Apologies to your couch, your favourite streaming platform and that pile of old DVDs sitting on your shelves, but when it comes to watching a movie, there's nothing like seeing it on the big screen. And while heading out to the flicks is a year-round activity, it's even better when the weather's warm and outdoor cinema season is in full swing. Getting comfy on a beanbag, sipping brews and bubbles in the open air, staring up at the silver screen as the sun goes down — that's what catching a film at this time of year is all about. In fact, that's exactly what's on the agenda at Sunset Cinema, which returns to Mt Coot-tha from Thursday, February 28 to Saturday, April 13. Taking over the Botanic Gardens for a month and a half of movies under the stars, this year's season is made for cosy date nights and stress-free hangouts with your mates. And if you're wondering what to watch, here are five blockbusters to feast your eyeballs upon. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14ZHRBfpeNg CRAZY RICH ASIANS A word of warning, movie-goers: watching Crazy Rich Asians will make you want to do two things. Firstly, you'll start craving plates upon plates of delicious Asian food. Secondly, you'll have a hankering for a Singapore getaway — so maybe invite your favourite travel buddy to come along for the show. Bringing Kevin Kwan's book of the same name to the screen, this feel-good charmer follows Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) and her boyfriend Nick Young (Henry Golding) when they jet to the bustling island country for a wedding that doubles as a meet-the-parents visit. It's a rom-com, a drama about being yourself, a Singaporean travelogue and a hangout flick — the latter coming courtesy of the movie's hilarious scenes between Rachel and her college bestie (a film-stealing Awkwafina). Showing: Thursday, February 28 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6S9c5nnDd_s BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY Fresh from rocking the Golden Globes, where it picked up Best Motion Picture – Drama and Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama for Rami Malek, Bohemian Rhapsody is here to rock Sunset Cinema. And if you've already seen this immensely popular Freddie Mercury biopic and had to stop yourself from singing along, you're in luck — that's on the agenda here on Saturday, March 30. The sounds of Queen will echo through the outdoor screening, charting the band's formation, its rise to fame, Mercury's private life and the group's memorable music. Just remember to stay in your seats during the fantastic Live Aid concert scenes — you'll be tempted to jump up, sing and scream, but you won't want to block the view of the fellow film fans behind you. Showing: Friday, March 1 and Saturday, March 30 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dKzet0o4i0 AQUAMAN Back in 2016, the DC Comics Extended Universe pitted Batman and Superman against each other to see who'd emerge victorious; however, the film series was clearly asking the wrong question. If a battle between Justice League superheroes did arise, Aquaman would obviously come out on top. He has at the global box office, at least, with the Australian-shot blockbuster now the highest grossing flick in the franchise. It's easy to see why, with Aussie director James Wan (The Conjuring, Fast & Furious 7) helming a comic book effort that isn't afraid to be over-the-top — in its eye-popping visuals, its action both above and below the water and its use of charming star Jason Momoa. Showing: Wednesday, March 6 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywkF1lj5wyI A STAR IS BORN Just when you thought that Lady Gaga had done everything that she possibly could, she sheds her over-the-top persona and becomes a star — again. Playing a waitress who's thrust into stardom after a chance encounter with Bradley Cooper's booze-soaked rocker, her performance in A Star Is Born remains a revelation. It's not her first stint in front of the camera by any means, but it is her most powerful and affecting. Those two words also describe this tale of love, fame and the cost of both, which marks the fourth time a flick of this name has told this story. As for Cooper, he turns in his best work in years in front of the camera, while also stepping behind it to make his directorial debut. Be prepared to belt out Shallow with your mates for the rest of summer. Showing: Saturday, March 16 and Wednesday, April 3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-j4tA8V2ac THE GREATEST SHOWMAN It's difficult to pick which makes a bigger impact in The Greatest Showman — the film's enormous all-star cast or the music they're charged with belting out. When you've got the likes of Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, Zendaya and Michelle Williams singing up a storm in a story about entertainment entrepreneur P.T. Barnum and the spectacle he created, the answer is both. When the rousing musical originally hit cinemas back at the end of 2017, it became a monster hit and so did its soundtrack, with the latter becoming the best-selling album of 2018. And sure, you've seen it before, you bought the record and you know every single word, but have you sat under the stars and sung along, all while surrounded by fellow fans doing the same? Showing: Thursday, April 11 Sunset Cinema will take over Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens from Thursday, February 28 to Saturday, April 13. Check out the full film program and book tickets here.
Back in 2001, in the ruins of Changnyeongsa Temple in Yeongwol in Gangwon-do Province, South Korea, more than 300 statues were found. Each stone sculpture depicts an arhat — the name given to followers of Buddha who've achieved the enlightened state of nirvana — and they're all thought to date back 500 years. The collection was dubbed 'The Five Hundred Arhats', in fact, after Buddha's 500 disciples. Also, every figure's face conveys a lifelike emotion. And, Australians will be able to see a selection of them without leaving the country thanks to Sydney's Powerhouse Museum. From December 3, 2021, the Five Hundred Arhats exhibition will put a number of the figures on display in Ultimo, incorporating them into an installation created by artist Kim Seung Young. They'll be surrounded by 700 audio speakers, in a piece that's designed to suggest that "the arhats are meditating in an attitude of intimate, reclusive poise amidst a cacophony that evokes the distracting bustle of urban life". The big summer showcase will be presented in collaboration with Chuncheon National Museum and National Museum of Korea — and it's just one of Powerhouse Museum's 2021 highlights. The Sydney venue has unveiled its full program for the year, spanning everything from tiny automobiles and gum trees to Australian ceramics and Persian arts and crafts. [caption id="attachment_799429" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Bayram Ali, Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme, Powerhouse Collection[/caption] On display from today, Tuesday, February 9, is Bayram Ali. It features images of Australia's Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme from the 50s to the 70s, as taken by the Turkish Cypriot migrant and amateur photographer who gives the exhibition its title. Also skewing local, Clay Dynasty will show more than 300 items from Powerhouse's Aussie ceramics collection, in a showcase that'll celebrate 50 years of Australian studio ceramics. Opening on May 28, it'll feature 20 newly commissioned pieces, too. From June 11, 100 Conversations will focus on climate change via an exhibition and talks program. On the bill: live discussions with leading Australian innovators acting on climate change, as well as an evolving exhibition that documents the public conversations. Also in June, Eucalyptusdom is set to explore stories surrounding gum trees, including their importance to Indigenous Australians. Expect to see pieces from Powerhouse's collection, plus new works by Dean Cross, Luna Mrozik Gawler, Julie Gough, Vera Hong, Anna May Kirk, Nicholas Mangan, Yasmin Smith, Sera Waters and Damien Wright with Bonhula Yunupingu. [caption id="attachment_799430" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Paul and Linda McCartney, Abbey Rd Studios, London, 1982. Photo: Robert Rosen.[/caption] Also on Powerhouse's agenda is Iranzamin, from March 19, which'll mark the first time that Powerhouse has put together an exhibition of Persian arts and crafts from its own range. And, from June 11, Microcars will focus on tiny vehicles — with more than 17 automobiles on display from Europe, Japan, the UK and Australia. Australian portrait and social pages photographer Robert Rosen will be in the spotlight from August 6, thanks to Glitterati: 20 years of Social Photography. From September 14, Powerhouse will highlight 20th century designers such as Douglas Annand, Frances Burke and Arthur Leydin in an exhibition called Graphic Identities. Throughout 2021, Electric Keys will also explore the influence of electric keyboards on soul jazz, blues, rock, progressive rock and pop, and The Invisible Revealed will let visitors see nuclear-beam scans of objects from Powerhouse's collection. There's also Future Fashion, a showcase the work of top graduates from four Sydney-based fashion design schools. Five Hundred Arhats displays at Sydney's Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo from December 3, 2021. For further details — or to find out more about the museum's full 2021 slate — visit its website. Top image: Five Hundred Arhats, Chuncheon National Museum.
