Show me a dancer who doesn’t have fun at Coniston Lane, and I will show you a liar. The Coniston Lane sound is something pretty special, that exceeds the tainted ‘Valley’ expectations. It provides a dance floor so large, you’ll never dance in the same place once, and so populous you’ll be stared at from every angle. And there’s no better match to Coniston Lane then groovy-dooby event curators FWD THINKING – it’s a marriage made in d-floor heaven, and they’ve got the stairs to match. FWD THINKING No. 1 cemented this Brisbane team as flawless creators of beats, bopping and breakdancing – breakdancing not guaranteed, and their second event promises to be just as FUN. Apu, Herts, Yumo, Provis and Samson Dynamite will be standing up at a table of decks, press bee-bop buttons, and making sounds that will have you jittering with excitement. Entry is free, so you’ve really got no excuse. Unless you have two broken legs. Two broken legs is a fine excuse.
Elizabeth Rose could have ‘Watch This Space’ tattooed on her forehead in fat Comic Sans font and would still radiate perfection. She’s a musician who's risen in the ranks faster than many of her pop predecessors, and is the voice behind a sound that swelters out sweetness and get can make even the most arthritic hips swing. She’s worked with Flight Facilities, established herself as a solo artist, and worked rinks, circuits and stages with the confidence and velour of any performer twice her age. Now, with new Crystallise EP in hand, and a microphone in the other, she’ll be visiting Alhambra Lounge for one night of dream dancing and musical allure. She’ll be belting out her grounding classics, like 'The Good Life' and 'Ready', as well as her latest, and absolutely stunning track 'Sensibility', looking just mystic as she sounds. Don’t leave this gig to chance – clear your Saturday night, and grab tickets, to Elizabeth Rose, before she’s performing on a stage to crowds far cooler than you.
Cashed up Aussie musicians do the strangest things. Some join politics like Peter Garrett or The Basics. Their significant others make their way to Real Housewives of Melbourne. And others, namely Powderfinger bassist John Collins, go and establish new music venues that promise to reshape the Brisbane music scene. Introducing, The Triffid. This new place of musical worship is launching itself this Saturday night, with Saskwatch, The Creases and Mt Warning set to baptise the stage. Melbourne bands don't get much more exciting than Saskwatch — this nine-piece dance explosion pull out all the stops to create a live music experience that effortlessly marries rock with soul. Brisbane boys The Creases have been doing our scene proud with their international tours, daggy video clips and happy-go-lucky songs, and Mt Warning show off a captivating pysch-folk talent that has to be seen and heard to be believed. If The Triffid can pull together this kind of quality for their first gig, great things must be in store. Tickets are $23.80 and, unless it sells out beforehand, you can grab them at the freshly painted door. Be a part of Brisbane history and check it out!
After the first Brisbane Collective Pop-Up Exhibition was so well received, the team decided to organise another night to showcase the exciting and new talent that Brisbane has to offer. It will be a night packed full of creative local artists such as Lucinda Wolder, Jeff Paton, Kimberley Clifford and Rita Rose, doing what they do best. The live tasty tunes on the night will be supplied by local bands including Rack N Stack, Bright Lights, Green Nose, Beez Neez and heaps more. The exhibition is BYO and held at Via Studios. This rehearsing space has been decked out with its own video and board games room and is bursting at the seams with creative and colourful artwork. Celebrate Brisbane's next crop of up and comer's this Saturday night. In the mean time, check out one of the featured musicians, Emma Bosworth here.
Bring back, bring back the BIFF. Thankfully, the time has come again for the best kind of BIFF – the Brisbane International Film Festival. I was exposed to the magic of international film during my last year of uni, but before that I was worried that the content and the context would be skewed because of language differences. How wrong I was! International films are so rewarding and teach you so much about other cultures you may not have been exposed to, not to mention allowing you to have one over all your mainstream movie-loving friends. This year BIFF will be using the Tribal Theatre as a venue for the last time due to its imminent closure, as well as the Palace Cinemas, so there's no escaping the incredible films that are on the program. There are 11 days of local and world cinema as well as retrospectives, experimental work, animation, short films and documentaries, and some have even been screened at the Cannes and Sundance Film Festivals. And if you miss the old school drive-ins that Brisbane had so many of, you're in luck because BIFF have a drive-in movie theatre that is screening movies over 3 nights. Check out the massive and impressive program at the BIFF website, and make personal note of the tonne of movies you'll no doubt be dying to see.
"Faster, steeper, higher, deeper" – the Banff Mountain Film Festival's Radical Reels tour is coming to Australia, presented by Volkswagen Amarok. Hurtle down steep untouched powdered snow, or tag along with the world's wildest BASE jumpers, even feel the cold spray of the first stomach-churning descent of rapid kayaks. There's something for every kind of thrill junkie, brought to life on the big screen. The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour has grown to be the largest and most prestigious mountain film festival, and the latest offering Radical Reels presents the most dynamic, audience-tested, maximum-excitement action sports films. They have group discounts available – to confirm these prices, call the Powerhouse box office on (07) 3358 8600. https://youtube.com/watch?v=KAzru0R6rTM
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", Molina'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 Molina, 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. Juana Molina is appearing in the Spielgeltent as part of Brisbane Festival 2015. Check out our wrap up of the ten best things to see at this year's festival over here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=UC2lFttTOIM
Breakups do strange things to people. They have the ability to make the dumpee think that no-one in the history of humanity has ever been in a similar situation and no-one could possibly fathom the immense heartache that is being experienced. Directed by Claire Christian and Ari Palani, Escape from the Breakup Forest is a comedy that encapsulates that gut-wrenching feeling through the story of Josh. Emma, his first love, leaves him, and as a result his entire world shrinks to revolve around the sadness he feels. Refusing to leave the house, Josh battles with his anger and reduces himself to eating meals of cereal on his floor. Luckily for Josh, Curly, a hand puppet and somewhat counsellor, helps him to escape from Breakup Forest and to move on from Emma. Staring Steve Pirie, Ell Sachs and Dan Stewart, this play is a comedy about getting over yourself and realising that, as your mother has probably told you, the world does not revolve around you.
