As fun as it is, Easter isn't just about staying home and eating chocolate. Given that most of us have four days off, it's also a great time for a road trip. In keeping with the eating and drinking theme, might we suggest a cheese, wine and food festival? If heading to the Sunshine Coast sounds like your idea of fun, then the Kenilworth Cheese, Wine & Food Fest should be your first destination. Sample cheese and wine all day long, watch cooking demonstrations, and enjoy some live music. And then there's the cheese rolling contest, which is exactly what it sounds like.
When it comes to food events, there's nothing quite like Sunnybank's Food Tours. Brisbane suburb's shopping hub has become a diner's delight with cafes and restaurants featuring a range of authentic, oriental cuisines. On the Food Discovery Tour, chef Tony Ching shows you the very best places to eat and shop, plus provides a few tips, tricks and pointers along the way. The 10am lunchtime tours include Yum Cha at Sunnybank's famed Landmark restaurant, and the 3.30pm afternoon tour finishes with a progressive dinner through the Chinese, Japanese, Hong Kong-style, Vietnamese, Korean and Taiwanese dishes on offer at the centre. With such an array of steaming soups and sizzling stir-fries on offer, we recommend arriving as hungry as possible. By Sarah Ward and Quinn Connors.
Ever wanted to see your own artwork on a gallery wall? Aspire's annual SNAP exhibition is the showcase that might make that happen. It's too late for this year, of course, but once you find out how it works, you'll be itching to get involved next year. The best way to discover the ropes is to dive into the end result — and, you'll get some inspiration for your snapping over the next twelve months in the same process. At SNAP17, you'll peruse the best photographs Brisbane's shutterbugs have captured. The exhibition displays from April 19 until May 3. The annual callout is open to everyone who who manipulates or takes photos, so if you fall into that camp, keep your eyes peeled for next year. A camera has to have been used at some point, but landscape, portrait, digital and mixed media photography are all acceptable.
They told us that boys don't cry and that they wanted things to be just like heaven. They fell in love on Fridays, hopped into a mint car and dialled a wrong number. They're The Cure, the enduring English rockers who helped define the gothic rock genre. They're also the well-deserving subjects of The Brightside's latest listening party. After their Daft Punk hangout session, the Valley hotspot breaks out the hairspray, black outfits and ample eyeliner for a night with a more melancholy mood. You know how it works. Sit, listen, relax and think about lovecats. Oh, and drink themed cocktails too. As always, the band's back catalogue will get a hefty spin, with DJ Mitch "Bris 182" Rekxton doing the honours. Given the music he's working with, there's no doubt you'll want to be close to the action — and who knows, someone might even want to take pictures of you in the process.
Enjoying a glass of wine might come with a few supposed medical benefits, but having a tipple isn't typically an exercise-heavy pastime. You sit. You drink. You get up, top up your beverage and repeat. You usually don't walk particularly far, let alone run. At a new series of wine-tasting fun runs about to take place around Australia, however, you'll put in the hard yards before you get the boozy rewards. The Grapest 5K run consists of two sections. First, you sprint, jog or set forth at whatever pace suits you best, making your way through scenic vineyard surroundings. Then, you walk another kilometre — yes, in addition to the first five, or ten if you're feeling extra energetic — while stopping at tasting stations along the way and sampling the good stuff. Don't worry, if you're not up to the first part and you're simply keen on wandering and sipping, that's an option too. The run will take place on Saturday, June 3 north of Brisbane at Ocean View Estates.
There's never a bad time the Gold Coast's shores; however, from March 31 to April 16, driving down south comes not just with surf, sun and sand, but with an added dose of arts and culture. Don't worry, beachgoers — at Bleach Festival, both often combine into one glorious package. The annual event returns with a 2017 program that's equal parts outdoor and indoor fun, and spanning theatre, music, art, sport and more. If performance is your kind of thing, then Frank Enstein and Blanc de Blanc are definite drawcards. One reimagines one of the greatest tales ever written, the other combines cabaret, circus, champagne and salacious sights. Or, enjoy a beachside concert, spy giant illuminated figures on the street, catch a footy-focused play at a football club and watch a man run 42.2 kilometres on a treadmill. Plus, skateboarding displays, '60s-style parties by the waves, an Indigenous art tour and blues on the sand are all also part of the lineup. Image: Lamp Photography
Always eager to open their doors to Brisbane's makers, Wandering Cooks aren't just going local with their latest event — they're also focusing on all things handmade. Think of their afternoon pop-up as a showcase of just what a couple of folks plying their handy skills can do: making furniture, crafting stoneware and cooking up a storm included. At Made by Hand from 4pm on April 1, Sollywood and Two Warm Hands are in the spotlight, with former known for their wooden furniture and the latter quite skilled with pottery and stone. They'll be joined by the culinary talents at Musa Nana, Char Babyand Latin Manna so that you can not only learn and chat about the kind of pieces you'll be wishing you could whip up, but feast on delicious food that'll have you dreaming about becoming a kitchen whiz.
Four women. One fancy room. A civil war raging outside. A dictator who hasn't yet come home. The same scenes repeated over again, but in a different light. Throw them all together, and that's Abi Morgan's power-driven political effort Splendour. The play was first staged in 2000, and now comes to Brisbane courtesy of local theatre ensemble Now Look Here and CBD arts venue Metro Arts. Now Look Here isn't just putting on an acclaimed women-centric piece of theatre, however. They're backing up that up not only on stage, but off. Ladies reign among the cast and crew, with the entire production an all-female affair. As for Morgan, if the writer's name sounds familiar, that's because she has been a mainstay of theatre, theatre and film for the last two decades. On the small screen, she wrote and executive produced BBC mini-series The Hour, while her cinema contributions include the screenplays for The Iron Lady, Shame and Suffragette.