Jumping in the shower has always been a reliable jet lag fix for long-haul travellers, but there's only so long cold water can prevent you from awkwardly slumping onto random people's shoulders before waking up with a start and thinking you’re late for something that happened yesterday. That might be a thing of the past if Delta's 'Photon Shower' comes into fruition. This Star Trek-like chamber showers light instead of H2O, so while it won't get that weird cabin odour out of your hair, it will give you a lasting boost of energy. The shower was exhibited at TED Long Beach Conference on Wednesday by Professor Russell Foster of Oxford University. Foster talked guests through his research on how the body responds to light, explaining that our responses can help reset the body clock during periods of exhaustion. This makes the photon shower a saving grace for travellers but also suggests it could provide refreshment to insomniacs, nurses on night shifts and people who have run out of coffee and can't be bothered going to the store. Using the photon shower starts off like using a self check-in counter and finishes with a sensation we imagine to be similar to stepping into warm sunlight after coming out of a movie theatre. Simply input your travel information, get inside and experience a sequence of (hopefully warm and tingly) light patterns designed to meet your individual needs. Just think of all the recent release in-flight movies you'll be able to watch without worrying about catching z's. Via Ad Age.
Sarah Blasko had a big 2012. Last year saw her release her acclaimed album, I Awake, for which the Australian songstress earned numerous awards and rave reviews. The album was composed and recorded with assistance from the Bulgarian Symphony Orchestra. The album was celebrated for its lush-sounding compositions of soaring and heart wrenching melodies. Sarah’s current tour sees her performing with a full orchestra, bringing to life the ethereal majesty of her latest record in an amazing live format. Joining Ms. Blasko on her tour is up-and-comer, Wintercoats - a great musician whose "chameleonic compositional talents and profound arrangement dexterity creates aural artworks of fragility and grandeur." Tickets are limited, so get in quick!
Adapted from a collection of semi-autobiographical short stories by Instagram-age Renaissance man James Franco, Palo Alto marks the directorial debut of 26-year-old Gia Coppola, the granddaughter and niece of filmmakers Francis Ford and Sofia, respectively. A portrait of teenage disaffection, it's a film that attempts to capture the aimlessness, the angst and the self-aggrandised melancholy of youth. Emma Robert and newcomer Jack Kilmer play April and Teddy, a pair of brooding high schoolers absorbed by personal drama. He's a delinquent skater who's actually an unappreciated artist; she's the neglected daughter of self-absorbed parents who begins an affair with her creepy soccer coach (Franco). Meanwhile, Teddy's best bud Fred (Nate Wolff) finds himself drawn to increasingly anti-social behaviour to hide his insecurities, while another classmate Emily (Zoe Levine) turns to sex in order to hide her own. Palo Alto is in cinemas on August 14, and thanks to Vendetta Films, 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. Read our full review here. Sydney: win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au Melbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au https://youtube.com/watch?v=sTqMUu1iTIo
Frequently, when Jungle Collective hosts one of its huge sales in Brisbane, it fills a warehouse with indoor plants — and jungle vibes. But between Wednesday, March 2–Sunday, March 6, it's going virtual with its weird and wonderful pieces of greenery instead. And, it's hosting its biggest online plant sale ever. Whether you're after a hanging pot plant, some palms for the garden or a giant Bird of Paradise, chances are you'll find it here. You'll just be doing your shopping online via the Jungle Collective website rather than heading in-store. More than 250 different species will be on offer, which is a hefty range — and, nationwide, there'll be more than 20,000 plants on offer, too, with prices starting at $10. While this is a 100-percent online event, you do still need to register for free tickets in advance. Once you've nabbed yours, you can drop into the sale whenever you like — with early bird access open on the Wednesday night for those who RSVP, and the sale open to everyone from Thursday–Sunday. As for deliveries, your plants will make their way to you over the following week between Thursday, March 10–Friday, February 18, with more details given when you make your purchase. Delivery costs $15–30 depending on your area, with orders within 25 kilometres driving distance nabbing free delivery if you spend $150 — and everyone living further away getting $15 off. Or, if it's easier, Jungle Collective is also doing pick-ups as well. You'll just need to be able to head to its Nundah warehouse at Nundah Street from 4–6pm on Thursday, March 10.
From Team America: World Police to Avenue Q to The Happytime Murders, puppets have long stopped being innocent pieces of wood or felt. Sometimes that works out hilariously, and sometimes it doesn't — but newcomer Umami Mermaids might just have the most intriguing and out-there puppet comedy concept there is. In Anna Straker's world-premiere show across September 18–22, mutated mermaids are looking for revenge in a post-apocalyptic realm. Gothic meets gore, fairy tales meet feminism, and Brisbane Festival ensures you'll never look at characters fashioned out of fabric the same way again. All performances take place at La Boite, and after the session on Wednesday, September 19, you can also enjoy a conversation about the production.
What gets a new face every couple of years, and a different tone, too — and stalks stealthily through the dark but loves being projected big upon a glistening silver screen? Fans of Gotham City's famous purveyor of justice know the answer to that riddle, of course. Actually, after oh-so-many different iterations of the Dark Knight over the decades, the world in general does as well. In 2022, The Batman gave us a new version, with Robert Pattinson following in the footsteps of everyone from Adam West, Michael Keaton and Val Kilmer to George Clooney, Christian Bale and Ben Affleck. In fantastic news, the moody, brooding and gloomy end result is one of the best Batman flicks yet — and, although it only hit Australian cinemas just over a month ago, RPatz's turn in the cape and cowl has now been fast-tracked to digital. So, here's another conundrum: catch the Matt Reeves (Cloverfield, Let Me In, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes and War for the Planet of the Apes)-directed, 70s crime thriller-style superhero movie on the big screen, or settle in to watch it without leaving the house? There's no right answer, because you now have options. That said, nothing beats the cinema experience — especially for a film that makes all things Batman feel new again, as this excellent effort does. Still, if that's your couch time for tonight sorted, you'll find The Batman available to rent digitally from all the usual places. In the process, you'll also find a bruised and battered take on the vigilante, a pitch-perfect turn from Tenet star Pattinson — including far more reluctance as the titular character's alter-ego Bruce Wayne than usual, and welcomely so — and a top-notch supporting cast. Also featured: Zoe Kravitz (Kimi) as Catwoman, Paul Dano (Escape at Dannemora) as the Riddler, Colin Farrell (he North Water) as the Penguin, Jeffrey Wright (The French Dispatch) as Commissioner Gordon and Andy Serkis (Long Shot) as Alfred Pennyworth. No one really needs a plot synopsis for Batman films by now, but when The Batman begins (not to be confused with Batman Begins), it's with the slaying of a powerful Gotham figure. A shocking crime that scandalises the city, it leaves a traumatised boy behind, and couldn't be more influential in the detective-style tale of blood and vengeance that follows. But viewers haven't seen this story before, despite appearances. It isn't the start of pop culture's lonesome billionaire orphan's usual plight, although he's there, all dressed in black, and has an instant affinity for the sorrowful kid. Behold the first standout feat achieved by this excellent latest take on the Dark Knight (not to be confused with The Dark Knight): realising that no one needs to see Bruce Wayne's parents meet their end for what'd feel like the millionth time. From there, The Batman follows its namesake's efforts to get to the bottom of the crime — a tricky task in Gotham, unsurprisingly. And yes, this film meant to stand completely apart from the most recent Affleck-starring DC Extended Universe version of the character. So, basically, what DC Films and Warner Bros Pictures did with Joker in 2019 — serving up a grimmer, grittier iteration of the infamous figure that has absolutely nothing to do with the rightfully hated Jared Leto version — they've done again for Batman now. Check out the trailer for The Batman below: The Batman is currently screening in Australian cinemas, and is also available to stream online via video on demand — including via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review.