When it's summertime and the weather is fine, W Brisbane puts its poolside area to work hosting shindigs with a splash. Now that the frosty seasons is definitely upon Brissie, however, it's going in the opposite direction. At Winter Reloaded at Wet Deck, rugging up, getting cosy, eating stomach-warming bites and knocking back toasty cocktails are all on the agenda — and making the most of an après-ski pop-up, too. Pretend you're in the Swiss Alps without leaving Brisbane, with ski gondolas, firepits and wintry decor all part of the fun. To hang out in one of the gondolas, though, you'll need to book in for a VIP experience. It costs $89 per person, requires between two and four people and will get you your own gondola for 90 minutes. And, it includes gruyere fondue, plus Veuve Clicquot Brut with spoons of yuzu and orange caviar. Otherwise, you can simply stop by until Wednesday, August 31, get comfy under knit blankets and on cushions, and make your way through the menu. As well as that fondue, which comes with sourdough, chorizo and broccolini dippers, there's also prawn and chorizo paella, lamb shepherd's pie, slow-cooked brisket cheeseburgers, lobster mac 'n' cheese, and baked brie with caramelised onions and pistachios, pickled figs and baguette crisps. Drinks-wise, opt for a pumpkin spice cocktail made with rye whiskey, pumpkin, pineapple, five spice, egg whites and toasted marshmallow — or a miso old fashioned made with whisky, sake, miso, shitake mushroom, soy milk, seaweed and narutomaki. There's also a French-spiked chocolate chaud, which takes a Valrhona hot chocolate topped with hazelnut orgeat foam, and adds Hennessy cognac and Frangelico. Entry to the ski lodge-style experience is free — other than that aforementioned VIP package — and you'll pay as you sip and eat.
Oktoberfest is in the haus! It's Brisbane's version of the German beer fest, and it's as close as you can get to the real thing without stepping out of your hinterhorf! Brisbane Oktoberfest is back at the RNA Turniergelände (show grounds) for another year of schnitzels, beer and zeitgeists galore. The origins of Oktoberfest date back to 1810, and rules from back then still apply today - like that only beer brewed in Munich can be consumed, and everyone has to wear long socks and suspenders (loljokes). Us dirty thieves have recycled the event's premise and have made it our own, although not as long, but still with a hear, hear! to all things German. There'll be plenty of Schweinebraten (roast pork), Würstl (sausages) and Brezn (pretzels), not to mention the ridiculous amount of classic German beers to go around. Also a crowd favourite is the Miss Oktoberfest competition, with the title going to the candidate that can wear the traditional dress (dirndl) with pride, be strong enough to carry numerous steins, can master new German skills quickly and who knows the most about Oktoberfest and Germany. Similarly, the Bavarian Strongman contest is a test of the true German man within (hint, there's keg rolling and a bucket race involved). Even if you don't like the taste of beer, the spirit of Brisbane's Oktoberfest is calling you to its doppelganger event for two weekends (7-9th and 14-16th). I promise it won't be shizenhousen!
When it comes to eating dessert in Brisbane, it's worth remembering two things — particularly if you're partial to hefty helpings of frozen dairy products. Firstly, there's never a bad time for ice cream or gelato. Secondly, you can never have too much ice cream or gelato. Indeed, it was the city's insatiable appetite for frosty, creamy goodness that helped La Macelleria expand its dessert-slinging footprint to four stores, and now it's upping the ante with its best invention yet. Behold: All-You-Can-Eat Gelato day, taking place from 12–5pm on Sunday, October 27 to mark the chain's first year in Coorparoo. $15 gets you as much deliciousness as you can handle — in cups and cones only — so we'd suggest blocking out plenty of time. As well as just generally feasting your way through its usual flavours, it'll have five newbies only available on the day: maple pecan pie, coconut white chocolate and lime, saffron cream with dark rum and pistachios, and lemon lime and bitters, plus an Earl Grey and yuzu sorbet. Tickets are limited to 300 people this time around, so getting in quickly is recommended.
We didn't think it was possible, but West End is about to get more colourful. The vibrant inner city suburb, known for its eccentric charm and character, will host the West End Street Art Festival on Sunday, October 22. West End will be transformed by some of Brisbane's most talented street artists with large-scale murals, over 200 market stalls to explore, live music and a live painting exhibition. By joining the festivities, not only will you be surrounded by the best arts and culture Brisbane has to offer, but you will also be contributing to an extremely worthy cause. The festival aims to raise $10,000 for Orange Sky Laundry to support their work in preventing youth homelessness.
Got a hankering for hot cinnamon doughnuts? The colder weather will do that. Luckily, you can get your hands on a free sweet treat in the coming days, as Donut King is giving away free hot cinnamon doughnuts for National Donut Day on Friday, June 6. There's no catch to speak of — all it takes to score a free doughnut is to head along to your nearest participating Donut King store on the day. There are over 200 locations nationwide, so finding a store filled with tantalising sugary aromas shouldn't be too hard. "The magic of our hot and fresh cinnamon doughnuts bouncing along the conveyor belt and landing in a delicious carousel of sweet cinnamon is the moment we seek to share with our loyal fans every day," says Raquel Hine, Marketing Manager at Donut King. As for what else Donut King is getting up to for National Donut Day, check out the 'Hot Cinni Hotel' — a limited-time collaboration between Donut King and Ovolo Hotels. Taking over suites and several spaces at Ovolo Woolloomooloo in Sydney, expect cinnamon-coloured walls, spice-led cocktails and doughnut-inspired bites for guests and visitors alike.
Everyone has a favourite kind of cocktail — and if yours is the good ol' trusty tipple that is the old fashioned, November is your time to shine. Every year, Woodford Reserve hosts Old Fashioned Week, which is about putting the brand's booze to work in a classic concoction. In 2023, it runs from Saturday, November 4–Saturday, November 18. Hailing from the alcohol label and showcasing one specific type of drink, the fest is popping up at more than 40 bars across Australia, including nine in southeast Queensland. Even better: there's a complimentary Woodford Reserve old fashioned up for grabs for everyone. To claim your sip, you will need to head to the event's website, enter your details, then activate your voucher when you're in one of the participating watering holes. Your places to hit up: The Press Club, The Jubilee and Caxton Hotel in Brisbane, as well as Boston Shaker on the Sunshine Coast — and The Roosevelt Lounge, Loose Moose, Bine, Hideaway and Den Divine on the Gold Coast. And, of course, whether you're drinking your free beverage or not, old fashioneds are firmly on the menu.
Flowstate, South Bank's new temporary creative precinct, isn't just adding another artistic space to the inner-city — for its first year of operation, the venue is hosting all of its shows for free. That means that you officially have no excuse not to stop by. But more than that, it means Brisbanites can access a heap of inventive performances that they mightn't otherwise see. Take Mixed Reality, for example. It's not your usual production — in fact, you probably haven't come across anything like it. Painting in virtual reality isn't the kind of thing you see every day, after all. Nor is watching sculptor Briony Law paint in 3D while a drone replicates exactly what she's doing. A work in progress, the piece will be presented to audiences on Friday, June 15 and Saturday, June 16 with sessions between 6pm and 9pm. If you'd like to hear more about this unique effort, head by on the second night, with a Q&A taking place at 7.30pm.