It's the typical culinary conundrum: sometimes, your taste buds are just screaming out for dishes from a few different restaurants. If you're in Brisbane, perhaps you feel like some Spanish-leaning fare from Moda followed by a taste of Japan's best from Saké? Or maybe you want to munch on the much awarded and applauded goodness that is the three-hatted Esquire and Urbane's respective menus, one after the other? Thanks to a trio of local foodies, now you can (yet again). In fact, you can enjoy meals from all four — aka some of the city's best degustation places — at one event. If you missed it in 2016, the unique eating experience is called Bite Sip Stroll after the European style of dining out. There, indulging in a plate at one place and then a drink at another, and just wandering between eateries in general, is a common occurrence. Basically, it's a moving feast of cuisine and wine pairings, as well as a brief walking tour of Brissie's best inner-city, river-adjacent spots. You'll pay $129 per head for the privilege, but when are you ever going to have a lunch like this again? Tickets are limited, so we suggest getting yours as quick as you can.
Thirsty? If you're not now, you will be once you've read this. That's the only appropriate reaction to a festival of beer, after all. Just think of all the amber liquids and foamy goodness. Okay, enough drooling; here are the important details every ale lover needs: more than 130 beers and ciders will be on offer, plus an international food court. To set the mood for two full days of booze and food, there'll also be live music from Taxiride too. You don't turn a beer fest into a two-day bonanza without calling in a pub rock staple. Eating and drinking might be the main attractions at Brisbane Beer Fest's 2017 outing, but this is also an event for those serious about their beverages as well. Amid the tasting and the sampling of more tipples than you could dream of, you can also meet the folks behind 20-plus breweries and find out their tricks of the trade. If there's a beer heaven, this is it. Image: Brisbane Beer Fest.
Dig out your finest lilac-coloured threads — and your raspberry beret, too — and get ready to party like it's 1999. A year ago, the man and music icon that was Prince left this life like a cloud of purple rain; however now that the doves have cried, it's time to celebrate. That's why Bistrotheque is hosting Prince: When You Were Mine (One Year On), after all. Courtesy of a compilation of the artist both known and formerly known as Prince, they'll run through the pint-sized performer's greatest hits. That means everything from 'Kiss' and 'Sign o' the Times' to 'Gett Off' and 'The Most Beautiful Girl in the World', but remember to enjoy it — baby, it'll go much too fast. If there's a better way to show your appreciation for an artist that truly was like no other, then we haven't come across it. When it comes to how you should react, his own words sum it up best: let's go crazy. And when it comes to bidding farewell, Prince knows just what to say again: thank you for a funky time.
When Gelato Messina moves into the neighbourhood, you throw a party. Okay, to be fair, the first Fish Lane Festival happened last year. However, with some of Australia's best ice cream-makers setting up shop in the area — plus a host of new eateries, too — there's never been a better time for a repeat shindig. That's what'll happen come midday on May 13, with the laneway entering celebration mode for ten hours of fun. Eat, drink, dance and hangout in one of the best stretches of roadway Brisbane has to offer, and prepare to make both a day and a night of it. There'll certainly be plenty of spaces tempting you to stay for as long as possible, including including three stages of local live music and DJs, the Bertie Cider Garden packed with Colonial Brewing Co's beverages, the Tanqueray Gin Jungle serving up exactly what you think, and the Ketel One Espresso Martini Bar doing the same. Food-wise, everywhere from The Fox to Billykart to 31 Degrees is adding their tasty fare to the spread, complete with charcuterie bento boxes, cheeseburgers and sliders, and house-made s'mores. Or, opt for Five Sisters' meze platter, Chu the Phat's lion's head meatball and potato bread brisket sandwiches, Saccharomyces Beer Cafe's chilli nachos made with stout infused chilli — or whatever one-of-a-kind custom gelato flavour Messina whips up. Image: 31 Degrees.
When you call yourselves The Travelling Sisters, you'd better live up to the name. Don't worry, these ones do. The trio of ladies have played Edinburgh, London, Berlin, Prague, Bedford, Glastonbury, Bath, Hong Kong, Woodford, Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne — where they were shortlisted for best newcomer at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. On their behalf: phew. In Brisbane for the Anywhere Theatre Festival, they're stopping by from their adventures absolutely everywhere around the globe for six nights of showing Queensland just what they do best. On May 4 to 6, and then again on May 18 to 19 and 21, they'll unfurl an array of characters, physical comedy and songs. And talk about their jet-setting, obviously. When they lived in London, they played 150 gigs in a year. They went to Albania for Halloween last year, and had to wear their potato costumes from their show even when they weren't performing. They've been chased by stray dogs. We're sure they've done much, much more. Yep, they have comic tales to sing about and tell.
Move over, all of those famous teenage sweethearts that have graced the stage, page and screen. Yep, Romeo and Juliet, you've got competition. Blue Bones shares the darker tone of Shakespeare's famous tragedy, and its focus on teenage lovers; however, from there, Merlynn Tong heads off in her own direction. Her one-woman play is based on a true story, telling the tale of a woman who can't escape the imprint her ex-boyfriend has left upon her. It's a narrative of turbulence, both in conveying the lead character's current state, and exploring how she got there. Showing at Brisbane Powerhouse from May 4 to 13, it's an effort that will transport Brisbane audiences to Singapore in its setting, but aims to stir up something up close and personal within their souls. Tong has earned plenty of praise in her career to date, and here, both writing and performing, that looks set to continue.
After enlivening TV screens in Mabo, The Straits and Redfern Now, actor Jimi Bani brings his engaging charm to Brisbane's stage. As the name suggests, Queensland Theatre's My Name is Jimi tells his tale — and that of his family, his culture and his community. Through a combination of music, dance, stand-up and storytelling, Bani takes audiences to Mabuiag Island in the Torres Strait, exploring the land he hails from and the people who have walked upon it for thousands of years. It's an account filled with ups, downs, challenges and tragedies. It's also one told with a laugh in his voice, a smile in his eye and an abundance of earnestness. Of course, Bani isn't the only person who knows his narrative, with his grandmother, mother, son and brothers joining him on stage to help spin yarns and share stories. After premiering in Cairns in early July, the intimate production enjoys its second-ever run at Bille Brown Theatre from July 22 to August 13.
