Fairy tales, fantasy and adventure are what's promised for this years trio of productions from the Queensland Ballet. With interpretations of classics such as Fairy Tales: Stories of Hans Christian Anderson and Miguel de Cervantes adventurous novel Don Quixote to come through out the year, both stakes and expectations are high for Queensland's premiere dance company. The 2012 season begins on a very whimsical tune. Artistic director and choreographer Francois Klaus has taken up the challenge of adapting two of Lewis Carole's most beloved works of fiction, Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. The story follows young Alice's journey through the rabbit hole, into the beautiful and uncanny world of Wonderland. The boundaries of reality and fantasy are steadily broken down as she makes her way through Wonderland, meeting with a wise caterpillar, a homicidal Queen and a rabbit very preoccupied with his schedule. With countless works of art, stage, and films based off it, Carole's story of the strange and magical land and it's insightful heroine has become a kind of cultural phenomenon steeped in nostalgia. Queensland Ballet are eager to meet the challenge of re inventing this classic and giving audiences of all ages what they have delivered on in their past productions: a wondrous visual and musical display. Tickets are sure to sell fast so don't be late for this very important date!
Back in 2006 IMA showcased Swiss artist Olaf Breuning's two-channel video odyssey, Home. Back with what looks like a handyman video diary or amateur travel documentary (but in a good way) Breuning brings us Home 2 - the mondo-jackass sequel. The clarify, the screening depicts dress up pranks played on natives across the world. In one situation Kerstetter's character wears a gorilla-costume head brilliantly matched with an AC/DC shit to meet the locals of Papua New Guinea. In Japan he persuades passer-bys to post with him to cat masks (see picture) and in Switzerland he strips Swiss men of their traditional Appenzell costumes and gives them to females to wear as drag. The point of this movie you might ask? An apparent need to seek harmony and human connection while finding a home in the worlds of others. Although the effect is total alienation, I guess it works, to some extent. If you missed the first one, it's not a big worry. You can enjoy Home 2 without the introduction of his previous success. If you enjoy light, immature, handy cam comedy - this one's for you.
No matter what the exhibition, Queensland Art Gallery always provides hours of entertainment for lovers of fine art. Modern Woman: Daughters and Lovers - Drawings from the Musée d'Orsay, Paris exhibition features illustrations by artists working in France during the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. Running for a month, the exhibition is exclusive to Brisbane. The Modern Woman exhibition celebrates a pivotal point in both the history of art and women. Artists such as Edgar Degas, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edouard Vuillard and Auguste Rodin are showcased and their artwork exemplifies a shift in the representations of women. These artworks present everday women, and in doing so celebrate what it means to be female. Yes, even back then the debate over the presentation of real women vs. airbrushed was rife. The artworks reflect a rejection of idealised representations of the female body and favour women from varying backgrounds. Drawings featured in the exhibition show women in their family lives partaking in domestic activities and also includes depictions of women working and performing. Modern Woman: Daughters and Lovers exhibition features stunning pieces of artwork while also exposing a historical snapshot of a society undergoing a serious shakeup. Be entertained and educated!
If you're a fan of catchy indie pop don't miss Oceanics debut EP launch, Bright People this Thursday night. Not even wallflowers would be able to resist dancing to the infectious tunes and enjoying the charismatic stage presence of this Gold Coast four piece. Oceanics have played numerous shows both in Brisbane and the Gold Coast alongside acts such as Ball Park Music, The Boat People, British India, The Like, San Cisco and Sparkadia. Plus, with a Big Day Out placement tucked tightly under their belts, it's fair to say Oceanics catchy tunes are creating a stir. Often compared to The Kooks because of their effortless, jangling guitar riffs as well as lead singer Elliot Weston's charming vocals, take this opportunity to suss them out for yourself. And what better night than Thursday, the ever celebrated student night at Oh Hello. Cheap drinks, good music and like minded people make The Oceanics EP Launch the place to be this Thursday. Cobra Kai DJs will keep the party kicking well into the night, and just incase if you need a little extra coaxing – there will be fairy floss.
Please sir, I want some more. "The innocent request of a hungry orphan boy living in London in the mid 1800s. Sound familiar? The famous phrase can only be associated with Oliver Twist, the Charles Dickens novel that has been adapted, perhaps a little more famously, into a musical. Oliver tells the story of the young boy who is sold off from a workhouse after asking for more gruel, and incidentally finds his way into a criminal underworld of child pickpockets. While on the run he encounters the Artful Dodger, who takes him to meet Fagin, the trainer of the little thieves. The criminal life may suit some people, but Oliver is not one of them, and his friendship with Nancy, the girlfriend of burglar Bill Sykes, shows potential for a brighter future. Oliver was first performed in 1960, and ran for 2618 shows! It has since been made into a film, and has been revived numerous times by major companies. This production is by Queensland Musical Theatre, and there are only 6 shows in the season. Catch it while you can!
When one contemplates their memories involving the fine and noble art of knitting (a.k.a making wonderful things out of nothing), invariably those thoughts include a fine Grandmother or Great Aunt. Someone who would wile away afternoons knitting you a fresh woollen jumper for winter, offer you chocolate biscuits, and share sage advice about how different the world is today. Although those memoirs are indeed ones to treasure, one mustn’t put every knitter, weaver or fibre artist into one little arts and crafts box. Celebrating the diviersity that does occur among their ranks, the Queensland Spinners Weavers and Fibre Artists will be having their annual Open Day next Sunday. Offering up a chance for you to reminisce about the good times spent with wise and talented family members, whilst also inviting you into the eclectic world that still exists and is thriving, the day includes as many facets as a rainbow scarf. With a wide selection of market stalls stocked to the brim with high quality arts and crafts made by QSWFA club members, you can be assured you will find something worthy of placement on a coffee table or bed. Also happening on the day is a Fashion Parade showcasing the fabulous handmade wares of club members and simultaneously making you jealous of their talent.