Every year, when spring hits Toowoomba, the regional city becomes the brightest place in southeast Queensland. Blooms blossom, greenery sprouts and flora reaches towards the sun — that's right, it's Carnival of Flowers time. Running from Friday, September 18–Sunday, September 27 at a variety of Toowoomba locations — including Laurel Bank Park and the Botanic Gardens of Queens Park — the annual event showcases all of the gorgeous florets, growths and gardens around town. On the agenda: everything from park tours to kaleidoscopic arrays of tulips, petunias and poppies. In total, more than 170,000 blossoming bulbs and seedlings have been planted, so this huge — and free — carnival won't be short on natural splendour. Outdoor dwellers can also expect live music in flower-filled parks, food trucks slinging bites to eat, a food trail showcasing more than 60 local eateries and a ferris wheel with a blooming great view, while pub, dinner, art and architecture-focused walks are also on offer. Celebrating its 71st year, the carnival features an illuminated night garden, too, which'll be on display for its entire ten-day run. Yes, that means there's no bad time to visit — and you might want to make the trek more than once. Indeed, when it comes to scenic spring sights, there's no prettier place to be. And, given it takes less than two hours to head up the mountain from Brisbane, it's perfect for a weekend day trip. Make a playlist, take a picnic and there's your Saturday or Sunday sorted. Naturally, this year's event will be adhering to COVID-19 requirements — so expect some social distancing with your bouquets. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
Sometimes, it's easy to overlook the practical, logistical side of international art exhibitions. Before all those paintings, sculptures and pieces can travel to our shores, they have to be packed and shipped — and it is hardly a quick or cheap endeavour. Artists Simon Goldin and Jakob Senneby, aka Goldin+Senneby, have come up with an innovative solution to this predicament for their Brisbane showcase. Rather than bring their retrospective Standard Length of a Miracle to Australia, they're presenting bootlegs and replicas of their original work. It's an intriguing way of dealing with the problem, as well as one that fits in perfectly with their penchant for probing late capitalism. And, the end result comes complete with a few additions when it displays at the Institute of Modern Art from November 18 to March 10, with the duo getting a little help from their friends. As well as the main attractions, SLOAM also includes Camila Marambio and Amaara Raheem's Meth(odology) Lab for the first week of the exhibition. Further, Headless will feature Goldin+Senneby spokesperson Angus Cameron in conversation with Mary Graham, while Acid Money, Malin Nilsson's magic demonstration, will bring the showcase to a close. Image: Goldin+Senneby, "Headless. From the Public Record" with Angus Cameron (economic geographer), K.D. (fictional author), Kim Einarsson (curator/writer), Anna Heymowska (set designer), Marcus Lindeen (director), Eva Rexed (actor). Installation view: Index, Stockholm, 2009.
SNOOOOOOOOOP! I could end this article right here and that could actually be enough to make people go to Summafieldayze. That's right, the S n double oh p D oh double gee is in the hizzle, right off the shizzle on the Gold Kizzle aka Snoop Dogg is playing the Gold Coast next week and you actually need to be there. Alongside the big Doggy Dogg is a number of surprisingly good acts, despite Summafieldayze being deemed as a sort of write-off festival that no one is usually interested in. Well! You can change your tune now, because Justice, Pendulum, the Scissor Sisters (who put on one helluva good show) and Calvin Harris will be on the GC pumping out the tunes on Monday, and did I mention that Grand Master Flash of “It's like a jungle sometimes; it makes me wonder how I keep from going under” (The Message) fame will be there? He will. The whole day is situated at Doug Jennings Park which is close to the beach and close to the after parties, which are sure to go off. This line up doesn't come along very often so if you have some spare Christmas money lying around and some days off next week, then why not? SNOOOOOOOOOP!
We’ve all seen a little bit of Cirque du Soleil at one point or another – for some reason it’s incredibly difficult to avoid. My experience with it involves a ten year old version of myself veging out with my Dad on the couch and watching the colourful acrobatics play out on TV, then attempting to replicate their routines on the living room “stage” (note: I definitely do not recommend doing this, especially if you are unfit/not flexible/clumsy). Even now, ten years later, watching Cirque du Soleil doesn’t fail to inspire awe and amazement in me - though I’ve stifled my dreams of joining them on the high wire. Who knows, though, my acrobatic hopes may be rekindled when I see the antics of Saltimbanco play out in real life. Fellow aspiring acrobats, pencil this in your diary: for a limited season, one of the Cirque’s most loved shows, Saltimbanco, is arriving in Brisbane. It’s the perfect occasion to see the eclectic performance in the flesh, but personally I’m going to pick up some new moves.
West Village is already one of the greenest parts of West End, and now it's letting you take some plants home with you. No, you can't raid the precinct's garden — but you can browse the stalls at the spot's returning Plant Market. Looking for something leafy to sit on your window sill? A statement plant for your back deck? Terrariums and kokedamas to place (and hang) wherever fits? Then you're headed to the right place. Keen on ceramics to spice up your shelves? Succulents and cacti, because they brighten up any space? Good ol' fashioned flowers, just because? Again, you'll find them here. The long list of participants includes All the Green Things, Harris Farm Markets, Elle's Balcony Garden, Billeta Ceramics Succulent Mummas, Makers of Something Special, Luvia Designs and Craft Chino. The market will also include workshops, as well as live tunes. Just head on down to the free event from 10am–2pm on Sunday, August 28 — and if you have some plants at home that don't quite suit, you can bring them along to the onsite greenery adoption centre. It works the other way, too, so you can pick up a plant that someone else didn't want and take it home with you for free.
January might be in full swing and the memories of your summer holiday may be fading, but that doesn't mean you have to stop celebrating — and saying cheers to the new year. Your latest excuse comes courtesy of Pint Palooza, The Osbourne Hotel's new five-day beer festival, which is serving up brews and more from Saturday, January 22–Wednesday, January 26. A constant across the whole event: beer, obviously, with Young Henry's doing the honours at a pop-up bar at the Fortitude Valley venue. You'll be able to sip the brewery's tins, play games and even win prizes, all while listening to tunes. The fest kicks off with two Hottest 100 countdowns — music and the Gabs Hottest 100 Craft Beer Countdown — with the lineup also spanning live performances from 4–8pm on the Sunday afternoon, DJs from 9pm on the Tuesday, drag queen bingo and an 80s-themed glow party. Entry is free, but contacting the venue in advance to book a table is recommended.