Drawing upon Australia's extensive history of indigenous art, the Queensland Art Gallery shines a spotlight on significant pieces from the decade spanning 1984 to 1994. From July 22 to October 22, more than 100 paintings and sculptures by eight Australian Aboriginal artists will grace QAG's walls, as sourced from the Janet Holmes à Court Collection. Sung Into Being: Aboriginal Masterworks 1984–94's specific timeframe of interest isn't an accident or an arbitrary choice, as gallery director Chris Saines explains. "This exhibition captures an intensely productive and exciting period when Aboriginal art first began to be exhibited and collected as fine art, and embodies both the stylised aesthetic of the Kimberley and the colour palette and imagery of central and southern Arnhem Land," he notes. Highlights include pieces by Rover Joolama Thomas, Jack Wunuwun, Jack Kalakala and Les Mirrikkuriya, as well as an overall focus on pieces that convey songs and ceremonies connected with the creation of the land. It's the kind of cultural and history lesson that can only spring from looking at the real thing — and it's free in an exclusive-to-Queensland run. Image: Rover Joolama Thomas Kukatja/Wangkajunga people. c1926-1988. The shade from the hill comes over and talks in language. 1984. Janet Holmes à Court Collection.
Five months. That's how long festive fiends have to wait until their favourite time of year comes rolling around again. Or, for those up for a surprise meal in a yet-to-be-revealed location, getting a dose of Christmas in July is as easy as going along to Secret Foodies' next event. On offer is a three-course feast cooked by one of Brisbane's top chefs — but we can't tell you who, or where you'll be going, or just what you'll be eating. We can tell you that tour $100 per person ticket includes food, mulled wine on arrival and more vino courtesy of Mud House. Oh, and there'll also be a bit of Kris Kringle action, so everyone has to bring a $5, homemade or re-gifted present. For those knew to the Secret Foodies fun, you'll get an SMS at 10am on July 22 telling you where to be at midday the same day. It'll be central, don't worry. And you'll eat, drink and be merry, so don't worry about that either. Yes, Christmas really can come more than once a year.
Like eating? Drinking? Tasting something new? Sampling as many delicious bits and pieces as you can? Being taught the tricks of the trade by culinary masters? Don't we all. Thankfully, chances to do all of the above keep popping up. Hot on the heels of last weekend's Regional Flavours, Brisbane foodies have another cuisine and vino event to get excited about — and no, the Brisbane Food & Wine Expo isn't the same as the Good Food & Wine Show. Held at the Brisbane Showgrounds between July 21 and 23, this dining and sipping showcase offers a fresh round of all the things food show fans know and love: tucking into the good stuff. Exhibitors include everyone from Salt Meats Cheese to Byron Bay Chocolate Co, while special additions to the menu range from cheese, lavosh and wine masterclasses to celebrity degustation dinners. As always, the usual advice applies: arrive hungry.
While your favourite Thai restaurant and their pad thai will always have your heart, there's something pretty special (and impressive) about being able to recreate those flavours at home. This Saturday, kick your culinary skills into overdrive, and get down to Vanilla Zulu for their Thai Fusion cooking class. During three fragrant, mouthwatering hours crafting your very own three-course meal, build up an appetite learning your way around Thai curry pastes, then demolish your creations feeling fully satisfied with your work. Seasonal availability means that the dishes are always changing, but expect to whip up something along the lines of massaman beef and basil spring rolls, yellow Chiang Mai curry and coconut and lime gelato.
When you spy the cast of The SUI Ensemble's latest show all wearing the same outfits, don't be alarmed. Actually, getting a little weirded out over a group of folks donning platinum blonde wigs, black turtlenecks and a you-can-do-anything attitude is okay. They promise they'll soothe your fears and generally cure all that ails you, though. Just listen to their voices, do what they say, and prepare to say goodbye to stress and pain. Welcome to Hot Cult, the Anywhere Theatre Festival show that doesn't just explore the realm of charismatic sales pitches and motivational talks — it immerses you in it. Turning the East Brisbane Bowls Club into their headquarters from May 11 to 14 and again across May 18 to 21, this group of go-getters have an array of challenges in store for participants. Given that The SUI Ensemble are known for getting their audiences involved, consider yourself warned: when you sign up, you're not just opting to sit and passively watch. But, like cults do, they're not going to be overt about it. "It's all about seeing how that can be done without the audience even being aware of it," says director Esther Dougherty.
Is your green thumb tingling? Heading to the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at Mt Coot-tha is always a great way to scratch that itch, but on May 20 and 21, it'll be even better than usual. You can walk through greenery and soak in the splendour of nature, as usual — and scour the auditorium for race specimens to take home with you. For the second year, the Brisbane Plant Collectors Fair returns with a weekend-long market dedicated to all things green and growing (well, other than the Incredible Hulk — but he'll be popping up soon at GOMA, don't worry). Browse and buy hard -to-find and unusual plant species from around the world, spanning bulbs, perennials, trees and shrubs, orchids, herbs, cacti and succulents, and exotic tropical plants. There'll be sales, guest speakers, and food and drink options. Plus, in the kind of smart move an experienced garden whiz — and garden shopping whiz — obviously planted, the fair will boast a plant cloak room so that you can purchase some growing goodies, leave them somewhere safe and keep perusing. Parking your new flowering pals will set you back a gold coin, which will go to the Abused Children's Trust.
