Once, not that long ago, Brisbane had never played host to a gin festival. Now, that's definitely no longer the case. They seem to pop up rather frequently, alongside plenty of other regular gin-focused nights, gatherings and parties. We do have several bars solely focused on gin in this city of ours, after all. They all have one thing in common, of course: oh-so-many juniper spirits. And another: oh-so-many G&Ts. That's exactly what's on the menu at Pig 'n' Whistle Brunswick Street's gin-fuelled addition to the fold, aka its returning Ginfused Festival. Taking place from 1–6pm on Saturday, March 27, this patch of the Valley will become a gin mecca — complete with plenty of artisanal gins, a heap of cheese and charcuterie to help soak up the botanical booze, cocktail masterclasses and live music. Distilleries including Brookie's, Winston Quinn, Four Pillars, Australian Distilling Co and more will be slinging drinks, and entry is free. You can also purchase a $40 or $45 package in advance, because there are multiple options for attending this fest. A $40 ticket can either include five drink tokens — or access to a masterclass, gin tastings and a cocktail. For $45, you'll nab two beverage tokens and a charcuterie plate to share.
Usually, you don't go to someone's house to see a live theatre show. You don't normally go to an underground reservoir, head to a church, wander around an old paint factory, pop into a plant nursery or sit on a jetty, either. But, as its name suggests, performances can happen in plenty of places at the Anywhere Festival. Indeed, bars, restaurants, sports clubs, cafes, universities, laneways and shops are some of the more ordinary locations. From Thursday, May 5–Sunday, May 22, this huge fest takes over Brisbane — after kicking off on the Sunshine Coast since Friday, April 29, and later heading to the Moreton Bay region from Saturday, May 14–Sunday, June 5. That means that you have plenty of places to visit in more ways than one, whether you're eager to make the most of the fest's Brissie season or head north. If you're new to Anywhere Festival, the key part really is all there in its moniker — and this year, for the Brisbane run, that means 60 productions putting on more than 500 shows during the event. It also means turning any space possible into an arts space, including backyards, World War II aircraft engine testing facilities and senate rooms. The one kind of spot you won't see an Anywhere Festival performance, however? A traditional theatre. At its creative and makeshift venues around town, on the bill is everything from theatre, comedy, dance and cabaret to music, circus, spoken word and poetry. The 2022 fest kicks off with a big laneway party on Fish Lane, complete with pop-up performances — then spans cabaret under a 117-year-old church roof, French tunes and treats in a garden centre, and a show at the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium that's focused around the Northern Lights. Also on the lineup: a series of intimate circus performances in parks in Moorooka, Morningside, Nudgee and at Northey Street City Farm; an escape room-style show in a cafe; a rendition of Little Shop of Horrors; a whodunnit delightfully called Murder at the Bowlo; and a 1920s-style murder-mystery that takes cues from Agatha Christie. Or, there's a roaming and immersive performance that turns that aforementioned paint factory into an intergalactic prison, plus sea shanties in the Spring Hill Reservoir. [caption id="attachment_852663" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bruce Heath[/caption] Top image: Geoff Lawrence.
Your tastebuds are hankering for a soft drink, you also feel like something boozy, and no, a vodka and lemonade just won't cut it. The new solution to this relatable dilemma: El Camino Cantina's Not So Soft Drink Series. You mightn't have even contemplated sipping creaming soda or frozen cola-flavoured margaritas before, but that's what this new short-term menu is all about. Also on offer at the lively Tex-Mex chain's Queensland venues at South Bank, Bowen Hills, Chermside, Robina and Sunshine Plaza: Pasito-flavoured margaritas, plus a Mountain Dew version as well. You'll be able to knock them back between Tuesday, June 1–Sunday, August 1 — in 15-ounce and 25-ounce glasses topped with a Grand Marnier float, in tasting paddles that'll let you sample all four varieties, and out of two-litre towers if you're gathering the gang. If you're a fan of its margs, you'll probably have noticed that El Camino mixes up its menu regularly with specials like these — which gives you more excuses to try more flavours. And if you're keen on a few other varieties, making the trip to South Bank is recommended. That's the only place in town where you'll also be able to nab ginger beer, pub squash and an orange 'sun kissed' version, too.
Europe's chilly weather has already been and gone for the year — and no one can currently leave Australia to take a holiday, anyway — but, Brisbanites, you can still hit up a festive winter market. Taking place in the Tamborine Mountain area between Friday, June 18–Sunday, June 20, Evergreen Festival will make you feel like you've ventured far, far away. That's the aim, at least. The mulled wine will surely help. When you're not wandering around the market and shopping for food to eat straight away — including cannoli — plus knickknacks to take home with you, you can also sip steamy, stomach-warming vino at the Scandinavian-inspired dining village. It'll be doing a number of different dinner options, including a three-course feast using fresh produce from the Scenic Rim. And if you're wondering about the theme, it'll come through in the furnishings. Entry to the market will be free, but everything else will obviously require your wallet. Expect trees adorned with lights to really set the mood — and live entertainment as well.
