Feel like you've experienced every date option that Brisbane has to offer? Run out of new ways to spend an ace night with your mates? If glitz, glamour, drinks, dinner and feeling like you're in a speakeasy several decades ago amount to your idea of a good — and novel — time, then make a beeline to Cloudland's Big Band Cabaret. Taking place in the Valley venue's Rainbow Room, the decadent shindig will have you and your loved one dancing to the Swing Central Big Band and lapping up performances by Jacqueline Furey's Burlesque Ensemble, all while eating your way through a three-course meal and enjoying a three-hour package of beer, wine and sparkling. It was such a hit over the last couple of years, it's no wonder that Cloudland have brought it back — this time, on Friday, September 27. Tickets aren't cheap at $110 per person, but it's certain to liven up your Friday night with something more than a little different.
Spring is in the air at Darling & Co. Cherry blossoms are branching through the Paddington bar, and dumplings are being heaped on plates, too. To celebrate the end of the cold weather and arrival of warmer times, the Given Terrace venue has decked out the joint with blooming pink flowers, pink lanterns and hanging pink umbrellas — and it's pairing the decor with an unlimited feast of everyone's favourite bite-sized parcels. Wednesday nights are now your time to munch on all the dumplings you can handle in 90 minutes, with two sittings available each week. Whether you're eager for an early meal between 6–7.30pm, or would prefer to drop by later, between 8–9.30pm, you'll eat until you can't eat anymore. The midweek bottomless deal will set you back $30, which also includes a a Kirin or rosé on arrival. Bookings are essential — who doesn't want to tuck into all-you-can-eat dumplings?
Eager to add a new dog to your family? Keen to adopt a cute pooch in need? Fancy making your latest life-changing decision over a few beers? Then look no further than Puppies and Pints, which delivers exactly what it sounds like — including adorable fluffballs that you can take home afterwards. Returning for the second time this year from 10.30am on Sunday, October 6, the event sees Semi-Pro Brewing Co and the RSPCA join forces — bringing four-legged friends to the East Brisbane watering hole, welcoming local dog-centric businesses as well, and letting you meet your next barking bestie. For those who want to help a good cause but can't become a new pet parent for many reasons, you can also lend a hand just by drinking, with Semi-Pro putting on a karma keg and donating the proceeds to the RSPCA, too. And if you simply have a better time when you're sipping brews and looking at gorgeous little pups, that's catered for also.
UPDATE: May 29, 2021: Halston is available to stream via DocPlay, Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. Fabulous minimalist outfits that defined the 70s, famous faces clamouring to wear them and feverish Studio 54 parties — Roy Halston Frowick's life had it all. Starting as a milliner at Bergdorf Goodman, he rose to fame after designing the pillbox hat that Jacqueline Kennedy wore to JFK's inauguration. When the new First Lady's headwear became a phenomenon, widespread attention naturally came his way. From there, the man known as just Halston started his own eponymous label, creating one of the top American fashion brands of the era. Andy Warhol called him one of the two people he'd always want by his side (the other: Elizabeth Taylor), while Liza Minnelli not only became one of Halston's close friends, but a walking billboard for his work. After rocketing through the world of haute couture, Halston then decided to take his clothing to the masses, too, becoming the first designer to ever collaborate with a department store. In his latest meticulously researched movie, fashion documentarian Frédéric Tcheng explores Halston's story, with the above description just the beginning. After the Midwest-raised designer's success and acclaim came bad business decisions, corporate dramas and messy takeovers, as well as drugs, scandals and broken dreams. To some, Halston was a sartorial god. To others, he was a demanding diva. Indeed, although his career soared, it ultimately plunged just as sharply. When he died in 1990 due to AIDS-related illnesses, he'd become just a footnote in his still-ongoing label's history. It's a tale that Tcheng seems especially suited to tell, and tell it he does in Halston. As he proved with Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel and Dior and I, the French filmmaker has a nose for fascinating true fashion stories — and a knack for knowing how to cut to their core. Here, he inserts Tavi Gevinson into the film as a fictional narrator, which may appear an unusual choice. But, as she excavates Halston's past via an array of grainy VHS tapes of his old runway shows, promotional events, publicity chats and parties, the movie confronts a crucial fact: its subject is no longer a household name. As a result, Halston becomes not just a fashion doco about gorgeous gowns, the person who made them, and his ups and downs, but also a detective story. More than chronicling Halston's life and committing it to film for posterity, Tcheng tries to ascertain why this important tale has nearly been lost to the vagaries of time. In overseeing this task, Gevinson's unnamed archivist initially seems somewhat gimmicky and unnecessary. Once the story starts picking up steam, cutting back and forth can also feel disruptive. And yet Gevinson plays a pivotal part, not only guiding viewers as the movie pieces together Halston's tale, but letting the audience discover for themselves just why they should care — showing them instead of forcefully telling them. Of course, plenty of folks still pop up to sing Halston's praises, including staff, friends, family members and models. Among the parade of interviewees, Minnelli gives a particularly glowing tick of approval: "his clothes danced with you," she gushes. More than merely applauding what she loved about his outfits, the star combines compliments with insight, with her fellow talking heads taking the same lead. When others describe how his fluid, bias-cut creations often came about just by snipping across a piece of material, then draping it over the closest model, it paints a very vivid picture of his vision and artistry. "It was a dress just because of the way he cut the fabric," one of his former colleagues expands — with images of Halston's patterns, often based around just a single sheet of cloth, putting that idea in visual terms. Come for the dresses and drama, stay for the revelations, realisations and ravishing creativity — that's Halston in a nutshell. That said, while this illuminating documentary convincingly makes its case, it doesn't craft as vibrant a portrait of Halston outside the atelier or beyond the revelry. Viewers come to understand his importance and influence in fashion history, as well as why he deserves his enduring place in the spotlight, but glean little that's overly personal about the man himself. Halston isn't an absent figure at all, appearing constantly in archival materials; however he seems to be begging to step out of the documentary and into a biopic — a move that'll probably happen sooner or later. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmK3_HnKkbc