When it comes to Nirvana, everyone has one of two moments seared into their brains. Either you're old enough to recall where you were when you heard the news about Kurt Cobain, or you can remember the instant you later realised what a gap he had left in the music world. Whichever category you fall into, come as you are to The Triffid's latest tribute night. We're so excited, we can't wait to meet you there. The legendary three-piece's catalogue of songs will be in bloom on June 3 as Byron Short & The Sunset Junkies, Walken, The Bear Hunt, Port Royal and some special guests go sifting through rock 'n' roll history. As is the custom, each band will play four Nirvana covers and two of their own tracks. If that's not for you, all apologies. Smells like an ace evening, as the Triff's look at music legends always proves. Past shows have felt the love buzz for Bruce Springsteen, Fleetwood Mac, The Cure, Pink Floyd, The Clash, Metallica, Iggy Pop, The Go-Betweens, Radiohead and Neil Young, after all.
After a busy year of Rihanna, hip hop and other themed yoga classes, New Farm's Yo! Yoga are hitting the big one-oh. So, they're celebrating the best way they know how: with some bending, stretching, gratitude and mindfulness, all rolled into a one-day event. That's the broad agenda at YO!VO Festival. As for the specific lineup, think Drake, The Weeknd and Beyonce-focused sessions, blissful workshops, and just ace vibes all round. Tickets cost $25, and then it's up to you how much you attend between 9.30am and 2pm. In addition to all of the above, you'll also be able to stock up your activewear wardrobe, win prizes, and purchase food and drinks from some local favourites. They're the ones having the birthday, but everyone gets to enjoy the fun.
There's a certain type of song that everyone knows: Disney songs. Maybe they're the bare necessities? Perhaps they're part of the circle of life? Or, maybe we just can't let them go? Whatever the reason, they're the tracks we all still remember all of the words to, so Southside Tea Room wants you to be their guest to belt out a tune or two. In news that'll make you want to hold a baby animal up to the sunlight, the Morningside hangout's popular Disney Karaoke is back. They've dabbled with boy bands too, but you just can't keep a good animation-fuelled singalong — and a Disney-themed costume contest, plus temporary tattoos for a gold coin donation — down. It's a whole new world of fun, and what can you say except you're welcome? To meet demand, three sessions will take place across June 16 and 17. While the Saturday slots have already sold out, you can still head along on the Friday night. If you just can't wait to be the karaoke king (or queen), just make sure you book in advance — attendance is free, but reservations are required.
Meet Brisbane's longest-running local film festival. The Brisbane International Film Festival was brought to an end after its 2013 run, and its replacement — the Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival — was just axed after three years, but the West End Film Festival is still kicking on. They're focused on short films rather than lengthier flicks, but it seems that good things come in small packages as the fest gears up for its ninth year. Taking place on May 27 and 28, WEFF once again shines a spotlight on homegrown talents keeping things short and sweet in the cinema, with their program split over three sessions. Cats, tollbooth workers, scavenging seagulls, time travel... they all get a mention. First, head along to the Boundary Street Markets at 6.30pm on Saturday night to watch music video submissions, and see who gets this year's prizes. Then, come back at 4pm and 7pm on Sunday for two stints that include documentaries and animation (plus more awards after the later session).
Whether you're looking for something on a budget, or you're after the best vintage fare, there's nothing like trawling through other people's wares. Forget your regular old household clear-outs, trash and treasure markets, outlet sales and car boot offerings though — Brisbane's biggest clothing garage sale is back. We're not sure whether its size has been officially confirmed; however if it delivers a massive array of sartorial bits and pieces — and it always does — then we won't ask questions. Taking over Bizzell's Garage on Latrobe Terrace from 10am until 4pm on May 28, prepare to arrive with shopping on your mind and leave with a full basket. Prices vary, as will condition, but expect to pay anywhere from $5 to over $100 for clothes, swimwear, shoes, accessories, denim, leather items and jewellery. Brands spanning the sporty likes of Adidas and Puma, the upmarket style of of Burberry and Christian Dior, and the street red of Converse and Calvin Klein will all be on offer. And, if you want to add a few plants to your home garden, or boost your vinyl or CD collection, you'll find greenery and physical copies of music on sale too.
If you want to learn to dance, you may as well learn from the masters. And now the Queensland Ballet can get you Nut-Cracking, even if you're not a trained dancer. The organisation is running drop-in classes at their Thomas Dixon Centre in West End. And it's not just ballet that's on the agenda. Sure, you can don your tutu and get a-pirouetting if that's your calling. But there are lessons in a host of other styles as well, including contemporary and Broadway-style dancing. Also on the program is Pilates, yoga and tai chi, so you can keep yourself stretchy and calm in-between dance sessions. Classes are casual, cost $16 per pop and run the year through. So, you can turn up — or not — at your leisure. If you do want to make a commitment, 10 class packages, 30-day memberships and courses are also available. Don't forget to send us a vid if you manage to master that curbside scene in Singin' in the Rain or score a role in La La Land Vol. II. The Queensland Ballet runs casual classes Saturday to Thursday at the Thomas Dixon Centre, Corner of Drake Street and Montague Road, West End. For more info or to book-in to a class, visit queenslandballet.com.au.
Last year, Mooloolaba's Wharf Tavern put on a new festival. As you can imagine, it was quite the hit — with tunes, brews and good vibes by both the river and the beach, how could it not be? In fact, it was so popular that they're doing the whole thing again. Say hello to the Sea N Sound Festival 2017. If a feast of live music will tempt you up north, then prepare to catch sets from Boy & Bear, Busby Marou, Tijuana Cartel, Potbelleez DJs, Timberwolf and a host of Sunny Coast locals. If it's pairing all that with food and drink that you're after, then get ready for craft tipples and — what else? — local seafood. Yes, it sounds exactly like a boutique festival on the Sunshine Coast should, and that's a good thing. Gates open at midday, so if you're keen for a dip as well, you'd best head up early.