We may laugh at our neighbours across the ditch about the way they pronounce words with the letter I in them and sheep relations and other things like that, but the fact of the matter is that our Kiwi friends are pretty good at – if not better – at a lot of things than we are. They’re more successful with PSAs than we are, and their drum n’ bass scene 1UPs us every time, thanks to Shapeshifter. The Christchurch quintet have been bringing the dub since 1999 and have been hailed as the pioneers of modern music due to their unique approach to the genre – most likely stemming from each members varied musical background, mixing funk, electronica, metal, jazz and hip-hop to create that unique Shapeshifter sound. They’ve skipped the Christchurch winter to hang out in their Berlin studio for the past six months, creating new sounds and touring Europe along the way, but now they’re returning back to their antipodean roots, doing a mini-tour before they head back to New Zealand for the festival season. Catch them at the Hi-Fi, but maybe avoid asking them about their fush and chups – I’m sure they’ve heard that one before.
After the work-week marathon, holing up at home all weekend can be mighty tempting. And while technology has gifted us with the amazing ability to get both food and entertainment without changing out of our PJs, it's no replacement for sunshine and socialising. So once a month, swap the hermit life for an outside hangout. The Sound Society is an initiative that fills two of Brisbane's most beautiful parks with music. It all kicks off at South Bank Parklands on Saturday, March 2 with singer-songwriter Graham Moes performing at 4pm, followed by folk-rock band Boatkeeper at 5.15pm and Cheap Fakes at 7.15pm. You're welcome to pack a picnic but onsite food vendor The Plough Inn will also be dishing up smoked brisket and slaw rolls. The tunes will continue to roll out quarterly so check back in here in a few months to see who will take the stage at Rainforest Green next. If a slow Sunday morning is more your style, meander down to Roma Street Parkland between 9am and noon — picnic blanket in hand. The lineup is equally eclectic here with local Brisbane four-piece Pending? slated to perform on March 3. The free music is a monthly occurrence here. Yas Queen will take the stage on Sunday, April 7, followed by Kayleigh Pincott Quintet on May 5 and The Brookes St Grind on June 2. Plus, food truck Juice Power will have your brunch sustenance sorted with fresh juices, smoothies, salads and more. Embrace the outdoors this summer. The Netflix marathon can wait for nighttime.
When life is bleak, art reacts. When the world went through the Great Depression in the 1930s and then went back to war before the decade was out, filmmakers responded with dark cinematic tales. That's when the genre of film noir was born, and it has been showering viewers with stories of crime, gangsters, double-crossing, femme fatales, private detectives and gritty streets ever since — whether following two lovers scheming to be together in 1944's Double Indemnity, unleashing violence upon New York in 1976's Taxi Driver, or pondering just what happened when a wife goes missing in 2015's Gone Girl. They're just three of the titles on offer at the Gallery of Modern Art's Film Noir program, which runs through classics old and new between March 31 and May 21. Come Wednesday and Friday evenings, as well as Saturday and Sunday afternoons, GOMA's Cinematheque will be stepping through the essential flicks from both the genre's heyday and the decades that followed. Yes, this is a lineup that features Underworld, 1927's silent crime effort that's considered to be at the forefront of mobster cinema, as well as Goldstone, Ivan Sen's Aaron Pedersen-starring outback thriller from 2016. Hitchcockian hijinks in Strangers on a Train, Jack Nicholson being a nosy investigator in Chinatown, a young Natalie Portman in Leon: The Professional, Fargo's snowy antics and Drive's seductive sheen are all on the bill too, as is a big-screen revisit of Blade Runner before the sequel hits later this year
When you head to the theatre, you see something made from nothing. A previously empty stage comes alive with actors, and becomes the setting for any story that a creative mind can whip up. At Home, attendees will literally see something come from nothing, with a house built on-stage as part of the show. Coming to Brisbane from the US — and enjoying its Australian premiere at Brisbane Festival between September 12–15 — Home combines choreography, construction, live documentary and more, conjuring up its setting room by room. You'll discover what makes a house a home as the minutiae of daily life fills the abode and, naturally, you'll also get to take part in a huge house party. Image: Jacques-Jean Tiziou.
Love is in the air at Metro Arts until Saturday, March 16. It's also on the walls, too. Fresh from returning from a Tokyo residency, Olivia Lacey takes inspiration from that great source of romantic expression — pop songs — by turning their lyrics into into artworks. Love Me, Love Me isn't just about finding a new way to use crooned missives of devotion and adoration, however. And it's not just about revelling in your favourite tracks either. She might be using confetti, balloons and streamers, but Lacey is interested in exploring why romantic language has such an impact. And, how it changes. The Queensland University of Technology-trained artist is also keen to ponder just who sappy love songs are speaking to, a question many a radio listener has no doubt contemplated. With that in mind, taking pride of place is central piece Baby, I'm All Yours, which puts Lacey's penchant for party decorations to great use — and the insightful side of her work as well. Image: Callum McGrath.
Chicken lovers of Brisbane, rejoice — there's no shortage of places to get your poultry fix around the city, and plenty of them are kind on your wallet. Add Brooklyn Depot to the list every Monday to Friday thanks to their weekday $1 wing deal. That's $1 per wing, so bring a handful of gold coins if you're feeling particularly hungry. The offer runs from 3pm until 6pm, which means they've got you post-work snacking needs well and truly taken care of. And, if wings aren't your thing — or if you're eager for an early dinner to go with those pieces of chook — then you'll also find $6 cheeseburgers and $8 chicken or veggie burgs on the menu. Drinks-wise, $5 house beer, wine and spirits will take care of your thirst as well.