The Taika Waititi school of acting gave Julian Dennison one of his first-ever roles in Hunt for the Wilderpeople, and James Rolleston his debut in Boy. Seven years after the former and 13 since the latter, the two play brothers in another coming-of-age effort: Uproar. That cheerworthy casting is joined by Our Flag Means Death co-stars Rhys Darby and Minnie Driver in a film that's not only warmhearted, but always feels as if it's practising one of the messages that it's preaching. Set amid 1981's infamous Springbok tour of New Zealand — with South Africa's rugby union team playing games across the nation, and inspiring protests against both apartheid and Aotearoa's treatment of its Māori population as it went — this is a movie about a cultural awakening, and about finding and embracing community. Behind the lens, Uproar's directors have teamed up, too, with Hamish Bennett helming his second feature after 2019's also-heartfelt Bellbird and Paul Middleditch back in the chair for the first time since 2013's Rapture-Palooza. When it told of a father and son struggling to connect, and just struggling, after the loss of the family matriarch who bound them together, Bellbird traded in the same kind of poignancy that seeps through in this engaging charmer. With its sports-meets-politics narrative, there may be few doubts about where Uproar is headed; however, Bennett and Sonia Whiteman's (The Disposables) script — as based on a concept by Middleditch and first-timer Mark Turnbull, a screenplay by Keith Aberdein (The Last Tattoo) before that, and boasting additional writing by Mario Gaoa (We Are Still Here) and actor Rachel House (Heartbreak High) — knows that reality and movies alike can follow a familiar path and be no less affecting and resonant. In another memorable addition to his resume that shows his emotional depth, especially in a potent late monologue, Dennison plays Josh Waaka, 17-year-old son to British-born widow Shirley (Driver). He's dutifully in St Gilberts School for Men's 2nd XV when the 1981 tour comes to Dunedin, but largely because much about his existence is dutiful. His father was a local rugby star. His older brother Jamie (Rolleston) was a former Junior All Black before his career was cut short by injury. To make ends meet, Shirley cleans at the school — and imposing Principal Slaine (Mark Mitchinson, Evil Dead Rise) ensures that the Waakas feel grateful. In fact, when Slane requests that Jamie help coach the 1st XV, he's hardly asking. And when Shirley says that he will, she gets the reluctant Josh a spot on the higher team as part of the arrangement, telling him that it'll set him up for life. Staying out of the public debate about the Springboks is also expected of the St Gilberts' cohort, in a place that's against taking a stand against discrimination yet fine with Josh spending his lunch break alone in the library to avoid his openly racist classmates. But that isn't the community that he wants as his own even before he crosses paths with the marching Samantha (Erana James, Bad Behaviour) while delivering catalogues with his best friend Grace (debutant Jada Fa'atui), and gets a reminder that her Māori heritage is his as well. And, being surrounded by books and silence soon isn't his only option between lessons. English teacher Brother Madigan (Darby) spies a potential actor in Josh, who needs encouraging to join the drama group, then wows his way into auditioning for NIDA in Sydney becoming an option. Outrage frequently makes its presence known in Uproar's crisply lensed frames: in Samantha decrying the country putting sports above equality in any way that she can, in the engrained prejudice that festers against NZ's Indigenous inhabitants daily, in clashes on the street and even within activist meetings, where saying that you're an ally isn't the same as truly understanding having one's land taken. The film's name also comes into play another way, though, as Josh's existence erupts in chaos. As tales about teens becoming adults often do, Bennett and Middleditch's movie tells of change rippling through almost everything that its protagonist thought that he knew. New causes to champion, new connections to his culture, new dreams to chase, new friends, new futures, a new purpose in life that echoes among his nearest and dearest: compared to the pre-tour status quo, this is indeed an impassioned uproar against just getting by, settling and never speaking up. Since his time as Ricky Baker, Dennison has enjoyed big-budget stints in Deadpool 2 and Godzilla vs Kong — and in the festive The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two — but this is his best role since getting stranded in the wilderness for Waititi. The likeable pluck and wit that endeared him to audiences then is layered with searing determination and angst here, while never forgetting humour as well. As Jamie is pushed to rediscover more than just his room and his disappointment at fate, Rolleston is also stellar, as he similarly was in The Dead Lands, The Rehearsal and The Breaker Upperers. The subtlety of Darby's kind and caring performance doesn't go unnoticed, either, and nor does the quiet fortitude of Driver's turn. At the heart of Uproar's key characters, which includes Samantha and Grace, is that other recognisable high-school feeling: being an outsider. That isn't purely an adolescent experience, of course. It hasn't avoided the star player now unable to take to the field, the woman whose marriage wasn't embraced by two families in two countries or the teacher who doesn't fit in — and it certainly hasn't evaded an entire culture that's been made to feel like its home wasn't its own for centuries thanks to the ongoing impact of colonisation, or other First Nations people with similar stories. As it sees and unpacks each of these layers, Uproar sees why living up to its moniker is so important, and also how. It spies the many methods of pushing back and sparking a ruckus. It knows the power of fighting for what's right, just and decent communally. And it wouldn't be as moving without its cast, but that's what coming together means.
Any day of the week can be improved with pizza. Fridays don't really need any help if you hit the office for a standard work week, but a few slices can make a great day even better. Throw in the fact that Treasury Hotel is serving up this champion of dishes in its openair courtyard from 4.30pm each week and, yes, you have yourself a winning way to welcome the weekend. This is exactly what your Friday arvos need: $24 woodfired pizzas, with four varieties available. So, you'll be choosing between roast capsicum, olives, mushroom and onion, plus fresh tomato and basil — aka the two vegetarian options — as well as ham and pineapple, plus salami. If you're still hungry, you fancy something to go with your slices or you're in the mood for something snackier, there's also warm olives with sourdough, polenta bites with aioli, and a garlic and cheese pizza for $15 a pop. Also on offer: a pop-up bar slinging sips and live entertainment, all in the Treasury Hotel's heritage surroundings. You'll need to pay for your drinks on top, of course, but consider this a tasty way to line your stomach for those after-work tipples. Keep an eye on the weather, however, because Woodfired Fridays will only happen if it isn't rained out. And, when there's a public holiday — such as on Friday, January 26, for instance — the event isn't on.
Pisco is already a staple on the menu at Casa Chow, Woolloongabba's Chinese Peruvian bar and restaurant, but ordering the South American spirit between Wednesday, January 31–Saturday, February 3 is particularly recommended. The latter date is World Pisco Sour Day, which is as good a reason as any to give the tipple a sip, and also the catalyst for four days celebrating the cocktail. The neon-lit South City Square venue is pouring five varieties heroing the grape brandy for $14 a pop, starting with the classic made with Barsol Quebranta, caster sugar, lime, egg whites and Amargo Chuncho bitters. Fans of vanilla and passionfruit in their drinks have that option, while a zesty lemongrass variety also features. And for beverages with pop culture-themed names, the Purple Rain (which features pineapple skin Barsol Quebranta) and Khaleesi (with dragonfruit, of course) are available. For $39 per person, and if you're heading along with a date or at least one mate, patrons can pair their pisco sour of choice with five courses of Chifa bites. On the menu: oysters with cucumber lime granita, duck bao buns, kingfish with leche de tigre, prawn and pork fried rice, and shiitake spring rolls. Pisco Sour Week at Casa Chow kicks off at 5pm on the Wednesday, perfect for midweek post-work drinks while enjoying a cocktail that was created in Lima in the early 20th century.