Does your mum like homemade wares, barbecued meats and craft brews? Or, do you like eating and drinking the last two while you shop for the first? Either way, get on down to Mother, Wandering Cooks' new one-day festival. Taking the woman that brought you into the world is highly encouraged, of course, when you head over to South Brisbane from midday on May 13. And no, that isn't a typo. You probably already have something planned for the Sunday May 14, aka Mother's Day, so this bit of fun is taking place on Saturday. There'll be more pottery and ceramics than the ghost of Patrick Swayze could whip up thanks to Brush and Wheel, plenty of greenery courtesy of Mappins Nursery & Aquarium, plus rolls filled with Cuban-style, pasture-raised, pecan-fed pork cooked up by Shank Brothers BBQ and hand-crafted beers by Modus Operandi Brewing. Entry is free, which gives you an even better reason to extend your mum-centric celebration over the entire weekend.
All it takes is two brownie biscuits and some buttercream filling. Yep, that's how cookie perfection comes about. Butterbing have been showering Melbourne with their tasty wares since 2014; however, come May 6 and 7, it's Brisbane's turn. That's when West End's Morning After will be treating cookie-loving tastebuds with biscuit deliciousness over one decadent weekend, but consider yourself warned — stocks are only available until sold out. There's four flavours on offer, so deciding which one you want might prove more than a little bit difficult. Salted caramel, peanut butter, vanilla and Nutella... they all sound so tempting. If you opt to try them all, that's okay. Now that's how you get your Saturday or Sunday started.
At a time when every second movie seems to feature caped crusaders, you can be forgiven for thinking Gifted might fit the usual bill. Captain America aka Chris Evans leads the cast, The Amazing Spider-Man's Marc Webb sits in the director's chair, and, based on her off-screen interviews, Jenny Slate is the smart, spirited actress superhero we all need. Their collaboration doesn't involve spandex or fighting crime, however, but rather championing strengths and recognising truths of another kind. This precocious, kid-centric film makes no attempt to hide its efforts to tug at your heartstrings. But memorable performances and a refreshing perspective ensure that it's a winner nonetheless. In a tale of brains rather than brawn, seven-year-old Mary Adler (Mckenna Grace) is the smartest student in her new Florida school, and her teacher (Slate) wants to do something about it. But Mary's uncle Frank (Evans) disagrees, having seen her genius mathematician mother follow a similar path only to end up taking her own life due to the pressure. When the headmistress calls in Frank's own estranged mother (Lindsay Duncan), a tug-of-war ensues over the girl's future. He insists that Mary should have a normal childhood, while his mum wants her granddaughter prodigy to realise her potential as soon as possible — regardless of the consequences. What's the best option? With its allegiance firmly with the likeable Frank, Gifted plays up the contrasting parenting styles for drama, rather than delving too deeply into the question. And yet, as Mary gets stuck in the middle of a very predictable custody battle, the film makes a crucial case: that being normal and special aren't mutually exclusive. Don't underestimate this viewpoint, and the alternative it offers to almost every other message that movies thrust our way. Seeing a constant parade of superheroes on screen can cast everyday existence in a pretty dull light, but Gifted celebrates the idea that life and people can be both extraordinary and average, and that that is perfectly okay. Perhaps that's how Webb approached making the film as well — sometimes it's great, sometimes it's simply good, but it comes together nicely overall. It's easy enough to see where the by-the-book plot is going, although thankfully it's all engaging enough that viewers won't really mind. The score lays the sentiment on a little too thick sometimes, and the Florida setting is given quite the sunny hue, but ultimately the film never veers into territory that could be called grating or cloying. Still, blending all of the above together mightn't have worked as well if Gifted wasn't so superbly cast. Pay attention to young Grace, a veteran of 42 roles at the age of just 11, who makes Mary feel like the type of kid everyone can relate to — even if you don't share the same exceptional math skills. Elsewhere, Evans gives his conflicted character ample emotional range, while Slate makes her kindly teacher more than just a helpful love interest. As a feisty neighbour, Octavia Spencer mightn't have quite as much to do, but she's as warm and enjoyable as anything else the movie has to offer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDgOnFH_KEo
One weekend a year, Brisbanites can get a free peek behind usually-closed doors, explore secret corridors, step through heritage-listed history and marvel at the grandest of designs. Opening up the city's public and private architectural gems is what Brisbane Open House is all about, after all, and it has the 2017 program to prove it, with more than 90 buildings featured in the event's eighth iteration. Taking place over the weekend of October 7 and 8, this year's lineup will let curious residents explore everywhere from the Anna Meares Velodrome to Queensland Ballet's West End home, both new additions to the city-wide open house. They join the iconic likes of the towering St John's Cathedral on Ann Street, South Brisbane's old Peter's Ice Cream factory, 4ZZZ's studios in the Valley, Spring Hill's Old Windmill Tower and the Fort Lytton Historic Military Precinct out east. Gaols, more churches, galleries, schools, scientific institutions, fire stations, studios, Brisbane's oldest surviving home, the houses inside Indooroopilly's Walter Taylor Bridge (yes, inside) — the list goes on. It's the kind of event that'll get you scampering across city — but planning your route in advance is essential, with some places open for all visitors, others hosting guided tours and some requiring bookings. Walks through the CBD, of Spring Hill, behind the scenes at South Bank, via Brisbane's public art highlights and more are also on the agenda. Plus, wandering through a vast array of spaces is only part of the fun, with Brisbane Open House as committed to talking about architecture as it is trekking through it. In the lead up to your exploring, a speaker series will touch upon topics such as gardening, keeping things local, the interplay between protecting heritage and supporting progress, and revitalising industrial spaces, while special events during the main weekend include art in the Spring Hill reservoir, big bands at Boggo Road Gaol, and a maker day showcasing artisans, artists and manufacturers at Albion Fine Trades. Images: Bardon House shot by Cathy Schusler.