America's avant-garde pop group, Xiu Xiu, have returned to our town to celebrate the release of their latest album, Always. The band are fascinated with the horrors that bubble just under the surface of society and their disturbing visions of the world flicker through their music. Xiu Xiu are notorious for their unique electro-pop sound that has a distinct flavour of post-punk. Their latest musical offering, Always features tracks that explore relevant topics such as pro-choice and immigration. Xiu Xiu aren't afraid of blending their political views with their music. These guys are a long way from home and are only playing one show in Brisbane for a power-packed 90 minute set. Xiu Xiu's performance is not to be missed. Strap yourself in for a night of experimental tunes, fresh lyrics and lush synths - it'll be one to remember!
If you thought home grown talent, Hungry Kids of Hungary, had fallen off the radar in the past couple of years, you would be mistaken. In fact, the boys have been busy recording their second album and jet-setting across the world playing to international audiences. Their second album, You're a Shadow, is due for release in March 2013 and has fans of the band's catchy indie pop tunes waiting with baited breath. This Thursday night, catch Hungry Kids of Hungary at The Zoo as they embark on their national tour. The Brissie boys are playing in smaller venues this time around, so head along for what will be a special, intimate show. The foursome will be playing a mix of old favourites such as, 'Set it Right' and new tracks including 'Sharp Shooter'. These guys are old hands in the music scene, so you are guaranteed a night of infectious and perfectly polished tunes.
Laneway have been kicking goals all year. In 2012 alone, they have released a great album, embarked on a massive national tour and were also awarded the 2012 Grant McLennan Memorial Fellowship. Laneway’s newest album, Turn Your Love Up, which was released in August, is a remarkable display of musicianship. Harmonies, roomy compositions and gorgeous guitar work have made this album a success for the duo, who now have the chance to travel overseas to promote their music to international audiences. Before they move to Berlin and make it big, make sure you catch them at Black Bear Lodge as they wind down their national tour. Laneway will be supported by Ed Guglielmino and The Fingers Malone Ensemble.
Self-dubbed indie/stoner rock quartet The Owls have been rightly tipped for big things since their days as Triple J Unearthed starlets. In 2010 they nabbed the coveted Unearthed spot on the Fat As Butter lineup and from there they have gained momentum. Supporting the likes of The Living End, The Jezabels, Ball Park Music and Cloud Control, the band continuously prove their fluidity and success in double-dipping genres. Supported by The Cathars and The Royal Artillery, this is one show you’ll have to see while you have the chance. “Think the dirty sexy feel of Queens of the Stone Age, soulful sensibilities of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, harmonies reminiscent of classic Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, with a splash of Radiohead. Put all these elements in a haunted house, cut the power, and you’ll feel the musical energy of The Owls.”
It is the one day where national figures for barbecues and house parties spike tremendously, Aussie flags fly proudly and snags are consumed by the million. Australia Day is taking place this weekend, and while most people choose to enjoy it with family and friends in the backyard, there are plenty of other options for those looking to celebrate with style. The South Bank parklands are hosting a great Australia Day party which will be a lot of fun for everyone involved. Australia day activities and performances by great musical talent like Busby Marou and Evermore will ensure that everyone will have a memorable day. Get involved and do what we Aussies do best: party.
Second to being one of our finest local talents, I Heart Hiroshima have for years been the face of Brisbane's ever-growing underground music scene. Unbeknown to some, the mid-2000s in Brisbane saw a Footloose-like crackdown on the enforcement of noise restrictions at festivals and gigs. Venues were forced to close their doors and the Brisbane music scene readapted to one fuelled on house party gigs, underground events and musical innovation. While a designated entrainment precinct for performance was set aside, the underground music culture quickly flourished producing some of that decade's most praised bands. Three-piece indie rock band I Heart Hiroshima is noted as one band that personified this scene. Having formed at a house party in 2005, members Susie Patten, Matthew Somers and Cameron Hawes quickly produced a stand out, punk infused force and have performed at many festivals since. After years of pursuing their individual musical endeavours following their 2011 tour, I Heart Hiroshima are reforming to play at the Gold Coast Big Day Out, then for an extra treat at Alhambra Lounge this Tuesday. Catch these revolutionary rockers while they're still in town. https://youtube.com/watch?v=5QIJbUhABT4
Benjamin Stanford, better known to his fans as Dub FX, is a Melbourne-based one man performer of limitless vocal effects. Aided by live looping, effects pedals, he creates intricate hip hop, reggae and drum & bass rhythms that sound as deep and heavy on the street as they do in a packed venue. Taking his lifelong dreams of street performing to the UK, he met label mate and touring partner Flower Fairy and found himself selling so many of his recordings at his live performances that he created his own label, Convoy Unlimited. Dub FX has toured extensively throughout 2012, kicking off the year with sold out shows in New Zealand to warm up for his first ever Australian tour which saw him conquer audiences in nationwide. Now he’s back in Brisbane to pack out The Hi-Fi, a show that is dangerously close to selling out.
The Deadshits festival is back in its fourth year and is bigger than ever. This year the annual festival is boasting its best lineup yet as artists are both home-grown and international. The festival is held across four different venues over three big nights. On Friday, the opening night, the lineup includes USA bands Woods and Hunx & His Punx. Saturday night promises to be just as entertaining as bands such as Leighton Craig and Outerwaves will be accompanied by the Jet Black Cat DJ's who will keep the party vibe rockin'. There will also be a veggie BBQ and this event is BYO. Also on Saturday night head to The Hideaway for a late night cocktail celebration and treat your ears to Superstar and Angel Eyes. The closing night of the festival is at Black Bear Lodge and will feature Terrible Truths, Spire House, Black Vacation and Fig. Buy a festival pass or a ticket to one of the nights and make the most of your long weekend!