Instagram-obsessed iPhoneographers can now turn their collection of photographs into posters, thanks to a clever new website. London-based online retailer, Firebox, allows Instagram app users to create wall-sized prints of their photo library. All you have to do is click the 'Buy' button on the Firebox website, then add your Instagram username to retrieve photos from your account. Each poster is a fixed 61cm wide, but you can add as many rows of photos as you like, so there is no need to worry about choosing just a few snapshots. When your poster reaches 1.5 metres long, Firebox will shrink your pictures to fit and you can then choose between a white or black background. Firebox are not the only ones who have other ideas for Instagram. Photo sharing app, Prinstagram, let’s you make posters from 50-400 photos, as well as mini prints, stickers and mini books. If you prefer having your photos printed rather than just leaving them in digital format on your laptop, then this is a quirky and colourful way to do it. [via Mashable]
The space at 22 Wyandra Street in Newstead was never going to stay closed for long. When Carl's Bar and Bistro shut its doors at the address back in September 2022, the City Winery crew got busy filling the venue with new ventures. First came a seasonal bar and bottle shop over the holiday period, and now Ardo's is making the spot its own for the long haul. City Winery is behind Carl's, too, which initially opened to give the team an outlet before its Wandoo Street flagship in Fortitude Valley launched. When it was announced that Carl's was moving to a yet-to-be-revealed new location, it company also advised that something different would make the most of the popular Wyandra Street berth — and now Brisbanites can check out the end result. Ardo's is a neighbourhood wine bar and bottle shop, so patrons can peruse its curated range of vino while getting sipping onsite over pintxos, cheese and charcuterie — or pick up their favourite tipple or a new discovery to take away. Offering a selection that you wouldn't just find at any bottle-o is a big source of pride, with Ardo's staff on-hand to chat you through its drops, help you make a pick and impart their expert knowledge. Open for after-work drinks Tuesday–Friday and from lunch onwards on weekends, the venue does wines by the glass and the bottle to enjoy while you're settling in. The lineup rotates, but everything you see on the shelf can be drunk onsite or taken away. As you're getting cosy, you'll be surrounded by vino all across the walls, a wine tap that looks like an altar, and neutral colours aplenty amid feature pink stone. The food menu is all about being communal, with bar snacks inspired by pintxos — so bites to be washed down with a glass or several. Currently available, although this lineup also rotates based on availability and the seasons: baby beet and goat's cheese tartlets, blue cheese mousse with baby fig on sourdough, smoked salmon mousse with crispy capers and salmon skin on brioche, and both mini lemon meringue and Mississippi mud pies. [caption id="attachment_883133" align="alignnone" width="1920"] City Winery's seasonal pop-up at Wyandra Street.[/caption]
Less than a month ago, Queensland eased a number of COVID-19 restrictions, only to tighten them again not once but twice just a couple of days later. For the Sunshine State, it's definitely been a chaotic few weeks regarding measures to contain the pandemic, with parts of the region also undergoing lockdown conditions. When 6am hits on Friday, June 16, however, Queensland will start loosening its limits and caps once again. That means that the state is rolling back its current restrictions regarding gatherings, venues, dancing and masks — so great ready for bigger parties, more folks hanging out in the great outdoors, and busier bars, cafes, restaurants and venues. They'll all become a reality in Queensland from Friday, after the State has reported four days in a row without any locally acquired COVID-19 cases. Wondering what's changing? There'll no longer be any limits on how many people can gather in homes or outdoors — although if you are having more than 100 folks over to your house, you'll need to keep a list of attendees. Another big shift that'll hit at the same time: amending the rules for hospitality businesses, with a three people per four-square-metres capacity cap coming into effect. That'll apply to clubs, pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants, as well as to galleries, museums, convention centres and places of worship. If these types of venues have seated and ticketed capacity, they can fill those areas to 100 percent, too. And, dancing is coming back as well — after a few weeks of Queensland resembling Footloose. Masks will no longer be required anywhere other than airports and on planes, and there'll be no restrictions on hospitals and aged care either. https://twitter.com/AnnastaciaMP/status/1414376694836649987 If you're wondering why the changes won't come into effect until Friday, Queensland's Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said that it's due to the numbers still in home quarantine at present. "I have too many people in home quarantine, and if any of those people were, for whatever reason, to be out and about, it could mean that we have got infectious people. There is just too many. I need more results," she said. "You have got to remember, the Alpha and the Delta variant, the incubation period for both of those is 14 days so we have just got to wait until the majority of those people have been tested and got through quarantine. There is just too many." Queenslanders are asked to keep social distancing, maintaining the hygiene practices that have been in place since March 2020, and checking the state's list of exposure sites — and to get tested if you're feeling even the slightest possible COVID-19 symptoms. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, head to the QLD COVID-19 hub and the Queensland Health website. Top image: Atlanta Bell.
Fall in love with movies Italian style, at the latest glamorous edition of the Lavazza Italian Film Festival. Hosted once again in Palace Cinemas around the country, this year's festival features more than 30 features and docos, plus a breathtaking restoration of one of Italy's all-time classics. The 2014 festival opens with Marina, a light biopic about singer, songwriter and world-famous accordion player Rocco Granata, produced by Luc and Jean-Pierre Dardenne. Other exciting titles include impressionistic Cannes Jury Prize winner The Wonders and Asia Argento's semi-autobiographical new film Incompresa. But the best of the fest will be saved until last. This year's closing night film is none other Marriage Italian Style, beautifully restored in time for its 50th anniversary. Sophia Loren is dazzling as the mistress of a wealthy Italian businessman determined to lock down a marriage proposal. A quintessential comedy about the battle of the sexes, it puts most modern-day rom-coms to shame. The Lavazza Italian Film Festival is on in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in September and October, and thanks to the festival, we have ten double passes to give away (valid at any festival session of your choice) in each city. 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.auMelbourne: win.melbourne@concreteplayground.com.au Brisbane: win.brisbane@concreteplayground.com.au https://youtube.com/watch?v=IeD7rBVAQQo
If you're one of millions of people worldwide watching American TV series Breaking Bad religiously and needing to avoid spoilers — or perhaps you're just sick of hearing friends rave about the show on social media — then your (#firstworld) problems can now be put to ease. Popular internet streaming website Netflix has debuted a new app that can block Breaking Bad spoilers from social media feeds. Spoiler Foiler is programmed to black out "danger" words (namely, words related to plot) from your Twitter feed, maintaining the mystery and suspense of plot developments for the wildly popular television series. Once fans have caught up with the episode, they can then safely return to their regular feed with the ability to read everything people had to say. Sure, this isn’t the first solution we’ve seen to the issue of social media killjoys. But at the moment it is certainly the most effective. Browser/hashtag-filtering is time consuming and not always foolproof. And abstinence from social media? Well that's just way too extreme. The Netflix app can be easily activated by logging into the Spoiler Foiler website using your Twitter account. Surely it'll just be a matter of time before this concept is extended to other popular series. Until then, rant away! We just won’t be listening. Via PSFK.
While face masks were first mandated in Melbourne back in mid-July, the Queensland Government spent 2020 encouraging its citizens to cover up, rather than making face coverings compulsory. Then, on Friday, January 8 when the Greater Brisbane area went into lockdown, that changed — and masks remained mandatory in some situations once the city emerged from its three-day shutdown, too. All of these most recent rule changes have happened in a mere two-week period but, from 1am on Friday, January 22, another shift is coming. As confirmed by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk at her daily press conference today, Thursday, January 21 — which outlined a rollback of restrictions in general — the compulsory mask requirement will lift overnight. After more than two weeks of donning face coverings, Brisbanites will no longer have to wear masks in most situations — except in airports and on planes, as required by the Federal Government. The change is also outlined in the state's current COVID-19-safe roadmap, but a number of recommendations are still in place about wearing masks going forward, too. https://twitter.com/qldhealthnews/status/1352042161030668291 It's still advised that folks wear masks if they can't social distance, whether indoors or outdoors. And, if you're in a shopping centre, travelling on public transport or using a taxi or rideshare service, they're recommended there as well. Basically, Queenslanders are encouraged to still carry masks with them at all times when leaving home — and pop one on if they find themselves in any of the above circumstances. As always, the usual hygiene and social-distancing advice still applies, too — including frequent hand-washing, maintaining a 1.5-metre distance from other people and getting tested if you have even the slightest of COVID-19 symptoms. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, head to the QLD COVID-19 hub and the Queensland Health website.