It's festival time at Brisbane Powerhouse once again, all thanks to the return of the venue's MELT: Festival of Queer Arts and Culture. Since 2015, the riverside New Farm spot has celebrated the city's LGBTIQ+ community, as well as queer creativity in general — and in 2021, that means hosting 15 events over the 11 days between Thursday, May 20–Sunday, May 30. On the bill this year: cabaret God is in the House, which ponders and probes society's notions of morality; Lesbian Love Stories, which shares romantic tales through song (and with a rock band); People of Colours, a conversation-driven show about diversity and what it means to be home; and Jeremy Goldstein's Truth to Power Cafe, a participatory performance event that's all about the titular concept. Or, you can enjoy the crazy little thing called Killer Queens, a tribute to glam rock icon Freddie Mercury (with a bit of Prince and David Bowie thrown in), and see Showguys, an ode to 1995's Showgirls with a male and drag queen cast. And, it wouldn't be a MELT without two of the festival's long-term favourites. So, you'll be seeing who emerges victorious at the MELT Beauty Pageant once more, and checking out visual celebrations of LGBTIQ+ during the MELT Portrait Prize exhibition. [caption id="attachment_716453" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Dylan Evans[/caption]
UPDATE, May 29, 2021: With Victoria in lockdown, the St Kilda Film Festival isn't hosting any physical screenings on its final day — but you can watch Australia's Top 100 short films for free online until 11.59pm today, Saturday, May 29. You'll find big things in small packages at the St Kilda Film Festival this year. That's true every year — even last year, during lockdown — but you'll also find some changes on this year's program as well. Australia's oldest short film festival, the massive event will once again physically descend upon St Kilda in 2021; however, as it did in 2020, the lineup is also jumping online and screening to movie buffs nationally. The hybrid version of the festival will still showcase works by some of the best up-and-coming filmmakers in the country, which you can watch at 11 physical events or via 15 digital sessions. Running from Thursday, May 20–Saturday, May 29, it all kicks off with opening night at The Astor Theatre, then gives student animation, family-friendly animation, Victorian-made shorts, women filmmakers and directors under the age of 21 their time to shine at ticketed screenings. As always, the backbone of the festival is Australia's Top 100, featuring filmmakers from every corner of the country competing for prizes. You can view these short flicks online this year — and for free — as broken down into themed packages. The Australian Animation Showcase highlights Aussie animation, 'Dark Matter' showcases horror, thriller and dystopian tales, 'Suburban Keyholes' is all about life in the suburbs and 'Age of Innocence' focuses on coming-of-age stories, for instance. Image: Jim Lee
Forget finding a golden ticket — while scoring a free pass to a chocolate factory was everyone's dream as a kid (and, let's face it, is still a dream now), there are other ways to indulge your Willy Wonka fantasies. Cakes as far as the eye can see, classes on how to make them and a dedicated sweet zone aren't just things that floated through your head while you were asleep. They're real, and they're part of the International Cake, Cookie and Sweet Show at Brisbane Showgrounds. From Friday, May 14–Sunday, May 16, the Ekka precinct becomes the sweetest place in the city, so prepare your tastebuds and stomach accordingly. The three-day show will feature a mixing bowl worth of live cake-making and decorating sessions, how-to demonstrations, hands-on classes and a two-day cake sculpture challenge — as well as hosting the Australasian Cake Oscars, the tastiest awards you're ever likely to come across. Other highlights include stalls and shops, which'll help you bake up a storm at home, as well plenty of tasty fare to devour. Basically, when you're not learning how to make sweet treats, you'll be eating them.
If you're a fan of poultry pieces, then you might want to mark Thursdays in your calendar. Circle them on your wall, put a reminder in your phone, drop them into your work schedule and, if you really don't want to forget, set an alarm, too. The reason: that's when Beerhaüs in Bowen Hills is doing one-cent wings — each and every week. Nope, that figure isn't short a numeral. The special runs all day, as well, through until 7pm. You can even choose between seven different sauces, including teriyaki, barbecue and chipotle. The catch? Yes, there is one, but we don't think you'll mind. You have to buy a full-priced drink to access the oh-so-cheap wings, and you can only get ten wings per beverage. Want more? Buy another beer, cocktail, wine or soft drinks, then pay another ten cents for ten more wings. Updated November 1.
Back in May, just in time for Mother's Day, Brisbane scored a new riverside market. That was handy then, but it wasn't a once-off. Yes, the Portside Local Markets are returning — because everyone likes shopping by the water, even when they don't have an excuse. If you really like browsing and buying, taking in the riverside air, and having a reason to stop for a bite and a drink, you'll want to head to Hamilton on Sunday, July 25. From 11am–3pm, you can shop, stroll and sip, which sounds like a mighty fine weekend itinerary. A sizeable lineup of stalls will offer up plenty for you to browse and buy, including art, plants, ceramics, accessories and more. If you've been to markets at the Gasworks, or in Fish Lane, Coorparoo and Gabba South City, you'll have a firm idea of what you're in for — because The Market Folk is behind all of the above, and is running this returning Portside event as well. To give your shopping a soundtrack, live piano tunes will echo through the Hamilton precinct. And, if those hunger pangs strike — or you're just keen on having a drink — everywhere from Pineapple Express Cafe, Bamboo Basket, Burrito Bar and Ginga Sushi to Mr & Mrs Jones, Belvedere Bar 'n' Grill, Byblos Bar and Restaurant, Gusto da Gianni and Sono will be open. Images: Claudia Baxter.
First, the bad news: Christmas isn't here just yet. Now, the better news: because it's July, and that's when the world has decided that it's also acceptable to celebrate the festive season, you can spend the entire month getting merry and pretending. One way to indulge your yuletide yearnings: the Surfers Paradise Christmas in July Markets. And, while more than a few similar events will be jingling bells and popping up wreaths across the month, this one also happens to be by the beach. Head on down to The Esplanade from 4–9pm on Saturday, July 10 to shop, soak in the scenic setting, listen to festive tunes and be jolly. There'll be a heap of stalls selling everything from handmade goods and fashion items to pet accessories and sweet treats, as well as roving entertainment to help spread the Xmas mood as far along the beachside as possible.
Following a year's delay, the biggest event in global sport has returned. That'd be the Olympics, obviously. After being postponed due to the pandemic, the 2020 Tokyo games are finally taking place from Friday, July 23–Sunday, August 8. There aren't any spectators onsite due to the pandemic, with neither overseas travellers nor local residents permitted to attend; however, Queenslanders can still watch along locally — including when they're out of the house. Pubs will be screening the Olympics, of course, and so will a heap of pop-up sites around the state. As part of an event called Olympics Live, screens will be set up at a number of locations, including at South Bank's Riverside Green from Wednesday, July 21. Also getting into the spirit: Kurrawa Beach on the Gold Coast, Kings Beach Amphitheatre on the Sunshine Coast and The Esplanade in Cairns, which'll also celebrate the games for the same period. The event will pop up at Tulmur Place in Ipswich's Nicholas Street Precinct and Walton Stores in Toowoomba from Friday, July 23–Sunday, August 8, and in the Bloomfield Street Park in Cleveland from Saturday, July 24–Sunday, August 8 as well.
Add another date into your doggo's diary — the NewBARKet Markets are upon us. On Sunday, July 18, Newmarket Village is going to the dogs, but in a good way, with the adorable event taking over the inner north shopping centre. Take your pupper along from 10am–2pm, with everything from a pooch photo booth and plenty of pats on offer. You can get your canine's portrait painted as you wait, spoil them with a puppy massage and hit up the bone bar — where free bones will be given out to all good woofers (while stocks last). The main attraction: stalls selling all kinds of goodies for your four-legged friend. Expect dog treats, accessories, threads and grooming, as well as dog ice cream and pupcakes. For attendees of the two-legged variety (no, your clever canine standing on their two back legs doesn't count), there'll also be food for humans. And if you're sadly lacking in the pooch department, don't worry — everyone else will have you covered, so you'll be in for a top day of dog-watching.