Escape to to the magical world of Neverland with the Ballet Theatre of Queensland's youth production, Peter Pan. This new and delightful adaptation of J.M. Barrie's timeless tale of a boy who never grows up is a must see for children, families and ballet enthusiasts alike. Dive into the depths of silky lagoon, run wild with the Lost Boys, and join the Darling children as they experience the magic of Peter Pan's wonderful world. You'll be sure to meet Captain Cook and his pesky crew as they stir trouble, as well as many of Peter's other memorable friends and foes Directed by Timothy Brown and Libby Mcdonnell, this charming production features 15 local dancers who stunningly present Peter Pan through ballet of the highest standard. Fly away with Peter, Tinkerbell and the Darlings in this graceful production. Preview The Ballet Theatre of Queensland's Peter Pan
The Brisbane International Film Festival (BIFF) is just around the corner, so to get Brisbaneites into the movie-buff mood, Village Roadshow are inviting film enthusiasts to the 26th Queensland New Film Makers Awards. Presented by Screen Queensland, the awards celebrate Queensland filmmakers who are have made waves over the past year with their short films. Entries from secondary student productions, tertiary student productions and independent filmmakers of all ages are welcomed, with films judged on creativity, originality and technical competence. Notable entries will be screened throughout the night, and all attendees are invited to the post-award celebrations. Take note! This is a free event but you must book through the BIFF website! Get in quick or you may miss out on a seat.
Brent Lyall is a man that has it all. At age twenty-three he has a beautiful girlfriend, two Brownlow medals, and he captains one of the country’s most illustrious and powerful football clubs - but he has a secret. From time to time the young captain enjoys dressing up in women’s clothes and, on discovering his client’s deep and dark secret, Brent’s agent Rohan Swift sweeps in to prevent the shocking, devastating truth from coming out. The media already have a whiff of Lyall’s corseted secret and, if they get proof and unleash their story, the athlete’s promising career, and the agents financial stability, could come crushing down in an instant. But Brent’s secret is intoxicating and, sooner or later, Carmen will be set free. With 40 year’s experience behind him, and a string of box office successes David Williamson has earned a reputation as one of Australia’s most well-respected playwrights. Managing Carmen is his latest laugh out loud creation, a hilarious parody of the personalities we know and love; the no holds barred businessman, the gold digger trophy wife and the flawed footy hero.
Not many people can say that they've performed to an intimate crowd of 30, hosted by Kanye West, at Kanye West's mansion. Comedian Aziz Ansari's sense of humour and unique persona has taken him everywhere, from the set of HBO favourite, Parks and Recreation, to the front page of Rolling Stone Magazine, as their 'Funniest Man Under 30'. Aziz's infectious stand-up comedy has captured audiences all around the world through his satirical wit and electric personality. Now, Brisbane plays host to this cocky yet loveable humourist in his new show, Buried Alive. As People Magazine's 'Funniest Dude in Prime Time', Aziz's fast and free natured comedy will be sure to create an evening of bewilderment and awe. Aziz will be performing at the QPAC Concert Hall for one show only. It may not be Kanye's mansion, but the jokes will sure to be just as dope; treat yo' self Check out Aziz Ansari on Kanye West
To all those who doubted that psych-western would ever work, have we got news for you! Gold Coast band, The Ottomans, have defied the odds and created a stellar sound, combining classic western rock with a healthy dose of psychedelic roll- and boy does it work. The four-piece rock 'n' roll band blend the likes of Nick Cave, Tame Impala and Quentin Tarrintino to create, what they describe as, 'one divine musical enigma'. Their cracker of a track, 'Lonely With You', exemplifies the band's ability, particularly the raw vocal talent of lead singer, Mitchell Dave-Lewis. The Ottomans will be in Brisbane as part of their 'Lonely With You' single launch tour. Black Bear Lodge will be hosting this new wave band, supported by our own Brisbane boys, Moses Gunn Collective, and unsigned, underage duo The Kramers. Given the intimate setting of Black Bear Lodge, this is surely going to be one of those nights where you'll leave remembering one thing; don't take your eyes off The Ottomans. The Ottomans Live at Alfred's Apartment
From Latin to Reggae, to Indian to Pacific, Planet transports your senses to another place. With world music and world class acts, Planet brings the exotic right to you. This September Planet transports you, with your feet planted firmly on the ground, to the beautiful isles of the Torres Strait, to share in the melodic vibrancy of its culture through song. The Powerhouse invites you to listen to the drum, the heartbeat and soul of the island cultures, capturing you with wonder and rhyme. Dip your feet in the crystal clear waters of the Pacific and engross your senses with the sights, sounds and smells of the Torres Strait as the musical vibrancies of Planet wrap themselves around you.
The Hamburg Ballet under the artistic direction of John Neumeier, bring their homage of Vaslav Nijinsky to the Playhouse for the annual Nijinsky Gala. With sophistication and poise that has seen them described as binding “stellar technique to dramatic expression” by the Los Angeles Times and of producing “dynamic, rich and gripping theatre” by The Washington Post the powerful ballet celebrates the life of the great Russian Vaslav Nijinsky, considered by many to be the greatest ballet figure of the twentieth century. As a dancer Nijinksy was famous for his legendary ability to perform leaps that seemed to ignore the very laws of gravity, and as a choreographer he established provocative new directions that saw him usher in a new age that pointed towards the modern era. Featuring music by Frédéric Chopin, Robert Schuman, Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov and Dimitri Shostakovich, Nijinsky is a spectacular work, dealing with the issues of insanity and horror that plagued the man’s life, all of which are celebrated, honoured and demonstrated with extravagantly conceived costumes, high-drama lighting and intense, astonishing movement.