UPDATE, May 21, 2021: Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles is available to stream via Docplay, Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. Marie Antoinette didn't actually say "let them eat cake", no matter how often the statement is misattributed to the 18th-century royal before her date with the guillotine. But New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art was surely hoping she would've approved of its hedonistic June 2018 food gala, which tied into the venue's Visitors to Versailles exhibition in the same year — and, in line with the place and period under the grill, put decadence on the menu. Overseeing the spread of desserts fit for a queen: renowned Israeli English chef and restaurateur Yotam Ottolenghi. He didn't make the Feast of Versailles' lavish cakes himself; instead, he trawled Instagram to source and select five pâtissiers known for delicious, innovative and aesthetically appealing wares. He found them, too, enlisting Dominique Ansel, the NYC-based French pastry chef who invented the cronut; Sam Bompas and Harry Parr, the London food artists known for their striking jellies and unique food events; architecturally trained Ukrainian Dinara Kasko, who approaches her desserts with the same design principles; Ghaya Oliveira, an award-winner and veteran at the Michelin-starred Restaurant Daniel; and Singapore's Janice Wong, who aims to turn chocolate into edible art. The exacting theme that approaches art and history through an untraditional lens, the melding of varying creative arenas, the roll call of significant names in their field, the theatricality on display, the iconic setting — if it all sounds a bit like a culinary version of The Met Gala, that was undoubtedly the intention, too. Celebrities didn't attend, paparazzi weren't on hand to snap photos, fundraising wasn't the name of the game and no one broke the internet, but this was no ordinary serving of sugar. So it shouldn't come as a surprise that, as the venue's fashion-focused event did before it, Feast of Versailles has also earned the documentary treatment. Where The First Monday in May chronicled the preparations for 2015's Met Gala, Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles does the same with the quest to recreate the Palace of Versailles' gardens with chocolate and multi-coloured fondant, whip up a tiered mousse cake that resembles the French castle's sculptured detail, and pair them all with swan-topped pastries, wobbling palace-shaped jellies and a cocktail-filled whirlpool fountain. Viewers of cooking-focused reality television will know what's in store. That may not be the comparison one expects with a doco about a Met event, but it fits. Documentarian Laura Gabbert (City of Gold) deploys the personable Ottolenghi as her guide, and gets him to chat through the task at opportune moments. Her film also spends time first introducing Ansel, Bombas and Parr, Kasko, Oliveira and Wong, then watching them work towards the big gala evenings. Periodically, Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles has Ottolenghi chat with Met staff about logistics as well, and to historical experts. The former reveal their horror at having liquid anywhere near the gallery's exhibits, and the awareness that events with a live component are so much trickier to control than inanimate displays; the latter discusses 18th-century Versailles in general, the culinary excesses of the royal courts, the fact that chocolate was used for drinking long before it was eaten and, only briefly, the fate that befell Versailles' most famous figures in the French Revolution. Combine all of the above ingredients in a 75-minute documentary, and it's as formulaic as it sounds — even if the gala itself, the chefs behind it and their dazzling desserts could never earn that description. The First Monday in May was helmed by a different director to Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles; however, both films struggle to bring their concepts to life. As a mere record of occasions that happened, they do a fine job of showing what goes into staging these types of extravagant events. They also capture the tension and drama beforehand, and the indulgence and luxury when everything comes to fruition. But it seems that docos about Met galas are fated to take a superficial and straightforward approach, despite striving for more, and attempting to mimic the layers and textures of the venue's exhibitions and festivities. In Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles' case, the NYC institution clearly didn't hold a lavish Versailles-themed feast without intending to get everyone involved and in attendance thinking about the vast disparities between the haves and have nots — aka the whole reason that the "let them eat cake" misquote exists. Alas, Gabbert's film is mostly content to depict rather than interrogate this idea. A few very late shots, including of Trump Tower's garish gold interior, endeavour to stress modern-day parallels between Versailles and today's one-percent, but hardly delve deep. Accordingly, Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles is glossy, gleaming eye candy for those with a sweet tooth. It never feels like a full meal, though. That may be apt given that it's about dessert, but there's more substance in the tables piled high with cake and confection seen within the movie's frames than in the documentary's examination of its subject — and of the topic driving Feast of Versailles, and therefore sparking the film in the first place. While interesting tidbits pop up frequently, relating to food and history alike, they're akin to an entree. Viewers keep expecting something heartier, only to be left intellectually hungry. The audience is left physically ravenous, of course, because roving over all those spectacular dishes is a sure-fire way to whip up an appetite for a treat. This pleasant, palatable but slight movie obviously can't leave stomachs satisfied either, but it will make mouths water. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uan6MDxf3wU
Hailing women shouldn’t really be cause for a special celebration, but any excuse for an art exhibit is good, right? Lust For Life's latest art exhibition, Viva La Femme, takes an empowered, Beyonce-style approach to promoting women in art. The showcase features a number of local artists so talented, they'd have Patti Smith and Gwen Stefani collaborating to rejoice the qualities of these gifted women. But wait, the female-singer-references don't stop there. In the wise words of Shania Twain, “the best thing about being a woman, is prerogative to have a little fun” (open the link at your own peril), and that's exactly what this exhibit is all about – showing Brisbane, in a fun and lively display, that our local female artists have really and truly got it going on. This showcase is all about empowerment and support, second to showing off an artistic collaboration that may currently be one of Brisbane's best. With contributors like Symone Male, Nila Vanwolf and Kristy Chambers - how could it not be. So pop into Lust for Life and have a squizz at an art collection that roars "I am Woman".
There's one thing most of history's greatest artists had in common — they knew how to hit the bottle. Picasso used to get on the grog with Henri Matisse, Joan Miro and Georges Braque, proving there's no sweeter combination than a paintbrush and pilsner. Now Junky Comics are getting behind the combo with their latest event, Drink and Draw. The premise is super casual, so if you're wont to show off your superior shading skills to all and sundry, maybe sit this one out. It's completely free. All you need to do is BYO drinks, sketch book and pens. You don't need to be as skilled as any of the aforementioned artists; you've just got to love drawing and be open to meeting people who share a similar passion. This event is limited to 15 people, so get in quick by emailing junkycomics@gmail.com.
How often of late have we seen trailers for 'comedies' without a single funny clip in them? Their only virtue is in ensuring you never actually go see the final product when it comes out. But then there are those deceptive (and infuriating) films where the trailer does elicit laughter, only for you to go along to the full feature and discover you’ve already seen all the best stuff. Our first glimpse of Ted, by Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane, arrived back in April and felt distinctly like that latter variety. The trailer (banned in the US) was equal parts crass and dumb, but also featured one of the funniest bits of dialogue we’d seen all year (the ‘white trash names’ exchange). Pursuant to the 'formula', then, Ted seemed set to be the unfunniest disaster of 2012. Thankfully, though, the formula isn't foolproof. Ted is not just a funny film; it's side-splittingly so and manages to maintain that level throughout. Beyond the writing (which is excellent), so much of its success owes to the remarkable CGI of its lead character 'Ted' — a stuffed teddy bear miraculously brought to life by a young boy’s Christmas wish. Had audiences not been able to completely accept Ted's existence alongside his human co-stars then this movie would've crashed from the opening scene; however, thanks to the extraordinary efforts of his animators, the foul-mouthed bear (voiced by MacFarlane) is as believable as he is hilarious and steals almost every scenes he's in. Mark Wahlberg plays Ted's owner-come-best friend John, and again proves an appealing (if also surprising) comedic actor. His familiar 'just woke up and still haven't quite figured out where I am or what's going on' expression works perfectly as the immature stoner in his 30s forced to choose between his fluffy hedonistic teddy and the love of his life, Lori (Mila Kunis). Joel McHale plays a great supporting role as Kunis's sleazy boss, while Giovanni Ribisi cameos beautifully as the 'villain' hoping to buy Ted for his own son. The main 'threat', however, is simply John's reluctance to part with all 'childish things' and finally embrace adulthood. Fans of Family Guy will recognise other familiar faces and voices in supporting roles, along with MacFarlane's signature political incorrectness and constant pop-culture references (including a recurring jab at the 1980 shocker Flash Gordon). The writing occasionally dips a little too far towards the purely offensive; however, it's easily outweighed by the constant laughter and, surprisingly, several moments of genuine tenderness.