Parcels of pastry stuffed with savoury fillings go by many names — and, no matter which version is your favourite, they're immensely easy to eat in big numbers. No one orders a serving of dumplings, gyoza, wontons, jiaozi or momos and only tucks into a couple. Even if you set out with that explicit aim, holding back really isn't possible. If your tastebuds are known to water for Nepalese dumplings in particular, unlimited momos are on the menu at 8848 Momo House in Nundah — but only for one night. You'll need to make a date to head by from 5pm on Tuesday, May 11, which is when you can feast your way through all of the steamed, fried and chilli-flavoured momos that you can handle for just $30. The deal includes soft drinks, too, and there'll also be live music to give your dinner a soundtrack. Wearing something stretchy is obviously recommended — as is contacting the Sandgate Road eatery to book in advance.
Not that long ago, the narrow spaces around Fortitude Valley were just that — spaces, not vibrant laneways. These days, the area boasts not one, not two, but now four jam-packed alleys. Yes, that's a development that's worth celebrating. In fact, it's a change worthy of a day-long festival, which is exactly what the returning Hidden Lanes Festival is all about. On Saturday, August 14 from 9am till late, Bakery Lane, Winn Lane, California Lane and Lucky Lane will turn into a flourishing — and free — party, complete with markets, beverages, art, food, fashion and more than 45 live musical acts. Here, you'll eat, drink, listen, shop, chat, learn something, marvel at art and restock your wardrobe, all across one huge day and a quartet of busy spaces. Naturally, the event will definitely involve the long list of businesses who call the four laneways home — and, tunes-wise, the lineup is headlined VOIID, The Chats, Connor Brooker and Buttercats, who'll hit up across multiple stages with plenty of company. Also, due to Brisbane's current COVID-19 restrictions, there'll be some rules in place. Dancing is off the cards, you'll need to sit down to eat and drink, and masks are mandatory. [caption id="attachment_742156" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Alvaro Mayorga[/caption] THE HIDDEN LANES FESTIVAL 2021 LINEUP: VOIID Connor Brooker Buttercats The Riot Perve Endings Melaleuca Pocketlove Miranda Vs. Arizona Beks Tomtom Freight Train Foxes Nicole Mckinney Sachem Fraser Bell Lucy Francesca Dron Eleea Rich Uncle Oh Bailey Hope One Sofia Isella Bunny Racket Cloud Tangle Hannah Sands Straight Girls Buttered Brooke Austen Lilly Sage Bella Amor Khara Van Park Evie Luate Sidewalk Assembly Juniper Stone Paulina Welcome To Country — Songwoman Maroochy DJ sets: The Chats Ra Ethan Greaves Romiindahouse Scalymoth Flex Cop Jamie Forson Daddy Olive Chelea Sharne Tantrum Luke Brazier Cheek2cheek Black Amex B2B Sweaty Baby Dos Fangs B2B Hibboh Oh Shit Shanai Top image: Markus Ravik. Updated August 10.
A couple of years back, VEND Marketplace added a new space dedicated to plants. Its mission: to help you fill your home with all types of greenery. And to help you do just that, it's hosting another of its regular — and huge — sales. Welcome to the Greenhouse, as the area is aptly known. The place where gardeners' dreams come true, it's upping the ante from 8am–4pm on Saturday, February 29. That's when the 250-square-metre indoor garden will be slinging its green babies at a special one-day event — and yes, there'll be succulents, cacti and indoor-friendly plants, plus pots as well. Thanks to the onsite cafe, there'll also be juice, smoothies, tea, coffee, beer and wine to drink — and meals to eat if all that shopping gets your stomach rumbling VEND is also doggo-friendly, should you want to bring your four-legged pal with you. And getting in quickly is recommended, because these plant specials are on offer on a first in, first served basis. Images: VEND Marketplace.
Maybe you'll see a glowing giraffe. Perhaps you'll spy a dazzling koala. Or, you might find yourself peering at the sun — but much closer than usual. They're just some of the lanterns that could be brightening up the inky night sky at the 2021 Luminous Lantern Parade, with the event making its return to South Bank Parklands from 6pm on Friday, June 4. The parade doesn't just give the riverside spot a new glow for the fun of it. It celebrates multiculturalism, and has for 14 years now. Over that time, it has grown to become quite the hefty event. This year's crowd might be a little more spread out than usual, but the parade will still champion diversity — and also welcome new Queenslanders, including migrants, refugees, international students and people seeking asylum. As well as the main event — which is free to attend — there'll also be live music and performances in the South Bank Piazza afterwards. Following a Welcome to Country by Nunukul Yuggera, The Mad Mariachi, Unbreakable Dance Crew, Sahara Dance Company and Brisbane North Chinese Group will all take to the stage, as will Imanzi Rwandan Drumming Group, Cachicamo Latin Harp and Bolivia Marka.
In your time, you might've made some mighty fine tacos. You could be great at it. You may have found a recipe that you love, and you could follow those steps to absolute perfection. But two other things can also be true — namely, that it's always great to taste different versions of this Mexican staple, and that restaurant-quality tacos really do tend to stand out. On the latter point, Fortitude Valley's Baja does make top-notch tacos. During lockdown, it also wants you to enjoy those tacos — and to whip them up yourself. So, the Brunswick Street spot has started serving up Baja at Home kits, which are exactly what they sound like. Available from Thursday, August 5–Saturday, August 7, these packs give you everything you need to make Baja's SoCal-style tacos. A two-person kit will set you back $45, and comes with tortillas, escabeche, jalapenos, your choice of either smoked salsa roja or green salsa, and your pick of slow cooked pork, roasted mushroom with miso mole, and braised wagyu beef. You can also get two kits for $80, and add on kingfish ceviche ($18) and guacamole for two ($10). Folks who live within a five-kilometre radius of the restaurant can get their kits delivered, or you can head in and pick them up from 3.30–7.30pm each day as long as you order before 2pm. And, Baja is also selling tres leches milk cakes, margaritas, mezcal negronis, and takeaway sauces and condiments if you need something to pair with your tacos.