As part of The Brisbane Festival, The Brisbane Powerhouse is hosting No Child. This one-woman performance is a theatrical piece that cleverly and humorously comments on the New York City public school system. The performance stars Nilaja Sun who convincingly plays all 16 characters. Sun draws on her personal experience to accurately portray the relationships between teachers and students in New York's roughest schools as well as alluding to pressing social issues that are imbedded in the education system. Sun not only performs in this interesting piece, she also wrote No Child. Her amazing performance has received rave reviews and awards over the two years that the piece has been playing for. This September marks the first time that the thought provoking performance has hit Australia. The play goes for a little over an hour and will not only tickle your funny bone, but make you think.
For almost two decades, Regurgitator have been entertaining and exciting audiences, and now they’re back with a new string of shows, this time playing their albums ‘Unit’ and ‘Tu Plang’ back to back. It will be a must-see for longtime fans, with previous shows having been described as “feeling like your head is trapped inside a stereo”. The retrospective shows are set to have a new twist but will maintain the high-energy of classic ‘Gurge. Along for the ride will be Indonesian duo act SENYAWA, affixing the traditional within a contemporary framework of “experimental music practices”, as they have done at the Melbourne Jazz Festival among other prestigious events. An extra performance has been added to the bill for September 27 - get in quick!
Head along to The Underdog for a rare opportunity to see some of Australia’s most talented singer/songwriters band together for an intimate evening of melodies. Summer Flake is the name fronting Adelaide’s own Stephanie Crase (Birth Glow, Batrider) as a solo venture, a stripped and raw sound teetering on the line of fine craft and chaos. She is supported by the steamrolling rock outfit Gravel Samwidge - powerhouses in their own right as far as sound and influence are concerned. They have recently toured alongside the legendary Mudhoney and Feedtime and have earned the respect of musicians on a global scale. Joining the fray are also The Wrong Man who take to the stage with drums and guitar and limitless possibilities. They will fit in superbly with their darker take on the rock sound. Finally, the relatively upbeat Bent will have your night off to a stomping good start, their edgy garage sounds seeping into your conscious before you know it.
Make Me Feel Some Type of Way is an art exhibit that features a hell of a lot less Jamiroquai than we expected and wanted, but redeems itself in being a legitimite, visual funk odyssey. The series is a collection of work by Amy Commins, a Brisbane creative whose featured work at Jugglers, Bleeding Hearts Gallery and a bundle of more local, underground spaces, and has pulled together something quite picturesque and beautiful for Witchmeat Gallery. In an exploration of why the aesthetic pleases us in a natural environment, Make Me Feel Some Type of Way uses the genre of European and Australian colonial landscape painting to construct answers through stark juxtaposition. By representing recognisable landscape paintings, Commins highlights human will and desire to master nature. The exhibit that pulls together the topics and notions toyed with by Commins through categories of landscape aesthetics and notions of the sublime, picturesque and beautiful in a means that is as visually absurd as it is beautiful. Head to the middle of West End suburbia – 80 Hampstead Road – and check out this strangely rich series.
Two super-talented ladies are putting on a pretty spectacular show this Thursday at Jamie's Espresso Bar. Kool Thing and Junky have combined their artistic powers to create their first ever joint exhibition. The girls have both left the daily grind of the 9-5 in favour of a paint brush and the art scene couldn't be happier. While they both favour colour and vivid imagery, their styles are worlds apart. Junky's sass oozes onto her artwork and her bold cartoon-esque style is full of life. Kool Thing has a thing for pet portraits and one of her dreamy mural's is also featured on the wall of South Brisbane cafe, Two Trees. Both girls have their work splashed across cafe walls, galleries, bars and brightening up people's homes. Become lost in the colour and surprise of their world. In the mean time, whet your appetite with a taste of Kool Thing and Junky's styles.
Brisbane’s own man of immeasurable talent, Tim Rix, is showcasing his diverse skill and vision by way of a solo exhibition at Love Love Studio. Entitled ‘Public Witness Program’, this is your opportunity to see the latest and greatest from this reputable artisan, a rare glimpse inside the mind of a true craftsman. A tattooist by trade at Westside Tattoo, his works are as realistic as they are surreal, lifelike and intricate adding whimsy to the everyday. His hand-created portraits are wearable as majestic large-scale tattoos or framable as painted creations. His newest, yet-to-be-seen paintings will be on display, alongside some of his most revered works spanning across his notable career. Join fellow fans of Tim’s for the opening night celebrations, a reception held at the studio. Love Love is an artist-run initiative to support emerging artists; help them warm their new establishment with an evening that is not to be missed.
The Underdog Pub are hosting a marathon night featuring local and interstate bands. One of the bevy of bands on the lineup is Aktion Unit comprising of Dane Lewis and Rene Schaefer. This duo will be making sweet psychedelic tunes accompanied by Brisbane girls Allanah Stewart and Sarah McKenna (Tangrams). Also on the bill is Gravel Samwidge. These guys are full of adrenaline after releasing their new record in Sydney and Newcastle and are eager to share their latest work. Wonderfuls will also take to the stage with their rich melodies and clever lyrics. Brisbane band, Scrabbled have made a name for themselves in Brisbane with their lo-fi tracks. Led by the talented Bek Moore, the quintet will keep the vibes flowing with their textured sounds. Former members of Multiple Man and Occults have joined to create Unpeople. With their heavy, juicy rock and impressive solos, Unpeople belong on stage. Head to The Underdog for a feast of music and start your weekend the right way.
