We’re not all that bad here in ye olde Bristown, in fact, most of the time we’re quite good! Because of how good we are, we definitely deserve a three-week pat on the back - ergo, Brisbane Festival. From the 3rd to the 24th, you won’t be able to get away from all the ridiculously amazing events that our little river city has to offer. There’s the Courier-Mail Spiegeltent, which will be housing the likes of Kimbra & Mosman Adler, Andy Bull & Emma Louise, Graveyard Train, Lior and more during its stint in King George Square. Then there's South Bank, which will be the best vantage point for the Festival’s opening event – Riverfire. That is, if you can manage to elbow your way through the million-people-deep pit of people plastered (literally and figuratively) on the riverside. Or, for the more claustrophobically inclined, it’s streamed on the telly as well. That Brisbane Festival team have got it covered! There’s a ridiculous amount of other things to do as well, too many for me to mention in such a small article. My suggestion: check out the Brisbane Festival website and organise how you’ll celebrate our city for the next few weeks. Happy Festival-ing!
It is a new world order and the pigs have taken over! I know what you're thinking, 'yeah, when pigs fly!', but you're just denying that you really know what I'm talking about. Yes, it's Animal Farm. We all read it at high school, and now local dynamic theatre company Shake and Stir are bringing the text to life on the QPAC stage. So, if you avoided reading it and got by with the SparkNotes version instead, then here's a refresher: essentially the piggies on the Jones’ farm have realised that humans are parasites and kick old man Jones off the farm. They take control using the philosophy of Animalism, the crux of which is ‘All animals are equal’. All is good for a while with the animals living happily as pigs in mud, but then the quest for power rears its ugly head and finally the piggies decide that ‘All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others’. Ugh, what a load of hogwash! All hell breaks loose and, well, you know/may have forgotten the rest. Prepare to be as delighted as a you-know-what when you see what Shake and Stir have in store.
Kerbside is definitely one of the most visually appealing bars in Brisbane. Easy and entertaining on the eyes, the graffiti decor, amazing art and comfortable pre-loved furniture has made the laneway bar a favourite destination amongst locals and the perfect excuse to head out for a coffee, lunch and/or drinks. But like all great over achievers, Kerbside are looking to give their venue a unique, arty facelift. If you're someone who can creatively and effectively douse spray paint over a blank wall, Kerbside is looking for you. This great opportunity for artist exposure is open to entries until Thursday April 18. If you're a street artist with some amazing design ideas stashed under your hat, head over to the Kerbside Facebook page and post examples of your work showcasing your ideas and methods as well as a small spiel on what you're graffiti decor plans for the place are. Don't forget to keep in mind Kerbside's current style in mind when you're planning your master piece. You never know, it might be your art that everyone is complimenting over a cider in the coming months.
Addiction. It’s a fraught word. Initial thoughts turn to booze and drugs, but in reality addictions reach further afield - carbs, shopping, watching Breaking Bad, facebook, sex. In fact there is an addiction to fit all types. X is the new performance by Sunny Drake exploring addiction through the world of Caitlin and Jamie, two best friends, alongside Naked and Fancy, two puppets. Drake delves into the quick fixes and obsessions that inhabit our lives and draw us in. This is a one-man show encompassing a range of different elements including stop-motion animation, puppetry and live performance, allowing the audience various entry points into the work. Drake has centered the piece in LGBTIQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, intersex and queer) experiences. This is core to Drake’s work; he seeks to make art that reflects his experience as a queer transgendered person. Alongside this though his theatre is always fun and engaging for the audience, but it should leave them with a few questions and new ideas to ponder. Following the premiere season of X at Metro Arts the show will take the world by storm when Drake takes the production to North America for the USA National Queer Arts Festival.
You’ve all heard of the fab West End Twilight Markets, but here’s a refresher for the sleepyheads – it’s a monthly jamboree of excitement, bursting with stalls full of all things sustainable, engaging and creative. Catering to those with a love of the unusual and arty, it’s the meeting space for a community of eclectics. Something for everyone, and everything for someone. With a focus on bespoke sustainable goods, their aim is to change the world through bazaars. Starting this Saturday 14 April, there will be a new stall in town and you won’t want to miss its arrival. The 4ZZZ Brisbane Music Stall will be officially opening it’s doors and bringing to the masses a one stop shop for independent music lovers. Stocking a variety of products from local artists including CDs, vinyls, and other merchandise goodies, you’ll find something that’s sweet to the ear. Helping them celebrate on the night are performances by Inland Sea, Pear and the Awkward Orchestra, Steve Grady, Mardi Lumsden and the Rising Seas, and Baque Australis. Don’t miss this opportunity to tete-a-tete with those whose interests are akin to you, after all there’s food, music and a good time to be had.
Thursday night student night is fast becoming a competitive scene around Brisbane with venues fighting for the cheapest drinks prices and the most entertaining live acts. Cobra Kai Club Night is working its way up the ranks as one of Thursdays top hot spots for those who want to have an affordable good night out. With the combination of two huge indie parties, Cobra Kai is playing dirty this Easter Thursday and bringing you headliners Bass Drum Of Death with Morning Harvey, Royal Blood and a DZ Deathrays DJ Set for the Cobra Kai Vs I Oh You night of noise. Having toured the world with bands like Wavves, Best Coast, Smith Westerns and Unknown Mortal Orchestra, everyone is getting a bit exited over Bass Drum's first ever Australian venture. To celebrate the loss of their Aussie virginity, it's only appropriate we show them all the reasons to return to Brisbane in the future. The usual deal is to show up around 10, because no one ever leaves their house before then. But, this week doors will open at 7pm with party folk invited to begin the celebrations early on in the eve. Make the most of Easter Thursday with your buddies at Oh Hello.