Snow White and the Huntsman (or as it might alternatively be known: "The Girl Who Forgot How To Smile"), is the second version of the famous Brothers Grimm fairytale to hit screens this year, and it's certainly the better of the two. Pursued by an evil witch and loved by two men sworn to protect her, Kristen Stewart plays the eponymous 'Bella', a withdrawn teenager whose...I'm sorry, I meant 'Snow White' - a withdrawn teenager whose unmatched beauty represents the witch's best chance at everlasting life - or as she tautologically describes it: "immortality forever". Charlize Theron plays the villainous queen Ravenna: murderer of Snow White's father and narcissist extreme. Her magical beauty (which rather awkwardly trumps Stewart's to all but the most subjective observer) is maintained by the dastardly act of sucking the youth directly out of the mouths of all the kingdom's attractive girls. Snow White manages to escape Ravenna's clutches before her own beauty can be tapped, setting up the dogged pursuit with which the bulk of the film is concerned. All the familiar elements are there in the story, like the poisoned apples and the seven dwarves (played both remarkably and controversially by some of England's leading regular-sized men, including: Bob Hoskins, Ian McShane, Ray Winstone and Nick Frost), along with some new elements like Chris Hemsworth's character Eric the Huntsman. It's darker than one might expect for a film clearly hoping to cash in on the Twilight/Tween market, though just the right amount of dark for a standard Grimm tale. Stewart brings a certain Joan of Arc quality to her version of the heroine, donning chain-mail and leading the charge during the film's climax, however even in its dialled-down capacity her trademark 'dour intensity' seems at odds with the 'fairest in the land' label. It's all a little 'Snow Grey' for what's meant to represent the diametric counterpoint to Ravenna's dark heart and sonorous demeanour, and it's actually Theron's scenes that ultimately shine brightest. Snow White and the Huntsman marks the directorial debut for Rupert Sanders, whose previous work was predominantly in commercials. It's a visually rich production and Sanders should be praised for his determination to favour real locations over green screens and CGI. However, he sometimes feels a little too preoccupied with appearance while too light on substance; something one might easily say of Stewart's performance, too. Snow White and the Huntsman is a good film with some great scenes, but too many characters and an unconvincing lead keep it from achieving any real distinction.
Do you like Tetris? Silly question. Do you want to celebrate Tetris? Well now you can. The folks at Southside Tea Room love Tetris, and are inviting you to join them for their 4 player Tetris party. From 8pm the tessellating fun begins, where players go head to head on the big screen. May your 80's child be unleashed among the seriously impressive range of beverages and snacks and tackle the inner block demon in a way your young self never could. There is no word on what spoils will award the victor, but you just know you’re going to want to find out. To get yourself mentally prepared for the challenge, please watch this video from the masters. While they claim that nothing ever just falls into place, this might just prove your ultimate opportunity.
Although the majority of Brisbane is back up and running after the January floods, those who live in and around the Lockyer Valley, a region that got hit pretty badly, are still in need of a little help. In order to throw some much needed financial support their way The Fox Hotel and Bundaberg Rum are joining forces to throw a good old fashioned street party. The WATERMARK Flood Relief Street Party is bringing out all the stops with some amazing music acts. Australian DJ Muscles will be making the trek back to Brisbane to perform at the party, while local heroes The Cairos will add some indie cred to the event. Filling up the impressive bill will be Vasy Mollo, Avaberee, Moonfleet, Misere and Too Shoes. In between all this musical goodness you can enjoy some yummy barbecued products, served to you by Brisvegas celebrities, as well as a Grand Auction that will raise money for Baked Relief. So what's it going to cost you to enjoy all this frivolous fun? Depends on how big your heart is. The lovely people at the door will be accepting gold coin donations as an entry fee, but we here at Concrete Playground are encouraging you to dig a little deeper. Considering the calibre of acts performing, and the fact that donations will be going towards flood affected families, giving as many gold coins as possible is an easy way to help those less fortunate.
Kathy McCabe from The Daily Tele described British India as being ‘hotter than Vindaloo’. Lame punny comments aside, she’s right. The four-piece who formed in Melbourne during their high school days, are constantly on the up and up, playing sets at festivals like Big Day Out, Pyramid and Splendour, having a cameo appearance on Neighbours (yes, really), and releasing three critically acclaimed albums in the past four years. In 2011 they’re gearing up for their fourth studio release by launching their first single off the new album, ‘March Into The Ocean’ and going on an appropriate three-month long, Australia-wide tour for it. If, by some miracle, you haven’t heard of British India yet, no need to go back on your DVR’d Neighbours archive to catch a glimpse, because they’re coming to The Zoo, where you’ll be able to see them sans Ramsay Street, plus a couple of comrades in the form of Adelaide’s City Riots and fellow Melbournians Boy In A Box. If we’re going by what Kelly McCabe tells us, they’ll be the Khakra to your Bhakhri.
Unpredictable American comedian Reggie Watts is returning to Australia with his Why Sh*t So Crazy? show. Blending hip-hop, 80's alternative pop, nu-metal and classical opera, Reggie does whatever the hell he wants on stage, showing off his crazy vocal range and making the audience laugh along the way. If you have already been lucky enough to bare witness to a Reggie Watts performance, then you probably won't need any explanation or reasons why you should go see him again. When he came to Brisbane two years ago, a friend of mine decided that we were going to go see him because 'he makes funny noises' and I went into his show with somewhat confused expectations. I can't even begin to describe what went on during those few hours. Reggie Watts seems to have more split personalities than Robin Williams and he can do a sarcastic American teen voice better than any character on Daria. His unique form of comedy is free of fart jokes and awkward moments and full of amazing voices, energetic beat boxing and erratic changes in persona. In short, if you ever get a chance to see him perform, its best to go in blind and come out crying with laughter.