Not be outdone by their neighbours, whose own festival du film celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, the latest line-up at the Audi Festival of German Films is guaranteed to give the French a run for their money. Presented by the Goethe-Institut in conjunction with Palace Cinemas, the 2014 festival boasts a selection of more than 50 German language films, as well as parties, lectures, special screenings and Q&As. Just a few of the highlights include Marc Rothemund's The Girl with Nine Wigs, about a young woman struggling with a cancer diagnosis; Constanze Knoche's simmering family drama, Visitors, about the strained relationship between a father and his three adult children; and Jan-Ole Gerster's black and white, day-in-the-life dramedy Oh Boy, which scooped up the top prize at the 2013 German Film Awards. For the full Audi Festival of German Films program, see the festival website. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Xlyt_IRWM30
If the people want juice, give the people juice.. If they want entertainment, give them comedy. And if they want that comedy to be a-grade and well played, then give the people directions to Fat Louie’s. Fat Louie’s Comedy for the People might just be the most high set, underground comedy night that’s hitting the Brisbane entertainment landscape. Marrying rather nicely with cheap drinks, the option of snooker, and the musty, dim lit scenery that’s become synonymous with Fat Louie’s, Comedy for the People is the new laugh-out-loud go to. The line-up of comedians is unannounced, but if anything this just adds to the thrill and shrill – cross fingers for Jerry or Tina. The night debuts on February 6 at 8pm, so shift around your Friday night plans to accommodate for this sneaky slot – if it’s not as funny as we expect, just drink up until it is.
Adored babyboomer playwright David Williamson is back with another witty tale of human nature when faced with extreme circumstances. Brothers Ian and Ben don’t always see eye to eye. When they go to visit their father for his birthday, they find all is not as expected. Their old man has come into a decent sum of money — $100 million, to be exact. Dad has fallen for a beauty queen heralding from the States, so far in fact that he has married her without a thought to any prenuptial safety net. How will they face this unreal situation? Is there more to Fury than her stunning good looks? One thing’s for sure: this is first and foremost a tale of people behaving badly. For fans of Williamson's previous work, such as The Removalists and Don’s Party, or for those with a love for a darker laugh, be sure to secure your tickets for this strictly limited showing season.
We’ve all been to the Elephant Hotel before, either for an after work drink on Friday, a Saturday night rager or a simple Sunday session, most pub aficionado’s have stepped through the doors of this gi-normous establishment. Whether you were impressed or not, the tewam behind the Elephant Hotel have been far from complacent when it comes to making this bar top-notch, and now they’ve gone all out with a serious makeover and attitude adjustment. Flaunting an open style layout, new architecture and hip art displays, the Elephant Hotel might just be the next big bar in Brisbane. To kick things off with a bang, the Elephant is hosting a kick-ass launch party with live music from Velociraptor, delicious delights from the outdoor kitchen, and like any good pub, tonnes of drink to satisfy your thirst. Give it a shot and see if the new look woo’s you.
Titles matter. A film with a good one can intrigue, inspire and entice audiences from far and wide, just as a bad one can turn you off faster than a date swearing at a waiter. The grey area is when things get literal. Everything's okay so long as it's just a case of 'does what it says on the can' — your Ghostbusters, your Ferris Bueller's Day Off, your The Pianist — but what about when it gives something away? That poor choice of words can destroy all semblance of mystery for a movie. It's why studios ultimately didn't go with: 'Bruce Willis Is a Ghost', 'Don't Trust the Gimp with the Limp' or 'It's...His...Sled'. With that in mind, the decision to title Peter Berg's new film Lone Survivor would seem a miscalculation. "Four Navy SEALs go into Afghanistan to target a Taliban leader, but how many make it out ali- oh, wait, it's one. Just one. A 'lone survivor'. Says so right there on the poster. And yet, despite having directed Battleship, Peter Berg's no idiot. Mindful that the details of this true (and widely publicised) military mission were already known to many, he realised the most compelling question was not 'how many would survive?' but rather 'how did ANY of them survive?' That disastrous mission was Operation Red Wings, and the reason for its failure was essentially the SEAL team's decision to not kill three unarmed farmers who'd stumbled across their position. For the (moral) armchair general, it's a no-brainer. Rules of engagement and all that. But in the moment, knowing that to let the civilians go was to guarantee an attack by the Taliban and fail the mission… the ethics of combat became a lot murkier. Mark Wahlberg, Emile Hirsch, Ben Foster and Taylor Kitsch play those four imperilled SEALs, and from the moment they elect to abort the mission, Lone Survivor becomes a heart-in-mouth, hug-yourself-for-two-hours, ball-breaker of a film. Pursued through inhospitable mountains by several hundred Taliban and cut off from their support, the feats of those four soldiers quite simply defy belief. That's where the film's opening titles come into play: a montage of real-life footage from the SEALs' infamous 'Hell Week' training program that effectively acts as a 'proof of concept' for what you're about to see (if you're interested: youtu.be/sg2vF4UQMmQ). This is a war movie at its most confronting; it terrifyingly captures the confusion, brutality, chaos and intensity of combat in a way not seen since 1998's Saving Private Ryan. It's a suffocating sort of tension, and whilst there's no question the movie suffers from some clumsy jingoism, the experience is so tactile and overwhelming, you frequently find yourself ducking in your own seat. The author and journalist Sebastian Junger observed after his embedment in Afghanistan that "War is a lot of things and it's useless to pretend that exciting isn't one of them." From an adrenaline standpoint that might well be the case, but in every other respect, from every other possible viewpoint, it's an inescapable waking nightmare that you'd never wish upon anyone. If that doesn't ring true for you, go see Lone Survivor. https://youtube.com/watch?v=yoLFk4JK_RM
Brisbane’s own slice of the international stage, the annual World Theatre Festival, is back for its 11-day long spectacular, with myriad performances to immerse yourself in. From highbrow to raised-brow, grandiose to the minimal, WTF has got your theatrical cravings more than catered for. Moreso, WTF will challenge your preconceptions of theatre, leaving you with a deepened appreciation for the art form in itself, or tempting you with a favourite you might not otherwise consider. To get your creative juices flowing, why not visit Yum Chat, a free event for artists to delve into the influence of Asian cultures on art and its creation; it’s free to attend, and will offer a wonderful networking opportunity. Then there’s The Great Spavaldos, a fully immersive, high-flying experience of a circus unlike any other. There is also a spoiled-for-choice line-up of masterclasses to attend for the trained professional right through to the budding youngster. To see more information about the festival, and to start booking your tickets, head along to the official Powerhouse page.