Been there, done that, repeating it all over again: in cinemas and among direct-to-home movies alike, that's sequel territory. Not all second efforts, or third or fourth or 15th, retread the first flick. Some expand the initial story instead. Others take the OG concept in completely different directions. If there's a way to jump back into a hit — or even just capitalise upon a well-known movie name — however, then someone has tried it. With a handful of such films, Monster Fest Weekender III Part 2: The Spawning is celebrating the art of the sequel. As the event's 2025 name makes plain, it's having fun with its chosen theme this time around, too. Monster Fest Weekender initially popped up a few years back, giving fans of genre cinema a second chance to enjoy Monster Fest each year — and yes, the film festival itself is a sequel as well. Monster Fest's main festival will still return later in 2025 — it took place in October in 2024 — but this'll help tide you over until then. From I Still Know What You Did Last Summer and Return to Oz to The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 and Robocop 2, the three-day Monster Fest Weekender III Part 2: The Spawning is jam-packed with follow-up flicks, all playing at Event Cinemas Brisbane City from Friday, April 4–Sunday, April 6. You can also check out Return of the Living Dead Part II, Phantasm II, Candyman 2: Farewell to the Flesh and Re-Animator 2: Bride of Re-Animator.
What do you get when you unite a rock 'n' roll Sydney brewery with one of the Gold Coast's go-to music venues? Well, you're about to find out. Young Henrys is descending upon Miami Marketta for a big gig to welcome in autumn. Hitting the Hillcrest Paradise venue from 2pm on Sunday, March 5, the Young Henrys Presents Best Served Loud event will see you wrapping up the weekend revelling in big, live sounds. On the bill: King Stingray — aka one of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's favourite bands for 2022 — plus The Terrys, Teenage Joans, Bella Amor and Chutney. [caption id="attachment_884407" align="alignnone" width="1920"] King Stingray[/caption] They'll be joined by the Volcom Australia skate team, which means appearances by Rob Pace, Aimee Massie, Jesse Noonan and more on the half pipe. And of course, the Young Henrys brews will be flowing just as easily, with beer specials running right through the day — and a pop-up tinnie bar. Entry to the gig costs $29.35 including booking fee, with tickets on sale now.
Inspiration comes in many forms — and, as the folks at Cork & Chroma have already established, booze is definitely one of them. Always fancied yourself as an artist, but haven't had the courage to put brush to canvas? That's where alcohol-fuelled paint-and-sip sessions have come in over the past few years. Cork & Chroma's next class isn't any old excuse to knock back drinks and show your arty side, however. At Cork, Culinary and Colour, you'll be drinking and getting creative in the open air. Your destination: the Treasury Hotel's courtyard, where you'll spend an afternoon whipping up a masterpiece while downing rosé. Next taking place from 1.30–3.30pm on Sunday, February 12 — the first session for 2023, this leisurely session spans that impressive location and two glasses of pink. Your $80-per-person ticket also includes a cheese platter. Fancy more plonk? A cash bar will be open. And the theme for this session: love island. 'Tis the time of year for all things romance, and for wishing you were still on holiday. Images: Adam Shaw.
No one should spend their lunch break eating at their desk, but breaking that habit isn't always easy. From Wednesday, March 1–Friday, March 31, the Howard Smith Wharves precinct is giving you plenty of motivation to step away from the computer. Head to the riverside precinct from Monday–Friday for a middle-of-the-day meal, and your lunch will cost $25. Eight HSW venues are getting in on the deal, so you can pick between Stanley, Yoko, Greca, Mr Percival's, Felons Brewing Co, Felons Barrel Hall, Felons Fish 'n' Chipper (doing walk-ins only) and Ciao Papi. Or, you can work your way through them all (and stare at their slightly different views of the water) across the month-long period. You'll just need to keep an eye on each eatery's opening hours — and, while you can just rock up, bookings are recommended. As for what you'll be eating during the month-long Let's Lunch festivities, each place has its own special. A signature Cantonese lunch plate with roast duck, honey glazed char siu pork and more is on the menu at Stanley; Yoko is serving up a wagyu and scallop donburi special; and Greca is doing souvlaki, for instance. There are four different dishes on offer at Mr Percival's, Felons, Felons Barrel Hall and Ciao Papi, too — the latter including lobster spaghetti — giving you even more options. Unlike in previous years, you will need to buy any drinks on top this time around, however.
Whether beloved bands are reuniting, old lineups are reforming or still-touring groups who hit the charts decades ago are simply heading our way again, we're living in a golden age of musical blasts from the past. On a stage near you at any given time, one of your old-school favourites is likely taking to the microphone, spanning across a huge range of genres. Another joining the trend: Sugababes. The British girl group is hitting up Australia's east coast this summer, including a show at Brisbane's Fortitude Music Hall on Monday, February 27. If you're a fan, you likely now have 'Push the Button' or 'Overload' stuck in your head — or a medley that includes 'Freak Like Me', 'Round Round', 'Hole in the Head', 'Walk This Way' and 'About You Now' as well. This isn't just any old throwback tour, however. It also sees Mutya Buena, Keisha Buchanan and Siobhan Donaghy — aka Sugababes' OG members — bust out the group's hits. Each of the trio left individually in the 00s, with Heidi Range, Amelle Berrabah and Jade Ewen taking their places, but they've been back together with the initial lineup since 2012. This is the first time in more than two decades that Buena, Buchanan and Donaghy have hit Australia together, which is massive news for fans. And, given that Sugababes were one of the British girl groups of the early 21st century — and are one of the biggest-selling British girl groups of all time — there's plenty of those around.
Yeah, we're thinking he's back. John Wick, that is. In 2014, Keanu Reeves introduced everyone's favourite assassin (and dog owner) to the world, with the film quickly sparking an action-packed franchise. The first sequel followed two years later, and the third effort did the same in 2019. Next, a fourth movie drops in March — but before you check it out, you can revisit the first three John Wick flicks on the big screen at Event Cinemas' John Wick marathon. At this point you should know exactly what this excellent series offers up: John Wick first seeking revenge against those who've wronged him, then being hunted down by his fellow killers. And all of this has sprang because, in the first movie, he became the proud owner of an adorable pooch. As Wick notes, of course, "it wasn't just a puppy". On-screen, everyone from Willem Dafoe, Ian McShane, Lance Reddick, Common and Ruby Rose to Halle Berry, Jason Mantzoukas and Anjelica Huston also pop up. So too does Laurence Fishburne, so prepare for a Neo and Morpheus reunion. And behind the lens, former Keanu stunt double-turned-filmmaker Chad Stahelski directs. Revisit the exquisitely choreographed action trilogy at select Event Cinemas' locations around Brisbane on Saturday, March 4 — kicking off at 4.30pm, with tickets for $30.
Brisbane in the first month of autumn still means 30-degree temperatures, plus plenty of sultry motivation to while away an afternoon on a rooftop by the river with a drink in your hand. If you like espresso martinis, here's another reason to get sipping between Thursday, March 14–Sunday, March 17: Fiume at Howard Smith Wharves is celebrating Espresso Martini Weekend. The sky-high bar is saying cheers to Espresso Martini Day — which falls on Friday, March 15 in 2024 — by spreading the fun across four days and serving up martini specials. The limited-edition menu only spans three types of the tipple, but who doesn't want to try a wattle toffee version at least once? That cocktail includes vodka, wattle toffee liqueur, two types of coffee liqueur and sugar syrup. Opt for the salted caramel espresso martini instead and salted caramel syrup is subbed in. A classic take on the beverage is also on offer, should that be your version of choice. You'll pay $20 per drink or $35 for two. The bar's regular food menu will also be available. And the vibes? As cruisy as knocking back espresso martinis as you kick back overlooking the river with views of the CBD skyline can be — so, incredibly cruisy. Images: Markus Ravik.