If there's ever a time to treat your tastebuds, it's during lockdown. Do just that by ordering something special from a local eatery, and you're also doing Brisbane's hospitality industry a solid. And, if you need any other motivation to nab something to eat from One Fish Two Fish — as long as you live within ten kilometres of the Kangaroo Point fish 'n' chippery, of course — then its Lock & Roll menu should do the trick. Available between Saturday, August 7–Sunday, August 8, this lockdown lineup is all about seafood sandwiches. They're not just any old sangas, though. No one is spooning tinned tuna onto some store-bought white bread here. Instead, you can choose between New York-style lobster sub (made with lobster pieces, burnt butter and saffron mayo), prawn sandwiches (featuring banana prawns, Virgin Mary sauce and celery salt on a floured bun) and the 'Double Quarter Flounder' (which doubles the flounder, obviously, and also adds twice as much cheese, all on a brioche bun with tartare). The one item that stands out above the rest: the mac and schnitzel burger. It uses fish schnitzel, mac 'n' chowder and bacon bits, and then slides them all between two potato scallops. Yep, that fish 'n' chips staple is now doubling as a bun. The word you're looking for: yum. Orders can be placed online or by calling the eatery, for pick up between 12–8pm on both days. And if you need some wine to go with it, One Fish Two Fish is also doing a lockdown vino range.
In cinemas, on TV and on the page, the past decade or so has served up more than a couple of Nordic noir hits. It's also left audiences wanting more. So, when Australia's annual Scandinavian Film Festival rolls around each year — sitting out 2020 for obvious reasons, though — it tends to deliver a few twisty thrillers from that part of the world. In fact, when 2021's fest kicks off in Brisbane on Thursday, July 15 — screening at Palace Barracks and Palace James St until Wednesday, August 4 — it'll start with a must-see new entry in the Scandi-noir genre. Hailing from Denmark, opening night's Wildland stars Sidse Babette Knudsen (Borgen, Westworld) as the head of a family crime syndicate. She's charged with looking after her teenage niece and, in a movie that instantly brings Australia's own Animal Kingdom to mind, the latter soon learns more about the family business. Also on this year's Scandinavian Film Festival lineup: Knudsen again in Copenhagen-set psychological thriller The Exception; masterful and engaging Norwegian film Disco, about an evangelical dance champion who finds her faith tested; and surreal mother-daughter drama Psychosis in Stockholm. Or, for fans of Nordic cinema's big names, relationship drama Hope co-stars Stellan Skarsgård (Chernobyl), musical comedy A Piece of My Heart sees Swedish-born actor Malin Akerman (Rampage) back on home turf, and The Country hails from Icelandic filmmaker Grímur Hákonarson — who directed Rams, which was remade in Australia last year. Other highlights include Icelandic box office hits Agnes Joy and The Last Fishing Trip, the latter of which has been compared to The Hangover; Finnish biopics Helene and Tove, about painter Helene Schjerfbeck and visual artist and author Tove Jansson, respectively; Tigers, which tells the true tale of former Inter Milan player Martin Bengtsson; and closing night's 50th anniversary-screening of The Emigrants starring Max von Sydow and Liv Ullmann.
The Gold Coast, with its enviable combination of good weather and beaches, already gives off festival vibes all year round. But the real kicker happens when you add beer to all of that goodness. Add vitamins B (beer) and C (cider) to the vitamin D you cop on the coast with the Crafted Beer and Cider Festival, which takes place for 2022 across two huge days for the first time ever — from 11am–8.30pm on Saturday, August 27 and 11am–6.30pm on Sunday, August 28. Held at Kurrawa Park in Broadbeach each year, the beer festival will unite more than 50 of Australia's top craft breweries, over 300 different brews, and some good food and live music to line your stomachs and ears. Yes, it's as good an excuse as any for a cheeky getaway to the Goldy. Locals like Balter Brewing Company, Black Hops Brewing and Currumbin Valley Brewing will be joining up with visitors from elsewhere in Queensland and interstate, such as Aether Brewing, Easy Times Brewing, Slipstream Brewing and Revel Brewing — and that's but a few of the many beer houses to be represented on the day. More of a cider person? Expect a range of cideries making the pilgrimage to the coast, too. Although the focus on beer and cider is right there in the name, Crafted will also welcome Granddad Jack's Craft Distillery and Carafe Wine — for cocktails, craft spirits and vino. Food-wise, there'll be food trucks and other street food eats, spanning tacos, wings, bao, burgers, doughnuts and more. As for music lineup, British India, Bobby Alu, Hallie, Melaleuca and Beatniks DJs are among the acts providing the soundtrack to the two days. Also on the fest's agenda is beer yoga, where you can perform a few downward dogs before you down your beer — it's all about balance, after all. Or, play ping pong instead. CRAFTED 2022 LINEUP: SATURDAY British India Hallie Melaleuca Big Wheels Electric Church Beatniks DJs SUNDAY Bobby Alu Make The Moon Hollie Joy Beatniks DJs
Everyone in Brisbane has been to the Ekka on more than one occasion, but have you heard of the food and drink-focused equivalent? There mightn't be any rides, sideshows, goldfish, fireworks or flu at the Royal Queensland Food and Wine Show; however, there are plenty of tasty delights of the edible and drinkable kind, all vying to be crowned the state's finest in their respective category. Don't worry — if you're wondering why you haven't come across RQFWS before, that's because it's not open to the public. Well, not usually, anyway. Grape Grazing by Night is a delicious, alcohol-infused exception. Yes, it's all there in the name. Here, vino is in the spotlight. That's the case for one celebratory evening in the Exhibition Building at Brisbane Showgrounds — although this year's event will also showcase award-winning brews from the Royal Queensland Beer Awards for the first time. The big boozy evening takes place on Friday, July 15, and hundreds of wines have been submitted for the judges' seal of approval. Now, they can also compete in another taste test: yep, that'd be yours, for $98 a ticket. You'll sample award-winning tipples, snack on cheese, beef, lamb and other canapés, and chat with the experts, too — all while raising your glass, or several, to the best boozy grape drinks in the country.
In case you've somehow missed the fact that it's nearly Christmas, the Brisbane Quarter precinct is reminding everyone in a big way. And in a twinkling way, too, covering 175 square metres of the CBD site with more than 8000 glowing lights. If bright bulbs make you feel merry, then head to the corner of Adelaide and George Streets, look up, and prepare to be wowed by digitally controlled, low-voltage LED pebble lights. Even better — they're being programmed to flash in various colours and patterns (think reindeer, stars, candy canes, Christmas trees and other jolly configurations). The luminous sight is currently on display, adding some extra Xmas cheer to its patch of the inner city; however you might want to stop by from 6–7pm between Tuesday, December 14–Thursday, December 16. That's when the Brisbane Quarter Christmas Pop-up will also feature Christmas carols. And if all this festive spirit is making you peckish, the precinct's bars and restaurants are doing Christmas menus.