If the stones and shopfronts of Lygon Street could talk, they'd surely do so in Italian. Sometimes referred to as Melbourne's Little Italy, the iconic Carlton thoroughfare has played a major role in Australia's cultural and gastronomical development over the past 60 years, and it is now the subject of a new home-grown documentary: Lygon Street – Si parla Italiano. The story begins in the years following World War II, during which time millions of migrants left Europe in search of new beginnings. Of those that made the long journey to Australia, one in six were from Italy, many of whom came based on the promise of jobs that in reality didn't exist. At first, the government funnelled them into migrant centres (viewers are left to draw their own parallels to the treatment of asylum seekers today). The conditions were shabby and the means of entertainment scarce, but the biggest sticking point for the Italians was the terrible quality of the food. Soon, the migrants flooded out into the community in search of a place where they could call their own. As if by fate, they settled on a street named Lygon. Before long, the road was littered with restaurants, coffee bars, grocers and delicatessens, many of them with written signs in the window reading 'Si parla Italiano', meaning 'we speak Italian'. Locals were suspicious of the settlers at first, but were soon won over by the quality of their cooking. By the '80s, Lygon Street was one of the hottest night spots in the city, home to bars, clubs and theatres, not to mention, the scene of raucous celebration in the wake of Italy's 1986 World Cup victory. Silky narration by Anthony LaPaglia keeps the film from feeling too much like a history lesson. Directors Shannon Swan and Angelo Pricolo combine archival footage and traditional talking heads with a more flavoursome approach to storytelling by inviting some of the street's oldest pioneers — the owners of establishments like L'Alba and University Cafe — out for dinner. Over plates of pasta, the old friends recall stories from their past, laughing and shouting over the top of each other as they argue about which one owned the first espresso machine in Australia. It's an ingenious way of making viewers feel included — a Saturday night dinner in one of Lygon's bustling eateries. Admittedly, it's hard to imagine Si parla Italiano being as interesting to anyone from outside of certain areas of Melbourne (although the film has just scored a limited release nationwide). Locals will be thoroughly charmed, particularly when factoring in the rather surreal experience of exiting the theatre onto the boulevard they've just been watching. If nothing else, the doco is a savvy marketing tool for traders. No one's likely to walk out of the film not craving an Italian meal. https://youtube.com/watch?v=WOsIFtJTkiE
Wendy Wilkins and Wes Hill have been an artistic team since 2000, spending more than a decade pushing the boundaries of their craft. They are reaching out to audiences indirectly, communicating through their work and finding the sweet spot where the readability of their art and its aesthetic pleasure blend. Specially developed for the Metro Arts space it abides in, Brainal Pipes Confusion Cave is a series of installation pieces created between 2008 and 2012. Described as ‘obtuse metaphors staged through banners and commercial signage material’ where the banners and commercialised items form a cave that encompasses the entire space. Wilkins Hill (the persona of the artists amalgamation) has had a long history of interpretive dissection of modernity; their obfuscation of coherence in favour of glimpses of logic creates work that requires the whole attention of audiences, who must view the work in depth to acquire meaning. While it may seem like hard work on our part, understanding of Wilkins Hill and their intentions is a truly rewarding experience.
In a bit of a change from the gallery oriented format of art exhibitions, Artisan have let go of the reigns and let the artists pick the other artists to be featured in their newest exhibition, Chain Reaction. In a sense, one artists picks another in an actual chain reaction of shared creativity. So, what does this artist-curated series have to offer? Well, as a heavily design based exhibition; Chain Reaction will have some of the best functional and artistic designs currently on show in Brisbane. The numerous artists and designers on display are Christina Waterson, Abe Muriata, Emily Murray, Brian Robinson, Barbara Heath and Malcolm Enright, Andrew Ness, Michael Phillips, Lucas Salton, Russell Anderson, Rebecca Ward, Christopher Trotter, Remo Vallance, Hannah Cutts and Fukutoshi Ueno. Even if the names don’t mean much to you now, if you catch a glimpse of the work at Chain Reaction you might understand why they were chosen. These are artists chosen by artist; something that doesn’t happen often in exhibtions.
David Sedaris, you made a fool out of me! Three years ago I was reading your book ‘When You Are Engulfed in Flames’ on a bus and I snorted, hooted and cried with laughter, like a creature for whom ‘being human’ was a new concept. It was so bad that I had to put your book away, but this did nothing as the memories of your words, your perfect New York accent ringing in my ears, and an unhinged snort escaping persistently from my nose and mouth. Despite the fact that David Sedaris made a mockery of me, I would still encourage all and sundry to get to the Brisbane Powerhouse next week to see one of his rare live shows. Basically if you haven’t already realised, David Sedaris is very funny. His books are hilarious, but when you hear him tell his stories live he takes his hilarity to a whole other level! His is not PG humour – family, love, politics, sex, drugs, rock n’ roll – and every little and big thing in-between. All topics are all approached with his particular brand of brazen comedy, but it is fantastic - he actually says what we all think.