When Green Beacon Brewing Co opened its doors back in 2013, few could've known the yeasty, tasty joy that would follow. Actually, that's not true. Predicting that a brewery in Newstead was going to be a hit — well, that can't have been all that difficult. Now, five years later, they're doing what every brewery is obliged to do on such an occasion, aka throwing a massive birthday bash. Come January 26, they'll be marking half a decade in style, aka with food, drinks and a damn fine time. There'll be Salts Food Truck serving up fish 'n' chips, plus GB's own delicious range including Moreton Bay bug rolls and Mooloolaba King prawn rolls. Beverage-wise, as well as their usual tipples, there'll also something very special to drink. Feel like some mango and vanilla in your creamy beer? Curious about how it might taste? Let their new Mango Milkshake IPA answer all of your questions.
Everybody loves a good food pairing, and Belgium has one of the best: moules and frites. Think of it as the fancier version of the Aussie favourite that is fish and chips — because the fact that seafood and potato go well together is something that every nation clearly knows. Throw in a cold brew, and it's heaven in a meal. It's also on the menu at Brewski's one-day Moules & Frites & Biére festival, which takes over the Petrie Terrace bar on September 10. Mussels, fries and beer will be served up in abundance for a tasty Sunday session from 12pm. Given all things Belgian are in the spotlight for the day, that extends to the tipples flowing through the taps, with seven types on offer. Grab a Rodenbach or Boon for the country itself, or try Belgian-style offerings from Australia, the US and New Zealand. A Hallertau Flemish Giant, anyone?
Does this sound familiar? You're an emerging creative — artist, writer, filmmaker, photographer or whatever medium takes your fancy — and you're trying to learn, improve and establish your career, all in Brisbane, and all using whatever funds you can cobble together. It's a tale many of us share, but only Brooke Ferguson has turned it into her latest exhibition. In Work-Shy, which exhibits at Boxcopy until December 2, Ferguson contemplates her experiences in an ongoing body of work. And she has plenty to draw upon, having worked at Centrelink to support her endeavours, self-funded her studies, participated in the 2017 Maumaus Independent Study Programme in Lisbon, and held a role at the gallery she's now displaying at as well. Gallery hours run from 2pm to 6pm on Fridays and Saturdays — but, if you're anything like the multitasking Ferguson, you'll be accustomed to fitting ace events into very tight windows in your schedule. Image: Brooke Ferguson the respectable face of power 2017, pencil on paper (detail).
We all know that exercise is good for us. We all know it keeps us fit and healthy, and is an essential part of living a long and happy life. Still, we all also need help in the motivation department sometimes — when the couch is just too comfy, or when you'd rather be relaxing rather than sweating, for example. How about cats? If anything can get you active, bending and stretching with adorable kitties should be able to do the trick. You'll bust out your best downward dog, and they'll show off their best cat pose (sleeping on your yoga mat, most likely). The latest feline fitness frenzy takes place at 9am on December 3 at Annerley's Lucky Cat Cafe, with Yoga with Cats part of their regular class series. Whether you're an experienced yoga buff or a cat lover looking for some four-legged workout friends, everyone is welcome — but bookings are essential, as this purrfect exercise session is sure to be popular.
Open up your eager eyes, Brisbanites: The Brightside is throwing the party it's always been destined to throw. Indeed, it's a little surprising that the Fortitude Valley venue is only just hosting their first Mr. Brightside Ball now. Thankfully, we've all been doing just fine in the meantime. Of course, the Warner Street hangout is now stranger to big blowouts — or excuses to get dressed up and dance to your favourite tunes — and this shindig promises all of the above. Put on your best ball or cocktail threads, head to old Brighty once the clock strikes 10pm on November 24, and prepare for a celebration of The Killers and their indie brethren. Destiny is calling you to the kind of night out that's certain to feature more than a few sing-alongs — and no sick lullabies to swim through. Extra points if you manage to recreate the band's look from the 'Mr. Brightside' video. And by extra points, we mean bragging rights, of course.
First things first: if you're going to combine karaoke with feminism and need a name for the resulting event, you can't get any better than Femioke. If there was ever a term bound to inspire the proud and passionate singing of many a pro-girl anthem, it's this one. Expect to do plenty of that at Femioke, whether the likes of the Spice Girls, Aretha Franklin, TLC, Cyndi Lauper or Beyonce gets your vocal talents flowing. As emceed by Metro Arts' Amy-Clare, the event isn't only interested in belting out favourite feminist tracks, however — it's also about taking back misogynist songs. Think of it as a DIY-style sing-along, an all-inclusive feminist event and a safe space to celebrate the Yes vote — complete with a cash bar because every great karaoke session needs a tasty tipple. If you missed the first three events, don't do the same this time. All feminist identifiers are welcome. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
Imagine walking into a gallery and finding a musical instrument making sweet melodies right before your very eyes — without anyone playing it. Now, imagine that large-scale, self-playing instrument looks like a waveform, aka the visual representation of a wave that is often used to represent sound. That's Ross Manning's Dissonant Rhythms, or part of it at least. The Brisbane artist and musician is unveiling his first-ever survey exhibition, complete with the aforementioned room-filling new commission. As well as changing the way you envision music being made, the Institute of Modern Art showcase will highlight Manning's fondness for repurposing everyday objects; think sculptures made from ceiling fans, fluorescent tubes and overhead projectors, resulting in quite the intertwining of light and sound. Indeed, between August 5 and October 29, it's safe to say that you won't find standard pieces of art lining IMA's walls. This is the kind of exhibition that will have its own vinyl album, after all. Image: Ross Manning, dichroic filter piece (extended projection) (2012-14). Courtesy the artist and Milani Gallery.
