Maybe you really love Patrick Swayze. Perhaps you just need some more terracotta or ceramics in your life. Or, the idea of pottering around a clay-based showcase and finding pottery gifts could just be your idea of a great Saturday afternoon. Whichever category you fall into, coast on over to the Clayschool Christmas Market. Browse, buy, support local artists — it's the ultimate exhibition-slash-excuse to get shopping. Indeed, while we're talking multi-tasking, Clayschool's students are hoping to show off their unique, handcrafted designs, and sell some as ace one-off Christmas presents. What do you get the person who has everything? This — and there'll be plenty of pupils exhibiting their wares. Plus, given that it's all taking place at West Village from 4–7pm on Saturday, December, that means food and drinks will be in the vicinity as well. No one likes shopping on an empty stomach, after all — or while thirsty.
Once a year, Stanthorpe celebrates apples and grapes, hosting an entire festival that's all about the two kind of fruit. But they aren't the only types of only fresh produce that the town, and the Granite Belt region, is known for. So, that's where the Stanthorpe Berry Festival comes in. Running from 10am–5pm on Saturday, November 19 at Weerona Park, this sure-to-be-colourful events adores berries in all their forms — but especially strawberries, raspberries and blueberries grown locally. Yes, you know what you'll be eating (and plenty of it), including strawberry ice cream. The festival also features berry food stalls, boutique markets, celebrity chef Alastair McLeod hitting the stage, a competition to find the best strawberry or mixed berry jam, and a scones and jam eating food-eating contest. Or, you can get sipping thanks to the region's wineries and brewers, meet berry farmers, listen to live tunes and take part in a berry-themed dress up, with tickets costing $22.19.
Festivals dedicated to all things Greek and French have been part of Brisbane's culture for years now — but what about Mexico? That's what the folks at Latin Events were wondering, so they've done something about it. The first-ever Brisbane Mexican Festival is result of their handiwork. For one day only, the fiesta will take over the Boundary Street Markets to celebrate one of the most fascinating cultures worldwide. The timing is intended to synch up with the 205th anniversary of Mexico's independence from Spain on September 15th, while the program of live entertainment, food and folklore is designed to showcase the mix of strong native legends and artistic expressions so pivotal to the country's identity. That means authentic Mexican food and drinks, of course, plus a whole range of on-theme activities. Spend the day dancing to a salsa band, watching Mexican wrestling, listening to the lively guitar strumming of the mariachi and breaking piñatas. Then, head along to the post-fest frenzy of Coronas and Margaritas that is the Boundary Hotel's official after party.
Travel often has the effect of making the world feel simultaneously smaller and larger. As you immerse yourself in different languages, customs and landscapes, it becomes clear that there are commonalities among all people — and at the same time, much more diversity and richness than previously imagined. Long-term globetrotter and mixed-media artist Catherine Parker beautifully captures these kinds of paradoxes in her new exhibition, It’s (still) a Beautiful World. Her works are at once both airy and detailed, with large expanses of restful, dreamlike colour punctuated by detailed icons, animals and landscapes that remind one instantly of particular parts of the world — particularly India, which Parker has visited more than 20 times, and Australia, where she makes her home. Geometric lines in neon colours create a visual metaphor for how we connect with the world through travel and exploration. It’s (still) a Beautiful World opens at Spiro | Grace Art Rooms with an artist talk followed by opening night event on 22 August. The exhibition continues to 12 September. Image: Catherine, Parker, ‘It's (Still) a Beautiful World Part 1’, 2015, Acrylic and ink on board, 96X120cm
They say time flies when you're having fun, and don't the folks at Cheated Hearts know it. It seems like only yesterday that the collective of queer-friendly events burst onto Brisbane's nightlife scene. Now, they're approaching their third birthday. Such a milestone calls for a massive party — and the Cheated Hearts crew is obliging, of course. They're taking over one of their favourite venues, Oh Hello!, taking on a spring break theme, and taking everyone's idea of fun up quite a few notches. You'll get lei'ed on arrival, and then the excitement really begins. Free fairy floss and popcorn will take care of your snack-loving stomach, while trap, hip hop, electro and bass-heavy tunes from DJs Jane Doe, Killer Prince, Dzyr, Ca-Lou, Sezzo and Eevvee will keep your body moving. There'll even be bathroom DJs, because no space, no matter how small, can escape this celebration. Keeping on topic and dressing up is encouraged; however we don't recommend copying James Franco's fashion in Spring Breakers.