The face of gaming has changed drastically since The Fresh Prince of Bel Air enjoyed pressing buttons on his Sega (Or is it a Nintendo?) From joy sticks to hand held devices, black and white to hyper colour, pixels to three dimensions, the world of gaming is forever evolving and leading the way with the latest in technologies and lifestyle trends. As part of Game On, a series of QUT talks focussed on the world of gaming and game design, In Your Face, Interface will discuss the face and user interface of today's games. Current trends have seen games such as Nintendo's Wii, Microsoft's Kinect and Sony's Move utilise new and exciting forms of control systems, while other games are swapping controllers and User Interface for AR technology. Are you confused or enthused with all this cyber chat? In Your Face, Interface will feature a panel of experts that will explain things far better than this tech novice. The talk will also give gaming and design enthusiasts the opportunity to express their own views about the changing face of interface. Are the latest game control systems gimmicks or the way of the future? Let the debate begin.
Brighton-based experimental sextet The Go! Team are touching down in Australia this month for their Groovin’ The Moo appearances, and they’re also bringing the party to our capital cities to promote their most recent long-player, Rolling Blackouts. If you didn’t know it yet, The Go! Team are good at making people dance. Their live performances deliver that unshakeable feeling of needing to tear up the dance floor with the Team’s eclectic genre cocktail (“indie rock and garage rock with a mixture of blaxploitation and Bollywood soundtracks, double dutch chants, old school hip hop and distorted guitars” – thanks Wikipedia, you took the words right out of my mouth) and energy-driven instrumental arrangements,. This musical explosion of sound goes down best with a side of Purple Sneakers DJs, who will be joining the group on tour – so if you know what’s best for you, you’ll be heading down to The Zoo this Tuesday night to get your fix. Ready, steady, Go!
Since coming into existence five years ago, the dudes at Stature::Statue have played over fifty shows, shredding and melting faces with the likes of The Mint Chicks (NZ), Die! Die! Die! (NZ), The Mess Hall, Yeasayer (NY) and more. Unfortunately, in the same vein as Yves Klein Blue and The Rocketsmiths, they’ve decided to call it quits and put Stature::Statue to bed once and for all. Stature::Statue may be calling it a day, but they’re not going without one last party. It’s also the launch of their debut album (oh the irony) – a series of recordings of tracks past and present. Come and join them at The Zoo for their final hurrah, they’ll be joined by Velociraptor, Dune Rats, Horsefight and Tape/Off. It’s gonna be the biggest ruckus you’ll find this side of Australia. Oh, and did I mention it’s only ten dollars to get in? Five bands for just ten bones? Cheaper than a pack of cigarettes, and a hell of a lot more hardcore. Remember, this ain’t no farewell tour! Come Friday morning, Stature::Statue will be gone for good.
No Art, the hypnotic and experimental group from Sydney, will be celebrating their atmospheric strand of music at Black Bear Lodge on September 14. Their debut EP “Exotica”, produced by Patrick Santamaria (Lost Valentinos), is an exploration of the ritual, the symbolic and unexplored territories. They’re known for interweaving familiar melodies with stark minimalism and emotive harmonies, the result being ambient sound and unbridled energy. They will be supported by Nite fields, the local electronica, post-punk and overall experimental rock group that has garnered attention through their live shows, as well as their self-recorded and released single. Also on the bill are Kids Cryptic, the duo who are often described as “slope rock” with their fast build-ups, abrupt descents and Nordic influences. They’ll be stopping by Black Bear Lodge before taking their live show on the road.
On the eve of his fifth album and double-album release “Sundark and Riverlight” which is set to be released later this month, Patrick Wolf will be bringing infectious energy and charismatic live show to The Tivoli when his intimate Australian kicks off in Brisbane this Friday. Only one other musician will join the British singer and multi-instrumentalist on the stage as he strips back his usually grand and flamboyant performances for a more retrospective and cosy affair. After an exciting and diverging decade in the music industry, he will be performing songs from all of his five albums, creating a new set list for each of his Australian shows. Surprises aplenty, but a guaranteed joyous evening. Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 8:00pm.
The 2013 season for the Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) will be launched in style in the Queensland Performing Arts Centre’s Concert Hall on September 10. Hosted by Chief Conductor Johannes Fritzsch, it is set to be a night of unveilings, as the repertoire, soloists and conductors for the coming year are revealed. Among the developments will be updates on the Orchestra’s move to the new ABC headquarters in the Cultural Precinct of Southbank, just next to QPAC. To celebrate, the QSO Brass Ensemble will perform a number of pieces, including Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition “Great Gate of Kiev”, as well as excerpts from Mozart’s Haffner Symphony No. 35, Bruckner’s Symphony No. 4 and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6. The Orchestra will also perform Rachmaninov’s Vocalise, accompanied by local soprano Milica Ilic. All tickets to this free event have been snavelled up, however, for the first time, the Orchestra will be streaming the Launch live online. It can even be viewed via Smart Phone, Tablet or computer here, so don't miss out.
Following the success of their debut at the prestigious Woodford Festival, Nicholas Ng, Julian Wong and Anna Yen present a fusion of traditional and contemporary Chinese music and movement. Nicholas, a composer, performer, researcher and artistic advisor to the BrisAsia Festival has performed alongside ensembles such as the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and in venues such as the Merkin Concert Hall in New York. Julian is a Perth-based physical performer and musician, and was part of the band Sirocco, while currently participates in the duo Rahu and is a member of Shaun Parker & Company. They join Anna, a performer, movement teacher and theatre maker and director. Her acclaimed one-woman show “Chinese Take Away” has toured to festivals in Asia, Europe, Australia and the US and has since been adapted to screen. Together, they present an evening of traditional and contemporary movement and music. Tickets are available on the door for this one-time-only performance.