Hate when you can't afford a gig or miss out on tickets? Never fear, because the new-ish concept of DJ set after parties are here to dry your tears. Beirut are playing at The Hi-Fi this Thursday, but tickets aren't dirt cheap, so if you're a little (or a lot) broke after the Christmas/New Year period, you'll be trying to save costs wherever you can. And why not save your cash by going to the official Beirut DJ set and after party at Oh Hello!? If you're already one of the lucky peeps who's seeing the American natives – who are in town hot off the heels of their Falls/Southbound slot – you can get half price entry if you show your Hi-Fi stamp at the door. How's that for 2-for-1? Joining in on the after party fun are locals Blonde on Blonde who tag themselves as sounding like The Kills slash The Dandy Warhols, which obviously needs to be seen to be understood completely. Topping off the night are the sensational, as always, Cobra Kai DJs that will be mixing up the best indie/party/hip hop favourites. It sounds like less of an after party and more of an actual party all on its own!
?? They coveted the enunciated British-twang sound that now floods our airwaves and still hold the title of fastest selling UK debut album of all time for Whatever People Say I am, That's What I'm Not. Lead singer Alex Turner is the songwriter to end all songwriters, penning the ultimate indie club track, 'I Bet That You Look Good On The Dancefloor', which has had more than it's fair share of spins. Whether you love them or you 'ate them, there's no denying the infectious music and lyrics of the Arctic Monkeys. They are one of those rare bands whose music stands out like a sore thumb. Who could forget 'Fluorescent Adolescent', 'Mardy Bum' or 'Old Yellow Bricks'? Maybe it's just me, but I'm an old Monkeys fan from way back. It hasn't been long since the 4-piece band from Sheffield were on our shores last: they did the Big Day Out 2009 tour – I picked myself off the floor of a portaloo just to see their set (I had a stomach bug, okay!?) – and a national tour in 2010. Now they are back in every major city after completing their Southbound/Falls headline spot. Actually, on-stage at Falls on New Years Eve, they enraged many when they walked off stage at 11.58pm, missing the countdown. Thankfully, their Brisbane show won't allow for any time related mishaps (we hope), so you know you won't be let down. Hey, it's the Arctic Monkeys, could you ever really be let down? The lucky Rachel Fuller from our Sydney site got to interview the ever-sexy Alex Turner, you can check out the interview here!
It is near impossible to describe Crystal Castles. They really are in a category all of their own when it comes to musical style and sound – categorised as experimental electronic music, in reality though, this hardly encompasses everything you can hear. You might know them from their heavy rotation on Triple J, particularly Baptism, which has been flogged to the high heavens. From their roots in Toronto, Ethan Kath and Alice Glass have since stormed the music scene, with their 2008 debut (self titled) listed in NME’s top 100 albums of the decade at number #39. Their second album built upon this success, reaching number one on electronic music charts and sending them off touring the globe, including Australia. This week they're in town and will perform their widely talked about stage show. Recently Glass broke her ankle, but kept up the stage antics ala our own Patience Hodgson (despite the leg in a cast). Oh yes, this will be more than a gig, it will be an experience.
Contrary to popular belief, tennis isn't always that boring. If you've ever been forced to watch it by your parents or boyfriend, you can suddenly feel your eyes going from one side of the screen to the other, and before you know it you're on the ground doing the Lleyton Hewitt “C'mon!”. The Brisbane International tennis tournament may not be one of the best known sports competitions, but it doesn't been it's any less important. The Queensland leg of the ATP World Tour 250 Series is integral to tennis itself, and is scheduled just before the Australian Open. In the years since its inception in the 70s, Brisbane has played host to thousands of talented professional players, including Andy Roddick, the aforementioned legend Lleyton Hewitt, Kim Clijsters, Martina Hingis, Samantha Stosur and Anna Kournikova. Tickets are quite cheap and the tournament runs for a whole week, so there'll be plenty of chances to see your favourite stars in action over these holidays. You'll be cheering along with a big home crowd, and who knows, you might even spy some celebrities.
The abject, the dark, the forgotten and the strange are the characters in Daydream Believers. Abstract figures and landscapes inhabit the sculptures, photographs, prints and figurines in the latest exhibition at IMA. The exhibition responds to the essay ‘Figures of Authority, Ciphers of Regression’ written by Benjamin Buchloch in 1981. In this essay Buchloch explores the early-twentieth-century avant-gardists and their movement away from abstraction to return to more traditional figurative themes and styles. Daydream Believers is an exhibition of works by people who share Buchloch’s sensibilities. These artists explore history in all its horror, detailing abstract mythical beasts, dark landscapes and strange behaviours of earlier times. The exhibition includes glass paintings, monoprints, tapestries, furniture and figurines created by some of Australia and New Zealand’s most interesting modern artists. Featured in the exhibition are gothic prints by Jason Greig alongside decaying black and white photographs and layered images by David Noonan. John Spiteri creates eclectic glass paintings, sculptures and figurines and Francis Upritchard has produced mythical sculptural installations for this exhibition. This is a journey into the fantastical and the avant-garde, all with a historical bent.
Ahhh! The Neverending Story – the go-to movie for any child of the 80s. I have many fond memories of watching this film on repeat as a kid. It was considered by us all to be ‘The Greatest Movie of All Time’. That is until you watch it again as an adult… If I may pass on some wisdom, just don’t do it, keep those memories safe. For the uninitiated, The Neverending Story is about a young boy, Bastian, who can’t seem to keep his feet on the ground. When he discovers a dusty old novel called The Neverending Story, he becomes so caught up in the mystical world of Fantasia and its fantastical creatures that the borders between story and reality begin to blur into one. Bastian goes on a journey to help save Fantasia from ‘the Nothing’, which is destroying everything that comes into its path. The perfect way to relive your past without tainting the good times is to head over to QPAC to see their latest stage production for a fresh take on this classic fantasy. There will be laughter, there will be tears, but most importantly you will be keeping your inner child alive without destroying all that you thought was good in the world.