If you're planning on spending the long weekend with a beer in your hand, then one Fortitude Valley establishment has you covered. Admittedly, serving up pints is what Bloodhound Bar does every day of the week; however in honour of everyone getting three days off, they're making an occasion of it. At the first annual Hopfields, they're also making an occasion out of showcasing hops, without which we wouldn't have the brews we know and love. With that in mind, expect all the tasty ales from around the world that you could dream of — and plenty you've likely never heard of, too — including limited releases, launches of new beers and one-offs brewed especially for the event, plus a slew of classics. With names like Fantapants and Splice of Heaven on the menu, as well as the Bloodhound and Newstead Brewing Co. collaboration that is Old Mate, you're going to want to try them all. Save some room for the cocktails though, with the humble hop flower given its moment to shine in all its forms.
Mad Max: Fury Road for kids. That’s how PAN ought to have been billed, but instead the studios went with “Every legend has a beginning”. Bit of a truism, but whatever. At least it sets us up with the expectation that PAN will give us the gritty, untold Peter Pan backstory, and — true to its word — on that point it does deliver. Curiously, though, it then leaves much of the remaining (and arguably more interesting) information untouched, rendering PAN more like the ‘beginning of the beginning of the legend’. So who is Peter? Well, in this latest version by director Joe Wright (Atonement), he’s an English orphan enduring the worst of the Nazis’ WWII blitz campaign over London. We learn his ninja-like mother lovingly deposited him at the orphanage as a baby, along with a pan flute necklace and a mysterious letter speaking of hopeful reunions in a far away land. Now as a 12-year-old (played by Aussie newcomer and definite star of the future Levi Miller), Peter discovers the letter but has scarcely a moment to process the information before he’s whisked away by pirates in the middle of the night and transported to Neverland, where his true story begins. The thing is, Neverland isn’t as we remember it. Here in Wright’s version, it’s a colossal mining pit populated by hundreds of thousands of orphan workers all searching for a rare mineral called Pixum — essentially the raw form of pixie dust. Their overseer is a deliciously evil and charismatic pirate named Blackbeard (Hugh Jackman), who we first meet amid a bizarre rendition of ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’. As he addresses his bedraggled slaves and enforcers from up high and promises them untold riches (or at the very least, confectionary), the comparisons to Fury Road’s Immortan Joe are hard to ignore, particularly when PAN then descends into something of an extended chase scene for the remainder of the film. Still, in this pit we meet all but one of the future figures who’ll feature prominently in the Peter Pan legend, most notably Smee (Adeel Akhtar) and Hook (Garrett Hedlund, turning in what represents a solid audition piece for the next Indiana Jones film, albeit with an accent borrowed straight from There Will Be Blood’s Daniel Plainview). Together, the trio escapes the pit into Neverland’s untamed jungle and goes in search of Pan’s mother with Blackbeard giving relentless pursuit. PAN is the very definition of ‘family-friendly movie’, what with its non-stop action pieces, colourful costumes and entirely palatable violence (when the friendly ‘savages’ are killed, they explode into puffs of brilliantly coloured powder, much like the ‘how it works’ section of a detergent commercial). The special effects are extensive but first-rate, remaining impressively clutter free in that you can always identify the focal point of any scene (compared to the epilepsy-inducing offerings of films like Transformers). Performance wise, the leads (including Rooney Mara as Tiger Lily) all do their best with what’s a regrettably threadbare script, and Jackman probably finds the most out of his character, switching back and forth between homicidal and nurturing so effortlessly that it’s unsettling. There are really only two major shortcomings in PAN, but combined they do a lot to detract from what could have been something truly special. Firstly, it’s all very dour for something that’s set in Neverland, a place where fun is not just a pastime but a mantra and an obligation. Secondly, for a backstory on the Pan legend, we not only end up with very little new information, but — if anything — more questions than before. Case in point: the relationship between Peter and Hook. PAN’s prologue explains “sometimes friends begin as enemies, and enemies begin as friends”, but by the film's finale we see the two characters as close as any two friends could be, even going so far as to laugh about anything to the contrary. How and why such allies become mortal enemies would have made for an excellent plot progression, and it’s hard not to think this was excluded for the presumptive 'prequel sequel’. Still, it’s a wonderful visual experience that’s sure to delight young and old alike.