Like movies? Music? Art? Posters? Like a Matryoshka doll of creativity, all four are in the spotlight at Outta Tune. Here, a heap of Brisbane artists pay tribute to gig posters, but not in the usual way. There's an art to creating a great concert poster, the type that screams out at you while you're stuck in traffic, makes you stop mid-walk when you're strolling down the street, and definitely motivates you to go along. In showing their love for the medium, Andy Murphy, Cassie Stevens, Funeral French, Travis Price, Vance Kelly and more have created their own — for fictitious bands from the screen realm. If you've ever wanted to see a poster advertising O Brother, Where Art Thou?'s Soggy Bottom Boys, or Marvin Berry and The Starlighters from Back to the Future, or any other of acts that only exist on screens (and, afterwards, in our dreams), here's your chance. It's a one-night-only affair, taking place from 6pm on November 17 at Church Brisbane.
Forget 12 days of Christmas. Yes, it's a Christmas carol that you now have stuck in your head, as well as a religious festive season — but 12 Pies of Christmas sounds much more fun, doesn't it? That's what Wandering Cooks and Pie Hole are adding to this year's merriment, and to your stomach. Even better? There's free tastings. Drop on between 5pm and 10pm on December 13 for a pie-tastic time, with The Pie Hole whipping up the 12 varieties they consider the most festive and delicious, Wandering Cooks hosting the whole shindig, and Flavours of Mexico also on hand if you want something other than baked, filled pastry. We know, we know, you're there for the pies. Once you've sampled them, you can also buy whole slices or preorder your own for Christmas. Flavour-wise, your tastebuds will be dancing and a-leaping, with the likes of salted caramel apple pie; chocolate, peanut butter Oreo pie, salty honey pie; gingerbread pie; choc peppermint pudding pie; mango cream pie; sweet cherry pie and eggnog cream pie. We'd keep listing them, but we should leave you a few surprises. Vegans and those unable to eat gluten, you'll also be catered for.
Yatala Drive-In is about to become the most magical place in southeast Queensland, with all eight Harry Potter films gracing the venue's screens. And if that's not enough wizarding wonder, they're turning the event into two sleepovers over two weekends. Grab a car full of your mates, and get yourself part-way between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. It's a two-part movie marathon, which means that you won't need a time turner if you want to stay awake for some drive-in fun. Start the fun at 7pm on December 2, running through Harry's first four years at Hogwarts. Then pick back up again at the same time the on December 9, when the battle against You Know Who begins in earnest. With no new Potter-related films due until the Fantastic Beasts sequel next year, this should help you get your big screen spellbinding fix — and, let's face it, you've already watched your DVDs hundreds of times. Potterfest - A Harry Potter Marathon Sleepover will also include plenty of other Potter fun, with dressing up in costume as highly recommended. Accio popcorn!
When an event champions the best brews Brisbane and the rest of the Sunshine State have to offer, we'll forgive them for deciding that ten days equals one week. Maybe they're just trying to go a few better than The Beatles? Maybe the powers-that-be had had a few when they set the dates? Maybe there's just too much amber alcohol to consume in a shorter period? Either way, you can certainly chat about all of the above as you work your way around town tasting all of the glorious drinks Queensland Beer Week is serving up. And there's two ways to go about it: simply head to a pub, bar or other booze-fuelled spot that's getting in on the action, or get in on some of the official party shenanigans. The latter gets started with an official launch party that's also a four-day festival showcasing more than 60 brews, so you know they'll really be showing the local love. Or, head along to a hopucation evening on the Sunshine Coast, a craft beer and cider fest that's also on the Sunshine Coast, or a brew-filled barbie in Toowoomba, and take your love of brews out of town. Image: Wil Stewart.
Everyone loves fairy floss and dagwood dogs. Not everyone loves going to the Ekka. Even though the usual exhibition cold spell has given Brisbane a miss this year, not wanting to flock to Bowen Hills is understandable. And, by moseying along to The Defiant Duck in Newstead instead, you'll be doing the next best thing. As well as two of the three food staples that make the Ekka what it is — sorry, there's no nabbing those strawberry sundaes without going to the real thing — The Duck Royale will be serving up two days of carnival-style fun come August 15 and 16. Sip on cotton candy cocktails, pair your battered meat on a stick with a tinnie, and play free pool all day and night. NSLV and friends will also be taking care of the tunes on Wednesday.
Splendour in the Grass might be over for another year and festival season still a blip on the horizon, but in the meantime here's a great opportunity to invest in some home-grown talent and have a killer weekend while you're at it. After launching last year, three-night festival Against the Grain is back. Organised by local indie publication Grain, it's bringing its showcase of ace live music to Fortitude Valley's Bakery Lane, The Brightside, Barbara and Reverend's Fine Coffee across August 25 to 27. The 2017 lineup features Gold Class, The Courtneys, MOSSY, Twin Haus, The Ocean Party, Thigh Master, Horror My Friend and many more — including free art exhibitions as well. You can grab a two-day pass for $49.50. Here's the full three-day lineup. Friday night (free):Top Dollar, Chakra Efendi, Keeskea and Dream City. Saturday night ($29.10): MOSSY, Twin Haus, Good Morning, Yuuca, Sleep Decade, Vacations, Stella Donnelly, Spirit Bunny, Sleep Club, Half/Cut, Cody Munro Moore, Make More, Wolver and Start Together. Sunday night ($29.10): Gold Class, The Courtneys, The Ocean Party, Mere Women, Horror My Friend, Hollow Everdaze, Boat Show, Thigh Master, Sweater Curse, Jouk Mistrow, Siamese, Greenwave Beth, Sunscreen and In Real Life.