Over the past few months, many Australians have been working from home, which means many of us are have been leaning on our bar carts a little more than usual. This has lead to a level of experimentation — whether that's ordering in cocktails, trying our hand at making our own fancy drinks or getting some fun wines delivered. Another way you could get creative is by ordering a bottle of Unico Zelo's yuzu vermouth. The tasty child of Adelaide Hills winery Unico Zelo and sister distillery Applewood, this second batch of untraditional (but ever-so-tasty) vermouth is made from a combination of Adelaide Hills merlot grapes, some native Australian botanicals (usually used to make Applewood's Okar bitter amaro) and yuzu from Mountain Yuzu — a 20-acre farm located in northeast Victoria, on the foothills of the Australian Alps. As you can see, its an all-Australian affair, unlike a lot of traditional vermouths, which are made in Italy and France. Eco-minded founders and winemakers Laura and Brendan Carter are committed to using native botanicals and sustainably produced grapes in their entire range of wines and spirits, aiming to create products that truly taste Aussie as. As it's not a traditional sweet vermouth — it's really quite far from it — we forgive you for not knowing exactly how to drink it. But, thankfully, we've done some testing for you. On the rocks? Yep. Instead of sweet vermouth in a negroni? Do it. With a splash of soda? Definitely. If you want something a little fancier, the Unico team has a couple of cocktail suggestions for you. Try your hand at the Natty-Cano, a spin on an americano, but with pét-nat instead of soda water. To make it, mix 45-millilitres of Unico Yuzu, 15-millilitres of Økar Island Bitter (or Campari) and 120-millilitres of pét-nat in a highball glass and garnish with an orange twist. Unico (the parent company of Unico Zelo and Applewood) has also been steadily dropping a heap of other exciting spirits throughout the year, too, including a pretty-in-pink coral gin. All of Unico's limited releases only available in very small batches, so if you want it, don't wait on it. Unico's Yuzu Vermouth is available to purchase via the website from Friday, July 17. Priced at $34.99 per bottle.
George Poonkhn Khut is the winner of the 2012 National New Media Art Award. The judges this year found it especially hard to select a winner due to the high standard of entries, but Khut's work, Distillery: Waveforming 2012 was the absolute cream of the crop. Distillery: Waverforming 2012 impressed the judges with its harmonious blend between art, science and the human body. His interactive creation displays the participant's heartbeat and responds to their reactions. Originally designed to be used as a relaxation method for sick children, the judges recognised its potential for other uses. To celebrate the outstanding efforts from artists across the country, GOMA is showcasing the short listed works including Khut's piece. Be inspired whilst viewing the country's most impressive creations from budding, young minds.
Museum lovers, we know you miss visiting your favourite galleries and taking in all the beautiful art the world has to offer, so we have some good news for you: you can now join The Museum of Modern Art's top curators every Thursday (or Friday, Down Under) to explore the famed museum's exhibitions. Different gallery tours will be uploaded to the museum's website every week, ranging from film exhibitions to deep dives into the work of some of America's most iconic artists, including Great Depression photographer Dorothea Lange and sculptor Donald Judd. If you prefer to get a bit more hands-on with your art, the gallery is also offering a heap of free online courses, covering everything from postwar abstract painting to fashion and photography. Top image: MoMA by Gorup de Besanez for WikiCommons
To see The Drums in concert is to enter into a frenetic hip shaking haze for a few hours. Once it's over you might not know exactly what happened to you. One minute you were casually sipping your beer, the next you were in amongst the crowd with limbs flailing, challenging lead singer Jonathan Pierce to a dance off. So is the genius of The Drums. It's all oh-so-simple but oh-so-fun. The impressive success of 'Let's Go Surfing' is prime example of The Drum's infectious 1950s bopping beats. Even if you've never set foot on a surf board in your life, you're jiving and whistling with them all the way to the beach. But the now three piece Brooklyn band have proved to be so much more than the trendy surf genre they were partly responsible for reviving. Last year's hits 'Forever and Ever Amen,' 'Best Friend' and 'Me and the Moon' from their self titled debut album headed in a more soulful direction, away from the beach and into the big and serious smoke. The Drums are now heading to some of Australia's big smokes - Brisbane included - as part of Groovin The Moo. You can catch their live show and contagious dancing disease at The Hi-fi this Wednesday.
The core aspects of our greater universe impact upon personal reflections and our perceptions of the world around us, perhaps more than we realise. These images of the greater unknown are so often seen, yet individually digested. Fabric of the Universe takes a look at this idea, using images of the greater universe and its phenomenon and applies them to artistic endeavours of the modern world. Alongside these ultra visual creatives, White Palms will be there to entertain your ears. Perhaps the ideal soundtrack for the evening, these guys have been making special appearances at some great one-off events, and this is sure to be no exception. While feeding your curiosity, grab some delectable eats from the Wandering Elephant food van, parked outside for your convenience. Head along to the fun and intimate venue of Loading Dock Expresso, before they are full to the brim.
Festivals have evolved. Nowadays, they're almost unrecognisable from the pits of despair we experienced in our teens — and there's a festival to suit almost everyone. If your bag is being terrified until you poop your pants, Horror Movie Campout is the festival for you. Basically, it's the Meredith of monstrosity, the Splendour of spookiness… and it's happening again at Sirromet Wines on May 20. So what goes on at a horror festival? Well, it's full of horrifying spectres and hair-raising scenes of horror (aka, your blood will literally curdle). We've had some clues from last few years: yep, survivors camped out overnight in the woods (first mistake right there, seriously). They reported roaming zombies, all the classic pop-culture murderers you can shake your pathetic choice of weapon at and of course, menacing clowns. Not only do the organisers hire actors to scare the bejesus out of you, but everyone comes to event dressed in costume. So get down to your local stuff shop before they sell out of 1920s nightgowns, fake blood and Kabuki masks. You can expect a horrifying 'death chamber' maze, as well as a main stage with live music (will it be horrifying? They haven't specified, but probably). Then, the main event is a series of curated horror shorts followed by two headliners, decided by you, the victims.