In the space where someone makes art, two things combine. The product of their efforts takes shape as a tangible object, and the tools of their labor remain scattered around it. The artwork is the main attraction, but it wouldn't have been possible without a range of mundane items and materials. With Catacoustics, Charles Robb connects the two into composite sculptural forms or installations. And he does so while considering another important artifact of the creative process: the public monument. Accordingly, as he explores the slippages that occur in an artists' studio, as well as the contemporary possibilities of his chosen medium of sculpture, he also constructs a fragmented replica of the Ian Fairweather (1891–1974) memorial rock on Bribie Island. Inside and outside forms of art merge, as do the familiar and strange, and the meticulously crafted and refined but also strangely disorienting, in an exhibition that ponders both form and purpose.
When it comes to contemplating drawing as an art form, the focus usually falls on the finished product. The process of sketching and scribbling is as much an expression of creativity as the end result, however; it's just that we usually only really see the latter, not the former. That's what Drawn to Experience V2 calls attention to: the expansive act of performance drawing. It considers making marks on paper as a combination of theatre, line, motion and record — aka an interdisciplinary experience. The group exhibition by 16 artists from around the world, as curated by Queensland's own Kellie O’Dempsey, examines an array of works that trace this line of thinking. More traditional efforts are included, of course, as are digital drawings and video. And it wouldn't be a true celebration of the method behind the medium without a demonstration in the form of a live drawing performance. Image: Gosia Wlodarczak, 2013, A Room Without A View — drawing performance Day 5, a 17-day drawing performance held in a specially constructed sensory limitation room at the RMIT Gallery, Melbourne.
Time flies when you're showing films and having fun. That's certainly the case at Palace Centro, anyway. The cinema mightn't look its age, but it has been James Street's number one movie-going spot for 15 years now. Yes, it's cake and candles time for the New Farm theatre, and of course they're doing something special to mark the occasion of hitting the big one-five. Actually, they're doing four special things, courtesy of — what else — celebratory movie screenings from 18 – 21 December. Whether you're after a sneak peek of a few upcoming films or want to take a trip back in time to Centro's early days, both are on offer. Those keen on the former can check out the latest teaming of Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper in Joy, fall in love with the beautiful romance that is Brooklyn, and watch Eddie Redmayne and Alicia Vikander tell the tale of Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener in The Danish Girl, while those after the latter can enjoy the whimsical wonders of Amelie back on the big screen. Either way, a tasty treat is included in the ticket price; it is a party, after all.
If you think you've seen Tom Thum — aka the beatboxing virtuoso Brisbane rightfully can't get enough of — do everything he can, well, think again. You might've seen the noisemaker produce the kind of sounds a human seemingly shouldn't, but you've never seen him join forces with groundbreaking composer Gordon Hamilton. They're the first two drawcards at a musical watershed event that promises to blend jazz, hip hop and an off-the-wall Rite of Spring. There's one more element to get excited about, though, and that's the performance of Philip Glass’s Symphony No.4 — Heroes, based the seminal David Bowie/Brian Eno album. A one-mouth band meets the Queensland Symphony Orchestra meets the Thin White Duke. Now that can only equal something awesome.