When I was fourteen I went to Broadway in New York City, and saw a show. It was Hello Dolly, starring Carol Channing in the title role. Carol had a Broadway voice, it was distinct, rich and gravelly, and at times she basically spoke the tunes but inflected in the right places so it was musically accurate. There are many kinds of Broadway voices - operatic, jazz, showgirl, pop - but they are distinct in that they are right for Broadway. There is an element of acting in the voice that is essential for this style of performance. Lucky for all those out there seeking to find their Broadway sound, the King of the Broadway voice Tim Smith is coming to town! Tim was musical director for the recent MAMMA MIA! Australian tour, assistant musical director on Billy Elliot, vocal coach on The Lion King Australia, founding head of Music Theatre at VCA, and well...so much more. During this two day workshop at the Judith Wright Centre, Tim will work with participants on the many layers of the voice; the framework, the mechanics, and the detail. Many of Australia’s revered musical theatre talent have worked with Tim, and raved about it. Places are strictly limited to twenty per workshop, so get in quick!
There are few words to describe Pete Rock without completely gushing over his immense talent. He's one of the greatest producers of our generation and without him, jazz would have never found a way to be blended into the hip hop genre. Brisbane has been privy to some massive talent of late and Pete Rock is no exception. The eccentric American rapper, DJ and producer hails from the Bronx and has produced tracks for Run DMC, Nas, Public Enemy and the late Biggie Smalls. He's also well known for his collaborations with the Wu-tang Clan and most notably his contribution to Kanye West's 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy', which itself is absolutely epic. As if that wasn't enough, Mr Rock is an established DJ: he's remixed countless singles for music artists (Mary J Blige, Madonna, The Roots to name a few) and has played to live audiences around the world. He mixes his own flavour of hip hop – a combo of jazz and funk – along with samples from anything from country music to motown classics. He is definitely in a league of his own and you will be too if you get along to see him blow your mind with his skillz.
Fleet Foxes, what a beautiful name for a band; it conjures images of gorgeous red foxes with white bellies leaping and roaming the English countryside. It is also an apt moniker for the indie folk band from Seattle – whose sound could be the backing track for said foxes roaming in stunning landscapes. Fleet Foxes are a lovely six piece of indie musos who include among their influences Neil Young, Hank Williams, and Bob Dylan, and whose sound has been compared to Crosby, Stills and Nash, the Beach Boys, and Animal Collective. That is a quality category of comparison! Forming in 2006, the band was one of those for whom Myspace was a godsend. In 2007, as they began to upload songs to the site, they made a name for themselves with over a quarter of a million song plays by the end of the year. This helped give the Foxes the impetus to push on. And no doubt a Grammy nomination in the 'Best Folk Album' has put some pep in their step of late. Before they have to start playing stadiums to accommodate their fans, Brisbane audiences should get along to the Tivoli next week to hear this beautiful sound on show in a more intimate setting.
Everyone has a favourite Roald Dahl book, and there are so many great ones to choose from: Matilda, the Witches, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and amongst the very top favourites has to be James and the Giant Peach! Now, instead of just reading and imagining this glorious story, you can see it all brought to life on stage by Harvest Rain Theatre Company at QPAC! To recap the story of James, his parents are tragically killed and so James is sent to live with his awful Aunts, Spiker and Sponge. James thinks he is trapped, until one day he meets an old man who gives him a bag full of magic, which James accidentally spills near a peach tree and so begins his sea adventures aboard a giant peach. James makes friends with his peach inhabiting neighbours, Centipede, Earthworm, Grasshopper, Spider, and Ladybird, and together they head for New York and a host of new adventures. This will be a super fun production for kids, but also for all of the older ones amongst us who simply loved the imagination of Roald Dahl’s books as children. Belinda Heit, Sandro Collarelli and Dash Kruck are amongst the fantastic cast; basically with these guys leading the way, it is sure to refresh your memory in style. Get on board the peach and off we go!
The yearly, furtive question of “so… what are you doing for New Years?” could be heard whispered on the lips of Brisbane’s vanguard party-ers over a month ago. Those die-hard party innovators began listing off their criteria for an awesome New Years Eve 2011 when the rest of us were still yawning and blinking into the bright reality of the festive season. If you’re looking to bring in the New Year without really doing ‘New Years’, then No Years is the answer to your question. Literally. No Years has got it all. With the Brisbane Powerhouse as its backdrop (an excellent defensive anti-zombie fort should 2012 apocalypse predictions prove accurate), this mini-festival features a superabundance of Australian and international bands including headliner Dum Dum Girls, as well as some amazing local visual art. *Here’s a tip: if you gather together a group of 5 or more (which shouldn’t be difficult given that this will be the place to be come December 31) you can get a significant discount off ticket prices
It’s time to get your best tux or your best gown because Beethoven is coming to Brisbane! The very talented Queensland Symphony Orchestra will bring Beethoven’s Symphony no. 7 to life along with Wagner’s Prelude and Liebestod from Tristan and Isolde. The concert will also feature the thought-provoking piano prodigy Sergio Tiempo, who, has sold out concert halls across the globe will grace Brisbane by playing Liszt’s Piano Concerto no. 1. The Orchestra will reach a fever pitch under Evind Aadland’s highly acclaimed baton (I suppose that would make him highly acclaimed too). Aadland has previously conducted the Trondheim symphony orchestra for seven seasons including their tour of China, so the orchestra will be bound for glory with this conductor at their helm. Put on your smartest duds and bring someone special along to QPAC for what is certain to be a magical evening of music and song.