Thirty films, four weeks and more famous faces than you can dream of — that's what to expect from this year's MINI British Film Festival. Reading through the fest's lineup is like scrolling through a who's who of English talent, with Helen Mirren, Ian McKellen, Dev Patel, Tilda Swinton, Hugh Laurie, Kristin Scott Thomas, Bill Nighy, Keira Knightley, Timothy Spall, Peter Capaldi, Gwendoline Christie, Kate Beckinsale, Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones and even Liam Gallagher all set to grace Brisbane cinema screens between October 30–November 24. While Kristin Scott Thomas will lead the way in war-set opening night drama Military Wives, legends Mirren and McKellen will help close out the festival in thriller The Good Liar. Meanwhile, outspoken Oasis frontman gets the documentary treatment in Liam Gallagher: As It Was, and The Theory of Everything's Redmayne and Jones reunite for a high-flying adventure in The Aeronauts. The list goes on — and if you're already feeling spoiled for choice, we're here to help by picking out our four must-see highlights. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysjwg-MnZao SORRY WE MISSED YOU When Ken Loach won the Cannes Film Festival's coveted Palme d'Or for 2016's I, Daniel Blake, he did so with a moving social-realist drama that exposed the cruelty underpinning a standard facet of British life. That's the veteran director's speciality, so it should come as no surprise that his latest film follows in the same footsteps — or that it's just as astute and stirring. Swapping government benefits for the gig economy, Sorry We Missed You follows ex-construction worker Ricky (Kris Hitchen) as he leaps into the courier business, thinking that'll provide security for his family's future. Instead, he discovers the gruelling reality of impossible targets, zero benefits, uncaring corporations, spiralling debts and working around the clock. Shot with Loach's usual naturalistic eye, this timely and topical movie proves as impassioned and infuriating as its stellar predecessor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbhAt1vLxXA A GUIDE TO SECOND DATE SEX George MacKay is one of Britain's rising acting talents, with standout roles in For Those In Peril, Pride, Captain Fantastic, and 11.22.63 to prove it. Soon, he'll be seen in the upcoming Australian drama True History of the Kelly Gang — playing Ned Kelly, no less — but before that, he's jumping into the romantic comedy realm. In A Guide to Second Date Sex, MacKay plays Ryan. On his second date with Laura (Alexandra Roach), he knows that they have plenty in common; however, they're both still feeling more than a little awkward. First-time director Rachel Hirons adapted this screenplay from her own hit Edinburgh Fringe Festival play. Embracing, unpacking and subverting all the usual dating and rom-com tropes, this is classic British comedy territory. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVwbeA4Ff9Y CITIZEN K From the collapse of enormous corporations to huge political sex scandals and CIA-sanctioned torture, Alex Gibney has chronicled the big stories of the past two decades. Sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, Julian Assange's Wikileaks, Lance Armstrong's doping ban and the Church of Scientology have all fallen into his purview as well, with the American documentarian amassing quite the hard-hitting resume. With Citizen K, he dives into a topic he was bound to cover: Vladimir Putin's Russia, the country's murky political realm and the fate awaiting anyone who speaks out against the powerful president. Focusing on Mikhail Khodorkovsky, Citizen K tracks the Russian businessman's journey from wealthy oligarch to prisoner to "the Kremlin's leading critic-in-exile". As the most fascinating tales are, it's the kind of story that has to be seen to be believed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gm17B-nOgZ8 FARMING How does a Briton with Nigerian ancestry end up in a white supremacist gang? That's the tale that Farming tells. The title refers to a practice common in the 60s, 70s and 80s when babies were fostered out to white parents in the hopes that they'd receive a better upbringing. In Enitan's (Damson Idris) case, growing up in Tilbury leaves him questioning his identity, feeling like an outcast with both his foster family and his natural family, and seeking approval from the hateful skinheads who openly taunt, bully, beat and condemn him. It's a confronting and compelling story, especially given that it's based on the life of actor-turned-writer and director Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje — who has featured in everything from Oz, Lost and Game of Thrones to The Bourne Identity, Thor: The Dark World and Suicide Squad over the past two decades. The MINI British Film Festival will take place at Brisbane's Palace Barracks and Palace James Street from October 30–November 24. For more information, visit the festival website.
Everyone knows what school holidays mean: noisy kids causing a ruckus everywhere, all the time. Nowhere is this more highlighted than at your average shopping centre, food court or cinema. During these trying times dotted throughout the calendar, it can often be hard to have an ‘adult’ moment when surrounded by those enjoying their own fleeting freedom. Rather than give up the idea entirely of an enjoyable outing, it’s easier to adapt. Don’t risk your local Event Cinema – it’s definitely not worth it. Instead, head for somewhere guaranteed to be quiet and sophisticated, and full of people your own age. The Powerhouse is one of these venues and most certainly can assist you with their monthly screening of Antidote Films – movies that matter. This Sunday they’ll be screening Life In Movement, a documentary about a death in the Sydney Dance Company. Plus, as well as saving you from contact with kids, this event is free.
When February passes its midway point each year, margaritas start being the hospitality industry's drink of choice. The reason? World Margarita Day on February 22. That date has been and gone for 2023 now, but the 'ritas will still be flowing in Fish Lane in March. In fact, the precinct is dedicating the entire month to margs — on menus in general, and at events dedicated to the cocktail. The patch of South Brisbane and West End does already have celebrations devoted to rosé and negronis on its calendar, so consider this a case of pouring out some love for another tipple. Dubbed 'March Into Margarita', the tequila-fuelled event will run for the entire month — so, from Friday, March 1–Sunday, March 31, 2024 in its inaugural year — across venues such as Bar Brutus, Chu the Phat, Hello Please, Kiki Kiosk, Midtown, Southside and Saccharomyces Beer Cafe. The special marg lineup spans classic versions everywhere that serves them, plus creative takes at a heap of places. Chu the Phat is taking its cues from Bangkok, El Planta's margs will involve grilled pineapple and rhubarb, and Midtown is doing both spiced lychee and passionfruit takes. You'll find find a smoked jalapeño sip at Saccharomyces, too, as well as a largerita — which Chu the Phat is also serving. If you're looking for a specific day to head along, take inspiration from shindigs such as the Margs-a-Million festival. Taking place on Sunday, March 3 across two two-hour sessions — from 12–2pm and 2–4pm — it'll see Southside serve up margaritas and mezcal-based cocktails. Also, Benny Lam and his chef team will collaborate with the crew from Mama Taco in West End on bites to match. Midtown is hosting The Margarita Edit on Thursday, March 7, complete with marg flights instead of its usual martini spread, plus small plates to line the stomach. And Chu the Phat is throwing a laneway party called Phat Phiesta on Thursday, March 21, where there'll be sips, mariachi music and dishes with ample spice. Or, each Friday and Saturday in March from 3–5pm, you can head to Hello Please for $15 margs and two tacos for $18. With all of this marg-centric fun, if you claim that you don't know what to drink to kick off autumn in Fish Lane, no one will believe you. March Into Margarita runs from Friday, March 1–Sunday, March 31, 2024. For more information, head to the Fish Lane Arts Precinct website. Images: Pixel Punk.
When the Mountain Goat Valley Crawl kicked off in 2016, it did so in simple but great style. Recognising that the key to many a good night out is a multi-venue itinerary, it made hopping between Fortitude Valley's finest hangouts a streamlined, well-organised yet still laidback experience — with brews aplenty and an ace live music soundtrack. That was then. Now, the same idea and aim remain; however everyone's favourite multi-venue mini music and beer festival is even bigger and better in its third year. After expanding from four venues in its initial outing to five the second time around, 2018's event will see attendees jump between seven spots to see 35 interstate and local artists. The simultaneous sonic fun takes place on February 17, at returning spaces The Zoo, The Brightside, The Foundry and Black Bear Lodge, plus new additions Barbara, The Flying Cock and Crowbar. As always, the agenda includes running between each to sip frosty beverages and catch crackin' sets, with the entertainment once again sponsored by a brewery. Details of the who plays at which venue variety are yet to be announced; however the whole shindig will kick off at 5pm. Given that we know the what, where and when of it all in a general sense, the only thing left for you to do is clear your calendar for an ace day of tunes, brews and hopping around the Valley. Oh, and to get excited about the below lineup: Philadelphia Grand Jury Gooch Palms Hatchie Hollow Coves Carmouflage Rose Midas.Gold Ninajirachi Jess Locke Bugs BOAT SHOW Nice Biscuit Emerson Snowe Holiday Party Ayla King IV Austen Jesswar Fritz Jouk Mistrow The Gametes Orlando Furious FeelsClub Port Royal First Beige Eat Your Heart Out Chakra Efendi Stranger Land JEFFE Hey Baby Pink Matter Keelan Mak Earthlings Twinfolds Hope D Zapéd The Mountain Goat Valley Crawl takes place at The Zoo, The Brightside, The Foundry, Black Bear Lodge, Barbara, The Flying Cock and Crowbar on February 17. For more information, check out the event's Facebook page.
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 second year in a row, drums will echo and quiet conversation will be whispered at Black Bear Lodge's entire evening dedicated to appreciating the 35-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 January 10, and there's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do to stop it. 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 on repeat as well.
