When it comes to film and TV depictions of a certain European country shaped like a boot, as well as its island offshoot, one topic has proven unavoidable. That'd be the mafia, known as the Cosa Nostra in Sicily, and responsible for many a movie cliche about folks of Italian descent. And that's what filmmaker and comedian Pierfrancesco Diliberto, or Pif, wants to call to attention to. Leaping from his homeland's television screens to making his feature writing and directing debut, Pif plays Arturo, a life-long Palermo resident who can't escape the city's criminal underbelly. In fact, he owes his conception to a gunfight on his parents' wedding night, and the first word he ever uttered was mafia. Of course, growing up in the 1970s and 1980s when Toto Riina (Antonio Alveario) bombed, shot and otherwise disposed of his law-abiding enemies and similarly insidious rivals alike, Arturo's connection with gangland antics doesn't end there. As a boy (Alex Bisconti), mob activities constantly interfere with his obsession with his pretty classmate, Flora (Ginevra Antona). As an adult, trying to carve out a career on television while still chasing the girl of his dreams (Cristiana Capotondi), his efforts are shaped by continued violence and corruption. The film's title comes from the reassurance his father offers to soothe Arturo's childhood worries about increasing bloodshed and rising body counts; however, The Mafia Only Kills In Summer isn't as flippant as that line and the movie's romantic comedy leanings may indicate. Humour may be Pif's primary form of expression, but there's never any doubt that he's cultivating laughs from dramatic circumstances for a variety of reasons: as a coping mechanism, as recognition of the commonplace nature of crime at the time, to bring the mob bosses and those who aided their reign of terror down a few pegs, and as a way to subvert the usual Italian stereotypes. The task he sets himself, starring, helming and co-scripting as he does, is considerable — and sometimes, it does seem too much for one person to bear. What the warmly shot The Mafia Only Kills In Summer boasts in earnest intentions and intelligent satire, it sometimes lacks in its mix of tones and plots. Some sections charm, the coming-of-age focus of the first half for example. Others feel too easy, such as the eventual conclusion. And in an attempt to include as many instances of actual gang-caused carnage as possible, much is crammed in and skimmed over. Having ample ambition and being feverishly passionate about getting its many points across isn't a bad thing, though, and even when the film is a bit too clumsy or relies too heavily on convenience, the strength of its message shines through. Well, that, and the likeable lead's unlikely love letter to his real-life birthplace and his resilient compatriots. No, this isn't your usual Italian mafia movie.
How many times can you listen to Toto's 'Africa' in one sitting? Not sure? Well, you're about to find out — again. For the third year in a row, drums will echo and quiet conversation will be whispered at Black Bear Lodge's entire evening dedicated to appreciating the 36-year-old song. And yes, the rains will be blessed. It's gonna take a lot to take anyone away from a whole night focused on Toto's finest moment, even though the American band actually had some other catchy tracks. You'd expect that you won't be hearing 'Rosanna', which is commonly assumed to refer to actress Rosanna Arquette. Or 'Hold the Line', the tune that first put them on the map. Instead, it's 'Africa' all the way from 7pm on Wednesday, January 9, just days after the band plays Aussie shows at this year's Falls Festival. There's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do to stop the song repeating over and over — and if you think you might find some long forgotten words or ancient melodies, think again. But, as sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti, we're betting that somewhere there'll be a screen playing the music video as well.
There is nothing worse than being stuck indoors, crammed in your grey cubicle staring at the boundless unread emails, and surviving on a diet of coffee and vending machine chips. Thankfully, Spring in Brisbane's CBD has offered the perfect workday solution. Located on the corner of Felix and Mary Streets, Spring provides an escape from all things bland and boring and offers you a warm, light and inviting dining space. Even in their busiest times, you can be guaranteed a speedy and delicious lunch. The pulled chipotle pork, guacamole and fresh tomato salsa baguette is as flavoursome as it is filling. The strawberry fool is rather the opposite of it's title, an elegant array of strawberries, passion fruit, berry jellies, meringue and marshmallow. Spring's staff are visibly passionate about their food and can confidently recommend menu items according to your needs and tastes. Overall, the atmosphere at Spring is what sets this gem apart from all the other dining options in the city. So leave your office dramas, stretch your legs and indulge in a little gourmet heaven.
Planning a date night during September and October? Lock it in for the middle of the week, as Post Office Square has the perfect activity. From Wednesday, September 9 — and every week until Wednesday, October 28 — the inner-city space is hosting Rom Coms & Nom Noms. There'll be flicks and food, obviously. Attendees can feast their eyes on the pop-up big screen for free — but if you're keen on a snack, there'll be grazing boxes for available from micro pub Isles Lane. And, if you're thirsty as well, the pop-up bar can help with that as well. It'll be serving wine, beer and soft drinks. As for the movie lineup, prepare to get romantic with 50 First Dates on September 9, then swoon over My Best Friend's Wedding on September 16. Then, you'll laugh your way through So I Married An Axe Murderer on September 23 and watch Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan in You've Got Mail on September 30. Wondering what's on in October? That schedule will be announced closer to the dates. The event opens at 5pm each week, with films starting at 6pm. [caption id="attachment_665789" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Isles Lane[/caption] Rom Coms & Nom Noms takes place at Post Office Square each week from Wednesday, September 9–Wednesday, October 28, kicking off at 5pm with films screening at 6pm. Top image: Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons.
What would Mean Girls have been like if it was made 22 years ago? Well, let’s take the Lindsay Lohan of the 80s (Winona Ryder, dur) who longs to be part of the high school in-crowd – the holy grail of adolescence. Combine her with the three most popular girls in school, all called Heather, and create that Plastics-esque super-popular-girl-posse that is often more feared than revered. Then this whole thing gets totally 80s when Winona (well, Veronica) starts hooking in with Christian Slater (sorry, Jason Dean), who’s absolutely crazy, by the way. And then they start killing people. Damn Africa, what happened? The film completely bombed when it was released in 1989, but like a fine wine, it’s one of those films that get better with age. The Tribal Theatre, in true Tribal Theatre fashion, are holding a one-night-only screening of the cult classic. There ain’t no burn book, but you can expect a tumultuous and bloody rollercoaster of high-school social politics. So fetch.