QUT Art Museum will be displaying artwork by two leading Australian contemporary artists, Jon Cattapan and eX de Medici in an exhibition that pays homage to the efforts of the Australian Defence Force. Perspectives aims to portray a holistic view of war and peacekeeping in order to provide a clear sense of what a soldier's responsibilities are, including their experiences and sacrifices. Both artists have travelled to war torn countries and were inspired by the efforts of Australian soldiers. Many of Cattapan's paintings depict images taken through night vision goggles and Medici's artwork focuses on the peacekeeping operations in the Solomon Islands. The artists first hand insights provide meaning to their interesting pieces. Perspectives is held from 21 April – 24 June. Artist Jon Cattapan will be attending the opening night on Friday 20 April and will be interviewed on Saturday 21 April 11 – 12 pm at the QUT Art Museum. The exhibition will be running during one of our nation's most significant days. Anzac Day is drenched in tradition and history and plays an important role in the identity of Australia. Therefore, Perspectives is a timely and educational exhibition.
Checking over this year’s French Film Festival guide I hovered over the description for Romantics Anonymous. When I read a quote stating that this film was like “Amelie meets Chocolat” my heart literally started beating a little faster. Two of the cutest and interesting romantic French/ French-esque films (which I’m completely a sucker for) - how could I refuse? Romantics Anonymous did not disappoint and now it’s back on the big screen for a short time only at Dendy Portside. Romantics Anonymous tells the story of Angélique (Isabelle Carré), a gifted chocolate-maker whose incredible shyness prevents her from acknowledging her talents, and Jean-René (Benoît Poelvoorde), owner of a chocolate factory who also suffers from a similar case of overwhelming shyness which threatens to drown his company. When Jean-René hires Angelique to help save the business the two develop affections for each other but have a very strange way of showing it. This film is incredibly cute and awkward with unexpected humour thrown into the mix. There is unusual romance and the film also looks into the lives of individuals whose irrational fear of life has reduced them to margins of functionality. Watching the pair overcome their crippling awkwardness to find love proves a delectable and sweet journey.
Despite being many kilometers and continents away from the country of Croissants, berets and good wine, Brisbane has its fair share of Francophiles. Thankfully once again, from 16 March to 3 April, this group of accent loving people can leave their adopted homes of the faux Eiffel Tower in Milton and Brisbane’s Hermes boutique and head to Palace Cinemas to enjoy the annual French Film Festival presented by the Alliance Française. A chic French themed party will mark the opening of the festival, where attendees will be treated to canapés, wine and the screening of Potiche. The movie, which contains a stellar cast including Catherine Deneuve, Gérard Depardieu and Fabrice Luchini, was last year chosen to appear at both the Toronto International Film Festival and Venice International Film Festival. Other standout movie events from the festival include the 22 March screening of Angele and Tony, with a guest appearance from elegant French actress and Ambassador of French Cinema – Next Generation, Clotilde Hesme, as well as showings of crime thrillers Sphinx, White as Snow and documentary The Arrivals. Finally, the French are known for their bourgeois lifestyle as much as they are for their cheese and baguettes, so what better way to end the festival than with a fashion and love themed evening and showing of YSL & P.Berge l’Amour Fou, the story of Yves Saint Laurent and his glamorous life?
Sock puppets are hardly the building blocks for a captivating story, which is why boy girl wall is creating such a stir within the performance word. The creation of award-winning independent theatre-makers The Escapists, boy girl wall tells the tale of two neighbours bought together, told with the help of sock puppets, chalk, a projector and over two-dozen characters. One fourth of The Escapists Lucas Stibbard, along with puppetry, physical performance, stand-up and illustrations, depicts the story of Thom and Aletha, two neighbours in a West End apartment block who are desperately trying to keep their lives from falling apart. Though strangers at first, the two have a lot in common, namely they are both on the verge of loosing their jobs and are simultaneously experiencing the worst weeks of their life. Seeing that they could both use a shoulder to cry on is the building that they live in. Walls come down and the beginning of a lover story presents itself. Adding to the whimsy and sentiment of the witty performance is live music from Escapist member Neridah Waters. After sell out seasons at Metro Arts and the Adelaide Fringe, boy girl wall is now being re-drawn for La Boite's main stage and is well worth a watch.
I'm going to go out on a limb here and say I bet I'm not the only one that misses Gob from Arrested Development. Ever since that show finished there just isn't enough magic jokes and Segway humour on TV to keep me satisfied. I'm in need of a little magic and it just so happens a world class magician is in town. He's been described as a cross between Harry Houdini, David Copperfield and Justin Timberlake, but Melbourne illusionist Cosentino has created a legendary reputation in his own right. At only 12 years of age, Cosentino began presenting illusions and tricks for his family and friends. Later that year, after perfecting his show, Consentino went on to win first prize at the Adelaide Magic Convention. He now holds a Guinness World Record, has toured the world and as a result has become a world renowned Australian magician. His latest show Distortions is coming to Brisbane and promises to distort your perception on reality with an edgy blend of art and magic. Expect to see an energetic performance of dazzling illusions blended with dance, nail-biting escapes, audience participation, humour and surprising twists. No Segways required.
When you were 12 (or 20) was it your dream to meet Tom Felton aka Draco Malfoy? Did you wish to be a super natural being to take on the vampire king in True Blood? Are you comic crazy or fluent in Klingon? If yes, then the phrase ‘Supa Nova’ probably means a lot more to you than the explosive death of a massive star. For those of you looking in awe at your computer screen thinking ‘could I really meet Draco Malfoy?’ the answer is yes and Supa Nova is your key to unlock your long awaited teenage dreams (Katy Perry pun unintended). The Supa Nova Pop Culture Expo is a fan convention focusing on fantasy, film, television, manga, anime, comics, gaming and collectables. In summary this means anything and everything coming under the ‘cult’ criteria. So if you’re feeling an urge to get your geek on this April, there are a few things to keep in mind when considering the purchase of your Supa Nova ticket. One: Dress up. You might think it’s lame to rock up to a convention in an anime outfit you bought on Ebay, but trust me, you will look weird if you don’t. And two: Get there bright and early to avoid standing in line with the other 1000 Sailor Moons, Light Yagamis, Harry Potters and Belldandys for the hours before doors open.