Treating yo'self doesn't have to mean splurging. Adding caviar to your next stint of drinks doesn't need to involve breaking your budget, either. From Wednesday, April 3–Tuesday, April 30, head to Midtown and you'll be able to get indulgent from just $20 during the South Brisbane bar's caviar-focused month. The Manning Street venue is pairing its martinis — the watering hole's specialty — with the foodstuff that everyone thinks of when they think of luxury, all as part of its nod to New York. The cheapest option is available on Tuesdays, which is when a lobster (the money kind) will get you a bump of Polanco Oscietra Grand Reserve. But there's also specials on offer every day. Fancy a martini with your roe? You have two deals to choose from: one with a dry martini paired with green olives filled with caviar, which costs $39; another with a gold-leaf vodka martini and the same olives-and-caviar combo for $69. Crisps and caviar (aka sour cream and onion Pringles, plus crème fraîche and caviar) will set you back $49. Jacket potatoes and caviar (with the spuds filled with crème fraîche, then topped with caviar) is the same price. Tasmanian oysters topped with scampi caviar is $68, or $80 if you add a Laurent-Perrier sidecar. You can also just opt for the star ingredient, no matter what else you're eating or drinking, although it does get pricier. Polanco Oscietra Grand Reserve costs $70 for 10 grams and $130 for 30 grams. Wild Australian scampi caviar comes in at $80 for 10 grams and $130 for 25 grams. Both include a sourdough crostini and crème fraîche — and you can go with a champagne sidecar from an extra $12.
Being an adult means celebrating Easter however you damn well want to. Fancy setting up an Easter egg hunt around your house? Go for it. Keen on drinking cocktails out of chocolate? No one will stop you. Want to ditch the usual festivities and dance away the afternoon and evening at a disco party on the river? Hop to it for the third year running. Indeed, if that last option particularly takes your fancy, you'll want to make a date with 2024's Mr Percival's Easter Sunday River Disco. Kicking off at 3pm on Sunday, March 31, it's exactly what it sounds like — all at Howard Smith Wharves' resident overwater bar. MC Double D, who you might know from Sneaky Sound System, will be spinning tunes with other DJs for company — and they'll be on the decks right through until late. As for drinks, there'll be bubbles aplenty at Mr Percival's outdoor spritz bar, as well as Italian cocktails. And, the usual food menu will be on offer if you need a prawn cocktail, Moreton bay bug roll, bug-topped pizza or lemon curd parfait for sustenance.
If summer screams ice cream to you, then there's only one way to start the season: indulging in your favourite frosty treat. That's great advice in general, but gelato chain Gelatissimo has an even better spin on it. Hit up one of its 43 stores around the country across a five-hour period and you'll nab $3 scoops. The date: Thursday, December 1. The time: between 4–9pm at all Brisbane shops. The offer: creamy gelato for just a couple of gold coins, all to celebrate the official start of the warm weather and indulge in a dessert staple. Thursday, December 1 also happens to be the day that Gelatissimo is releasing its latest limited-edition flavour, which is both summery and festive: smashed berry pavlova. So, you can add that to your list of cheap scoops — in a cone or cup, it's up to you — complete with vanilla bean gelato swirled with blueberry sauce, then topped with Aussie-made meringue pieces and strawberry puree. Fancy a year's worth of gelato afterwards? We all do. The chain is running a competition to make your dessert dreams come true for 12 months, as long as you tag @gelatissimogelato between December 1–13 and and add #gelatissimosummer to your post.
Tuesdays mean different things to different people. Another day closer to the weekend, almost hump day, the day you wish you could sleep through — they're all on the list. But, at The Bavarian each week, the day after Monday also means tucking into $9.95 schnitzels. It's one of the tastiest ways to celebrate any day, and to also save your pennies while doing so. There's no occasion, other than just because — but cheap schnitties for the sake of it is what any Schnitzel Tuesday should be about. For a bargain price, The Bavarian will serve you up a chicken schnitzel with fries and lemon, but you do have to also buy a full-priced drink to get the deal. Fancy another schnitty? That's completely fine — just get another drink. Available all day every Tuesday, this is some good schnitz. To get your fix, you can head to The Bavarian venues around Brisbane and southeast Queensland — you'll find the chain at Chermside, The Barracks, Robina, Broadbeach, Coomera, Sunshine Plaza and Toowoomba, so you've got options. You can also level-up your schnits for an extra $10, getting a 'Godfather' (a giant schnitzel, ham, cheese, kielbasa, napoli sauce and cheese) or a 'Matterhorn' (a schnitzel mountain, cheese spätzle, three layers of Alpen cheese and bacon).
Once a year, Stanthorpe celebrates apples and grapes, hosting an entire festival that's all about the two kind of fruit. But they aren't the only types of only fresh produce that the town, and the Granite Belt region, is known for. So, that's where the Stanthorpe Berry Festival comes in. Running from 10am–5pm on Saturday, November 19 at Weerona Park, this sure-to-be-colourful events adores berries in all their forms — but especially strawberries, raspberries and blueberries grown locally. Yes, you know what you'll be eating (and plenty of it), including strawberry ice cream. The festival also features berry food stalls, boutique markets, celebrity chef Alastair McLeod hitting the stage, a competition to find the best strawberry or mixed berry jam, and a scones and jam eating food-eating contest. Or, you can get sipping thanks to the region's wineries and brewers, meet berry farmers, listen to live tunes and take part in a berry-themed dress up, with tickets costing $22.19.
Festivals dedicated to all things Greek and French have been part of Brisbane's culture for years now — but what about Mexico? That's what the folks at Latin Events were wondering, so they've done something about it. The first-ever Brisbane Mexican Festival is result of their handiwork. For one day only, the fiesta will take over the Boundary Street Markets to celebrate one of the most fascinating cultures worldwide. The timing is intended to synch up with the 205th anniversary of Mexico's independence from Spain on September 15th, while the program of live entertainment, food and folklore is designed to showcase the mix of strong native legends and artistic expressions so pivotal to the country's identity. That means authentic Mexican food and drinks, of course, plus a whole range of on-theme activities. Spend the day dancing to a salsa band, watching Mexican wrestling, listening to the lively guitar strumming of the mariachi and breaking piñatas. Then, head along to the post-fest frenzy of Coronas and Margaritas that is the Boundary Hotel's official after party.