If you can't picture Brisbane without Shingle Inn slinging coffees and baked goods, there's a reason for that. Unless you're 89 years old or over, the River City as you know it has always been home to the brand. In fact, Shingle Inn is celebrating its 88th anniversary this year — and on Friday, April 5, that means free butterfly patty cakes. The cakes themselves are a Shingle Inn favourite, but they aren't on the regular menu at present. So, as well as scoring one without paying a cent for it, you'll be getting a bite of nostalgia that isn't normally on offer. Your destination: Shingle Inn's City Hall cafe. And the caveat: you do have to make a purchase, but you'll get the cake for free if buy something else. The giveaway is only on offer for the day, which means that you've got the perfect excuse to add something sweet to your Friday — and to revel in Brisbane's history while you're at it.
Slip into a colourful world with the help of artists Elizabeth Beppie and Michael McDermaid. In their first exhibition together, this mother and son duo will share their unique artistic styles. Their wide range of skills span the genres of surrealism, abstract, naïve, expressionism and photography. The pair share a love for vibrant colours and intricate detail. Michael's portion of the exhibition will include his photography which captures nature, portraits and stills of the world around him. Being a multi-talented artist, Michael's paintings which express surreal scenes will also be featured. His mother, Beppie, will be showing her highly stylised and naïve paintings. They drip with colour and playfully capture the viewer's imagination. The Essence of Presence's opening night will be held on Friday 13 December 6pm. Where else are you going to find vibrant artwork, bands and a drumming circle, what's more, all of the proceeds go towards Mens Line Australia.
If there was ever an event tailor-made for those with limited attention spans, it's Short + Sweet Festival. You know that feeling you get when you're 15 minutes into something that you're not all that into? Well, you won't find that here. In the fest's 2018 Brisbane run over June 20–30, more than 40 new works will take to the stage across multiple strands of theatre and cabaret. Yes, that sounds like a lot, but there's a twist. Each and every different performance spans a maximum of 10 minutes. There's no idea that probably hasn't featured among this heaving program of bite-sized theatre delights over the years, with south-east Queensland's best and brightest always eager to showcase their condensed skills. Of course, they're not just offering up a sample of their talents for the fun of it; they're also hoping you'll vote to send them through to the Short + Sweet gala final on September 1.
They're taking the hobbits to Isengard at Palace Cinemas James Street this spring, with one movie marathon to rule them all. Round up the Fellowship, stock up on lembas bread for sustenance and hide your finest pipe-weed from the Southfarthing for one sitting of all three of Peter Jackson's beloved OG Tolkien film adaptations on Sunday, September 8. Kicking off with The Fellowship of the Ring and ending with The Return of the King, this cave troll of a marathon clocks in at 686 minutes, starting the journey at 10am and including short breaks between each (for breakfast and second breakfast, if you will). If you make it to the final handful of endings, you can pat yourself on the back and smash a ringwraith screech at the nearest CBD resident on your way home (note: do not actually screech at the residents). Without a ticket, expect at least one overenthusiastic cinema staff member to make an example of you, thundering "you shall not pass!" to raucous applause. So buy a ticket, precious, for $25 (or $20 if you're a Palace movie club member). CORRECTION: AUGUST 27, 2019 — Palace Cinemas has announced that it'll be screening the extended versions of all three Lord of the Rings flicks, so the movie marathon will be going for 686 minutes plus breaks, not 558. The above article has been updated to reflect this.
Put on your finest lederhosen and yodel to the high heavens, because Oktoberfest is back. Sure, you mightn't be sinking steins in Germany, but you can celebrate the booze-fuelled Bavarian festival right here in the sunshine state. There are two events going down this month: one is taking over The Island, located on the Gold Coast, and the other at Fortitude Valley's supremely OTT Cloudland. The Island's party is taking place on Saturday, October 24 and, on Saturday, October 31, you can head to Cloudland's affair. Whichever bar you decide to make tracks to, you can expect the digs to resemble a German beer hall, complete with an oompah band and a heap of games to keep you entertained. But, really, you're here for the oversized beers and tasty food, which will be in abundance at both shindigs. As part of your $95 ticket, you'll get a drink and feasting board on arrival. Then, you'll get more share-style German fare — think pretzels, schnitzels, sauerkraut, pork knuckles and bratwurst. Of course, you'll be able to order brews, too, via a COVID-appropriate contactless drinks service. Round up your mates and celebrate Oktoberfest at The Island on Saturday, October 24 or at Cloudland on Saturday, October 31, from 5–9pm. Get your tickets for The Island here and here for Cloudland.
Sundays may be considered the day of rest, but not in West End. After spending a good chunk of last year unveiling the many features of West Village — including a dining precinct, cooking school and arts and events centre — the folks behind this huge new development are using every opportunity they can to show them off. Case in point: the greenery-filled outdoor area, The Deck WV. The space is taking advantage of both the exceptional Brissie weather and our penchant for the old weekend wind-down with a series of fun-filled Sunday sessions. Across the first three Sundays in February, the space will host an afternoon of food, drinks and entertainment inspired by one of The Garden Pantry's (West Village's dining precinct) retailers. And it's all kicking off with a huge Lunar New Year celebration thanks to the bao-masters at Mr Bunz. Across two hours, the eatery will serve a three-course roaming feast of Asian-inspired eats — including its much-loved peanut butter and jelly buns — alongside a selection of beers and bubble tea cocktails. The area will also be decorated with Chinese dragons and draped lanterns plus baskets of fortune cookies (which means hunting until you get a fortune you like the sound of — that's how it works, right?). Lunar New Year at The Deck WV will run from 3–5pm on Sunday, February 3. Tickets cost $55 per person and can be purchased here.
If you're heading out for Christmas drinks, you may as well make them true Christmas drinks. 'Tis the season to sip themed cocktails that take the festive spirit to heart in multiple ways. At South Brisbane bar Midtown, that means martinis that couldn't better suit this time of year. A cranberry-flavoured Orna-martini served in a Christmas ornament, anyone? Also on the menu: festive candy cane and gingerbread-flavoured sips. The first tastes like peppermint bark but boozy, while the second gives the espresso martini a seasonal shakeup. On offer all throughout December — so from Friday, December 1–Sunday, December 31 — Midtown's flight of Christmas martinis can be enjoyed separately for $24 each, or delivered as a flight for $36. Martinis are this recent addition to Manning Street's speciality, with 15 types on offer usually, plus the ability for customers to tell the bar's staff exactly how they'd like it. So, Christmas versions aren't just a festive gift, but a no-brainer.