'Fuzz' and 'scuzz' are just two words that seem to get thrown around a lot when it comes to Eat Skull. The four piece band from Portland have been disguising their pop songs with scratches, screams and noisy feedback ever since their debut in 2008. Since then the Lo-fi group, made up of members from previous U.S acts Gris Gris and Hospitals, have been seducing cool young things into dancing frantically at their live shows. Eat Skull are now bringing their scuzzy, fuzzy dance frenzy down under, and there to join in on the fun will be Brisbane band Slug Guts. Combing lyrics that talk of country hick tales from north Queensland with rhythms that subscribe to swamp blues and surf styles, Slug Guts are a gutsy (pardon the pun) Brisbane four piece that are going to be heard whether you like it or not. But chances are you'll probably like it anyway. Don't let the names of these acts scare you. There won't be any devil worshipping or eating of skulls or actual guts from slugs here. It will all be fairly PG rated, skinny-jean wearing hipster fun.
This is not a Star Trek convention. This is not an episode of Boston Legal. This is the one and only William Shatner live in the flesh people! The Shat is back after almost 60 years of providing hilariously witty television and entertainment. He’s an actor, a director, a producer, a musician and a big shot celebrity icon. He’s the captain of the geekiest ship known to mankind and the greatest, most infamous attorney Boston, and possibly the world has ever seen. What can’t this man do? Well, that’s an easy question to answer. There is nothing The Shat can’t do. The man may even be the greatest entertainer of all time. At 80 years of age, this tour is truly a cause for celebration! Be ready to experience the madness that is William Shatner and venture into the life of some of televisions most comical characters with the Kirk, Crane and Beyond Tour at QPAC this April. For one night only Shatner offers Brisbane the remarkable, full story of his life and times. This is an unmissable event. Why? Two words… Denny Crane. VIP tickets have already sold out so hurry on over to Ticketek and get in before you miss out!
What's better than a microbrewery that serves both food and brews? A venue that pumps out its own beers and offers patrons two distinctive dining and drinking spaces. That's what's on the cards at The Charming Squire, with the South Bank venue splitting its floorplan to welcome in a new wood-fired grill and rotisserie restaurant. Opening its doors on Wednesday, September 15, Embers is the fancier sibling to the existing Brewhouse. Where the latter skews casual, this newcomer is all about levelling up your lunch or dinner. And, while it's definitely located inside The Charming Squire, this space-within-a-space has its own entrance — and its own vibe and wood-heavy decor. Able to seat 177, including in booths for five-to-ten people, at low tables and outdoors, Embers is filled with timber. Seasoned Charming Squire guests will recognise the layout, but the look has had a tweak — including via dashes of greenery. The look suits the culinary theme, given that Head Chef German Gonzalez is focusing on a fire-fuelled menu that heroes wood-roasted, smoked and grilled dishes, as well as meals finished over ironbark coals. Standout options include dishes with lamb, given that a whole lamb is slow-cooked every weekend and then broken up into plates — such as the wood-roasted lamb with cucumber, mint, local greens, labneh and sumac salad. The grain-fed rib fillet is slow-roasted for 24 hours, then served with bearnaise sauce, carrots and jus, while the charcoal chicken comes with pickles, lemon and fattoush salad. Other highlights span gnocchi with local mushrooms, truffle, stracciatella and sage butter from the vegetable-focused section of the menu, and half a Western Australian lobster that's wood-roasted with roe butter, tomato and olive from among the seafood dishes. Or, there's flame-seared hiramasa kingfish, mushroom and truffle arancini balls, and coffee cured and smoked duck breast, all from the small-plates range. If you're after something sweet following your meal, dessert options include passionfruit souffle with mango sorbet, banoffee pie and an affogato with salted caramel ice cream. Drinks-wise, more than 100 bottles of wine will tempt your vino-loving tastebuds, with Australian reds comprising more than half the list. James Squire's beers obviously feature, including tipples brewed in-house and tasting paddles — and five different boilermaker pairings. And, the cocktail selection also skews towards the smoky, as seen in the Embers Manhattan (which is made with beef fat-wash rye whiskey, vermouth and chocolate bitters), as well as the Smoky Old Fashioned (with mezcal, orange bitters and house wood-roasted chilli). Find Embers inside The Charming Squire, 3/133 Grey Street, South Brisbane, from Wednesday, September 15 — open Tuesdays from 5–9pm, Wednesdays–Thursdays from 11am–3pm and 5–9pm, Fridays from 11am–3pm and 5–10pm, Saturdays from 11am–3pm and 4.30–10pm, and Sundays from 11am–5pm.
Feel like you're pretty familiar with stand-up paddleboarding by now? Well, if you've managed to tackle the task atop local lakes and seas, it might be time to level up your balancing bravado with a paddleboarding trip on the Mossman River. The team at Wind Swell will take you on a three-hour trip upstream to soak in the sights and sounds of the buzzing tropical rainforest. Along the way, you'll learn about the local habitat, have a chance to try out some paddleboard yoga, taste exotic flavours of local tropical fruit and cool off in the freshwater swimming hole before floating back to base. And, if that's not enough adventure, check out the company's other tours in wing surfing, kite surfing, wakeboarding and more.
If Cairns Canyoning existed in 1994, we're convinced that TLC would have actually sung: "do go chasing waterfalls". With the help of expert guides, here you'll have the truly thrilling opportunity to abseil down waterfalls, hurl yourself from towering boulders into crystal-clear fresh water and zip line through World Heritage-listed rainforest all in one trip. You can choose between the half-day adventures through Behana Gorge or Crystal Cascades or, if you're feeling a little more hardcore, sign up for the full-day Spillway Canyon trip.
If you're a diehard snorkelling fan, jump onboard Calypso Reef Cruises for an unforgettable and environmentally friendly experience off the coast of Port Douglas. Relax on Calypso's dedicated snorkelling vessel, offering comfortable day beds and spacious decks, before popping on your gear and meeting some of the most exquisite marine life in the world. The vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life at Opal Reef are visible within a couple of metres from the water surface making it accessible for most levels of swimming skill. The trickiest part will be keeping count of how many giant clams, stingrays, green turtles and clownfish you'll spot.