It starts and ends with the recognisable sounds of 'Holiday Road', and fills the time in-between with repeated refrains. It follows a formula established 32 years ago, and touches upon the same characters. The film in question is Vacation, the fifth and latest in the series. That it trades upon nostalgia is a given. That it doesn’t do a good job of doing so sadly is as well. Indeed, Rusty Griswold (Ed Helms) similarly relies upon his ill-thought-out fondness for things and times gone by to spark the feature’s story. Though he’s devoted to his wife, Debbie (Christina Applegate), and kids, James (Skyler Gisondo) and Kevin (Steele Stebbins), he can sense they’re not as excited as he is about their upcoming holiday. To facilitate some big-time family bonding, he changes their plans, hiring a mini-van and plotting a course across the country to theme park Walley World. Rusty is also driven by another reason: the trip to come, and the destination, mirrors the memorable jaunt he had with his parents (Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo) and sister (now played by Leslie Mann) three decades earlier. That writing-directing duo John Francis Daley and Jonathan M. Goldstein shoehorn in a discussion about the pointlessness of rehashing past territory prior to the Griswold’s escape doesn’t really justify the episodic mess to come. Using a tongue-in-cheek exchange of dialogue to signify the script’s recognition of the weakness in trying to relive former glories is one thing; making a genuine effort to avoid falling prey to the laziness that often comes with such do-overs is another, and one the feature shows no evidence of trying to achieve. So it is that Vacation cycles through incident after incident, and throws nonsensical gags — a ridiculous Albanian car and a repeated shout-out to Seal’s 'Kiss from a Rose' among them — into the mix. When brief appearances by bit-players, such as Keegan-Michael Key, Nick Kroll and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia's Charlie Day and Kaitlin Olson, command more attention and interest than the leads and narrative, you know that everything is far from ideal. Playing up his attractive appearance, Chris Hemsworth becomes the movie’s star player simply by proving the most committed. Though his character, Stone Crandall, the weatherman husband to Rusty’s sister, is largely saddled with mentioning faucets, his dedicated delivery makes the absurdity amusingly stick. There could be a message in the fact that the folks the Griswolds cross paths with along the way to their ideal getaway make more of an imprint, and the film certainly tries to push the theme of appreciating what you’ve got; however, overthinking the material gives the movie too much credit. Mostly, it remains content to strand the usually enjoyable Helms and Applegate in embarrassing situations and have them utter crude jokes. Vacation also remains content with looking like a sleek but messy holiday video. Actually, that's exactly what the feature delivers: a clumsy compilation that's supposed to capture better days. That you'll be pleased every time 'Holiday Road' pops up — because it means that this cinematic road trip is making its way towards its destination — makes the most telling statement.
There's more to literary love-ins than those who wield words giving voice to them. At Brisbane Writers Festival 2015, there's also an innovative and unique installation of artist prints, poetry, prose and musicians that enliven the communication of our ornithological friends — aka bird calls. Honing in on the flying species that call the Bimblebox Nature Refuge home, Bimblebox 153 Birds celebrates the ways wildlife connects with each other. It also makes a statement about creatures in a place that could be destroyed by a coal mine, which makes dropping by on your way to a more traditional BWF session more than just a good way to break up your festival experience. Image via Paula Quintela.
Whatever art form inspires and excites you or just generally takes your fancy, a festival dedicated to your preferred type of creativity always feels like Christmas. From September 2–6, that most joyous time of the year comes around for fans of all things written, spoken and otherwise letter-related. Yes, it’s Brisbane Writers Festival time, aka the five days each annual calendar where indulging your inner word nerd isn’t just acceptable — it is expected. While the program is overflowing with literary goodness, including many a session mining the brilliant minds behind many a book favourite, here’s our five picks of the must-attend events of BWF 2015.
Break out the cake, candles, streamers, party hats and lolly bags, because someone's having a birthday. Well, not just someone, but somewhere. And not just anywhere, but one of Fortitude Valley's favourite hangouts. Yes, that slice of music heaven on Brunswick Street that is Black Bear Lodge has now been part of the inner-city scene for four years. If that's not cause for celebration, then we don't know what is. Trust the BBL crew to throw their own shindig — and cry if they want to — to mark the occasion, and trust them to rope in a whole lot of other folks to make the evening something extra special, too. Young Henry's, 4 Pines and Sailor Jerry will provide the booze, and Hey Geronimo, Waax, Born Joy Dead, Machine Age, Denpasar and regular DJs James Wright and Black Amex will serve up the tunes. Be warned, there really will be cake and lolly bags, plus alcoholic spiders too. We would never joke about that.
You have to hand it to the folks at the Elephant; they’re fond of a good block party, and they know how to throw them. And while they've only hosted two so far, their Ekka public holiday celebrations have already become highly anticipated thanks to their ample shindig-staging know-how. For their third event, Asta, MKO and Ayla will take care of the live music, and James Wright and DJ Black Amex will spin tunes too. That leaves you to just enjoy the atmosphere while you're dancing, drinking and feeling the 'I don't have to work tomorrow' kind of happy.