Step inside Winston Quinn's Fortitude Valley warehouse, and you'll find one type of beverage on the menu: gin. That's all the Brisbane distillery makes and, in its freshly launched tasting room, that's all it sells as well. "We joke if people would like a gin, a gin or a gin," explains founder Megan Donsky. Of course, there are plenty of varieties of the beloved juniper-based spirit, as every gin lover knows — and plenty of ways to serve it, too. Winston Quinn whips up four types: Dry Cut, a citrus-flavoured tipple made with fresh lemon, orange rind and lemon myrtle; Skinny Jeans, a blue-hued gin with floral flavours; Pink Fit, which is infused with elderflower, grapefruit, wild apple and strawberry; and Slim Crop, which heroes cucumber. And, it offers tasting paddles ($30) featuring all four, cocktails made with each ($18–35), and gin and tonics ($12.50) boasting whichever one you choose. If you're eager for a cocktail, highlights include the Skinny Martini ($18), the Dry Cut Negroni ($20) and the Winston Jug ($35), with the latter featuring both Skinny Jeans and Pink Fit gins. Mocktails are also on offer for those eager to enjoy the taste but not the booze, and all drinks can be paired with a cheese board ($25) or a meat and olive tasting plate ($25). Customers can also purchase both 200-millilitre ($30) and 700-millilitre ($85–89) takeaway bottles — and you'll receive $10 off the latter if you book in for a tasting. Also included in those 90-minute sessions: either the aforementioned tasting paddle and a G&T (for $30), or a cocktail (for $20). Now open in a 60s-era brick building on Prospect Street, Winston Quinn Gin's tasting room was originally slated to launch earlier in the year. In fact, it was just one week away from opening when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. The site has a cosy yet light and airy feel, decor-wise, and it's only open to 20 people at a time at present, in line with Queensland's current restrictions. And if you're wondering about the distillery's moniker — and its dog logo, which is prominent both on its bottles and in the tasting room — Donsky named the place after her two golden retrievers. Find Winston Quinn Gin at 2 Prospect Street, Fortitude Valley — with tastings held from Thursday–Sunday.
A decade has sashayed away since Bianca Del Rio won the sixth season of RuPaul's Drag Race. After emerging victorious over Australia's own runner-up Courtney Act, the drag queen and comedian has been conquering Down Under stages ever since. Among multiple tours over the past ten years, the fabulously quick-witted talent last brought her Hurricane Bianca whirlwind this way in 2022 — and she'll next break out her devilish snark and timing in 2025. The global favourite keeps building upon her massive past decade or so, with the dimple-cheeked performer doing everything from tours upon tours to hitting the West End stage in the musical Everybody's Talking About Jamie and also popping up in the film version as well. Then there's 2016 comedy Hurricane Bianca and its 2018 sequel Hurricane Bianca: From Russia with Hate, plenty more appearances on various Drag Race seasons and specials, web specials, music videos and even an episode of Celebrity Family Feud. Accordingly, you know what to start watching in preparation for Del Rio's Dead Inside gigs in Brisbane — although, as you'll know if you've seen her live before, there's nothing like seeing her in the flesh. Del Rio's 2025 visit will break out the cutting insults — plus her larger-than-life persona in general — across two nights from Tuesday, January 28–Wednesday, January 29 at Fortitude Music Hall.
Minimalist Australian clothing designer Assembly Label loves a warehouse sale, hosting them in Sydney and Melbourne, and also online. But it's never put one on in Queensland — until now. For four days, you can nab discounted threads, although you will need to head to the Gold Coast to do so. From Thursday, April 20–Sunday, April 23, the brand is heading to Tropical Studios in Arundel, operating from on Thursday from 7am–8pm, Friday 7am–7pm, Saturday 8am–5pm and Sunday 9am–3pm. Expect to browse and buy samples and pieces from past seasons, with prices at up to 70-percent off. The label is known for its linen basics and relaxed coastal vibes, and this debut Sunshine State warehouse sale will span threads, accessories, footwear and homewares. Options include tees from $30, jeans from $35 and shirts for $40, as well as leather sandals for $40, pants from $50 and towels for $30. It's also doing big reductions on premium styles, such as tailored blazers, as well as 50-percent off all silk styles. And cash, credit card, Zip Pay and Afterpay will be accepted.
Getta Burger said goodbye to Brisbane in 2023, and so did plant-based joint Grassfed. Ze Pickle shut its Brissie locations in 2024. But the River City's burger scene isn't just seeing closures of late. Come May, it'll welcome in the Burleigh-born Two Yolks for brekkie burgs, bacon and egg burgs, scrambled eggs on burgs, spicy chicken burgs, truffle burgs, old-school burgs, mortadella burgs and more. Eggs are clearly a prime feature of this eatery's burgers — and expect them to ooze when you take a bite. Two Yolks boasts Charles Olalia (ex-The French Laundry, Guy Savoy) as Executive Chef Partner, but it hasn't gone upmarket with its burg offering. The vibe here is retro, as Brisbanites will see on Grey Street in South Bank when it opens its doors. Two Yolks will serve burgers all day, hence the array of breakfast options, which also span halloumi; sausage and cheese; bacon, lettuce, avocado and tomato; and mushroom and avocado. The morning menu is where the mortadella burg comes in, too, which is inspired by Anthony Bourdain. And, there's a croissant version of eggs benedict, plus a breakfast burrito. Sides include cheesy truffle fries, chilli cheese tots, hash browns, hand-battered onion rings and bacon on a stick — plus chips paired with eggs, of course. As for drinks, shakes come in the holy trinity of chocolate, vanilla and strawberry, as well as a boozy espresso martini version. Mimosas, bloody marys and orange spritzes feature among the cocktail range, and beers are also on offer. What's better than one new South Bank eatery, though? Two, and right next door to each other. Grey Street is also becoming home to Finn Poke, which slings bowls and tacos. This is another case of a hit from out of town making the move to Brisbane, with the brand born in Byron Bay. The focus: an Aussie spin on poke, all while letting you build your own bowls. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Two Yolks™️ (@twoyolks__) Find Two Yolks and Finn Poke on Grey Street, South Bank, sometime in May — keep an eye on Two Yolks and Finn Poke's social media in the interim.
If spotting a meal deal is as exciting to you as finding a twenty in last winter's coat pocket, then this list is for you. We've scoured Brisbane's bars, restaurants, breweries and pubs to find five great food and beverage pairing deals that you don't want to miss. Whether it's a schooey and a pizza, or tacos and bottomless margaritas, it's all here. Round up your tightest friends, crack open the piggy bank (or check those coat pockets) and get down to these local venues for some cheap thrills.
Guzman y Gomez is no stranger to Brisbane — but when it opens a new store, it still hosts a big celebration. With the Mexican chain launching its latest outpost at Valley Metro on Brunswick Street in Fortitude Valley, it's marking the occasion with $5 specials on Tuesday, November 17. Taking place in-store, the $5 promotion applies to burritos and bowls — so you can choose whichever one your stomach prefers. The offer is available all day, too, from opening till close. Yes, that means you can decide to have burritos for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. Like everything this year, this is a COVID-19-safe affair. So, while you can expect to have company, you'll also be asked to maintain social distancing.