Explore the connection between the online and IRL, as well as the role of the internet in societal inequality, all thanks to the latest production from Sydney theatre gems Darlinghurst Theatre Company and Green Door Theatre Company — plus Brisbane's own La Boite Theatre, which is bringing it our way. Co-directed by Bardi and Jabirr Jabirr woman Shari Sebbens (Top End Wedding, The Sapphires) and actress and musician Zindzi Okenyo (Wakefield), and starring Moreblessing Maturure, and supported by an all-female production team, Seven Methods of Killing Kylie Jenner follows an argument between two friends over the eponymous influencer and her supposed 'self-made billionaire' status. Exploring the commodification of Black women and exploitive nature of white capitalism, as well as the politics of social media activism, the production combines on-stage performances with gifs and memes. "Racial gaslighting. Colourism. Homophobia. Online trolling. Cultural appropriation. Memes. This play leaves no stone unturned," says Green Floor Theatre Company Co-Creative Producer Bernedette Fam. Penned by Jasmine Lee-Jones, the Olivier Award-nominated play heads to Brisbane from Thursday, February 24–Saturday, March 19. Images: Teniola Komolafe.
When the Regatta wanted to mark Brisbane's cooler months midyear, it threw a Harvest Festival. Now that the warm weather is in full swing, it's opting for a Seafood and Spritz Fest. The seasons may change, but the Toowong pub sure does like hosting temperature-appropriate parties — and giving Brisbanites an excuse to hit up its courtyards for an afternoon of eating and drinking. This time around, the festival takes place within the venue's broader spring and summer-long In Full Bloom pop-up, so expect to be surrounded by plenty of eye-catching flowers, too. And, as it's doing every Sunday at the moment, the Regatta will be rolling out the spritz cart from 12–5pm, and letting you not only pick your beverages — including lychee spritzes, bush apple spritzes and piña colada spritzes — but also your garnishes. To line your stomach, oysters, cajun-spiced calamari, beer-battered barramundi and prawn tacos will all be on the menu. Entry is free, reservations aren't required, and live music will provide your Sunday afternoon snacking and sipping session with a soundtrack. [caption id="attachment_794007" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Creative Commons[/caption]
They're entertaining to watch, and fun to play along with from the comfort of your own couch. But music quiz TV shows like Spicks and Specks and Never Mind the Buzzcocks always leave even their biggest fans wanting more. Who hasn't wished that they could show off their own music trivia knowledge in the same kind of setting? (And not just down at the local pub with your mates.) That's where Not On Your Rider comes in. A music trivia game show, it's hosted by The Creases' Aimon Clark, and features Velociraptor's Jeremy Neale and The Grates' Patience Hodgson as team captains — and it happens live in Brisbane. Also, while the two on-stage teams are always filled with musos, comedians, drag queens and other guests, anyone can buy a ticket, sit at a table and play along with them. Thats how the event plays out every month, but the December outing will be a bit different — because Not On Your Rider is getting festive. This time, Megan Washington, The Jungle Giants' Sam Hales and Australian Idol's Ian 'Dicko' Dickson will be joining in the fun. And, because Christmas is a big occasion, it's all going down on Saturday, December 18 at Fortitude Music Hall. If you're a NOYR newcomer, the quiz itself is accompanied by chats about the music industry, as well as other mini games involving attendees. Plus, resident one-man house band Simi Lacroix will be taking care of the tunes, with help an all-star band who'll be busting out quirky covers. Because it's the season of giving, you'll also score a karaoke afterparty — and the chance to get photos with NOYR's very own version of a shopping centre Santa, with stand-up comedian Aaron Gocs doing the honours. Images: Bianca Holderness.
It's the studio that's given Brisbanites the gift of puppy pilates and kitten yoga; however with Stretch Yoga's March special, it's sharing the love around. Head along to the chain's CBD and Holland Park sites throughout the month and you'll only pay $10 for a casual session of bending, stretching and finding your inner bliss through movement — wherever you head, whichever class you take, on whatever day and at whichever time. You'll benefit from getting active for less than the cost of a glass of cocktail, which is perfect if you're a newcomer keen to finally try yoga, or if you're just feeling a little less financial. You're spoiled for choice when it comes to times and days, but places are limited, so bookings are essential. All yoga skill levels welcome — and class options include simple, deep, gentle and flowing stretch (all separate sessions), as well as pilates. Images: Stretch Yoga.
A lot can happen in ten years. Peer around Brisbane and you'll spot the new venues, closed favourites, plethora of rooftop bars and riverside breweries, and growing skyline to prove it. For music curators and party crew A Love Supreme, the past decade has been an evolution from block parties held in carparks — as happened at its very first event — through to bigger and bolder shindigs, and quite the reputation and following. And yes, to mark its massive milestone, it's celebrating. First came a party at the Princess Theatre. Now, on Friday, March 25, A Love Supreme is taking over The Tivoli for a night of stellar tunes. The lineup is filled with favourites, so odds are you've seen one, two or more of them at the crew's get-togethers over the years — such as headliners Floating Points, plus Ruby Savage, DJ JNETT, Mike Who, Sophie McAlister, Lori and Respect. Tickets cost $89 — and whether you're a veteran or a newcomer, you'll be treated to a night of partying, dancing and ace electronic tracks to get you in the mood for both.
Emporium's Piano Bar glitters every day of the year, all thanks to its cascading gold and crystal chandelier, as well as its sizeable array of shiny black mirrored surfaces. Come special occasions, it doesn't need to do much decorating to sparkle as a result. Still, with Easter almost here, the luxe South Bank spot is serving up a special themed boozy beverage to get you in an extra-sweet mood. From Friday, April 1–Tuesday, April 19, you can hop on in for Hot Cross Bunny cocktails. They combine vanilla vodka, applejack brandy, hot chocolate, cinnamon syrup and dark chocolate liqueur, and they're the $20 Easter treat that you didn't know you needed until now. Timing your visit to coincide with the venue's regular live music lineup is recommended — hear pianist and live jazz from 5pm on Thursdays, 6pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and 3pm on Sundays. And if that's not enough Easter-themed sipping for you, upstairs at The Terrace — yes, 21 floors up, and with striking views over Brisbane to prove it — you'll have two more choices. The Cold Cross Bun cocktail mixes spiced rum, cold butter and saffron syrup, while the Holiday Hopper goes with white cacao and Mount Tamborine Crème de Menthe.