Travel often has the effect of making the world feel simultaneously smaller and larger. As you immerse yourself in different languages, customs and landscapes, it becomes clear that there are commonalities among all people — and at the same time, much more diversity and richness than previously imagined. Long-term globetrotter and mixed-media artist Catherine Parker beautifully captures these kinds of paradoxes in her new exhibition, It’s (still) a Beautiful World. Her works are at once both airy and detailed, with large expanses of restful, dreamlike colour punctuated by detailed icons, animals and landscapes that remind one instantly of particular parts of the world — particularly India, which Parker has visited more than 20 times, and Australia, where she makes her home. Geometric lines in neon colours create a visual metaphor for how we connect with the world through travel and exploration. It’s (still) a Beautiful World opens at Spiro | Grace Art Rooms with an artist talk followed by opening night event on 22 August. The exhibition continues to 12 September. Image: Catherine, Parker, ‘It's (Still) a Beautiful World Part 1’, 2015, Acrylic and ink on board, 96X120cm
They say time flies when you're having fun, and don't the folks at Cheated Hearts know it. It seems like only yesterday that the collective of queer-friendly events burst onto Brisbane's nightlife scene. Now, they're approaching their third birthday. Such a milestone calls for a massive party — and the Cheated Hearts crew is obliging, of course. They're taking over one of their favourite venues, Oh Hello!, taking on a spring break theme, and taking everyone's idea of fun up quite a few notches. You'll get lei'ed on arrival, and then the excitement really begins. Free fairy floss and popcorn will take care of your snack-loving stomach, while trap, hip hop, electro and bass-heavy tunes from DJs Jane Doe, Killer Prince, Dzyr, Ca-Lou, Sezzo and Eevvee will keep your body moving. There'll even be bathroom DJs, because no space, no matter how small, can escape this celebration. Keeping on topic and dressing up is encouraged; however we don't recommend copying James Franco's fashion in Spring Breakers.
If you're planning on spending the long weekend with a beer in your hand, then one Fortitude Valley establishment has you covered. Admittedly, serving up pints is what Bloodhound Bar does every day of the week; however in honour of everyone getting three days off, they're making an occasion of it. At the first annual Hopfields, they're also making an occasion out of showcasing hops, without which we wouldn't have the brews we know and love. With that in mind, expect all the tasty ales from around the world that you could dream of — and plenty you've likely never heard of, too — including limited releases, launches of new beers and one-offs brewed especially for the event, plus a slew of classics. With names like Fantapants and Splice of Heaven on the menu, as well as the Bloodhound and Newstead Brewing Co. collaboration that is Old Mate, you're going to want to try them all. Save some room for the cocktails though, with the humble hop flower given its moment to shine in all its forms.
In the space where someone makes art, two things combine. The product of their efforts takes shape as a tangible object, and the tools of their labor remain scattered around it. The artwork is the main attraction, but it wouldn't have been possible without a range of mundane items and materials. With Catacoustics, Charles Robb connects the two into composite sculptural forms or installations. And he does so while considering another important artifact of the creative process: the public monument. Accordingly, as he explores the slippages that occur in an artists' studio, as well as the contemporary possibilities of his chosen medium of sculpture, he also constructs a fragmented replica of the Ian Fairweather (1891–1974) memorial rock on Bribie Island. Inside and outside forms of art merge, as do the familiar and strange, and the meticulously crafted and refined but also strangely disorienting, in an exhibition that ponders both form and purpose.
When it comes to contemplating drawing as an art form, the focus usually falls on the finished product. The process of sketching and scribbling is as much an expression of creativity as the end result, however; it's just that we usually only really see the latter, not the former. That's what Drawn to Experience V2 calls attention to: the expansive act of performance drawing. It considers making marks on paper as a combination of theatre, line, motion and record — aka an interdisciplinary experience. The group exhibition by 16 artists from around the world, as curated by Queensland's own Kellie O’Dempsey, examines an array of works that trace this line of thinking. More traditional efforts are included, of course, as are digital drawings and video. And it wouldn't be a true celebration of the method behind the medium without a demonstration in the form of a live drawing performance. Image: Gosia Wlodarczak, 2013, A Room Without A View — drawing performance Day 5, a 17-day drawing performance held in a specially constructed sensory limitation room at the RMIT Gallery, Melbourne.
Time flies when you're showing films and having fun. That's certainly the case at Palace Centro, anyway. The cinema mightn't look its age, but it has been James Street's number one movie-going spot for 15 years now. Yes, it's cake and candles time for the New Farm theatre, and of course they're doing something special to mark the occasion of hitting the big one-five. Actually, they're doing four special things, courtesy of — what else — celebratory movie screenings from 18 – 21 December. Whether you're after a sneak peek of a few upcoming films or want to take a trip back in time to Centro's early days, both are on offer. Those keen on the former can check out the latest teaming of Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper in Joy, fall in love with the beautiful romance that is Brooklyn, and watch Eddie Redmayne and Alicia Vikander tell the tale of Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener in The Danish Girl, while those after the latter can enjoy the whimsical wonders of Amelie back on the big screen. Either way, a tasty treat is included in the ticket price; it is a party, after all.
It starts and ends with the recognisable sounds of 'Holiday Road', and fills the time in-between with repeated refrains. It follows a formula established 32 years ago, and touches upon the same characters. The film in question is Vacation, the fifth and latest in the series. That it trades upon nostalgia is a given. That it doesn’t do a good job of doing so sadly is as well. Indeed, Rusty Griswold (Ed Helms) similarly relies upon his ill-thought-out fondness for things and times gone by to spark the feature’s story. Though he’s devoted to his wife, Debbie (Christina Applegate), and kids, James (Skyler Gisondo) and Kevin (Steele Stebbins), he can sense they’re not as excited as he is about their upcoming holiday. To facilitate some big-time family bonding, he changes their plans, hiring a mini-van and plotting a course across the country to theme park Walley World. Rusty is also driven by another reason: the trip to come, and the destination, mirrors the memorable jaunt he had with his parents (Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo) and sister (now played by Leslie Mann) three decades earlier. That writing-directing duo John Francis Daley and Jonathan M. Goldstein shoehorn in a discussion about the pointlessness of rehashing past territory prior to the Griswold’s escape doesn’t really justify the episodic mess to come. Using a tongue-in-cheek exchange of dialogue to signify the script’s recognition of the weakness in trying to relive former glories is one thing; making a genuine effort to avoid falling prey to the laziness that often comes with such do-overs is another, and one the feature shows no evidence of trying to achieve. So it is that Vacation cycles through incident after incident, and throws nonsensical gags — a ridiculous Albanian car and a repeated shout-out to Seal’s 'Kiss from a Rose' among them — into the mix. When brief appearances by bit-players, such as Keegan-Michael Key, Nick Kroll and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia's Charlie Day and Kaitlin Olson, command more attention and interest than the leads and narrative, you know that everything is far from ideal. Playing up his attractive appearance, Chris Hemsworth becomes the movie’s star player simply by proving the most committed. Though his character, Stone Crandall, the weatherman husband to Rusty’s sister, is largely saddled with mentioning faucets, his dedicated delivery makes the absurdity amusingly stick. There could be a message in the fact that the folks the Griswolds cross paths with along the way to their ideal getaway make more of an imprint, and the film certainly tries to push the theme of appreciating what you’ve got; however, overthinking the material gives the movie too much credit. Mostly, it remains content to strand the usually enjoyable Helms and Applegate in embarrassing situations and have them utter crude jokes. Vacation also remains content with looking like a sleek but messy holiday video. Actually, that's exactly what the feature delivers: a clumsy compilation that's supposed to capture better days. That you'll be pleased every time 'Holiday Road' pops up — because it means that this cinematic road trip is making its way towards its destination — makes the most telling statement.