When it comes to the Ekka public holiday, those who want their crowded outings with more horses and drinking head to the races. Now, those who want their drinking with less gambling and grass stains also have something to do, thanks to The Flying Cock and The Birdman Cage. The latter is the name they're giving the Smuggler's Bar for an evening of post-races shenanigans. Whether this is the afterparty following your big day out, or the main attraction on your day off, expect all the themed cocktails and good vibes you could ever want.
A best-selling novel becomes a world premiere play, and Queensland Theatre Company transforms QPAC's Playhouse into a Sydney department store in the '50s and '60s. That's what happens when Ladies in Black transitions from the page to the stage, but that's not all. The show follows Lisa, a school leaver turned shop employee, who warms to the wondrous world of the women's frocks department. There, she meets her new mentor in the form of Magda, the mysterious mistress of the gowns. If it sounds like a modern musical theatre fairytale, that's because it is supposed to — and yes, Ladies in Black overflows with glitz and glamour, of course. Throw internationally acclaimed musical theatre director Simon Phillips (Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Love Never Dies) into the mix, plus original music by Split Enz and Crowded House's Tim Finn, and you have a bright, breezy production that will transport audiences into a song-filled onslaught of style and delicate comedy.
A whopping 60 films will make their Australian debut at the 2015 Jewish International Film Festival. Making its first Brisbane appearance at New Farm Cinemas, a sampler of the nation-wide three-week celebration of Jewish films and filmmakers will screen both fiction and non-fiction films from all around the world, in order to showcase what festival director Eddie Tamir calls "the agony and the ecstasy of the Jewish experience". Standout narratives in the JIFF 2015 program include French-Canadian romantic drama Felix and Meira, Cannes Grand Prix winner Son of Saul and Natalie Portman's directorial debut A Tale of Love and Darkness, about Israeli novelist and journalist Amos Oz. The documentary lineup is similarly strong. Out of Israel, Censored Voices uncovers harrowing recordings made by disillusioned Israeli soldiers shortly after the Six Day War in 1967.
When it comes to food events, there's nothing quite like the Sunnybank $2 Food Trail. It's all there in the name, with the Brisbane suburb's shopping hub becoming a diner's delight in the most affordable fashion. Think of it as the ultimate self-guided foodie adventure, for nothing more than spare change. At your own pace, you'll walk between more than 34 participating local cafes and restaurants featuring a range of authentic Asian cuisines. You'll feast on Chinese, Japanese, Hong Kong-style, Vietnamese, Korean and Taiwanese dishes, and you'll only pay $2 per plate. With such an array of steaming soups and sizzling stir-fries on offer, we don't recommend eating lunch first; in fact, you'd best arrive feeling as hungry as possible. Snacking on signature dishes is the main course — or several; however there's also plenty of non-edible appetisers, too. That'd be live music, lion dancers and roaming entertainment, adding the perfect garnish to every meal by setting the mood.
Australian artist Peter Kennedy became known as a pioneer in the '70s for creating multi-media art and never-before-seen exhibition strategies. Now, over 50 years since his first creation, Milani Gallery premieres Kennedy's 1/4 inch video tapes as an eleven-channel video and sound installation. Kennedy was born in Brisbane in 1945, and began exhibiting in the mid 1960s. By the end of that decade he'd begun to forge new artistic territory in Australia through his conceptually aligned art practice and light-based efforts. He was set on creating immersive environments, in which minimalistic arrangements of coloured neon tubs made up most of his work. He went on to utilise performance, photography, sound and drawing — and by the late 1970s, his pieces were politically engaged and activism-oriented in nature. In the years since, he has exhibited wildly in both Australia and overseas, and is also the recipient of a numerous coveted grants and awards. LISTENHEAR features Body Concert 2: Extended, a five-channel video work of one of Kennedy’s body and sound performances, as well as The Photographs’ Story, part one of a new, six-part video work.