As dairy fiends already well and truly know, adding burrata to any meal automatically levels it up several notches. Add the delicious blend of mozzarella and cream to every dish as part of a five-course dinner and, well, you've got yourself quite the cheesy, indulgent and delicious feast going on. That's what's happening at Burrata Night. Nope, that name doesn't disappoint. Salt Meats Cheese's Newstead store is whipping up a heap of burrata-topped options on Tuesday, April 5, then letting you eat your way through them. This is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of dinner, so you can pick as many — or as few — options as you like, and pay accordingly. Your options include burrata on top of meatballs, burrata with gnocchi sorrentina, a burrata version of spaghetti carbonara, and paired with shortbread and berries. Yes, there's dessert burrata this time around (because SMC hosts burrata nights every now and then, and the menu always changes). Taking the plate-by-plate approach, you'll pay between $16–26 a pop. It all kicks off at 5pm, and booking in advance for this one-night-only menu is essential.
The 90s were great. That shouldn't be a controversial opinion. And whether you lived through them or have spent the last couple of decades wishing you did — aka binging on 90s pop culture — this late-night shindig at La La Land in Fortitude Valley will indulge your retro urges. Drinks, tunes, fashion — expect all of the above at the No Scrubs: 90s and Early 00s party from 10pm on Sunday, April 17. Of course, it's up to you to make sure the clothing side of thing is covered, and to get into the spirit of the party. If you want to use Mariah Carey as a style icon, it'd be fitting. Expect to unleash your inner Spice Girl and Backstreet Boy too. TLC, Destiny's Child, Savage Garden, Usher, Blink-182, No Doubt — we'd keep listing artists, but you all know what you're getting yourselves into. Tickets cost between $12–20 online, with the fun running through until 3am. And if you're wondering why it's happening on a Sunday, that's because it's kickin' it old-school on Easter. Image: No Scrubs.
Whenever Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art fills its walls and halls with a new exhibition, it's always worth checking out — but the late-night parties that accompany its major exhibitions are especially exciting. They're the shindigs that give Brisbanites a chance to scope out art, sip drinks and party in the sprawling South Brisbane gallery after dark, and they're back for The 10th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art. While APT10 spans both GOMA and Queensland Art Gallery, its sibling venue, you'll only be partying at the former at APT10 Up Late. So, get ready to spend two nights in March seeing some of the best new Asia-Pacific art, drinking, tapping your toes to DJs and listening to live music. Obviously, until late-April, the full exhibition is showcasing its wares — which you can spy everyday. But turning a trip to GOMA into a big night out is always a delight, which is what you'll find on offer from 6pm on Friday, March 18 and Saturday, March 19. There'll four bars around the place, so a tipple won't be hard to find. On Friday evening, you'll also be able to listen to tunes by L-Fresh the Lion, Barkaa and Lâlka, with Boom Boom Bean Selecta, RedBelly, Scalymoth and Zed Mero on DJ duties. Or, if Saturday better suits your diary, prepare for Ashwarya, 1300 and Birds, plus Babymama, Dameeeela, Dentallplan, J Alexander and Luke Brazier on the decks. Tickets cost $42 per night, and there'll also be drop-in art making workshops designed by APT10 artists Phuong Ngo and Vipoo Srivilasa — focusing on making plasticine mooncakes and crafting wearable animal deity headpieces. Images: The 10th Asia-Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, APT10, Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art, C Callistemon
A tried-and-tested trick for making most foods better: add chocolate. That life hack applies within reason, of course, but if you've ever tucked into chocolate on a pizza — a dessert pizza, obviously — then you'll know that this piece of advice has merit. Hopefully your special someone thinks the same way, and they also like the holy grail of putting chocolate on things. Yes, we're talking about chocolate fondue. You know how it works: you get a platter of bites to dip, such as marshmallows, fruit and pretzels, and then you pop them on those tiny forks and plunge them into the gooey chocolate. Because it's the time of year when couples and sweet treats get some extra love, Emporium Hotel's Belle Epoque is doing chocolate fondue specials for two — and for just $25. You'll need to make a date of it at South Bank between Friday, February 11–Monday, February 14, so that gives you four days to get dipping. And if you fancy a glass of champagne each to go with it, it'll cost you $75 instead.
How long did Charles Boyle spend dreaming of Jake Peralta and Amy Santiago's wedding? What did Rosa Diaz do before she was a cop? Who keeps swooping in and taking the Nine-Nine crew's cases? Which one is Scully and which is Hitchcock? And which one of the latter duo has a twin? If you can answer all of the above — and name Captain Holt's dog, Terry's kids, Gina's dance troupe and Jake's favourite movie — then you're set for this trivia night. Yes, it's all about the hit cop sitcom we all know and love. You know, the one that was cancelled and then resurrected in the space of 36 hours, and is not only thankfully coming back for a seventh season, but has been renewed for an eighth season before its next one even airs. We'd keep asking Brooklyn Nine-Nine questions and dropping tidbits, but we'll save some for the big night. Every time evenings dedicated to B99 hits town, places are snapped up faster than Terry can snap open a tub of yoghurt. This time, you need to book a place for Burger Urge's B99 trivia night in advance, and then Tuesday, February 11 can be your night to shine (that can also be the title of your sex tape if you'd like). It all starts at 6pm at each of the joint's venues across Brisbane, and entry is free — but Salisbury and South Bank have already booked out. Bring your wallet for burgs, obviously, plus drinks. If all this sounds rather noice, get in quick as spots are limited.
When William Shakespeare wrote A Midsummer Night's Dream, he was obviously in a good mood. The bard's famed comedy is lively, upbeat and incredibly funny as it follows four young lovers, a group of actors and the meddling of forest fairies. Understandably, it ranks among his most popular works — and his most-performed. Still, even if you've seen this play hit the stage or screen many times before, you haven't experienced it quite like this new version. Brisbane Immersive Ensemble's The Midsummer Carnival lives up the troupe's name, immersing the audience in the thick of the action. 'Immersive' is a term that can get overused, but this group turned a mystery board game into Cluedo: The Interactive Game — so they don't use the word lightly. Get caught up in the carnival, the intertwined stories and the gypsy jazz at Brisbane Powerhouse from Friday, January 24–Saturday, February 8, with shows running at 6.30pm and 8.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and at 6.30pm on Sundays.
It has been three years since Ballistic Beer Co started serving up its yeasty goodness to Brisbanite's brew-loving masses, and that means two things. Yes, time really does fly when you're sinking — and making — cold ones. Also, the brewery is celebrating the occasion in style and throwing a huge shindig. While the beer company has two locations across the city, this one is happening at its home base in Salisbury. Anyone hankering for a beverage will find the brewery's usual tasty tipples and a heap of special-edition beers on offer from 1pm on Saturday, February 8, so prepare to settle in for a relaxed afternoon. In between sips, there'll be cake, plus activities to keep all attendees occupied (even those too young for a brew). And, because a hard-earned thirst needs a chilled drink and a hungry stomach needs something to line it with — other than dessert — expect a heap of food trucks as well.