There's more to literary love-ins than those who wield words giving voice to them. At Brisbane Writers Festival 2015, there's also an innovative and unique installation of artist prints, poetry, prose and musicians that enliven the communication of our ornithological friends — aka bird calls. Honing in on the flying species that call the Bimblebox Nature Refuge home, Bimblebox 153 Birds celebrates the ways wildlife connects with each other. It also makes a statement about creatures in a place that could be destroyed by a coal mine, which makes dropping by on your way to a more traditional BWF session more than just a good way to break up your festival experience. Image via Paula Quintela.
Whatever art form inspires and excites you or just generally takes your fancy, a festival dedicated to your preferred type of creativity always feels like Christmas. From September 2–6, that most joyous time of the year comes around for fans of all things written, spoken and otherwise letter-related. Yes, it’s Brisbane Writers Festival time, aka the five days each annual calendar where indulging your inner word nerd isn’t just acceptable — it is expected. While the program is overflowing with literary goodness, including many a session mining the brilliant minds behind many a book favourite, here’s our five picks of the must-attend events of BWF 2015.
Break out the cake, candles, streamers, party hats and lolly bags, because someone's having a birthday. Well, not just someone, but somewhere. And not just anywhere, but one of Fortitude Valley's favourite hangouts. Yes, that slice of music heaven on Brunswick Street that is Black Bear Lodge has now been part of the inner-city scene for four years. If that's not cause for celebration, then we don't know what is. Trust the BBL crew to throw their own shindig — and cry if they want to — to mark the occasion, and trust them to rope in a whole lot of other folks to make the evening something extra special, too. Young Henry's, 4 Pines and Sailor Jerry will provide the booze, and Hey Geronimo, Waax, Born Joy Dead, Machine Age, Denpasar and regular DJs James Wright and Black Amex will serve up the tunes. Be warned, there really will be cake and lolly bags, plus alcoholic spiders too. We would never joke about that.
A best-selling novel becomes a world premiere play, and Queensland Theatre Company transforms QPAC's Playhouse into a Sydney department store in the '50s and '60s. That's what happens when Ladies in Black transitions from the page to the stage, but that's not all. The show follows Lisa, a school leaver turned shop employee, who warms to the wondrous world of the women's frocks department. There, she meets her new mentor in the form of Magda, the mysterious mistress of the gowns. If it sounds like a modern musical theatre fairytale, that's because it is supposed to — and yes, Ladies in Black overflows with glitz and glamour, of course. Throw internationally acclaimed musical theatre director Simon Phillips (Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Love Never Dies) into the mix, plus original music by Split Enz and Crowded House's Tim Finn, and you have a bright, breezy production that will transport audiences into a song-filled onslaught of style and delicate comedy.
A whopping 60 films will make their Australian debut at the 2015 Jewish International Film Festival. Making its first Brisbane appearance at New Farm Cinemas, a sampler of the nation-wide three-week celebration of Jewish films and filmmakers will screen both fiction and non-fiction films from all around the world, in order to showcase what festival director Eddie Tamir calls "the agony and the ecstasy of the Jewish experience". Standout narratives in the JIFF 2015 program include French-Canadian romantic drama Felix and Meira, Cannes Grand Prix winner Son of Saul and Natalie Portman's directorial debut A Tale of Love and Darkness, about Israeli novelist and journalist Amos Oz. The documentary lineup is similarly strong. Out of Israel, Censored Voices uncovers harrowing recordings made by disillusioned Israeli soldiers shortly after the Six Day War in 1967.
When it comes to food events, there's nothing quite like the Sunnybank $2 Food Trail. It's all there in the name, with the Brisbane suburb's shopping hub becoming a diner's delight in the most affordable fashion. Think of it as the ultimate self-guided foodie adventure, for nothing more than spare change. At your own pace, you'll walk between more than 34 participating local cafes and restaurants featuring a range of authentic Asian cuisines. You'll feast on Chinese, Japanese, Hong Kong-style, Vietnamese, Korean and Taiwanese dishes, and you'll only pay $2 per plate. With such an array of steaming soups and sizzling stir-fries on offer, we don't recommend eating lunch first; in fact, you'd best arrive feeling as hungry as possible. Snacking on signature dishes is the main course — or several; however there's also plenty of non-edible appetisers, too. That'd be live music, lion dancers and roaming entertainment, adding the perfect garnish to every meal by setting the mood.
There ain't no party like a nostalgia-themed party; however while '80s and '90s shindigs seem to pop up almost every week, the '70s haven't been getting as much love. For cult cinema and dance party maestro Kristian Fletcher's birthday, the New Globe Theatre wants to change that at an evening that will take over the entire venue. Studio 54, eat your heart out. Actually, the iconic New York venue — and subject of the Ryan Phillippe and Mike Myers-starring movie 54 — inspires the foyer, but that's only the beginning of the event, of course. Elsewhere, expect to get your boogie on to live performances, strut your stuff in the Soul Train dance competition and groove your way through the disco room. Era-appropriate music videos will also feature, but that's not the only thing revellers can expect to watch. This party also delves into the glory of grindhouse cinema, complete with trailers, iconic movie scenes and rare clips. Yep, there might just be more '70s shenanigans here than you can handle.
Even if you claim to be an Elvis fan rather than a Beatles fan, everyone knows all the words to most of the Fab Four's tracks. They made us 'Twist and Shout' and 'Come Together', and told us to 'Let It Be' and 'Get Back', after all. Plus, they took us on a journey in a 'Yellow Submarine' and taught us the wonders of 'Strawberry Fields Forever'. At All You Need is Beatles at the Foundry on November 22, a bunch of bands certainly know all the words — and all the music, too. The likes of Battleships, Suicide Swans, Drawn from Bees, Golden Age of Ballooning, Counterfeit Umbrellas, Georgia Mae and Purling Brook will be paying tribute to those famous Liverpudlians in a one-night dose of Beatlemania. Yes, we're sure 'Help!' will feature — and not just because it's a Fab Four favourite. As well as revisiting classic Beatles tunes, the evening will raise money for the UNHCR Syria Crisis Appeal, to assist the United Nations to provide food stamps, medicine, shelter, heating and clothing to millions of refugees.
Everyone remembers the moment they became a teenager. Danika Hart — or Dani, as she prefers — is certainly unlikely to forget it. It's her 13th birthday party, and she's caught up in a mix of an exploding cake, a dream-like visit to a world that's both surreal and too close to home, and her best friend Miranda. So unravels Sunnytown as it takes a journey through young Dani's subconscious and explores the consequences of choosing to cope when change is your only hope. As anyone who has ever been a teen will no doubt recall, the mind of a youth on the cusp of maturity can be a dark and beguiling place. As written by emerging playwright Krystal Sweedman, Sunnytown forms part of the La Boite Indie season. The program aims to encourage fresh talent and nurture a sustainable independent theatre culture in Brisbane — and you can do your part by supporting great new plays like this, too.