UPDATE: MARCH 2, 2021 — Creed Bratton's Australian tour has been postponed to September 2022, with The Office star now playing Brisbane on Wednesday, September 21. Current tickets will still be valid for all upcoming tour dates. The below article has been updated to reflect this change. Dunder Mifflin's most eccentric employee is coming to Brisbane, and he has plenty of stories to share. Best known for playing a highly fictionalised version of himself on the US version of hit sitcom The Office, Creed Bratton isn't someone that viewers will forget quickly — and if you enjoyed his antics as a quality assurance director at everyone's favourite Scranton paper company, then you just might want to check out his live stage show. Beyond The Office, the real-life Bratton has quite a history. He started as a travelling musician, played lead guitar on the first four albums by American rock group The Grass Roots, and has released his own solo records, too. On-screen, he has also popped up in Grace and Frankie, western flick The Sisters Brothers, and Comedy Bang! Bang!. Bringing his variety show to Brisbane's The Triffid on Wednesday, September 21, Bratton is continuing what he's doing for years — solo stage shows, that is. As well as music and comedy, he'll chat through the ups and downs of his career, including the obvious: his time on The Office. If you've ever wanted to know why Creed loved spider solitaire so much, whether he actually did any work and if the character was ever really in a cult ("you have more fun as a follower, but you make more money as a leader," he once claimed), this might be your chance.
Beer is a booming business in Brisbane; however, it's not every day that the city gets a new brewery, even if it seems otherwise. Ballistic Beer Co is the latest yeast and hops-loving establishment aiming to take care of your thirst, and they're kicking things off in beer-loving style. In fact, to celebrate their launch, Ballistic is asking an age-old question: how can anyone stop at just one cold craft brew? You won't need to worry about that as you become one of the first to try their Australian Psycho IPA, Pilot Light, Dirty Word Lager, and Grandfather Old Ale. Why? Because they're spreading their foamy goodness across three days and three venues. Just head to Bosc in West End from 5pm on January 6, Fitz + Potts in Nundah from 6.30pm on January 7, and The Scratch in Milton from 11am on January 8. That's where you'll find drinks aplenty, plus something even better. It's not every day (or every three-day beer party) that you discover your new favourite beverage, now is it?
Open up your eager eyes, Brisbane: The Killers are headed our way. The Las Vegas-born rockers will hit up a heap of arenas Down Under to cap off 2022, and destiny is calling you to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Tuesday, November 29 and Wednesday, November 30. Given the band's lengthy back catalogue, Brandon Flowers and company won't just be playing 'Mr Brightside' on repeat, but will be making a hot fuss over plenty of their hits — including tracks from their 2020 album Imploding the Mirage. The tour is named after that record, even though they released another one, Pressure Machine, in 2021. That's what happens when live gigs get put on hold during a pandemic, clearly. [caption id="attachment_831494" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Raph_PH via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Remember: somebody told you that you'll be dancing along to 'Somebody Told Me', 'Smile Like You Mean It', 'When You Were Young', 'Bones', 'Human' and 'The Man' as well. Fancy seeing The Killers in a winery instead? They're also playing A Day on the Green shows in the Barossa and Geelong, if an interstate trip is on your agenda.
If you're all about thinking green, living in a more eco-conscious way and doing your utmost for the planet — as we all should be — then you likely already know about Brisbane's Green Heart Fair. Twice a year, the event pops up, and usually takes over a leafy public space. The aim: to celebrate sustainability in every way that it can. For its September edition, that includes going digital, all thanks to the Virtual Green Heart Fair. From Monday, September 20–Sunday, September 26, you'll be getting all your tips and information online via the event's website — covering topics such as energy efficiency, recycling, being green at home, water conservation and getting moving without impacting the environment. Looking for free plants? They're a popular part of the IRL fairs, and they're still available this year — in-person, obviously. So, if adding some greenery to your yard always piques your interest, there'll be 3000 native plants on offer on a first-come, first-served basis. You'll need to hit up the Queen Street Mall outside the Wintergarden from 11am–2pm on Monday, September 20; Westfield Carindale near Coles from 9am–5pm on Wednesday, September 22 and Thursday, September 23; and King George Square (at the Brisbane Twilight Markets) from 4–9pm on Friday, September 24.
For the past five years, festival-loving Brisbanites have descended upon a secret Sunshine Coast location for the Jungle Love Music & Arts Festival, which combined a laidback atmosphere, a campground surrounded by luscious greenery, plenty of stellar tunes and performances, and the chance to go for a swim in the creek while you watch a gig. Alas, it's no longer happening; however Yonder Festival has sprung up in its place. A three-day celebration of creativity, Yonder takes Jungle Love's vibe, runs with it and shapes it into something new. Running between Thursday, November 28 and Saturday, November 30 in a yet-to-be-revealed spot in the Mary Valley, the new fest boasts everything from a stacked music lineup across four stages; to a feast of roving, theatrical and visual artists; to a heap of workshops and panels on wellbeing. It also places a huge focus on Indigenous producers, artists and communities, as well as local creatives. It's the kind of event where you can dance to Asha Jefferies, Buttercats, FeelsClub, Felivand, Jaguar Jonze, Requin, Sycco and The Jensens, then check out Ruckus Slam's poetry, watch large-scale puppetry, and browse the boutique food and market stalls. Pick up a cocktail from the bar, then explore installations by the Brisbane Street Art Festival crew, get caught up in a scavenger hunt, take part in water aerobics and enjoy a stint of laughter yoga. Camping and glamping are also part of the fun, whether you choose to bring your own tent or campervan, or prefer to book a glamping spot. Tickets are on sale now — and check out the full music lineup below: A Love Supreme Alex Intas Alinta McGrady APEman Asha Jefferies Avaxa Belt Ullrich Boom Boom Bean Selecta Buttercats C O L T S Captain Dreamboat Carlo Xavier Chakra Efendi CHURCH Cigany Weaver Cloe Terare Cool Sounds Dear Doonan Desmond Cheese Dream Coast DRMNGNOW Fascinator Feelsclub Felivand Fight Ibis Full Flower Moon Band Glasshead Great Sage Gypsy Cats Hannah D Harmon Hazards of Swimming Naked Herbal Infusers Imbi the Girl Jaguar Jonze Jono Ma & Cosmo Ritmo DJs Kallidad Kaylah Truth Kenta Hayashi Luminescence Lying Down Mantashade Middle Name Dance Band Mufaro Mumbles Omegachild Party Dozen Penelope Two Five Pocketlove Pocketmoth Requin Selecta Savage Simon Bird Strange Seed Sycco The Ancient Bloods The Dead Maggies The Deltafish (JPN) The Jensens The Oogars The Stragglers Tijuana Cartel Viscous Image: Jungle Love Music & Arts Festival, Aimee Catt.