When Welcome to Bowen Hills was first announced, the new permanent food truck hub promised to drive a truckload of deliciousness into Brisbane's food scene — not only courtesy of their regular meals-on-wheels lineup, but via its special events as well. It's safe to say that the space has delivered over the past two years. Case in point: its returning rosé and cheese festival. Pink vino lovers and gooey dairy fiends, prepare to head just north of the CBD on Saturday, February 22 for a whole day dedicated to quite the culinary pairing. You'll drink the tipple in question. You'll eat oh-so-much cheese. It's simple, really. The local winery list is still be to announced, but you won't go thirsty — and sparkling rosé and frosé will both be on offer. Food-wise, prepare for another feast of cheesy goodness. Fingers crossed that flaming cheese wheels, raclette burgers and deep-fried camembert all make a return, ready to be washed down with local and international pink-hued tipples.
Can your canine companion cut a rug, instead of just lazing about on one? Is your four-legged bestie as good at boogying as it is at barking and being cute? If you don't know the answer, now might be the time to find out, because Prohibition is hosting another Dogs & Beats silent disco. First, take a second to marvel at the concept. We're guessing that headphones will be reserved for humans, not puppers — but hitting the dance floor with your doggo isn't something that you get to do everyday. If you'd like to take a few seconds to wonder just how it's all going to turn out, that's fine, too. Again, making shapes while surrounded by mutts isn't on the regular agenda for most folks. There are a few caveats, of course, with the event restricted to small and medium pooches up to 25 kilograms in weight. Your dog will also need to stay on a leash the whole time. [caption id="attachment_758290" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Prohibition[/caption] If you're as keen as Fido at dinner time, the silent disco will take place in the Fortitude Valley's garden bar from 12–6pm on Sunday, February 23. Tickets cost $15, with $10 from each going to the RSPCA.
Perhaps you're feeling so much love this Valentine's Day that you're eager to share some of it with a new four-legged friend. Or, if you're flying solo at the moment, you might be ready to open your home to a barking or meowing cutie. Either way, the Animal Welfare League Queensland has you covered at its Be My Valentine festivities. To celebrate the date — and to help you spread some affection around — it's adopting out cats for $29 and dogs for $99. All animals are de-sexed, vaccinated, microchipped, wormed and registered. In other words, if you're keen to welcome a new companion, almost everything is taken care of. Just head on down to AWLQ's animal rehoming centres — at 523 Telegraph Road in Bracken Ridge and 501 Gooderham Road in Willawong — before Sunday, February 16. Valentine's Day only pops up once a year, but a cat or dog will make your heart flutter every single day.
The latest instalment of Off the Rails boasts a cracking lineup. One band who'll be entertaining the audience are Sydney-siders, Unity Floors. To celebrate the release of their debut full length record, Exotic Goldfish Blues, the boys have jumped over the border and brought their bevy of “slacker rock” tunes. Their garage pop is the kind of music that makes road trips all the more enjoyable. Listen to the lads, Gus and Henry, do what they do best. Sarah, Drea and Alex of Screaming Match will be bringing their garage sounds accentuated by driving bass lines and killer drums to the floor. Not to mention, this trio have more than their fair share of energy onstage. Scrabble will be rounding out the bill. These guys combine their talents to create great unique tracks. This Thursday night head to the Grand Central Hotel for an evening of kick-ass music, it's the perfect opportunity to start your weekend early with awesome Aussie bands.
A joint exhibition by two emerging young artists concerned with placeholders of society. Lucks is an artist by name and by influence—this Brisbane street artists looks at the opposing forces of karma, philosophy and religion, playing upon words and imagery to question rather than make statements. Mixed media and found objects are his paint brush and the forgotten urban plains are his canvas. Daniel Brock is the hand behind large scale intricate and refined watercolour images of cycling manoeuvres. He dances on the line that separates abstract and representation; hinting at his meaning, never fully demonstrating the reasoning behind his subject matter, rarely seen on the walls of an art gallery. Together they present a series of works that are precise, requiring a steady hand and an eye for detail, yet represent a corner of society known for relishing its separation from high culture. Rough and grime, dirty and haphazard, so distant from the works of this exhibition. The ironic, complementary juxtaposition is where the beauty lies.
For a few days the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre is hosting a sales event of most peculiar stock. Strange things they are, full of pages, rampant with words and with covers of the most beautiful colours. You can’t charge them, they don’t run out of battery, their brightness is unalterable, and they won’t smash when you drop them and have them lost forever – they’re books! Lifeline Bookfest is back for another round of vintage bargains and startling ranges of everything from Australian Women’s Weekly Cookbooks to a bit of cheeky erotica. If you’re been before, you’ll know this is warehouse style quantities of books for sale – your grade 5 diary is probably hidden under a copy of Shantaram, and you’ll come across at least three copies of Cooking with Days of Our Lives. Prices range from cents to the big bucks – bring a trolley, your glasses and absorb yourself in BOOKS!
In the case of Julian Marley the label ‘a chip off the ol’ block’ extends beyond genes alone. Julian Marley, with natty dreads, and eyes that have seen a world you can’t Google Maps, is musician, story teller and devout Rastafarian with an admirable catalogue of life and spirituality inspired music. Born in London, Julian developed a love and talent for rap and singing at an early age. It was after a trip to Jamaica in the 1990s, that he formed his first group and album, spawning the album “Lions in the Morning.” He’s gone on to receive Grammy nomination, produce two more albums and tour all over the world. His unique reggae stylings, various inspirations and travels into the realms of blues and jazz, have made him a worthy heir to the Marley name. The Arena will play host to Julian Marley on his limited venue Australian Tour. Immerse yourself in the sounds, stylings and strings of the soul and spawn of a legend. Check out some of Julian Marley's Good Vibrations.
Calling all punk rock fans; Devil's Kitchen is back with another killer line-up. This festival was created in 2005 and each year since then it has gathered Australia's finest bands to entertain audiences and take part in an all-round awesome evening. Melbourne group, Winterun, are one of the original bands to support Devil's Kitchen and this instalment marks their first trip to Brisbane. They describe their rock-drenched sound as being influenced by the likes of Queens of The Stone Age, Stone Temple Pilots and Rage Against The Machine. The Transcontinental Hotel will play host to other groups over two stages, such as Giants of Space, Loomera, Heavy Roller and Raygun Mortlock. Ticks are $20 pre-sale and the event starts from 2pm. Find more information regarding set times on the Facebook page. Whether you're a lover of the lair or it's your first time venturing into the Devil's Kitchen, all are welcome to pay their respects to the groove.
