort Friends and Strangers; plus eerie homegrown indie Mother Mountain. Or, there's also surfing documentary The Waterman, about five-time Olympic medallist Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, as narrated by Jason Momoa — and the Javier Bardem-starring Spanish dramedy The Good Boss. Other standouts span Miss, which ponders gender identity within the confines of the Miss France beauty pageant; Cannes 2021 gem Compartment No 6, which has been compared to the Before Sunrise/Sunset/Midnight films; and Benediction, a biopic about British soldier and poet Siegfried Sassoon. Throw in Cambodian sci-fi/drama Karmalink, Cannes award-winner Murina, the world premiere of all-ages mystery/drama The Curious Case of Dolphin Bay, a documentary about photographer Helmut Newton, a movie and music trivia night at the QT, and short films by the beach, and there's plenty on GCFF's 2022 lineup to tempt movie-loving Brisbanites down the highway. The Gold Coast Film Festival runs from Wednesday, April 20–Sunday, May 1 at HOTA, Home of the Arts and other venues on the Gold Coast. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website.