If your idea of a perfect day in the ocean is seeing beautiful reefs and getting insightful connection to the sea, put Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel on your itinerary. Offering a unique experience, this local team will invite you to step into the Great Barrier Reef's Dreamtime. Visiting an array of reefs unique to Tropical North Queensland, you'll be accompanied by First Nations sea rangers who are passionate marine lovers, prioritising reef preservation and sustainable tourism. With Dreamtime you'll spend the day snorkelling in some of the world's best reefs and learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island traditions and cultural connection to the region.
If seeing one waterfall in a day isn't enough, head to the highlands to experience the beauty of the Atherton Tablelands waterfall circuit. With a bunch of tumbling waterfalls and vast crater lakes to explore, the trip up the mountain range to these rainforest delights is essential Tropical North Queensland travel. Take the Gillies Highway from Cairns to Crater Lakes National Park to dive into Lake Barrine and Lake Eacham. Unlike their explosive origins, these water-filled volcanic craters are ideal for a serene morning float. Next, drive to the nearby town of Millaa Millaa to find out why its eponymously named falls are one of the most photographed cascades in the country. Have a soak in the swimming hole at the base of Millaa Millaa Falls or get underneath its 18-metre drop to have your very own rainforest shower. And, if more waterfall action is what your heart desires, visit nearby Zillie Falls and Ellinjaa Falls to round out the circuit.
Just a few short years ago, grabbing a bite or having a drink beneath the Fortitude Valley side of the Story Bridge simply wasn't possible. Now, Howard Smith Wharves is one of the city's most popular spots. Restaurateur and entrepreneur Hervé Dudognon knows that first-hand, after holding leadership positions at the precinct — and, hopping over to Albion's transformed 100-year-old timber mill for his new venture, he's now hoping to weave that magic twice. At Craft'd Grounds, Dudognon is the co-founder and namesake of soon-to-open French restaurant and bar Hervé's, which'll start welcoming patrons in sometime in March. "The vision has always been to create a community destination — an extension of your home that's warm and inviting," he explains. "Brisbane has a rich dining culture, and while there's many elegant restaurants and bars in town, we've seen a real opportunity to bring a new world-class, yet relaxed approach to French-inspired dining. We want to celebrate the romance of experimenting and preparing fresh produce subtly inspired by French and Australian culture," Dudognon continues. Husband and wife executive chef duo Alex and Chris Norman will be overseeing the kitchen — with Chris as Executive Chef and Alex as Executive Pastry Chef. Between them, the pair boasts The Square restaurant and Ritz Hotel in London, plus The Bridge Room, Merivale Group, The One & Only Resort, Palazzo Versace and Emporium Group in Australia on their resumes. Given that Dudognon's career includes stops at the Hotel De Crillon in Paris, Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong, and Palazzo Versace and Merivale Group as well, the Hervé's team isn't short on hospitality experience. The venue's menus haven't been revealed as yet, but its food range will favour top produced sourced both locally and abroad — including southeast Australian oysters. On the wine lineup, the bar will hero Australian, French and other international vino from eco-conscious winemakers. Decor-wise, Byron Bay-based interior designer Katie Cameron has given top-floor space an intimate, homely feel. Think: timber aplenty — befitting the building's history — as well as terrazzo, soft lighting and textured fabrics, plus a clear view into the kitchen and its wood-fired oven. When Hervé's opens its doors, it'll join a growing precinct that sprawls across the 2600-square-metres site on Collingwood Street, and takes inspiration from The Grounds of Alexandria in Sydney. Craft'd Grounds is also home to brewery Brewtide and coffee roastery Seven Miles, and will house yet-to-launch bakery and deli Brass Tacks as well. Find Hervé's Restaurant and Bar at Level 1, Craft'd Grounds, 35 Collingwood Street, Albion, open Wednesday–Sunday, from sometime in March — we'll update you with an exact opening date when it's announced.
If you haven't heard, The Prince Consort — a classic and much-loved Fortitude Valley watering hole — is locked and loaded to host you and your mates for a Sunday session to rival them all. Teaming up with White Claw, the pair are bringing an epic arvo of homegrown Aussie beats on Sunday, March 27. Kicking off at 2pm, White Claw Weekend x The Prince Consort is guaranteed to deliver the perfect soundscape for sipping hard seltzers in the sun. But there's better news: one lucky Brisbanite (and five of their mates) will receive the royal treatment. You'll start your day with the laidback vibes we all strive for, as a Kombi limo — fully stocked with your favourite White Claws — takes you and your crew on an easy-breezy one-hour joyride around the River City. Get comfortable, stay fresh and set the mood for the rest of your afternoon, before arriving at your destination in style. With an epic lineup of homegrown Aussie beats, The Prince Consort is setting the scene for you to boogie on down all night. With restrictions easing, balmy nights around for a few more months and Bag Raiders headlining at 5pm, it's the perfect way to sweeten the last hours of your weekend. Keen to kick it with your crew this summer? Enter details below to go in the running. [competition]846038[/competition]
A Brisbane favourite for waterside eats, Pony Dining at Eagle Street Pier has just introduced a new range of five lunchtime burgers with a gourmet twist. Think soft shell crab with wasabi aioli, pickled radish and betel leaves; braised wagyu brisket with green mango, grilled pineapple, coriander and sticky chilli barbecue sauce and the gourmet David Blackmore’s Wagyu Cheeseburger. We took the chance on Sunday to head over, soak up panoramic views of the Story Bridge and sink our teeth into a few buns – and boy, do Pony have some contenders for best burger. The cheeseburger is possibly the best you’ll ever eat – the patty still slightly pink in the centre, balanced with cheddar, mustard and pickles. Heaven. The soft shell crab works well with the wasabi mayonnaise, but is perhaps a little delicate in flavour for the bun. But best of all, the wagyu brisket. A fresh and Asian-influenced feast – the beef is tender, perfectly soft and accompanies the grilled pineapple, green mango, coriander and sticky chilli as though they were soul mates. General manager Trent Farrell said the Pony on a Bun range was designed to entice office workers from their cubicles and are priced lower than other options, without skimping on quality. The burgers available noon-3pm, starts at $16.50 and includes french fries. Read more about Pony Dining in our full review.