There is nothing better than a sing-a-long to make you realise why you love live music in the first place. The people, the coming together – it's pure magic. This is exactly what the packed tent felt at Splendour last year when Foster The People took to the stage and made everyone in attendance blissfully happy with their set. Known for the stand out single that made them stars, 'Pumped Up Kicks', Foster The People are a trio from LA, and who have shown no signs of slowing down. If you hadn't checked out their debut album Torches, you would be surprised to know that these guys are actually immensely talented and have singles bursting right out of the record. For a band that struggled for many years to make it, they have had largely positive reviews and have become one of the biggest names of the past year. They've even been nominated for an MTV Music Award – and all from one track that cemented their careers and thrust them into the global limelight. Here in Australia for the Big Day Out national tour for the first time, this will be an amazing opportunity to see them in action before they explode and you have to scramble to get arena tickets.
Festivals seem to be a dime a dozen these days, with no weekend complete without some sort of celebration of film, music, food or all three. However, only one event sends most of Brisbane flocking to Musgrave Park en masse. That'd be Paniyiri Greek Festival, the city's source of autumn fun for 39 years and counting. Paniyiri is a kaleidoscopic cultural explosion. More than 50,000 people descend upon West End each year for the annual two-day tribute to the Hellenic Republic, and it's not hard to understand why. First, there's the entertainment, featuring dancing lessons, traditional music, comedy, fireworks, amusement rides and then some. Then, there's more spanakopita, baklava, Greek salad, haloumi and other tasty treats than you can possibly devour — including both olive and honey puff eating competitions, if you really want to try. Finally, there's the laidback vibe of people feasting, drinking and just being merry. There's a reason there's no other Brisbane festival quite like it, and not just because of the grape stomping. Yes, that really is part of the Paniyiri shenanigans.
Simone Hine and Clare Rae are Melbourne artists whose coupling has spawned an art exhibition nothing short of comfortable oscillation – Stages. As a collaborative piece, the work investigates the broader ideas related to the conditions of feminine representation. It explores stillness, motion, the relationship between the two and how they exist with the mediums of photography and moving images. Hine’s motif follows a practice of pictorial tradition, whilst creating new narratives out of cinematic tropes. She works beyond the linear expectation of cinema and image, to take what is familiar and generate new ideas and definitions. Rae uses stop-motion animation, photography and performance to navigate and expand the limitations of each mode, and the everyday environment we inhabit. She performs fleeting actions, suspended in time, and creates a tension between what is present and apparent, and the implied. Together, Stages presents new works with their own individual aesthetics and lines of questions. They redefine the space of Boxcopy, to something that dives beyond location, to something more abstract and oscillatory.
The World Press Photo Foundation is a global platform connecting professionals and audiences through raw visual journalism and storytelling. The organisation was founded in 1955 when a group of Dutch photographers organised a contest to expose their work to an international audience. Since then, the contest has grown into the world's most prestigious photography competition and global travelling exhibition. The 67th edition of the World Press Photo Exhibition is touching down in Brisbane in 2024 at Brisbane Powerhouse, displaying from Saturday, July 6–Sunday, August 4. The winners from this year's contest were chosen by an independent jury that reviewed 61,062 photographs by 3851 photographers from 130 countries — and while the exhibition only showcases a selection, get ready to peer at the best of the best. [caption id="attachment_961797" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Gay Space Agency © Mackenzie Calle.[/caption] At the free exhibition — which is open from 9am–5pm Monday–Tuesday and 9am–late Wednesday–Sunday — attendees can spy eye-catching images in a heap of categories, including contemporary issues, the environment, general news, nature, portraits and sports. No matter which corner of the earth these photos are capturing, or what's filling the frame, both the winners and other highlights comprise a stunning bunch of imagery — some arresting in their beauty, some hauntingly striking, many pivotally important. Two Australians feature in this year's winners, too, with Eddie Jim from The Age and Sydney Morning Herald and Aletheia Casey both recognised in southeast Asia and Oceania. [caption id="attachment_961796" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Saving the Monarchs © Jaime Rojo, for National Geographic.[/caption] Top images: A Lost Place © Aletheia Casey // Red Skies, Green Waters © Adriana Loureiro Fernandez, for The New York Times.
They're the sticky cinnamon scrolls that come drenched in glaze, are famous all across the USA, and also have quite the following in Australia. And, since 2019, they've been available in Brisbane. We're talking about Cinnabon, with the Seattle-born chain finally making the leap Down Under over the past few years — and setting up stores inside Brissie's Toombul and Garden City shopping centres. By the time that August is out, the bakery brand will have a third Brisbane location to its name, too. The new sticky scroll-slinging spot: Indooroopilly Shopping Centre. So, now the city's north, south and west will all be in close proximity to the coveted, icing-slathered baked goods. You'll find the new store on level one at Indro, outside Coles — and it's planning to open on Thursday, September 2. From then onwards, you'll be able to grab a scroll from 8am seven days a week. The world has changed since the first two local stores opened, but you can probably expect a queue. Even months after opening, the Toombul store still had a lengthy line, after all. Just like its other outlets, this one will sling a trio of Cinnabon cult classics, including the classic cream cheese cinnamon roll, the popular chocolate-drizzled Chocobon and very extra Caramel Pecanbon. They're available in both mini and large sizes, along with packs featuring either four or nine 'minibons'. There's coffee and lots of sugary drinks to pair with your snacks, too, including a cinnamon bun frappe. If you're yet to get acquainted with the decadent dessert creations, prepare yourself for aromatic, cinnamon-spiked dough made to a long-held recipe, decked out with stacks of signature cream cheese frosting and loaded with extras. They're notoriously tough to replicate. The Australian launch was first announced in January 2019, when family-run Queensland company Bansal Foods scored the Aussie rights to Cinnabon. Cinnabon has been going strong in America since 1985, so it has already picked up plenty of Aussie fans along the way. But it's only been in the past few years that Aussies have been able to get our hands on those sticky, cinnamon-infused baked goods on home soil. Cinnabon has also opened stores at Robina on the Gold Coast and in Melbourne, making its Indro outlet its fourth in Queensland fifth in Australia. Cinnabon will open on level one of Indooroopilly Shopping Centre, Moggill Road, Indooroopilly on Thursday, September 2. Updated August 30.