What happens when you bring ten of Brisbane’s best filmmakers, animators, motion designers and video artists and get them to collaborate with ten of Brisbane’s best musicians? You get Ten10: an audiovisual exhibition showcasing the natural relationship between sound and image. The Ten10 initiative is a fresh concept exhibiting for the first time in Brisbane with hopes to move to other cities in the future. This Friday’s debut presentation includes the likes of Axxonn, Cured Pink, Brodie Rocca and Chih-Han Hsu, amongst many more (well, sixteen more to be precise), collaborating to create works that are unique and diverse compared to anything any of the artists have been a part of previously. Unlike other exhibitions, Ten10 is a one-night-only event, held in the boutique location of Lightspace in the Valley – don’t miss out! If you do, though, don’t get too worked up – the whole thing will be on Vimeo in the weeks following the event, as well as a behind-the-scenes documentary noting the creative process behind the concept. But, at ticket prices sitting pretty at only $20, that works out to be a performance for two bucks apiece – a creative bargain!
So there’s this group of guys from Brisbane, right? They have a lot of wild hair going on, a large serving of swag and like to make a hectic amount of noise under the name Millions. Apparently they also like wearing suits and making good decisions. If you haven’t heard of these guys before, don’t feel too bad because they’ve only been kicking for around six months. I advise you to listen up and pay attention, because after the news they received on Thursday, Millions will be a household name in no time. Just announced as the Triple J Unearthed Winners for Splendour in the Grass 2011, these local lads will be opening the festival as well as gracing the same stage as legends like Kanye West and Coldplay. Luckily for you Brisbane-ites, the band already had a local gig planned and will be headlining at Woodland on Friday 24 June before going into intense rehearsal mode. What I'm trying to say, is basically you’re a fool if you don’t show. C'mon guys, this is your last chance to claim you were a groupie before Millions get famous at Splendour!
Now that Brisbane’s winter has fully set in, there’s something that seems so right about layering up, drinking cider and listening to dreamy, melodic bands all night. If that sounds like your cup of tea, on the agenda this weekend are Jack Ladder and the Dreamlanders who will be floating into FANS on Friday. Celebrating the imminent release of his new record ‘Hurtsville’, Jack and his talented crew are hitting the Australian roads to show it off in its entirety. With his band containing Cec Condon of The Mess Hall, Beau Cassidy formerly of Starky, and Kirin J Callinan of Mercy Arms, there is certainly enough whimsy and charm to spread around. On top of that, they will be supported by local wonders Big Dead and Little Casino. Since his last highly awarded album in 2008, Mr Ladder has changed his sound. Not better or worse, but certainly equally as brilliant. What this means for you, dear readers, is that both new and old fans will have a chance to witness something brilliant.
It sounds poetic (and it is), but an evening with Anberlin isn't just any old evening in curled up with a blanket on the couch. Oh no, it's a never-seen-before performance by the band, with nothing but good times promised for new and old fans. They have graced the Brisbane stage a few times before, but never like this. The fivesome from Florida have to live up to high expectations after their Soundwave set was met with a stellar reception earlier in the year, but they are ready to do something different. The genre-bending musicians are planning to do covers, variations of old songs, tell the stories behind their hits and even perhaps a Q&A with the audience, as well as revealing b-sides, acoustic renditions and maybe some guest vocalists. For some background on them, Anberlin are considered a Christian band by many, yet don't always cement themselves within those beliefs, something that makes them accessible and just that bit more untouchable - damn those chaste rockstars! Nevertheless, an evening with Anberlin will be unlike any show they've ever done before, they swear to God! Don't you wish all your favourite bands cared about you this much? Go forth, spend an evening getting to know Anberlin – nothing suss.
The apocalypse. Ooh, the end of the world, revelation, prophecy, the triumph of good over evil...basically: a very intense event. One strange little group of actors have decided to rehearse Hamlet on the night before the apocalypse. Why? Who knows? I’d be drinking a lot of champagne, eating good cheese and listening to trashy 80s pop, but that’s just me. Anyway, The Hamlet Apocalypse is set on the night before the apocalypse and is an analysis of the finality death, and the wonder of life. It explores mortality, and developing an understanding the death is an inevitable part of life. Using parts of the Hamlet text the work reflects on the importance of living, and understanding that time does indeed run out. Using physical theatre techniques, the emotion of the work is expressed through movement. Traditional notions of theatre are questioned in this production, and often the fourth wall is broken, allowing the audience within the performance. The production has had very successful seasons in Melbourne and Adelaide, and now returns to its hometown of Brisbane. The Danger Ensemble, with the prodigious Steven Mitchell Wright at the helm, has been creating some incredible theatre over the past few years, and if the interstate reviews are anything to go by, The Hamlet Apocalypse is no exception. I'd suggest seeing it ASAP, before time runs out.
Half naked guys. Girl on girl action. Gay boys singing and questionable choreography. It's either a boozy night in the Valley or a [title of show] performance. Either way, you’ll end up aroused... Back by popular demand, Brisbane audiences will be entertained once again by the Oscar Theatre Company’s [title of show] (yes that is the actual title of the show). Featuring a cast of Brisbane’s regular theatre actors and director Emily Gilmore, this musical is bound to have you [tos]sing about with laughter and breaking out your Jazz Hands in no time. The show follows the lives of Hunter and Jeff who happen to be gay and nerds as well as their close lady friends Susan and Heidi as they try to make the best play for the New York Music Theatre Festival and make loads of people with loads of money love them. But this isn’t going to be easy as Jeff refuses to nude up to sell tickets, Hunter procrasturbates, Heidi is a professional understudy and Susan would prefer to create the ultimate Drag Queen name. Like Dora Jar. Or Wilma Fingadu.