If chanteuses set your music-loving heart a-flutter, then Women in Voice is your kind of thing. You probably already know this. Over more than two decades, the celebration of female artists has become a Brisbane institution. Since starting out in a West End cafe back in 1993 and then journeying through a number of venues around the city and beyond, Women in Voice has become one of the nation's longest running performances. Showcasing talented lady vocalists in an up-front, uncomplicated manner, the show has featured the likes of Chrissie Amphlett, Deborah Conway, Jenny Morris, Katie Noonan and Kate Miller-Heidke on the bill at some point. As always, the latest iteration of Women in Voice boasts quite the lineup. Prepare your ears for the sounds of the ethereal Emma Dean, rock legend Carol Lloyd, world music mama Yani and the astounding Alison St Ledger. They're all banded together by MC Queenie van de Zandt’s hilarious alter ego, Jan van de Stool, International Music Therapist, because crooning and comedy are all part of this cabaret package.
When playwright Neil Simon penned The Odd Couple, little could he have known the phenomenon he had unleashed. The Broadway hit became a famous 1968 film starring Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau, and then a number of different TV shows. In the US, a version featuring Matthew Perry is currently on air. There's a reason audiences continue to be fascinated with his offbeat roommates and their ever-apparent mismatch, of course, and it's not just because it's both chaotic and comedic. Who hasn't been down-and-out like despairing journalist Felix Unger? Who hasn't lived with someone they're not all that suited to, such as the slovenly Oscar Madison? Who doesn't have a good pal they probably shouldn't get along with, but do anyway? Expect domestic drama, both amusing and argumentative, as Queensland Theatre Company offers their spin on the play turned movie turned television series. Expect a reunion of another odd couple as the titular pair, too, with Jason Klarwein and Tama Matheson from QTC's 2013 rendition of Design For Living returning as everyone's favourite housemates from hell.
For one night only, 14 students from the Queensland College of Art and Queensland Conservatorium bring the environment and culture of Stradbroke Island to life through art and sound, projection and light. Beach holidays, camping expeditions and fishing trips to Straddie are part and parcel of Queenslander life, but how much does the average person know about the social, environmental and historical issues facing the island community? As part of an art and sound infield course, the students spent five days immersed in bush and beach life, engaging with the local community, Indigenous elders and environmental scientists. Their cumulative knowledge and shared experiences from the island became Float, a rich collection of images and soundscapes that beautifully capture the breadth of this iconic Queensland landscape. Float exhibits on the Turbine Platform at Brisbane Powerhouse from 6pm to 8pm, 14 October. Image by Elise Searson.
Maybe you made it to Melbourne for ACMI's magnificent David Bowie exhibition. Maybe you counted your pennies and enviously wished you did. Either way, you can get your fix of the pop culture icon a bit closer to home at the New Globe Theatre's David Bowie Afternoon. For one Sunday only, all things Major Tom, Ziggy Stardust, the Thin White Duke, Aladdin Sane and Jareth the Goblin King are in fashion. They can be heroes, just for one day — though the documentary snippets, performance footage and music videos featured during the three-hour celebration will last in your memory for much, much longer, we promise. As will the centerpiece of the show, aka the beloved 1986 flick by the name of Labyrinth. Revisiting this cult classic is always an enjoyable way to show your Bowie enthusiasm. Doing so while surrounded by other fanatics, enjoying drinks from the bar, and watching rare clips before and afterwards — now that's enough to spark a whole new case of modern Bowie love.
Food-themed days are threatening to become the culinary equivalent of the boy who cried wolf: so many manufactured eating occasions, only so much stomach space. Still, no matter how frequently they seem to pop up, there's one thing that always grabs attention. Boy oh boy do we all love freebies. Perhaps that's why Brisbane's pop culture pun-loving poultry slingers are celebrating National Chicken Wing Day by giving the people what they love. Yes, Lord of the Wings is handing out free chook pieces. On July 29 between midday and 3pm, the chain's Carindale and Indooroopilly stores will be serving up free three-packs of traditional wings with buffalo sauce, with one pack available per person. The free wings are available both in store and via delivery, though the latter requires you to order something else as well. Anyone rushing along to get theirs in person will also find jugglers and stilt walkers turning the place into a party, though we're assuming no one will be throwing chicken into the air. Lord of the Wings' National Chicken Wing Day celebrations take place from midday to 3pm on July 29. For more information, visit their website.
Craving the kind of cake your mum definitely doesn't make, but find yourself in the CBD rather than Newstead or South Bank? Sweet treat fans, rejoice — Chester Street Bakery is bringing its epic wares to you and setting up a third store in the centre of the city. Since late July, Brissie's favourite bakers have been slinging their creative creations from their new digs inside the entrance to the King George Square bus station. Just like its express setup over the river, expect another small in size, big in taste location from the same dessert-focused empire as Doughnut Time and Mister Fitz. Delicious from start to finish, CSB's menu will feature their signature cakes, hot chocolates and other edible items; if you're already fan, you know the drill. Their big cakes have garnered a huge reputation over the years, whether rainbow layers, death by chocolate, cookie dough or doughnut offerings take your fancy. Or, opt for frozen goodness courtesy of cookie monster, red velvet and banana split ice cream cakes. With Oreo-crusted unicorn cream pie Nutella pavlova, Kit Kat cheesecakes, M&M Brownies, Ferrero choc tops, and peanut butter whip shakes also served up, the list well and truly goes on. Find Chester Street Bakery's new CBD store inside the entrance to the King George Square bus station from July 25. Head to their website and Facebook page for more information.
Whether you're grabbing something from a food truck, dropping by a cafe or sitting down at a high end eatery, there's one item you'll find on most menus these days. Ever since the concept of slow cooking came back on trend, there's no escaping meats that have been simmered, stewed and roasted over time, and then torn apart into tasty chunks. Of course we're not complaining. Neither is 2 Forks, Milton's newest addition. Actually, to say that they're embracing the trend is quite the understatement. Customers simply pick their preferred ten-hour-cooked, hand-pulled protein (with char sui pork, tequila beef, beer lamb and more on offer), then decide whether they'd like it in burger, burrito, salad, rice or nacho form (or a share platter for social slow-cooking folks). From slow-cooked pork drizzled with bourbon barbecue sauce to pomegranate-glazed lamb to Mexican chipotle chilli beef, the bulk of their selection really is dedicated to the most patience-testing of cooking styles. Slow-cooked ribs are also available, and should you want something that hasn't been sizzling all day for some strange reason, 2 Forks still has you covered. That's where their chicken and vegetarian burgers come in, plus a host of sides such as spicy wings, corn on the cob, both potato and sweet potato chips, and onion rings. Find 2 Forks at Shop 4, Westmark Milton, 22-36 Railway Terrace, Milton. Check out their website and Facebook page for more information.