Whether you fancy yourself a little bit of designer, a little bit of vintage - or even, just a little bit of both, the Found Fashion Markets are selling it all. As new faces on the flea-frontier, Found, will be showing off more than just alliteration, with food, clothes, music and of course art at their first market instalment. Market royalty Glory Box will be showing up with their finely filtered selection of clothes and accessories, and Berlin Wallpaper will be making a welcome appearance. There will even be some sweet tunes to match your shopping experience, with Hannah Rosa, Moski Jo and Carla Bennett taking to the stage. And if you're thinking, "Wow, this sounds great, but can I really afford it?" in a infomercial tone, then perhaps you can't. Unless you invest $5 and set up your own stall, and sell off everything you don't need, including the clothes off your back. It may sound rash, but when it comes to fashion markets of any kind, you’ve gotta do what you’ve gotta do to get the buy.
Some of the best names in the biz are coming together for a night of shenanigans at Alhambra lounge. King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard – the band as fun to listen to as they are to refer to by name – are leading the charge, supported by Tiny Migrants and Babe Rainbow. The music is but one of the excitements of the evening. Mario Kart, freebies, a stack of DJs and free cheeseburgers for the night owls are all what you can expect from an evening that is sure to push all the right buttons. The psychedelic styling's of rock outfit King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard will be reason enough to get in early; these guys have been making intense waves up to and during their recent tour and appearance at Brisbane’s BIGSOUND. The opportunity to see them in such an intimate venue will surely not come around again.
For a movie based on a highly publicised, real-world incident, director Paul Greengrass has done a remarkable job of delivering in Captain Phillips one of the more gripping films of 2013. In 2009, the US commercial ship Maersk Alabama was boarded by Somali pirates off the horn of Africa and its crew taken hostage. Their captain, Richard Phillips (played by professional everyman Tom Hanks) displayed remarkable composure throughout the ordeal, successfully keeping the majority of his crew hidden and leading the pirates on circuitous routes around the ship until his men were able to regain the initiative and force the pirates back off. The only problem — they took Captain Phillips with them. What followed for Phillips were five punishing days trapped inside a cramped lifeboat as the pirates sought to reach shore before the US Navy could intercede. Greengrass is perhaps best known for his Bourne films, where he brought gritty realism back into the world of breakneck action. Here, he brings breakneck action into gritty realism. After an unconvincing start burdened by clunky and expository dialogue, the film quickly finds its pace with the first radar blip of the approaching pirates, and from that moment on Captain Phillips is a heart-in-mouth, white-knuckled affair right to the end. It's also thankfully light on Greengrass's signature 'shaky cam' direction, which might otherwise have made the prospect of sitting through two hours of not just unsteady footage, but footage captured largely on a small, rocking lifeboat, a genuine risk of inducing widespread vomiting. As the film's protagonist, Hanks is at his vulnerable, relatable best. His torment effortlessly becomes the audience's, all but commanding you to laugh when he laughs, and cry when he cries. Opposite him is Somali newcomer Barkhad Abdi who plays Muse, the leader of the pirates. A wiry actor with an imposing forehead and menacing, half-shut eyes, Abdi holds his own in every scene with Hanks, bringing an unsettling unpredictability to his character that constantly flicks between sympathy and ruthlessness. Most crucially, his scenes ring true, which for a dramatisation of real-world events is not only critical, but also contributes to the exhausting tension experienced throughout. Together, they and the rest of the team have crafted a remarkable and harrowing story about modern piracy and understated heroism on the high seas.
The Jungle Giants are embarking on a national tour which will see them playing all-ages shows in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane. Their debut album, Learn to Exist, was released on August 30 to great acclaim, so it is no wonder that there is a great demand to catch these kids live. The latest tantalising teaser from the album is the single, Skin to Bone. The album also includes popular tracks such as She's A Riot and I Am What You Want Me To Be. The Brisbane band have perfected their live set and are known for their super energetic and enjoyable performances. The Jungle Giants have played with the likes of Boy and Bear, The Last Dinosaurs and San Cisco. Live sets at Splendour in the Grass and Falls Festival have earned them a hoard of new followers. Catch The Jungle Giants are they stop by Brisbane for their national tour. We guarantee you'll spend the evening lost in their pure indie pop goodness.
Let's set the scene... The year is 1979 and the stitching that holds society together has been unpicked. Now, you're living on the remote edge of civilisation and things are far from peachy. Nuclear war is on the horizon, economies have crumbled and your daily life has been reduced to surviving. The "democratically elected" government are intent on maintaing all power and do not care in the slightest for your well-being. You're miserable and helpless but you hope for change; what happens next? Find out by entering this world at Metro Arts with the theatre production, Prehistoric. Written and directed by Marcel Dorney this performance will make you re-consider societal structures in this dystopia and all-in-all, it will entertain! The cast is filled with talented performers, namely, Kathryn Marquet, Anthony Standish, Anna Straker and Steve Toulmin. The performance is recommended for those above the age of 15 and contains adult themes.
World-renowned photojournalists from all over the globe converge to share a glimpse of their world, to make sense of the images that surround us, on personal, environmental, social and political planes. The 57th annual Worlds Press Photo exhibition celebrates the best behind the lens as well as in front of it; categories from science to portraiture, news and current affairs to human nature in its gore and glory are filled by near 100,000 images from 132 countries worldwide. Last year’s winner of the award was John Stanmeyer of the US, whose image of African migrants holding their phones to the sky, scraping signals that connect them to their relatives in neighbouring provinces was also deemed first in the category of Contemporary Issues. This is just one of the many irreplaceable images to come from the world’s best photographers, compelling at least and intriguing beyond measure. The world’s images are often more mystifying than any hand-made creation, revealing the beauty and contradictories of the world around us.
In a physical sense, form and substance makes up us all. Neutrons, protons and electrons become atoms, which become molecules, which become cells, which form tissues, which might group to become a follicle, to make a hair, to make a mullet. But in an existential sense, form and substance is something you can’t be born with, touch, or hide under a do-rag – it comes with life, pain, stories and relationships. The perfect encapsulation of what form and substance might entail, is featured at Alex Seton’s newly curated exhibit Form and Substance. It’s not all nice, but then neither is life. And some of it is uncomfortable, but not in a sense that’s esoteric. It strays in form, with paintings, sculptures and inanimate features making up the exhibition. All of the pieces are for sale so if you’ve got a mantelpiece that’s lacking a bit of emotional substance, this is your chance to indulge in a little artistic form.