Sh*t Robot really isn't as shit as he claims to be. His seductive electronic melodies can make almost anyone feel like a sexy super model. I often find myself thinking I'm swathing down a catwalk upon hearing 'Take 'Em up.' An honest, musical-induced mistake I swear. The man underneath the cardboard robot mask is Marcus Lambkin, a 40 year old Irish born, New York native with a knack for DJ partnerships (he's besties with James Murphy of LCD Sound System and Alexis Taylor of Hot Chip) and a deal with DFA Records. He's also shit-hot at creating electronic tracks of his own with his album Cradle to the Rave, which was lauded as one of 2010's best house music albums. Sh*t Robot is now set to grace us with his up-beat presence as part of an Australian tour. He'll be making you girls and boys dance at Alloneword on Easter Saturday (yes something to do on the Easter Weekend!) along with resident Elsewhere DJ Audun and one half of the Rio Lobotomy duo, Adam Hunter. Just be careful not to strut too much – it can be addictive. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Fyw0Ypg92Lk
This weekend, the country's best First Nations musicians will come together for the 2020 National Indigenous Music Awards. Taking over TV screens, mobiles and social feeds, the annual music awards will be live-broadcast across NITV, Double J, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube from 7pm AEST on Saturday, August 8. And there'll be quite a few special guests making an appearance, too. For the awards part of the evening, the country's best musicians will be battling out across seven categories: song of the year, album of the year, film clip of the year, community clip of the year, new talent of the year, Indigenous language awards and, the big 'un, artist of the year. Electric Fields, Emily Wurramara, Jessica Mauboy, Mau Power, Thelma Plum and Baker Boy (who's back to potentially snag the prize two years running) are up for artist, while film clip contenders include 'House Fyre' by Briggs featuring Tim Minchin, Dallas Woods' 'If It Glitters It's Gold' and 'Drowning' by Miiesha. In between announcing winners, there'll be shows from the likes of Archie Roach, Thelma Plum and Mau Power, as well as a special performance of 'My Island Home' by songwriter Neil Murray and Christine Anu, in tribute to the song's original performers, the Warumpi Band. The one and only Midnight Oil will also be making an appearance. The Aussie rockers are back — with new music, no less. They'll be performing 'Gadigal Land' — their first new song in almost two decades — off their new mini album The Makarrata Project. The band is donating its share of profits from the project to organisations raising awareness about The Uluru Statement from The Heart. While you're waiting for the awards on Saturday, you can listen to NIMAs 2020 Spotify playlist over here. [caption id="attachment_778722" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Electric Fields[/caption] NIMA will be live-broadcast across NITV, Double J, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube from 7pm AEST on Saturday, August 8. Images: David Hancock
Wynnum Fringe doesn't just keep getting bigger every year. The arts and culture festival also expands its lineup by adding new reasons to head along. In 2023, Bay Pride falls into that category — the first-ever Pride fest in Brisbane's bayside. Taking place on Sunday, November 26 in the Wynnum Fringe hub precinct in and around George Clayton Park, the inaugural Bay Pride is celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community with everything from a march and music to performances and markets. It all kicks off at 10am, running through until late — with love, inclusivity, diversity and equality always centre stage. The march will start at 12pm at the Wynnum Jetty, making for both a welcoming and a scenic stroll — and sunny — that'll end at Wynnum Fringe's main site for the year. In the Wynnum Fringe Garden, LGBTQIA+ businesses will lead the market selection, with bites to eat, drinks from outdoor bars and rides also on offer — including hopping on the ferris wheel. Shows taking to the stage throughout the day span Lesbian Love Stories, the Pride Variety Show and GODZ, while Trevor Jones will be tickling the ivories in the piano lounge. Throw in an outdoor stage filled with tunes and drag, plus an afterparty from 6pm, and it's set to be a huge day.
The Ryan vs Seth debate incited gang wars (it's all Seth, all the time, people — come on). Marissa made our eye twitch with stiff acting and then tore our hearts out in season three (no spoilers, hey). Summer retrospectively became our life and style guru. And still, no true O.C. fan can hear Imogen Heap's 'Hide and Seek' without tearing up just a little bit. For everyone whose teenage expectations of life and love were shaped by The O.C. and Peter Gallagher's eyebrows, listen up: The Brightside is throwing a huge O.C.-themed party on Saturday, August 4. Cue Youth Group, Death Cab for Cutie, Eels, Jem, The Futureheads, Spoon et al playing on repeat. You'd best cancel all existing plans and start fashioning an outfit with maximum spaghetti straps and low-waist jeans that are neither skinny nor flared.
There are two types of people in Brisbane: those who love Archives Fine Books, and those who haven't been there yet, even though it has been a Brisbane institution since 1985. Regardless of what you like to read, and how often, perusing the Charlotte Street shop's shelves is like hunting for — and finding — treasure. Yes, that old book smell will hit you the moment you walk in. And yes, there are more bookshelves — and books, too — than you've probably ever seen in one place. They claim to have more than a million printed tomes, and it certainly looks like it. From '80s cookbooks to tie-in novels for movies you never even knew existed, plus everything in between, you'll find it here.
If you've never been interested in silent films, this Spanish production might change your mind — and if they are your taste, you'll be pleasantly surprised. Blancanieves, which translates to 'Snow White', is a unique interpretation of the classic Grimm Brothers fantasy. Set in Andalusia, Spain during the early 1900s when bull fighting, flamenco and romance were at their best, the film expresses all the gusto and passion of Spanish culture — even without those sultry words. The protagonist of the story is Carmen (Macarena García), the daughter of famed matador Antonio Villalta (Daniel Giménez Cacho). On the same fateful day, Antonio is injured in a bullfight and Carmen's mother dies whilst giving birth to her. Carmen, who is raised by her grandmother until her death, goes to live with the paralysed Antonio, and his nurse-turned-wife, Encarna (Maribel Verdú). As her evocative name implicates, Encarna runs a house of horrors, treating her husband and stepdaughter with cruelty while masking her own bizarre fetishes. According to the traditional story, the stepmother is insanely jealous of the budding beauty and tries to do away her. Of course, our heroine survives (with a little amnesia) and is taken in by a group of travelling dwarves who nickname her 'Blancanieves'. By accident, it is discovered that Carmen has her father's knack for bullfighting. They travel around Spain as she stares down bulls in a gladiatorial yet glamorous fashion, most notably in an emotive last torero. Dubbed "a love letter to European silent cinema", by director Pablo Berger, Blancanieves had been in his heart for quite some time. Inspired by a photograph of bullfighting dwarves, Berger started on the project in 2003. Eight years later, he got wind that The Artist, another black-and white silent film, had premiered at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival. "I almost threw my phone against the wall," he told the Guardian. The high concept was gone." If he worried that Blancanieves would look like a copycat of the Oscar winning Artist, I disagree. As do copious others; the film received ten Goya awards (the equivalent of the Spanish Oscars). Blancanieves has all the qualities of a classic silent film but with a fresh twist that keeps our modern minds guessing. By incorporating Hitchcock-type cinematography, Berger crafts a beguiling version of the traditional story that is in turns melancholy, eerie and erotic. His cast of devastatingly beautiful Spanish beauties, such as Verdú (from Y Tu Mamá Tambien and Pan's Labyrinth), makes us swoon with every lash bat and tear roll. The roles of the dwarves are also unexpected — possibilities for betrayal and even romance can be found. So if you're looking forward to a debonair don of a prince charming in this story, forget it. But with a fantastically ambiguous ending that will have you wanting more, his is a part that's hardly missed. https://youtube.com/watch?v=HanTDiiZLpg
The weather might be getting colder, but Brisbane's market scene is heating up. To be fair, there's never a bad time for a stint of browsing and buying in the River City. No matter the season, there's always markets galore all around town. But winter's markets are their own unique breed thanks to Christmas in July shindigs — whether or not you actually plan to get your festive shopping done early — solstice celebrations and more. Yes, you've got options around from June to August thanks to Brisbane's best winter markets. Some sell creative wares. Others specialise in food and drinks. Many do a combination of both. Whatever you're looking for, here's a heap to check out.
What do the Star Wars theme song and its Jurassic Park, Jaws, Superman and Harry Potter equivalents all have in common? Two things. Firstly, when you hear each and every one, they instantly transport you into the world of their respective films. That's what a good piece of movie music does — whether or not the accompanying images are playing in front of you. Secondly, they're all the product of one man: five-time Oscar-winner and 52-time nominee John Williams. On Friday, April 29 and Saturday, April 30, all of the above pieces will also echo through QPAC's Concert Hall. Similarly set to get a spin: Williams' tunes from Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Hook, Memoirs of a Geisha, Schindler's List, JFK, The Terminal and more. The Queensland Symphony Orchestra will be playing them, putting on a show dedicated to the iconic composer. You won't be watching the relevant flicks, but rather soaking in their sounds as they're all played live. The reason: Williams turned 90 this year, although no one ever needs an excuse to send copious amounts of love his way. As part of its Cinematic series, QSO will be performing three concerts, at 7.30pm on both nights, and also at 1.30pm on the Saturday. And to get you in the mood, here's an excerpt from the always-enchanting Jurassic Park soundtrack:
With two great locations on the south side of Brisbane, Premium Pilates and Fitness has become a favourite with Coorparoo and Camp Hill locals looking to increase their fitness and strengthen their body. The friendly team of instructors provides a range of group classes, including reformer pilates, mat pilates, barre, HIIT, stretch and yoga classes. Want to try something new? Book into a PIT (Pilates Interval Training) class, created by studio co-owner Chris, and sweat it out to a series of exercises combining interval training and low-impact mat movements. Premium Pilates and Fitness also offer affordable pilates and group fitness classes, with weekly memberships starting at $30 for unlimited classes at one studio. Membership is $50 per week if you want an all-access pass to both studios, or you can get fit in your living room with an online membership for $15 per week. Whether you're looking to strengthen your core, improve your posture or enhance your coordination, you're guaranteed a satisfying workout at Premium Pilates and Fitness. Images: Kristine Fernandez
Across MELT's 11-day program, the festival blends a whole heap of different art forms into one ace event. At Turbine, one performance combines music and dance styles into a queer fusion of ballet, classical music and electronic tunes, in what promises to be an intimate yet epic piece. Running from May 23 to 26, it's the work of Collusion, a music and dance ensemble that's getting personal with its latest effort. At the heart of the performance is a probing of freedoms and their price, as set to a score by composer Thomas Green, plus original music directed and performed by Collusion's Camille Barry and Benjamin Greaves.