There ain't no party like a nostalgia-themed party; however while '80s and '90s shindigs seem to pop up almost every week, the '70s haven't been getting as much love. For cult cinema and dance party maestro Kristian Fletcher's birthday, the New Globe Theatre wants to change that at an evening that will take over the entire venue. Studio 54, eat your heart out. Actually, the iconic New York venue — and subject of the Ryan Phillippe and Mike Myers-starring movie 54 — inspires the foyer, but that's only the beginning of the event, of course. Elsewhere, expect to get your boogie on to live performances, strut your stuff in the Soul Train dance competition and groove your way through the disco room. Era-appropriate music videos will also feature, but that's not the only thing revellers can expect to watch. This party also delves into the glory of grindhouse cinema, complete with trailers, iconic movie scenes and rare clips. Yep, there might just be more '70s shenanigans here than you can handle.
Even if you claim to be an Elvis fan rather than a Beatles fan, everyone knows all the words to most of the Fab Four's tracks. They made us 'Twist and Shout' and 'Come Together', and told us to 'Let It Be' and 'Get Back', after all. Plus, they took us on a journey in a 'Yellow Submarine' and taught us the wonders of 'Strawberry Fields Forever'. At All You Need is Beatles at the Foundry on November 22, a bunch of bands certainly know all the words — and all the music, too. The likes of Battleships, Suicide Swans, Drawn from Bees, Golden Age of Ballooning, Counterfeit Umbrellas, Georgia Mae and Purling Brook will be paying tribute to those famous Liverpudlians in a one-night dose of Beatlemania. Yes, we're sure 'Help!' will feature — and not just because it's a Fab Four favourite. As well as revisiting classic Beatles tunes, the evening will raise money for the UNHCR Syria Crisis Appeal, to assist the United Nations to provide food stamps, medicine, shelter, heating and clothing to millions of refugees.
Everyone remembers the moment they became a teenager. Danika Hart — or Dani, as she prefers — is certainly unlikely to forget it. It's her 13th birthday party, and she's caught up in a mix of an exploding cake, a dream-like visit to a world that's both surreal and too close to home, and her best friend Miranda. So unravels Sunnytown as it takes a journey through young Dani's subconscious and explores the consequences of choosing to cope when change is your only hope. As anyone who has ever been a teen will no doubt recall, the mind of a youth on the cusp of maturity can be a dark and beguiling place. As written by emerging playwright Krystal Sweedman, Sunnytown forms part of the La Boite Indie season. The program aims to encourage fresh talent and nurture a sustainable independent theatre culture in Brisbane — and you can do your part by supporting great new plays like this, too.
There’s something very telling about what happens when you type ‘Point Break’ into Google. The first result is the Wiki for Kathryn Bigelow’s iconic action crime thriller starring Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze, whereas the second one is ‘Point Break (2015 Film)’. The order alone says much about its place in the filmic world order, but the name is the real giveaway: Point Break...2015 Film. Yes it’s still technically Point Break, but of the Degrassi: The Next Generation variety — related, yet unworthy of the original title. This remake, starring nobody, is slated for release on December 25 and is hence the most unwanted Christmas present since that clay ashtray your nephew Declan made. It’s one thing to re-do a film that didn’t get it right the first time — or even several times round (*cough* The HULK) — but when you stray so heavily into ‘unnecessary remake’, you come perilously close to not just making a bad movie, but somehow tarnishing the original too. Consider, then, 2008’s Man on Wire. This outstanding documentary by James Marsh won all manner of accolades for its gripping, diligent and wildly entertaining retelling of Philippe Petit’s astounding high-wire walk between the two towers of the World Trade Centre in 1974. Combining interviews, real-life footage and the occasional re-enactment, it captures every bit of the energy, ebullience and foolishness that defines both Petit and his iconic feat. It is, in short, an outstanding film and a definitive account, making it almost inevitable then that Hollywood should promptly designate it prime material for a retelling. So it is that we have The Walk, perhaps tellingly presented by Google as 'The Walk (2015 Film)’ despite there being no predecessor of the same name. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the bulk of the movie is presented as a something of a comedic, carefree caper with almost clowning levels of performance and dialogue. In the lead, Joseph Gordon-Levitt is at once excellent and terrible. His spoken French and Fred Astaire-esque lightness sparkle, but his to-camera narration and ‘English with zee accent’ scenes are cringeworthy, bordering on parody. With the jazzy soundtrack, nifty editing and whacky cast of accomplices, the majority of the film seems almost desperate to let you know it’s having fun, oftentimes more than you, and it’s not until we first arrive at the Towers that the seriousness sinks in. Thankfully, too, that's when The Walk undergoes a swift and marked transformation, and where its use of 3D finds a welcome home. 3D cinema has, to date, been almost exclusively an unnecessary gimmick and unwelcome expense, but that’s not to say it doesn’t have its place. When employed correctly it can be a powerful storytelling device, drawing the viewer deeper into a moment and sharing the experience with you rather than just showing it. As Petit finally arrives in New York and beholds the Towers for the first time, the sensation is deeply unsettling — a sort of vertigo from the ground up — and you absolutely participate in his sudden fear and uncertainty. The sensation then compounds exponentially as he travels to the top and peers down over the edge, at which point you’ll be hard pressed not to tightly grip the arms of your chair. As such, it is ‘the walk’ within The Walk where the film is at its best, and the exhilaration of experiencing the moment from Petit’s perspective almost exonerates all that precedes it.