Networking can often be painful and/or anxiety inducing – it’s a strange and un-natural mating ritual, complete with uncomfortable silences over swilling drinks, maybe with some ambient music filling the gaps if you’re lucky. But if you know your way around a pen and paper added with the comfort of Kerbside, you might be saved. Dr. INK & Draw is a networking event - with a difference!: armed with a sketchpad in one hand and a beer/cocktail in the other (if you so desire), participants test out or develop their skills in drawing in a supportive and collaborative environment. Digital artist? Bring your tablet down. Don’t have anything to draw with? No problemo, there are sketchpads supplied or you can join in the communal drawing table. Whether you can draw intricate landscapes or are just finally getting the hang of the stick man, Dr. INK & Draw is a supportive and inclusive environment of all skill levels, while providing a hub for people to meet friends (old and new) and let their creativity flow naturally. Who knows who you’ll meet while polishing off the finer details of your lastest masterpiece? Image Credit: Stacey Lia Photography
I haven’t been in Brisbane for quite a while and upon my ungracious return to my hometown I performed the standard catch-up-with-your-friends-and-have-too-many-Jagers thing. After feeling that last sweet aniseed sear down my esophagus, my rowdy delinquent associates and myself made our way down town to the cliché yet satisfying bearing of the Valley. A short train ride and brisk walk sobered me up enough to stop worrying about standing and enquire as to where the hell we were going. “Oh Hello,” I was told. “It’s a new club, where Mono used to be.” “Right,” I responded. “Don’t I need fluro shorts and a lousy singlet to get in there?” To my pleasant surprise, I didn’t and my first Oh Hello experience was great. The place is better, the people are better, the music is better and god damn the bar tenders are SMOKIN’! Which brings me to this coming Friday night. I don’t know about you, but when I was 14 I was pretty excited that I saved up enough money to purchase Burnout 4. I tell you what, that game had a sick sound track. One incredibly memorable song was a track by Bloc Party and since that era I’ve always admired that band. So when I found out there’s a Bloc Party DJ set this weekend at Oh Hello, BAM! I sold Burnout 4 to sponsor myself getting boozy and wild. See you there!
Let's face it: DJs sometimes aren't very attractive – they have faces suited for radio. This is not the case for NERVO. They are both stunningly beautiful DJ sisters and they have been making waves the world over. The mesmerising duo are songwriters, producers and artists, and you might have heard their skillz in David Guetta and Kelly Rowland's hit song 'When Love Takes Over', as well as their mixes in the club scene, if you're into that sorta thing. Their resident sound is electro-house and they have wowed audiences with their tag-team style disk jockey art. The list of people the blondes have collaborated with is staggering: everyone from Steve Aoki to Armen Van Buuren, at clubs and festivals across the globe, including Lollapalooza. They've also penned songs for Ke$ha, The Pussycat Dolls and our very own Kylie Minogue, and aren't showing any signs of slowing down. Sound like your cup of tea? This very exclusive party will showcase the skills of the hottest people you've ever seen spin a track and it's set to be a night of sweaty, jolly fun.
With Parklife having been and gone, you’d think Brisbane would be sick of dance music festivals (and the things that go with it – over-roided male shirtlessness, denim underwear, enough fake tan to orange the entire world thrice) by now. Sadly it is not, and Parklife was just the beginning. Every day we’re shuffling, apparently. Surprisingly, not everyone loves dance music as much as these festival fiends would have us believe. South of the Riverstage there’s a little bit of musical love that doesn’t go at 180bpm, and instead rolls along the gentler post-rock line. Who is this act, you may ask, and do they know that they’re in Brisbane? The answers to those questions are: Mono, and probably not. The Japanese four piece will be taking to the Hi-Fi this Wednesday, and it might be one of the only gigs for the rest of the year sans bros and overpriced drinks (just kidding, it’s a joke! It’s just that it’s festival season, and festivals suck 99% of the time. But Mono rule).
The first half of Before Midnight made me excited for my early forties. Mediterranean holiday tans, wild-haired children running barefoot in another room, expansive dinner table conversation with a circle of worldly friends — it's a dream for a more carefree age. But then comes the second half of the movie, an epic, exhausting fight that will either be the end of the couple's relationship or just one of several milestone feuds that mark a long commitment. That's when the rare quality of Before Midnight emerges; this is not a film about idyllic love, this is a film about real love. This is the tarnished ever after. The couple is one we know oddly well, Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy), who, in a typically Gen X act of slacker romanticism, spent one night walking and talking around Vienna in 1995's Before Sunrise and were finally reunited for a further afternoon in Paris in 2004's Before Sunset. In the nine years since, it turns out they've stuck with each other, but the insouciance of those early encounters has gone. "When was the last time we just walked around bullshitting?" Jesse says in one beautifully self-aware moment, as they rediscover the pastime on holiday in Greece. Instead, they've both been learning to deal with each other's crazy while simultaneously pushing a few years' worth of upset under the carpet. Jesse hates having to be separated from his pre-teen son, who's in the custody of Jesse's estranged ex in the US. Celine feels Jesse neglected her and their daughters while on his book tour and resents his general man-childness. Celine picks fights; Jesse papers over them. They might not ever resolve these deadlocks, but they have to move past them. With this series of films, dialogue is everything. In Before Midnight, it sparkles, dances and defies the bounds we expect of film. All three instalments are the product of a unique collaborative partnership between director Richard Linklater, Hawke and Delpy; from the start the actors have written parts of their own selves into the characters, and the possibility for honest exploration seems to have deepened with the passing of time. With nine years so far separating each film, the release of a sequel is becoming an event, so it's particularly great to see Before Midnight not only meeting expectations but raising the bar. People love Jesse and Celine with the intensity normally reserved for several-season TV characters (or real people, even). If we see fifty-something Celine and Jesse next decade — 'Before Noon', I imagine they'll call it — we'll be a very lucky audience.
The biggest and most boisterous acts of the Sydney Comedy Festival are road-tripping to sunny Queensland to deliver the hilarity straight to you. For one night only, you can catch the best international and local comedians who cannot be contained by stages south of the border. The 2013 line up features the hilarity of Damien Power (straight from his tour with Tenacious D), El Jaguar (of Mexico), Nick Cody, Rhys Nicholson, Steen Raskopoulos, Bruce Griffiths and Oliver Phommavanh. Be warned, the crack-ups are not for all ages (15+ due to coarse language), however the full ticket prices are. You’ll want to get in quick to catch this annual event, which is proving bigger and better than ever. Here’s a taste of what you can expect, which isn’t for the faint of heart. watch?feature=player_embedded&v=CQcsVQohw9A
It’s time to give up your lousy attempt at the Dukan diet and chow down at this year’s Southbank’s Regional Flavours! Boasting a line-up of Masterchef stars, celebrity chefs, food stalls and activities, this year’s festival promises to be bigger, better and more scrumptious than ever before. Stretching from River Quay on Sidon Street, through the length of Little Stanley Street and into the Courier Mail Piazza you best plan to spend the whole day savouring the sights and tastes of this unique festival that best typifies what Brisbane food is all about. Featuring more food demonstrations than you can count on your fingers and toes and food stalls that would have Gordon Ramsay crying with pride, it might be a good idea to swap your skinny jeans for some comfortable sweats to tackle this two-day event. See how different Gary Mehigan looks off the TV screen, swoon over Poh and most importantly, treat yo' self at this year's Regional Flavours.