If you're of an age to remember burning your friend's So Fresh CD so you could stay up to date with the coolest songs of the season, congrats. You're old now. But also, congrats because you will seriously enjoy this shindig – So Fresh Party. So Freshtival is going down on Saturday, August 5 at The Flamin' Galah in the CBD. Expect bangers strictly of the 2000-2009 vintage, including a disturbing percentage of Channel 10 alums (Australian Idol winners/losers and ex-Neighbours actors), as well as way too much Nickelback for polite company. Also, just throwing this out there, we're desperately hoping for a timely comeback of the Duff sisters duet 'Our Lips Are Sealed.' Tickets will set you back 16 dollarydoos plus booking fee and of course it's obviously 18 and over, because if you're under 18 you definitely don't know what So Fresh is. Or CDs, probably.
When it comes to food, nothing is as fun as eating it — but talking about it, learning more and discovering new skills comes mighty close. That's what's on the agenda at the Museum of Brisbane's Good Food Club, a weekly chat-focused session running alongside the venue's Tastes Like Sunshine exhibition. Whether the ins and outs of bee keeping, the Brisbane gardening scene or the food and wine from the Scenic Rim region take your interest, you'll find them on the program. Or, get into Australian bush foods, delve into the city's food dynasties, step through the requirements of tea and coffee ceremonies, or find out the benefits of mindful eating. Most afternoons also include acoustic music, bespoke teas, hand-crafted sodas and a sweet treat. Sessions commence at 3pm each Sunday, running through until 4.30pm. Tickets are $15, unless you're keen to get some green thumb tips from Gardening Australia's Jerry Coleby-Williams, with his three sessions on September 3, 10 and 17 costing $25 each.
All-you-can-eat chicken is a concept everyone can get behind, and man a poultry lover has since KaiKai Chicken opened its doors in St Lucia. Free chicken is just as great an idea, if not even better, and that's what the Hawken Drive joint is serving up come September 5. While they've been doing their chicken buffet thing for a month or so, KaiKai is just now adding unlimited pork ribs to the mix, and so that's reason enough to celebrate. Because the new option involves as much chook as you can handle as well, they're giving away three-piece packs with chips. Expect succulent morsels available in three flavours. Before you can say "winner winner free chicken dinner (or lunch)", you have to chuck them a Facebook like, then turn up between 1pm and 3pm or 6pm and 8pm on the day. Given that Brisbane is a mere a giant drumstick statue away from declaring fried chook the city's favourite food, expect plenty of company in this quest for a clucking great meal.
If Brisbane's latest food event needs a theme song, it has plenty of options to choose from. Sure, most tracks that reference wings in their name come soaked in emotion (we're thinking about Jeffrey Osbourne's 'On the Wings of Love' and Bette Midler's 'Wind Beneath My Wings', for starters, because '80s tunes are just that impossible to forget). But hey, who isn't in love with crispy, deep-fried chicken wings? We're going on about potential anthems because the Australian Buffalo Wing Festival will make you want to sing an ode to its titular dish, we're betting. That's what showcasing all the great places in Brissie that sell these delectable sites of poultry does. Well, that and fill your stomach. Featuring everywhere from Red Hook to Yardbird, Barcadia to The Manhattan Line, and Newstead Brewing Co to Carolina Kitchen among its 24 locations, the fest is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of affair; basically, pick an eatery from one of the four regions highlighted on the four days from August 3o to September 2, and start munching. Or, go on a Buffalo-crawl in search of the many deals on offer. Each joint will be serving up their own flavours, so you really will want to taste them all.
For a genre that's obsessed with killing people off, horror certainly likes to bring things back to life. That applies to dearly departed children and their favourite dolls, and also to series' and spinoffs that would perhaps have been better left alone. All of the above combines in Annabelle: Creation, a prequel to the first offshoot from The Conjuring films, and an exercise in formulaic franchise-building. Alas, a house full of orphaned girls aren't the only victims here. Jumping back to the beginning of the unsettling toy's tale, this instalment also introduces its flesh-and-blood namesake. Nicknamed Bee, the seven-year-old daughter (Samara Lee) of Esther and Samuel Mullins (Aussie actors Miranda Otto and Anthony LaPaglia) is rather fond of her inanimate best friend, a bond that seems to linger even after tragedy strikes. When a parentless group of youngsters — including the polio-stricken Janice (Talitha Bateman), her close pal Linda (Lulu Wilson) and young nun Sister Charlotte (Stephanie Sigman) — are taken in by the still-grieving couple 12 years later, they come to discover just what that means. Needless to say, it involves a certain possessed plaything. Arriving in 2014 in an eager bid to cash in on The Conjuring's success, the initial Annabelle film was a bland affair — and while this second effort improves on its predecessor, that's not saying much. Aware that the standard stalk-and-kill story didn't work the last time around, Lights Out director David F. Sandberg and returning writer Gary Dauberman instead decide that imitation is the best form of flattery and the best approach to the series as a whole, returning to the kids in a creepy home motif that made the main films in the franchise a hit. Had The Conjuring 2 not already been released, this could have stolen its title. Secret rooms taunt curious minds; things go bump in the night; and sinister happenings start spooking everyone in the house. The film's narrative is as routine as expected, and doesn't ever pretend otherwise — with more titles in the series already greenlit, Annabelle: Creation doesn't really need to do anything more than just exist. It's the episodic approach to movie-making that's largely designed to keep the franchise in viewers' minds until the next chapter rolls around. Think of it like TV: every hour of a show isn't going to be a winner, but the powers-that-be know that doesn't matter as long as audiences stay primed for the next one. As calculated and template-driven as Annabelle: Creation may be, the film does have one saving grace: Sandberg. Making his second Hollywood horror movie in two years, the director repeats his Lights Out fortunes, vastly improving a surprise-free plot through his mastery of mood and imagery. He knows how to make unnerving moments count through both patience and quick scares — and how to cultivate a convincing atmosphere of dread and unease with camera placement and lighting choices. Every obvious development, silly character choice and by-the-book performance works against him, but if Annabelle: Creation does one thing, it's make a case for Sandberg to be given much, much better material to work with. Let's just hope he leaves this particular franchise in his rear-view mirror. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPTogn2E3CI