Youth Arts Queensland are getting into the festive spirit, while bidding goodbye to the 2013 program at the Bleeding Heart Gallery in Brisbane’s CBD. This is an evening of networking as much as it is celebration; some of the state’s finest emerging young artists will be showcasing their work, and what better way to celebrate the talents of these young artisans than unveiling the best of the year’s offerings. This is also a rare opportunity to purchase the works on display, and what better (and unique) gift than a piece created by a future big-time artist? Youth Arts Queensland is an organisation intended for the benefit of youth arts and cultural development across the state. YAQ provides support to young artists, and to the community networks that assist them, engaging professional sectors and individuals alike, to foster the amazing works you will see at the celebration. Be sure to arrive early, as there are canapés and raffle tickets shared on arrival. $10 will get those of age a glass of wine or beer and entry; $5 for the under-aged a softdrink.
Successful artist, Stephen Russell, is no stranger to the Brisbane art scene. He has graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours from QUT and is currently a founding co-director of the Artistic Run Initiative, Accidentally Annie Street Space. His art exists in the realm of sculpture and painting and has been shown in galleries across Australia such as, Boxcopy, QUT Art Museum, Metro Arts and as part of the 2012 Next Wave Festival in Melbourne. Torpor Audit is Stephen's latest exhibition showcase. In it he explores the duplicity of art works, in particular, the multiplicity of meanings expressed by a single piece. He displays how the social environment interacts with objects and images and the consequences of this. The opening night of the exhibition will be held on Friday 1 November 6.00pm. You can catch Torpor Audit from 31 October – 14 November.
It’s not hard to look hella-hot in locally desgined threads, so when a fresh label arrives on the scene the swoons tend to follow. Drop Shred Gorgeous is the Gold Coast born, skate and surf brand that just won’t quit – it’s makes cool, relaxed and trendy apparel that’s can turn any skag into the finest of culture kings. Now, to launch the label they’ll be trading in fine champagne and canapés, for a messy, beat-heavy night at Oh Hello. Hopefully the ‘skate brand launch party’ label will rid most of the Oh Hello dancefloor of it’s Ralph Lauren-sponsored yuppy crowd, but if not, just drop the term kickflip into conversations and they’ll migrate to The Met in a minute. The DJing likes of Dimestore Diamonds, The Gatling Gun, DJ Dzyr, Lu-na and Sezzo will be pumping out only the tastiest of beats all night, and better still, it will be EKKA eve so you can dance till the sun comes up and head straight on over to the RNA for a strawberry Sundae after. Tickets are $10, and while there won’t be a lucky door prize, Dropped Shred Gorgeous will be handing out gifts all night. They promise. Practice your skate talk, and get along to help launch a brand your wardrobe is soon going to be crowded with.
We hate to jump on the bandwagon of retailers telling you to get onto your Christmas shopping early this year, but sometimes we all need a little push and one retailer knows just the thing. Gift problem solvers since 2005, Etsy are stepping into the real world to host a four-day Christmas market. Thankfully, you (and that impossible-to-buy-for family member/partner/friend) are invited. If you're a regular Etsy trawler, you'll know that the rapidly growing host of online boutiques is home to many a talented designer and craft maker. Now, 53 of those excellent jewellers, artists, artisans, fashion and homewares designers are setting up shop at BrisStyle HQ from November 27-30. Get ahead of the last-minute department store stampedes and do your Christmas shopping in style this year. The market is open from 10am-2pm.
Your favourite afternoon of ladies, literature and endless love for Marieke Hardy is back. Women of Letters is back at the Powerhouse launching Between Us, a special new collection of letters from Australia's most eloquent ladies. If you haven't yet been, Women of Letters is a regular event co-curated by writers Marike Hardy and Michaela McGuire that attempts to drag the long lost art of letter-writing back into popular usage. Asking a host of successful ladies to the stage, Women of Letters is all about sharing stories and the celebrating the indomitable spirit of girl power. This instalment will be hosted by much-loved Brissie local Krissy Kneen. She will then be joined on stage by writer Kristina Olsson, journalist Susan Johnson and media superstar Madonna King. Grab tickets via Brisbane Powerhouse or at the door, if still available.
It's a longstanding qualm some people have with female comedians that they're always talking about their genitalia. Those people might not enjoy this show. Returning to Australia again after her last batch of sold-out performances and seriously high praise, US comedian, performance artist and one half of the Wau Wau Sisters Adrienne Truscott is quite literally baring all in her critically-acclaimed, one-woman show about rape culture. Dressed only from the waist up, Truscott is taking aim at the likes of Daniel Tosh and his controversial comments of last year, and is dragging the art of the 'rape joke' to breaking point. After five-star reviews at the Edinburgh Fringe, Adrienne Truscott's Asking for It is one the most-talked about shows of the past year (for better or worse).
Combine classical minimalism with metal and punk and you have for yourself the hand-coined genre unique to Ben Frost. This Australian-born, Iceland-based musician is heading to the Brisbane Powerhouse this Wednesday to deliver his latest instalment of powerful work. Frost's most recent album Aurora succeeds a string of five albums all praised for being musically gutsy, almost to the point of physically assaultive. BBC's David Stubbs says Frost's sound "reaches right out of the thought bubble and punches you out of your skin." This isn't your male take on Enja — Frost draws on the mysterious energies of Icelandic music, to produce a rather roof-shaking sound. Frost is joined by fellow sonic artist Lawrence English for a special Room40 event at the Powerhouse. Expect to be entranced by a sonic blending of brute force and percussive intensity. This music is meant to be felt, not just heard.
Life can be tough. Sometimes, things gets better. Sometimes, they don't. That's the seesaw we're all riding, the ebbing and flowing waves we're all surfing, and the merry-go-round we're all on. Yep, there's plenty of ways to describe the ups and downs we all experience, and just as many sayings that try to offer hope as well. UQ Art Museum's latest exhibition addresses one of them in its moniker: The Dust Never Settles. We've all heard the phrase "when the dust settles". But, what if it doesn't? Recognising the reality of human existence, that's the idea at the heart of their latest showcase. From April 13 to July 30, nearly 30 artists will probe just what it means when a better future doesn't come, conflict remains, and problems still simmer across 73 art works spanning everything from prints to etchings to video installations. Image: Angelica Mesiti, born 1976 Sydney, New South Wales. Lives and works Paris, France and Sydney, New South Wales. The Calling (video still), 2013–2014. Three-channel High Definition digital video, sound. Duration: 00:35:36, edition A/P 2. Collection of The University of Queensland, purchased 2016. Reproduced courtesy of the artist and Anna Schwartz Gallery, Melbourne.