The lines between physical and virtual are blurring at Brisbane Powerhouse, with the iconic arts centre announcing their first digital-centric festival, IRL, to take place in May 2015. A convergence of live arts and gaming culture, IRL (as in, 'in real life') bridges the gap between the venue’s performance focus and the changing online landscape. The festival aims to create unique multimedia experiences and celebrate the increasingly interactive, interconnected realm that now encompasses all arts endeavours. Artistic director Kris Stewart, who has been at the helm of Brisbane Powerhouse since July 2013, said the festival is being developed to embrace and enable the new wave of national and international digital creatives. Thinking local and acting global, IRL will harness the power of leading Queensland-based organisations such as Queensland University of Technology, The Edge, Halfbrick Studios, Brisbane International Game Developers Association (brIGDA) and The Cube, as well as showcasing international partnerships with The Sundance Institute (home of the Sundance Film Festival), Electrofringe and LA-artists I Am 8 Bit. Further programming and curatorial decisions are still in development, with more details to be announced closer to the event. Organised and hosted by Brisbane Powerhouse, from 2015 IRL will sit alongside the World Theatre Festival, Brisbane Comedy Festival, Brisbane Queer Film Festival, Queensland Cabaret Festival and children’s festival Powerkids in the venue’s annual calendar of festivals.
Director Pablo Berger's retelling of the Grimm Brothers' Snow White story is generating a lot of buzz right now. A silent, black-and-white, Spanish reinterpretation of that well-known childhood tale, the film is wowing critics and charming the pants off judges at film festivals worldwide (particularly San Sebastian and Toronto). It well may snaffle the Best Foreign Film Oscar. Macarena García gives a much-applauded performance as Carmen, a young orphan girl who suffers under the tyranny of her wicked stepmother Encarna, played with evil relish by Maribel Verdú. Long story short, she changes her name to Blancanieves (Spanish for Snow White, obvs), teams up with a crew of wily dwarves and becomes a successful bullfighter. There's lots of flamenco music, some fabulous cinematography and a stellar Spanish cast. Peter Bradshaw of the Guardian enthuses, "All I can say is that there's a flash of pure inspiration, unfakeable and unmistakable, in this extraordinarily enjoyable film." If you struggled to sit through 2011's silent black-and-white hit The Artist you might already be ruling this out — but you should know that Blancanieves is a very different film, one that Berger had already been working on for eight years by the time Jean Dujardin's face was first lighting up the screen at Cannes. Blancanieves is in cinemas on October 24, and thanks to Rialto Distribution, we have ten double in-season passes to give away. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter (if you haven't already), then email us with your name and address. Sydney: win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au Melbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au
The amazing minds of the Studio Ghibli team had to start out somewhere, right? Tokyo is the home of to some of the worlds most creative and prestigious art schools producing many amazing artists of our culture and time. QUT is hosting the Tokyo: Peer to Peer art series, showcasing student work for the Tokyo University of the Arts as part of an international work exchange. The exhibition will be an innovative outdoor projection series supporting ‘the moving image’ and all its forms including film, television, art and new media. This digital canvas is a new initiative to encourage experimental and emerging artists. You don’t have to travel the world to find fine art - just pop on over to QUT and get introduced to the art world’s future greats. Sayonara!
The year 2000 unleashed a man who shaped the world with his fearless, comical stupidity. We all remember the nonsensical outcry Jackass unleashed upon society. We all remember, the one, the only, Steve-O. He has drunk his own urine, jumped into a ceiling fan, ignited anal fireworks and snorted wasabi. He is the ball breaking, self mutilating comedian that shook the world with his unbelievable, painful humour. I thought he may have died a while back and MTV had been covering it up all this time, but I was wrong. Steve-O will be in Australia next week! Returning to unleash his particular style of stand up comedy and hilariously absurd stunts, there will be no limb spared. You never know what this guy might do. Will the Tivoli still be standing on May 25? Only time will tell.
To bare witness to the La Boite and Sydney Theatre Company's much anticipated co-production of Edward Gant's Amazing Feats of Loneliness is to venture into a whimsical world where quirky tales are made to be believed. An intriguing world where fantasy, reality and sequinned capes keep you captivated for hours. The tales shared and depicted by the talented cast of three are abstract to say the least; pimples that spout pearls, a cork in the head to cure a broken heart, teddy bears begging for imaginary tea. Nothing is too evocative or risque for Edward Gant and his Amazing Feats of Loneliness either. The show will have you throw caution to the wind of political correctness to chuckle at naughty Catholic Priest jokes along with other controversial quips. Amongst the heart felt portrayals of tragic tales are some of the most magnificent costumes by Australian designer darlings Romance Was Born. Championed by style icon Cate Blanchett, who is on the board of the Sydney Theatre Company, Romance Was Born add great colour and sparkle to the show via tulle teddy bear heads, pastel printed onesies and even a strap on beard made entirely of pearls. Now that's my kind of facial hair.
Who are The Secret Whisper? Well, they’re a female-fronted five-piece hailing from The Gymp, and they make energetic pop-rock akin to a hybrid of Paramore and Jimmy Eat World. The group of friends brought The Secret Whisper together for a “journey of love” sometime last year. The fun-filled venture has proved to be extremely effective as they’ve already headlined gigs up and down the coast, catching the attention of Sydney producer Sonny Truelove, who produced their debut EP, Le Jeune Amour. The EP was then shipped to the States to be mixed by Grammy nominated producer Michael Elvis Baskette, who’s worked with the likes of Iggy Pop and Incubus. The Whisper’s labour of love on Le Jeune Amour will be culminated at their EP launch this Black Friday at The Zoo, where they’ll be supported by local dudes Montpelier and Byron Bay’s Polaroid Fame. Once the final chords die out, the party continues at The Bowler Bar – so hold on to your stamps and ticket stubs for discounted entry. If you didn’t know The Secret Whisper earlier, then this is the best time to get acquainted.