Think Oxford Street is the only place to eat in Bulimba and Hawthorne? Think again. In fact, the road that shares its name with the latter suburb is doing its best to tempt hungry diners away from the inner east's main drag, with newcomer British Colonial Co. its latest weapon. An alfresco dining and lounge bar inspired by the British Empire during the era of colonisation, British Colonial Co. is due to open by the end of June, and aims to offer Hawthorne residents the tapas restaurant and laidback drinks spot they probably didn't know they needed. The entire establishment will endeavour to cultivate a global mindset within a local eatery — though it may have to tread carefully. Plenty of places take their cues from history, but Britain's colonisation efforts aren't something that everyone wants to celebrate. However, if you're a fan of grabbing a share plate, a cocktail and or a glass of wine before or after seeing a movie in style, you'll find British Colonial Co. in the perfect location. Cineplex's Hawthorne Deluxe complex isn't the only reason to head to 274 Hawthorne Road — or at least, it won't be soon. And yes, that applies to anyone getting their movie fix early in the day, with brekkie and brunch definitely on the menu. Find British Colonial Co. at 274 Hawthorne Road, Hawthorne from late June. Head to their website and Facebook page for further information.
As much as we love catching a movie under the stars, it's not usually something you do while sitting in a pool of heated water. Enter Hot Tub Cinema Brisbane. Coming to an undisclosed location from September 1 to 14, this novelty nickelodeon works exactly the way you think it does: you and your mates strip down to your togs and enjoy a flick from the comfort of a bubbling tub. Melbourne has already dabbled with the concept, with retro films and cocktails aplenty — and Sydney will be splashing around in warm water come July. Now it's Brisbane's turn, and much of the rest of the country as well. The Gold Coast, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra will also get in on the fun in September, while Newcastle, Hobart and Wollongong are listed as coming soon. The organisers of Hot Tub Cinema Brisbane are yet to reveal which films will feature on the program, although shame on them if they don't include Jaws or, failing that, Splash. And yes, in case you were wondering, their upcoming Sydney season does include the obvious pick: Hot Tub Time Machine. Spots will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis, although you can sign up for pre-release tickets. For more information and to stay in the loop about Hot Tub Cinema Brisbane, visit their website and Facebook page. By Tom Clift and Sarah Ward.
Roses are red… but are they really red? This is one of those questions shoddy, talentless artists will pose to you, in hope of causing confusion to compensate for the lack of emotion you’ll probably feel towards their substance-deprived canvas scribblings. You won’t find any artists like this though at the Art & Design Precinct’s latest exhibit Roses Are Red — because, let’s face it, Roses ARE red (except for pink, white, and not red roses). Roses, red, and ranges aside, this exhibition is hosting some names on the Brisbane artistic landscape you should probably prop up and pay some attention to. Phoebe Hofsteede, Casey Charles (pictured), Beverley Teske, Michelle Bowden, Peta Nichol, Wendy Donellan and Emily Trow are just a handful of the artists/photographers/deities on show. There will also be live music by Mr. Gray & The Dark Folk, QuixotiQ and Mark Godden with A Journey through the Past: the Aussie Tribute to Neil Young. This exhibition is a one-night-only affair, so rock on up at 6pm, red rose in mouth.
The Psychedelic Syndicate are back to add a bit of colour to your Saturday night. Dress up in your craziest and more colourful costumes and head to The Underground for a night of psychedelic rock. Be prepared to get a little spaced out as the bevy of bands that are playing are top notch. The line up includes The Unofficials, Magenta Voyeur, The Johnny Mustards, House of Giants (pictured) and Galapogos. Save your pennies on expensive drinks as The Underground is BYO. Along with the colourful party go-ers, the team have decked out the area with a smoke machine, lights and lasers to really set the psychedelic mood. Bring your friends, your drink of choice and your most colourful clothing and enjoy a fun night of music.
Music fans have vinyl. Movie buffs have VHS. Gamers, well, where do we start? If you're a lover of retro fun and mashing buttons is your preferred pastime, then there are just too many formats to choose from. Nintendo, Super Nintendo, Master System, Mega Drive, Gamecube, Saturn… the list goes on. Don't stress — whichever one you're into, you'll find it at the Brisbane Video Game & Pop Culture Market, plus a whole host of other stuff as well. Yes, there really is a fair, swap meet or shopping event for just about everything. Basically, this regular smorgasbord of gaming paraphernalia, toys, books, comics and more will take over Shady Palms Cafe to make your Sunday morning dreams come true, as long as those dreams involve consoles and pop culture. And, let's face it, it'll also make your Sunday afternoon dreams come true as well. We know what you'll be heading home to do (or, should we say, play) when the market closes at 12pm.
Alaskan-bred, Portland-based indie foursome Portugal. The Man will be hitting the road for an epic string of Australian dates this November. We're talking a whopping 25 dates — and all free. Presented by Corona Extra, the tour kicks off in Western Australia on October 31 and travels through Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria before finishing up in Melbourne on November 30. With seven albums under their belt — including their most recent, Danger Mouse-produced, 2013 album Evil Friends — and playing up to 200 shows a year since they started, Portugal. The Man aren't ones to shy away from a long touring stint. They're big ol' festival favourites, making highlight lists at all the big guns from Coachella, Lollapalooza to Laneway Festival and Splendour. After their huge US tour wraps up, the foursome are going to bring their psychedelic, indie outdoorsiness to Australia's snuggly pubs and bars. Corona's last epic Australian tour saw Sydney's beloved Cloud Control hit the road for an unfathomable amount of free shows, so we'll see how the Portland locals go with such a schedule. Get along, burl out 'Got It All', 'Evil Friends' and 'So American' like you're front and centre for a P.TM festival set. It's freakin' free. Queensland Friday, 7 November — Sol Bar, Ocean St, Maroochydore at 6pm Saturday, 8 November — Paddo Tavern, 186 Given Terrace, Paddington at 3pm, then Jubilee Hotel 470 St Pauls Terrace, Fortitude Valleyat 9pm. Sunday, 9 November — The Boardwalk Hotel, Marina Village Shopping Centre, Santa Barbara Rd, Hope Island at 3pm, then The Coolangatta Hotel, Marine Pde, Coolangatta at 7pm. Friday, 14 November — Komune, 144-146 Marine Parade, Coolangatta at 7pm. All tour dates are 18+ only and free entry. More info here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=EITwxJrZKj0
Often credited as one of the founding fathers of indie music, Morrissey rose to prominence as lyricist and vocalist for influential 1980s band, The Smiths. He maintained success as a solo artist after the demise of the band, continually making musical strides and today regarded as an iconic musician, whose signature vocal style and dynamic live performances are today deemed unmissable for the avid music enthusiast. For the first time in over a decade, Morrissey is back in Australia with a string of highly anticipated shows. He will be supported by American singer/songwriter Kristeen Young, whose aggressive keyboard-playing style and four-octave vocal range make her as dynamic a performer as the legend she’s preceding. This is a show that has been eagerly awaited for quite some time, and now that it’s finally here it’s sure to sell out. Tickets are still available, however you are advised to not leave such an experience to chance – it may be your last opportunity to see Morrissey himself in his element.