Has your dog always wanted to sit on a 'Game of Bones'-style throne? More importantly, have you always wanted your four-legged sidekick to pretend that they're in Westeros — all so you can take the world's most adorable photo? If so, then you might just go barking mad for Australia's latest pop-up installation. It calls itself a museum, but it's really just an excuse for you to snap pics of your cute canine against extremely photogenic backdrops. Think Sugar Republic and Melbourne's Christmasland — but, instead of focusing on desserts and all things festive (and human), Pet Stars is all about those gorgeous little animal critters that we choose to spend our lives with. The name is a little misleading, because the pop-up is "encouraging dogs only", according to its website. That said, it is hosting VIP cats-only nights as well, should you have a Ser Pounce to take along. If you're the proud parent of a "larger animal, snake or scary creature", though, you'll definitely have to leave them at home. Debuting at the Gold Coast's Carrara Market Event Space on Thursday, November 28 ahead of planned 2020 seasons in both Sydney and Melbourne, Pet Stars will boast an array of themed spaces for puppers to frolic through. In addition to 'Game of Bones', there's a Kong dog ball pit, a room that's all about chewed shoes and a doggy high tea set-up. Or, maybe your furball needs a trip to the 'Doggy Style' grooming room or the glamour room? Given the season, of course there's a Christmas-focused room on the premises — there's your end-of-year pics taken care of. As well as more than 20 snap-happy scenes, Pet Stars will feature pet cosplay and a hall of fame room. You can also hang out in a park area with your pooch, and meet other dogs and dog owners. And, you can buy merchandise while you're there — but if you want to treat your doggo to some actual edible treats, you're encouraged to bring them with you. During its Queensland run, which spans three weekends until Sunday, December 15, Pet Stars will be donating $1 from each entry ticket to the Animal Welfare League of Queensland (and it's safe to assume it'll do something similar in New South Wales and Victoria, too). Don't have your own pet? You're still welcome to head along. In fact, if you stop by the Pet Rescue Area run by AWLQ, you might even find a dog and cat to adopt, take back through the installations, snap in heaps of pics and become your life-long best friend. Pet Stars will launch at the Carrara Market Event Space, on the corner of Gooding Drive and Manchester Road at Carrara on the Gold Coast, from Thursday, November 28–Sunday, December 15 — with tickets on sale now. It's open Thursday–Sunday during its run, welcoming dogs from 12–6pm on Thursdays, 12–8pm on Fridays, 10am–8pm on Saturdays and 10am–4pm on Sundays. Cat nights take place on Thursdays from 6–7pm.
Two venues. Seven months. More than 30 shows. That's the maths behind Open Season 2023. This series of gigs and performances debuted in 2020 at The Tivoli, just as Brisbane started to find its normality after the pandemic's first lockdown. Since then, it's kept coming back — adding Woolloongabba's Princess Theatre to its footprint in 2021, and now announcing a return lineup for both sites for 2023. Think of it as a big multi-gig festival — one that runs from late May through till December, too. That means that Brisbanites have multiple places to head to, multiple dates to do so, and multiple bands and shows to see, all from the first lineup announcement. (More acts will be added later in April.) Leading the bill so far: UK punk legends The Damned, New Zealand's Kimbra, US producer Thundercat, Weyes Blood and Aussie favourites King Stingray. Molchat Doma are also bringing their post-punk synth-pop sounds to the River City from Belarus, while The Pharcyde will team up with Masta Ace and Marco Polo, and Ngaiire will do the same with Queensland Symphony Orchestra. And, Bernie Dieter's Club Kabarett is finally making its way to Brisbane — sword swallowing, hair hanging, Cirque Du Soleil aerialists and all. German kabarett superstar Bernie Dieter leads the charge, and she's been described as "an electrifying cross between Lady Gaga, Marlene Dietrich and Frank-N-Furter in sequins", if you're wondering what you're in for. [caption id="attachment_841676" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Craig Sugden[/caption] Open Season's roster goes on, complete with Tourist, Winston Surfshirt, Lastlings, Middle Kids, Gordi and more. Also on the bill: the return of First Nations festival Blak Day Out, which was postponed from January to July. And, similarly adding a fest within the fest is Set Roulette, a new event that will decide who plays when exactly as its name suggests — by spinning a roulette wheel on the day. The Glam Awards also makes its debut, giving Brisbane both a new set of queer performing arts awards and a club night, with a heap of the country's best drag and queer performers set to feature. "Brisbane tends to hibernate over winter and we wanted to create a contemporary, curated music-led program that gives audiences something awesome and new over what is traditionally a quiet time of year," said The Tivoli and The Princess Theatre co-owner Dave Sleswick, announcing Open Season's 2023 lineup. "Even as Open Season grows and takes its place alongside Australia's big winter festivals and cultural events in the southern states, it will always retain that grungy, grassroots and artist-led philosophy upon which it was founded" "Brisbane is very much at the heart of Open Season, both for audiences and artists, and we demonstrate our commitment to this philosophy by programming great local talent and bringing huge international artists to the city so Brisbane has everything it needs right on its doorstep." [caption id="attachment_817947" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Somefx[/caption] OPEN SEASON 2023 — THE PRINCESS THEATRE: Saturday, May 27 — Northeast Party House Wednesday, May 31 — Kimbra Friday, June 2 — Winston Surfshirt Saturday, June 3 — Weyes Blood Wednesday, June 7 — The Damned Saturday, June 10 — Coterie Thursday, June 15 — Molchat Doma Friday, June 16 — Middle Kids Saturday, July 1 — Lastlings Wednesday, July 19–Saturday, July 22 — Bernie Dieter's Club Kabarett Friday, July 28 — Tourist Friday, August 4 — Ngaiire and Queensland Symphony Orchestra Saturday, August 5 — Set Roulette Friday, August 11 — Full Flower Moon Band Saturday, August 19 — First Beige and special guests Thursday, August 24 — Gordi OPEN SEASON 2023 — THE TIVOLI: Wednesday, June 7 — Thundercat Friday, June 9 — King Stingray Sunday, July 16 — Blak Day Out Saturday, August 19 — The Glam Awards Open Season will run from late May–December 2023, with pre-sale tickets available from 10am on Tuesday, April 4 and general sales from 11am on Wednesday, April 5. For further details, head to the event's website. Top image: Mitch Lowe.
The Russian Resurrection Film Festival is back for 2015, showcasing the best of Russian cinema from Vladivostok to Moscow. The largest festival of Russian filmmaking anywhere outside of the motherland, this year's lineup features a wide mix of genres and includes a program stream dedicated to classic and contemporary war films. Because nobody makes war movies like the Russians. Headlining the program is Dmitriy Meskhiev's Battalion, which tells the real-life story of the First Russian Women's Battalion during the height of WWI. Other films in the sidebar include 1959's Oscar-nominated Ballad of a Soldier, and Alexei German's 19756 epic 20 Days Without War, as well as the recent Russian-Ukrainian co-production Battle for Sevastopol — which opens the festival in Brisbane. Moving beyond the canon fire, other standouts on the program include Teacha, a thriller about a high school teacher holding her students hostage, and Sunstroke, a three-hour historical drama about the last days of the Russian Empire.