No Anchor is listed on triple j Unearthed as being punk/metal. So punk/metal, in fact, that they don’t even have a guitar player - because guitars are way too cute to be punk/metal. Genres are superfluous in No Anchor’s case though as they don’t even consider what they do to be music – in fact, it’s a punishment. Listening to No Anchor equals an aural version of high-school detention. Self-deprecation aside, they’re actually really good, and they’ve made albums to prove it. In fact, they’ve just finished making one, and it’s called Real Pain Supernova, which you can now download for free on their website. But if you’re a live/vinyl purist, you’ll probably get a kick out of going to No Anchor’s album launch and having your face melted off at Woodland this Black Friday – the dudes will be joined by Dreamtime and Undead Apes. Your face might not survive the shred but the double vinyl LPs they’ll have for sale will so pick one up on the way out.
Romeo and Juliet, the worlds most tragic lovers of antiquity have travelled forward 500 years in time to re-play their love life on the Powerhouse platform. Okay, no that’s not what is happening but it would have been great if they didn't die in tragedy and went on to become the oldest living couple of their century. But that wouldn't be poetic enough, right? You can re-live their love life being performed on stage by the Bell Shakespeare Group at the very fitting outdoor area of the Powerhouse. It may be lacking the Leo lovin’, but it will showcase the revered playwright’s timeless tragedy for this year’s Brisbane Festival. Shakespeare would fit in well with today’s Gen Y, all caught up in lovesick teenagers, strict parents and rebellion. At least Romeo and Juliet had a bit more class than today’s stereotypes, even if slightly more dramatic. Take some friends for some theatrical entertainment and relax at the QUT Festival Theatre outside the Powerhouse. Don’t forget your cushions and blankets, but any potions or daggers will be confiscated.
The world’s most well-loved cowboy doll and space man action figure are back on the big screen. Possibly in celebration of Tom Hanks letting it slip that Toy Story 4 is in the making, Toy Story 2 is screening at the Princess Cruses lawn at South Bank. It’s not your average expensive cinema, it’s a free outdoor screening where you can spread out and enjoy the Pixar motion picture. You may own it on DVD, VCR and have the theme songs on your iPod, but that’s no excuse to not enjoy some outdoor cinema and be reunited with Woody and Buzz. Maybe you’re one of the die-hard fans who ripped the arm off your Buzz doll after seeing the film and wrote ANDY on the bottom of all your shoes with a sharpie, or maybe you just love a good reuniting with your childhood. Whatever the reason, don’t hide your inner child. It’s a free and relaxing afternoon at the beautiful Princess Cruises Lawn where you can grab a deck chair or spread out your picnic basket and yell at the bastardly Stinky Pete and laugh with Bullseye and the round-up gang.
The term 'underground' gets thrown around a lot in modern culture. Anything outside the mainstream genre can fall under the vast umbrella of underground arts. And what a beautiful big umbrella it is. Everyone's huddling under it! If underground arts really was an umbrella, Mark McGuire would be the rain causing noisy droplets to fall around all us. Yep, he's the music man. Recognised as one of the central figures emerging from the American underground music scene he developed an entirely unique method of live looping and introduced a network on tone, melody and free form modification. In Brisbane for the very first time, McGuire will perform at The Judith Wright Centre for first Syncretism event of the year. Also featuring Brisbane's own Black Realm with their very distinctive audio vision, the night promises to be an intimate performance showcasing some of the best electronica and experimental music. For fans of live looping this is a night not to be missed. Head down to the Judy this Thursday to catch the talented player/songwriter mastering his craft.
Do you like comics? How about pies? And surely you must like fun right? How can one combine these likes into an event I hear you ask? Ashcan Comics are way ahead of you. The Queensland based collaborative bring together super talented comic artists and writers, give them the opportunity to have their work published in print, then have a massive party to celebrate! This Saturday marks the launch of Ashcan Comics 4th Issue, being held at Pie Face in the Brisbane City. The $10 entry fee includes a copy of Ashcan #4 as well entertainment such as speed painting and DJs. Usually a term reserved for comics destined to go straight from printer to trashcan, Ashcan comics are passionate about getting their self-published independent comics to the masses, strengthening the Brisbane comic community in the process. Although the party doesn’t kick off until 7.30pm, head over to The Edge at South Bank where the Ashcan team will be running mini comic workshops throughout the day from 1pm. All events are for all ages, so come support local talent, embrace your inner nerd and learn a few tricks of the trade in the process!
Prefer your markets Twilight style? Welcome to the BrisStyle Indie Twilight Markets. Will there be Edward vs. Jacob heart t-shirts or the odd lock of werewolf hair? Absolutely not - why would you even make such an awful connection? For shame… there will, however, be crafty handmade trinkets and oddments galore all to browse by lantern light. BrisStyle are a collection of talented crafters and designers from Queensland who sell their wares through Etsy, but these creatives want more than just an online presence, so every second month they set up shop in the heart of the city to show their goodness to all under the stars. Meander through the stalls of over sixty emerging and established local artisans, all 100% hand made in Australia. It’s guaranteed to be a more enjoyable experience than sitting through two hours of deadpan pouting and unspoken longing (unless you’re into that sort of thing…), so get yourself down to King George Square this Friday evening.
Artists are notoriously known for their inability to self promote their talents, not to mention the limited opportunities which exist for emerging artists in the local scene. This is exactly why each year Ryan Renshaw puts on a group show of the best new art in Queensland. The eponymous gallery, which is nothing more than a large, long white rectangle, is the perfect blank canvas to showcase the freshest talent Brisbane has to offer. Renshaw, a former art school student, MTV promo producer and music/ television director, now channels a significant portion of his time promoting and providing opportunities in the contemporary arts. Each year, Renshaw picks the most exciting upcoming artists to showcase their works during the early stages of their development – when it’s all about the wild ideas and unbridled passion. Comprising of recent graduates and unrepresented artists, this year features the work of the very talented Dana Lawrie, Hannah Piper, Yayuz Erkan, Caitlin Franzmann, Jared Worthington and Dord Burrough. Take this opportunity to see these exciting young artists before they take on the rest of the art world.