Everyone likes accumulating unusual items, a pastime that dates back centuries. In Renaissance Europe for example, storing strange objects in cabinets of curiosities — also called wunderkammer — was the done thing. Natural wonders, religious relics, works of art, antiquities and other odds and ends would line shelves, often taking up entire rooms. These collections weren't just eclectic and eccentric; they were designed to offer a microcosm of the broader world. Think of them as the precursors to museums, because that's what they were. And that's what the University of Queensland Art Museum is celebrating in an exhibition comprised of two parts: groups of bizarre, peculiar and all-round interesting items, all placed together for people to marvel at. First, witness a showcase of scientific and medical instruments, religious paraphernalia, coins, illuminated manuscripts and contemporary artworks, displayed as they might have been years earlier. Then, feast your eyes on a wunderkammer conceived by Her Divine Holiness Pope Alice, aka Australian artist Luke Roberts. If the whole collection isn't strange and curious, then we don't know what is. Image: Peter Madden, 1966-; Butterfly bones 2007. Plastic, wood, paper and resin. 28.0 x 25.0 x 40.0 cm. Collection of Dr Morris Low, Brisbane. Reproduced courtesy of the artist and Robert Heald Gallery, Wellington. Photo by Carl Warner.
It’s rarely socially acceptable to exchange sanity and bodily competence for loss of mind, spirit and dignity at the hands of copious amounts of alcohol. Birthdays, deaths, Breaking Bad finales, and Oktoberfest are just a few green cards – but only one calls for a fresh pressed pair of lederhosen to accompany. It’s Oktoberfest time again, and if you’ve successfully shaken last year’s hangover you’ve got no excuse but to join in the hoo-ha. Oktoberfest Brisbane will be Germaning up the RNA Showgrounds with traditional food, hand crafted beer, rock und roll, and we’ll mention the beer again for safe keeping. There are also plenty of family activities like a petting zoo, tasty gingerbread and traditional German dodgem cars, so don't be thinking this is strictly for the anti-AA; it's completely kid friendly. Brisbane’s Oktoberfest has been voted in the top 10 best outside of Germany, so stick local for this booze up day of cultural appreciation, and head to the RNA Showgrounds this, and/or next weekend, beer stein in hand.
Fashionistas take your marks, get set, go! Yes, it's that time of year again when Blonde Venus and The Outpost drastically reduce their prices and open their doors for the hoards of fashion hungry trend setters eager to snatch a bargain. Held from Friday to Sunday, this bi-annual sale has developed a bit of a rep around our town. Known for its awesome brands and super duper cheap prices, missing out on this sale means you will spend the next six months kicking yourself and drooling over the pretty pieces your friend picked up. Brands on sale include Karen Walker, Lover, Antipodium, Dr Denim, Cheap Monday, House of Cards and many more. Plus, the stores have slashed their prices by as much as 80%. Head to 65 James Street this weekend and get your hands on some gorgeous goodies. Both your wallet and your wardrobe will thank you!
If there's one film festival that the big-screen adaptation of Tim Winton's Breath was made to play at, it's the Gold Coast Film Festival. The book and movie might be set on the other side of the country, but screening an Aussie-made surfing-focused effort at the southeast Queensland beachside tourist spot's annual celebration of cinema just makes sense, really. Hitting up the fest before the film's general release in early May — with director and actor Simon Baker in attendance, alongside young up-and-comers Samson Coulter and Ben Spence — Breath is one of 40 features screening at this year's GCFF, which runs from April 17 to 29. Other Australian highlights include opening night's The Second and closing night's Brother's Nest. The former was made in Queensland, is destined for streaming service Stan, and stars Rachael Blake, Susie Porter, Vince Colosimo and Martin Sacks in a tale of two female friends and one tricky second novel. The latter black comedy comes from brothers Shane and Clayton Jacobson, and stumbles into much darker territory than the title they're best known for, aka Kenny. Still on the local front, the festival's 2018 program also features the South Australian-shot, Martin Freeman-starring zombie thriller Cargo, plus queer body-swap effort Pulse, two films that have been doing the rounds of the fest circuit. Scoping out flicks from the rest of the globe, German coming-of-age effort Axolotl Overkill, Cannes hit I Am Not a Witch, Oscar-nominated Russian drama Loveless, acclaimed art-house epic Zama, and the Paul Rudd and Steve Coogan-starring Ideal Home are also on the lineup. On the special events front, GCFF will once again venture onto a boat, to a brewery, by the water and more, spreading the cinematic love wherever it can. Fancy revisiting American Pie while you're cruising the Goldie waterways (and thinking of your schoolies exploits, admit it)? Or catching Fight Club at Burleigh Brewing Co.? Or the dance flick duo of Strictly Ballroom and Happy Feet by Kirra beach? They're all on the bill, as is the festival's first virtual reality showcase and two days of free anime at the Broadbeach mall. The Gold Coast Film Festival runs from April 17 to 29 at HOTA, Home of The Arts (the former Gold Coast Arts Centre) and other venues on the Gold Coast. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the festival website.
New music festivals aren't the first thing that springs to mind when anyone thinks about the pandemic, but Brisbane did indeed score one back in 2021. To encourage River City residents to get out and support the city's live music scene, which needed the love during a tough period, Brisbane Winter Sessions was born — and it's now back for 2023. During its first run, the fest ran for six days, held 30-plus gigs and took over 16 venues. The numbers are a bit different in 2023; however, the same aim and spirit remains. So, Brisbanites will have ten days between Friday, July 28–Sunday, August 6 to hit the dance floor around Fortitude Valley, Newstead and Woolloongabba, including at both free and ticketed events. [caption id="attachment_909090" align="alignnone" width="1920"] katexjean[/caption] The highlights start with two days of blues, roots and soul tunes at The Triffid, where the Newstead Roots Weekender will take over with two stages, more than 25 musicians getting behind the microphone, DJs spinning tunes till late and the venue's kitchen pumping out snacks. Or, over at The Princess Theatre, a pair of big ticketed events will make the most of the revamped 130-plus-year-old space: Ngaiire teaming up with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, which also falls under this year's Open Season program; and Set Roulette, another Open Season inclusion, this time featuring Kwame, Hatchie, Jesswar, RVG, BIG WETT, Andy Golledge, Party Dozen and Safety Club. At the latter, a giant wheel will be spun onstage to decide who plays when. [caption id="attachment_870971" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Zennieshia Butts[/caption] Brisbane Winter Sessions will also include a street party-inspired DJ night at Hey Chica!, Dizzy Days at Finn McCool's and Fluffy All Stars at Cloudland. The Tyrone Noonan Trio is headed to Black Bear Lodge, as is Some Folk Event feauturing Alivan Blu, Myki Jay and Milk Buttons. This fest mightn't be debuting this time, but Brisbane is still scoring more new music events — such as Sweet Relief!, which is locked in for September during Brisbane Festival with Australian-exclusive Groove Armada and The Avalanches sets. [caption id="attachment_707293" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Black Bear Lodge[/caption] Brisbane Winter Sessions will take place between Friday, July 28–Sunday, August 6 across venues in Fortitude Valley, Newstead and Woolloongabba. For further details and to grab tickets, head to the Brisbane City Council website. Top image: Zennieshia Butts.