If chanteuses set your music-loving heart a-flutter, then Women in Voice is your kind of thing. You probably already know this. Over more than two decades, the celebration of female artists has become a Brisbane institution. Since starting out in a West End cafe back in 1993 and then journeying through a number of venues around the city and beyond, Women in Voice has become one of the nation's longest running performances. Showcasing talented lady vocalists in an up-front, uncomplicated manner, the show has featured the likes of Chrissie Amphlett, Deborah Conway, Jenny Morris, Katie Noonan and Kate Miller-Heidke on the bill at some point. As always, the latest iteration of Women in Voice boasts quite the lineup. Prepare your ears for the sounds of the ethereal Emma Dean, rock legend Carol Lloyd, world music mama Yani and the astounding Alison St Ledger. They're all banded together by MC Queenie van de Zandt’s hilarious alter ego, Jan van de Stool, International Music Therapist, because crooning and comedy are all part of this cabaret package.
When playwright Neil Simon penned The Odd Couple, little could he have known the phenomenon he had unleashed. The Broadway hit became a famous 1968 film starring Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau, and then a number of different TV shows. In the US, a version featuring Matthew Perry is currently on air. There's a reason audiences continue to be fascinated with his offbeat roommates and their ever-apparent mismatch, of course, and it's not just because it's both chaotic and comedic. Who hasn't been down-and-out like despairing journalist Felix Unger? Who hasn't lived with someone they're not all that suited to, such as the slovenly Oscar Madison? Who doesn't have a good pal they probably shouldn't get along with, but do anyway? Expect domestic drama, both amusing and argumentative, as Queensland Theatre Company offers their spin on the play turned movie turned television series. Expect a reunion of another odd couple as the titular pair, too, with Jason Klarwein and Tama Matheson from QTC's 2013 rendition of Design For Living returning as everyone's favourite housemates from hell.
For one night only, 14 students from the Queensland College of Art and Queensland Conservatorium bring the environment and culture of Stradbroke Island to life through art and sound, projection and light. Beach holidays, camping expeditions and fishing trips to Straddie are part and parcel of Queenslander life, but how much does the average person know about the social, environmental and historical issues facing the island community? As part of an art and sound infield course, the students spent five days immersed in bush and beach life, engaging with the local community, Indigenous elders and environmental scientists. Their cumulative knowledge and shared experiences from the island became Float, a rich collection of images and soundscapes that beautifully capture the breadth of this iconic Queensland landscape. Float exhibits on the Turbine Platform at Brisbane Powerhouse from 6pm to 8pm, 14 October. Image by Elise Searson.
Maybe you made it to Melbourne for ACMI's magnificent David Bowie exhibition. Maybe you counted your pennies and enviously wished you did. Either way, you can get your fix of the pop culture icon a bit closer to home at the New Globe Theatre's David Bowie Afternoon. For one Sunday only, all things Major Tom, Ziggy Stardust, the Thin White Duke, Aladdin Sane and Jareth the Goblin King are in fashion. They can be heroes, just for one day — though the documentary snippets, performance footage and music videos featured during the three-hour celebration will last in your memory for much, much longer, we promise. As will the centerpiece of the show, aka the beloved 1986 flick by the name of Labyrinth. Revisiting this cult classic is always an enjoyable way to show your Bowie enthusiasm. Doing so while surrounded by other fanatics, enjoying drinks from the bar, and watching rare clips before and afterwards — now that's enough to spark a whole new case of modern Bowie love.