It's been a while since the name and sounds of Incubus have been syphoned into our ear drums, but they have not been forgotten, it seems. They brought us the now decade old classic, 'Drive', and follow up singles 'Wish You Were Here' and 'Dig', along with many others, but haven't put out a record for nearly five years. So what gives? Where have these lovable rogues been? After the success of their worldwide hit album Make Yourself in 1999 and its follow-up, Morning View in 2001, the band continued to tour well into the 00's, busting out a couple more albums and a greatest hits CD, bringing their discography to an impressive six records, as well as being certified platinum and scoring a number 1 US album for their 6th effort, Light Grenades. They announced a hiatus after their 2008 Australian Soundwave tour and re-emerged in July last year with their 7th album, If Not Now, When?. For a band renown for their gritty sound, there's hope in the new album, which lead singer Brandon Boyd says will be “darker, slower...and more involved than anything Incubus has birthed to date”. With that sort of promise, it looks like witnessing the rebirth and reappearance of this Californian band could be worth the wait.
It's hard work seeing movies sometimes and it's actually pretty expensive to see just one, let alone a few. Thank your lucky stars because for the first time, the well-loved Flickerfest is in Brisbane showcasing the best shorts films from some of the world's most acclaimed filmmakers. For the past 21 years, Flickerfest has let its freakishly short film flag fly, but we are only having a taste of it now. Not to worry, the cinematic goodness is going to be held over a three night program, testing out the bite sized reels on keen Brisbane audiences. These aren't just any run-of-the-mill home videos, these Australian and international films have been given the nod by the Academy® and BAFTA, and were carefully selected out of the record amount of entries this year - a whopping 2200 (there's usually around 1500). If you lose attention quickly, you're a film buff, or you want to experience world class motion pictures in all their glory, you shouldn't look any further than the Flickerfest screens. It will be money well spent any way you look at it.
If there’s one thing I’d like to bring back from ‘the way things used to be’, it would be the presence of the paper boy, except that instead of delivering the community paper (which tends to end up becoming part of the front garden), the kid that’s too young for a real job but too old for pocket money would deliver something you were actually interested in. For one day, For Us By Us is doing exactly that. Drawing from a concept originally started in Berlin, Papergirl is a project that invites everyone – be you artist or not – to submit a work of art that can be rolled up and delivered by various paper girls and boys throughout the city. It’s a concept that breaks the barriers between art, artists and audiences by directly engaging the people of Brisbane and allowing them to become part of a community they may not usually engage with. This Saturday the For Us By Us paper girls and boys will be taking to the streets of the Valley, city and West End, but if you’d like to view the art before they get rolled up and distributed, head to the White Canvas Gallery on Church Street for the Papergirl exhibition.
Seriously, it’s a comedy, rock musical. What else do I need to say? Rock of Ages, produced by Rodney Rigby is currently on a US National tour and the shows begin at QPAC next Saturday for a strictly limited season. So, it’s coined as an incredibly funny musical about a young aspiring rock star, Drew, who meets and falls in love with a girl named Sherrie through a volley of the greatest rock songs ever written. Drew is portrayed by Justin Burford who you may know from End of Fashion, so you know he’s got talent and definitely a good voice. Sherrie is the alias of Amy Lehpamer, a well recognised actress who’s recently been in some impressive musicals and appears in the series The Pacific. As well as being able to sit and sing along to the songs your dad wouldn’t turn off in the car as a kid, you also get to admire the ridiculous hair styles and costumes that some of us wish we still could get away with, all while relishing the two and a half hours of a musical with an incredible reputation. Rock of Ages has been nominated for a spectacular repertoire of awards including Musical of the Year. So tease your hair, put on your flares and get ready for Rock of ages to rip out your inner Gene Simmons.
The 21st century is synonymous with combos – from degustation to Family Packs, 2-4-1s and Bring a Friend for Free deals – we’re all about getting the most out of one offer. The concept’s not exclusive to Ikea or Coles; in fact, it’s applicable to art, too. At LEVEL, they’ve got four exhibitions in the one space, so you don’t have to go too far to see a hugely diverse range of work. First is Rise and Fall by Phoebe McDonald. McDonald is interested in the nature of life, time, space and perception and her recent bodies of work she explores shadows and reflected colour as compositional elements. Second is Familial Tangles by Melinda Ryan Carroll, in which Carroll explores the space in between memory, attempting to map the loss of memory. Third is Balance, a set of works by Louise Sparre, who pulls fragments out of everyday image and information flow and into dazzling constellations. Fourth is Lost Girls – Unchartered Territory and Dream Scapes by Rachel Bartram, using the concept of the fictional heroine archetype and presenting her in unfitting, unfamiliar and dream-like settings. While I don’t mind a combo of the edible variety (Family Box what up!), the creative variety is so much more fulfilling, so I’ll be making the journey down to Newstead this Saturday to take in the visual nourishment I've been really needing. Image credit: Phoebe McDonald ‘Rise and Fall’ (detail) 2011
Your experience with a capella shouldn’t be limited to Ted’s band on Scrubs – though The Blanks are pretty special in their own right. However, there’s a lot more out there in terms of contemporary a capella, including the genius that is The Idea of North. The four piece started off as a group of friends attending ANU in 1993 and have since gained international recognition, with their most recent achievement being the 2010 Aria for Best Jazz Album. With Brisbane’s Powerhouse being dubbed as The Idea of North’s ‘second home’, it seems only natural that the Powerhouse Theatre plays the venue for the launch of The Idea of North’s latest album. Take a walk down to the river and enjoy the best thing to come out of our nation’s fine capital. If you’re going expecting Ted Buckland, you might be going for the wrong reasons, but maybe, just maybe, The Idea of North will do their own rendition of Hey Ya.