Head to The Hold Artspace for the latest solo exhibition from Nathan Corum. Cinema Faux Ever will make you think differently about cinema as it invites you to re-examine the major components of this art form. Corum strips back theatre and everything it encompasses in order to shake up any preconceived ideas you may have developed. Corum treats cinema as a shared experience and as playing both an important and interesting role in our busy lives. Think beyond the choc-tops and popcorn and join Corum as he delves into the individual components of the cinematic space. This exhibition is held at West End's The Hold Artspace. Owned by Luke Kidd and Kyle Spear, this gallery showcases the work of early to mid-career artists and whole-heartedly fosters local talent. Cinema Faux Ever is running from Wednesday 26 – Saturday 30.
When you’re good friends with notorious photographer Mark the Cobra Snake, your sister Devon is a supermodel, you count The Bloody Beetroots as co-workers and a day at the office is behind the decks, life can’t help but seem like one giant party. Living this hotshot lifestyle is Electro House DJ and party professional Steve Aoki. The Californian shot to fame thanks to his reputation as a DIY party maker and his highly danceable remixes of tracks by Drake, Bloc Party, Robin Thicke and Kid Cudi. He is also the founder of Dim Mak Records, the label responsible for MSTRKRFT, Klaxons, Mystery Jets and The Bloody Beetroots. Not bad for a kid who once played on his high school’s Badminton team eh? If you’ve attended on of Steve Aoki’s highly energetic, highly memorable shows, you’ll know very well that just about anything and everything goes. If you’re yet to see the mix-master in action, now is your chance. In the country on tour with the Future Music Festival, Steve Aoki will be treating Brisbane to a special sideshow thanks to merry makers The Arcade Creative. Supporting him behind the decks will be fellow Dim Mak friend Tai as well as the very best local acts. BYO dancing shoes.
After spending 12 years in New York, Australian multimedia artist Tracey Moffatt returned home to continue her creative journey. Spirited showcases the result, the Gallery of Modern Art compiling her most recent, locally crafted work into an exhibition that explores how we inhabit places and are inhabited by them. Commencing with an opening keynote conversation and discussion tour, the exhibition premieres Moffatt’s major new video work, Art Calls 2014, in which she plays a TV talk show host. Also featuring is Spirit landscapes 2013, comprised of five photographic series and a digital photo frame. Alongside her own pieces, Moffatt has chosen 13 works from the QAGOMA collection by artists including Doreen Reid Nakamarra, William Robinson, John Pule, Ian Fairweather, Simryn Gill and Bridget Riley. Each complements Moffatt’s contemplation of the connection between the landscape and the mind and spirit, as does the specially selected screenings of John Ford’s celebrated 1952 film, The Quiet Man.
Every Brisbanite has caught a CityCat at some point. Since picnic boats started motoring up and down the river, you might've eaten lunch while sailing through the city with your mates, too. And, you could've also pedalled a floating bike along the waterway — because, when it comes to making the most of this River City, there's no shortage of options. The next way to cruise down the Brown Snake comes courtesy of Museum of Brisbane, with the CBD venue launching its own boat tours. Obviously, you won't be hopping onboard at its usual address. Instead, you'll mosey down to the City Botanic Gardens, then spend three hours floating past historic landmarks. Kicking off on Wednesday, November 3, and running every Wednesday and Sunday through till Sunday, December 19, the Tides of Brisbane boat tours will dive deep into Brissie history — verbally, not literally, of course. So, you'll hear about important sites, convict-built structures and more, all while soaking in quite the view. The latter is one of the reasons that new ways to hop on the river keep popping up, after all. This is Museum of Brisbane's first-ever series of boat tours, following its popular walking options — such as its new public art tour that launched earlier in 2021. Twenty people can hop onboard at once, and each $120 tour includes a stop at Sea Legs Brewing Co in Kangaroo Point; however, you will need to pay extra for food and drink. Museum of Brisbane's Tides of Brisbane tours start sailing from Wednesday, November 3, running every Wednesday and Sunday through till Sunday, December 19. For more information, or to book, head to the Museum of Brisbane website.
What do you get when a celebration of Brisbane's inner west turns into a 21st birthday shindig? That'd be this year's Caxton Street Festival. The Paddington street party has come of age, and it's sharing its presents with the masses. Think food, music and a good time all round. On the culinary side of things, the festival has come a long way since it also included the words "seafood" and "wine" in its name, as those with long memories might recall. There's still plenty of fresh ocean bounty to feast on, as well as vino to wash it down with; however, street eats and pop-up bars will also showcase Caxton Street's numerous purveyors of food and beverages. When it comes to tunes, there's something for everyone, whether roots and reggae, killer rock, buzzsaw guitar riffs or upbeat indie pop is your thing. The Beautiful Girls, Phil Jamieson, DZ Deathrays, Thelma Plum, Hey Geronimo and more will blast their sounds from multiple stages. Prepare to be dancing in the street, Bowie and Jagger style.
These days, Zac Efron is making serial killer movies and getting stuck in the outback, Vanessa Hudgens has Spring Breakers on her resume, and song-filled, school-set Romeo and Juliet adaptations aren't sashaying across our screens. Back in 2006, it was different. That's when audiences were only just discovering High School Musical — the Disney TV movie that spawned two sequels, thrust its stars to fame and made viewers everywhere wonder just how many hats a teenager might need. Because there's never a bad time to celebrate the original High School Musical — which turns 16 in 2o22 — and because blasts from the past never go out of style, The Brightside is throwing a huge party that's all about the hit movie. Step back in time from 11pm on Saturday, May 14, and dance to 00s tunes from the film like you're a class newcomer falling for the resident basketball star. Actually, with Disney slinging plenty of other hits over the past few decades, you can expect plenty of love for — and songs from — the mouse house's huge catalogue as well. If you haven't belted out 'Hakuna Matata' at a bar, have you really taken its message to heart? From fellow animated classics like Aladdin and The Little Mermaid, to the likes of ex-Mouseketeers like Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake, prepare to get mighty nostalgic — all for a $20 ticket. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zL4ZEWYsmuw
Three days before the album is due for its official launch in Wee Waa, Daft Punk's Random Access Memories has been leaked in full right here on iTunes (if the streaming option doesn't appear at first, keep hitting refresh). Not a bad way to start a Tuesday, but will this album ever live up to its hype? [Via Gizmodo]
Last autumn, the sweet fiends behind Victoria's hot chocolate and ice cream festivals launched a virtual month-long sugar extravaganza dedicated to sweet, nutty, marshmallowy rocky road. It replaced its usual Yarra Valley Rocky Road Festival, with the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery hosting online tasting sessions and shipping out giant boxes filled with 31 different flavours of rocky road. In 2021, the festival has been running physically — and, if you'd like to eat along at home, it's also doing deliveries again. With Victoria back in lockdown until 11.59pm on Thursday, June 3, ordering in a sweet treat might be just what Melburnians need at the moment. You have a few options — whether you're in Melbourne or elsewhere around the country. If you'd like to get the mammoth Ultimate Rocky Road Box delivered to your door, that'll set you back $110. Flavours include limoncello, Baileys, berry tiramisu, salted caramel macadamia, pretzel, neapolitan, rum and raisin and many, many more. You can check out all of them online. Elsewhere on the shop's delivery menu, you'll find pick-and-mix packs and a create-your-own option — where you can choose your favourite types of chocolate, nuts, extra nuts, marshmallows, jellies, extras and toppings. The boxes can be delivered anywhere within Australia for a flat rate of $15.
Forget Okkervil River, Mountain Goats, and Dune Rats, what the world needs right now is Cave. These Chicago born hypno-giants are legends on the global psychedelic rock rink, and will be gracing The Zoo stage this Wednesday. Formed in 2006, this is Cave’s first trip down under, and they're pretty damn eager to transport audiences to a place that borders pure euphoria and high energy chills with their hypno-tunes. Cave are notorious in their homeland, America, for producing psychedelic sludge, that has a dynamic, and ever shifting sound – their fourth and latest record Threace is a throbbing testament to this. Local boys Cobwebbs and Ghost Notes will be warming the stage, in a night that promises to be as sporadic as it is sensational. This gig’s going to be a loud and a by no means gentle ride, so grab a ticket, invest in some earplugs and brace yourself for a sonic expedition led by Cave.
Brisbanites, you'd best kick off your Monday shoes — it's time to get footloose on the dance floor. From April to June, Flowstate is hosting free weekly hour-long dance classes led by the precinct's Neridah Waters. If you've always wanted to strut your stuff in a public space, here's your chance. There are two sessions on offer, but Mondays are all about lights, lycra, making shapes and making a scene. The class is called Too Hot to Dance, after all. It's the option for folks who want to dance like no one's watching — but, while everyone is actually watching. Dressing up is encouraged, with the fun kicking off at 5.30pm on April 30, then running every week until June 18. And, while busting a move won't cost you a cent, don't forget to register in advance. If that's not your thing, Thursdays are dedicated to being comfortable and not feeling self-conscious at Common People Dance. It's exactly what it sounds like: an inclusive class for everyone, with all skill levels welcome.
Over the past year, The Griswolds have scored every Australian band's dream trifecta: a gig at Parklife, a successful European tour and a global record deal. "It feels like a dream come true," they said in an April interview with FBi, "but to be honest, it's been a really trippy twelve months, and we still can't believe what is happening." As you're reading this, the Sydney-based group's cheeky lyrics, fine-tuned harmonies and idiosyncratic percussion are hitting airwaves in the Northern Hemisphere, via the US release of their debut EP. The boys themselves, however, have been on home soil of late, recording a new track with 2012 Unearthed Artist of the Year nominee Chance Waters. Having done their time in the studio, they're now about to hit the road together on a lightning-fast, four-date east coast tour, More than Just Friends. https://youtube.com/watch?v=58iSZlM_8hY
Bleeding Heart’s first exhibition for 2013, Crossroad is a unique photographic documentation of the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011. Presented by Team Sakura, the exhibition is a way of celebrating the regions affected by the natural disaster. The Great East Japan Earthquake struck on 11 March, 2011, the impacts of which are still being felt to this day. Widespread homelessness, financial ruin and loss of loved ones have been overcome with small steps over time, solidifying communities and their shared spirit. This exhibition not only documents the progress made but emphasizes the importance of the communities we live in. The one-time-only exhibition will be held at the Bleeding Heart Cafe, Gallery and Art Shop in Brisbane City daily, however opening times are known to change depending on the exhibition. A special opening night celebration will be held on Friday 4 January, and all are welcome to attend.
After premiering at Melbourne's 2015 Neon Festival of Independent Theatre, We Get It is coming to Brisbane Powerhouse for a short seven-show season. Which is lucky for us, as this production received rave reviews by paying tribute to some of history's leading heroines... and pitting them against each other in a full-scale battle royale. Beginning Wednesday, June 15, Elbow Room's We Get It boasts an enviable cast from the original Melbourne Theatre Company production, including Tamiah Bantum, Amy Ingram, Kasia Kaczmarek, Maurial Spearim, Sonya Suares and Emily Tomlins. Under the direction of Tomlins and Marcel Dorney, the actors will reimagine five classics for the modern age, in a playful performance that will challenge the way you think about these iconic characters — as well as the women who portray them. There will also be a post-show conversation on Thursday, June 23 with the team from Elbow Room.
No two Necks concerts are ever the same. The Necks are a trio of musicians, a wholly improvisational act, born from personal penchants for the humble jam session. Between their some 25 years, 17 albums and worldwide stages, they have won over masses of critics and now call the likes of Brian Eno and Nick Cave their fans. Their one restriction to their sound is the limits of their own instruments, which are given their own voices and guide the music where it wants to go. Nothing is said between the band members - Chris Abrahams (piano), Lloyd Swanton (bass) and Tony Buck (percussions) - before any show; they are committed to creating a truly unique and unrehearsed sound, a personalised experience for their audience. This is a band you can see many times over, and their biggest fans do. Come along to experience The Necks, the band that the New York Times describes as “one of the greatest bands in the world”.