If you’ve ever bought music on a physical format in Brisbane, you’ve likely been to Rocking Horse Records. For forty years, the CBD establishment has showered the latest and greatest independent and imported releases upon the city, be it on vinyl, cassette, CD or vinyl again. To pay tribute to a store that been a mainstay of both Adelaide and Albert streets (the former for its first 25 years, and the latter for the last 15), as well as offered employment to seemingly every local artist and aspiring musician, The Triffid is throwing just the kind of concert and party the retailer deserves. Yes, there’ll be live gigs by local legends. Yes, there’ll also be a whole lotta love. The free part of the proceedings kicks off at 2pm, with Kristy Apps and The Shotgun Shirleys and The Floyd Family Breakdown serving up acoustic beer garden sets. After 5.30pm, you’ll need a ticket to see Last Dinosaurs, The Cairos, ’90s queer folksters ISIS and more, but if any celebratory show is worth flocking to this year, it’s this one.
This online-only dessert bar clearly knows its market well. Open the menu on DoorDash, and one of the first items you'll see is Netflix & Chill, a two-person combo of waffles, Nutella, marshmallows, caramel sauce, ice cream, and crushed peanuts. Not in the mood to share? Scroll straight to the Nutella Choc Chip Cookie Pie, which is served soft and warm with a side of vanilla ice cream. Or maybe pick the Rainbow Cake: a Pinterest-worthy confection of layered butter sponge with cream cheese icing. Alternatively, the Caramello New York Cheesecake sounds mighty tasty, with a crumbly biscuit base and drizzled with salted caramel sauce. Images: Hennessy Trill
You'll find this quirky homewares and gift shop within Gasworks Plaza. An eclectic mix of brands and labels from Australia and overseas are on constant rotation through the shelves here making it an easy gifting go-to for locals. The shop covers everything from gifts for your pooch and not-your-average board games to picnic caddies and cocktail kits. All your classic candle, funky sock and ceramics options are available as well. If it doesn't have a certain something you're on the hunt for, just give a team member here a yell and they'll see if they can order it in for you. Image: Nice Digs
If you're seeking somewhere romantic for your summer holiday, check out the couples-only luxury accommodation on offer at Mt Quincan Crater Retreat. Elevated 25oo feet above sea level on the edge of an extinct volcano in the Atherton Tablelands, this award-winning escape boasts breathtaking views that look over the volcanic crater and beyond. Each treehouse has its own private spa that captures these vistas and some even have an al fresco shower for you to enjoy under the stars. Plus, there are in-room dining options available for fuss-free cook ups and tailored packages to help you celebrate special occasions.
Sometimes, the simplest things are the best. That's always true about ramen, and it's definitely true about one of Brisbane's best ramen joints, which brings slurp-worthy serves of authentic Japanese noodle soups to a heap of Brisbane shopping centres. Don't let the food court locations turn you off — each outlet has its own Japanese vibe, including counter seating. And, if you're after the full experience, the chain's newest store in the Queen Street Mall is situated in its own downstairs digs. Plus, you'll forget all about the surroundings when your food arrives anyway (promptly, of course). Five char siu–laden options are available, including miso, shio and extra spicy. Served with complimentary takana (pickled mustard leaves), they're as good as the kinds you'll find down a random Tokyo alleyway.
At the Ohana Cider House and Tropical Winery you'll discover some delightful drinks that wouldn't be out of place at any big-city bar. Having taken a holiday to Hawaii in 2014 and fallen in love with the tropical climate, founders Zoe Young and Josh Phillips left behind their desk jobs in Perth to buy a piece of Queensland land, where they established their much-loved tropical winery. They then relocated their to Bundaberg in 2018 and expanded into cider, too. Since then, they've gone on to release ciders ranging from dry apple to pineapple and strawberry, as well as produce some of the region's top vino using fresh fruit grown on the orchard or by local farmers. Snag a tasting paddle to try six of the best for $18. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 1.30pm, you can join a one-hour to see how the cider is made — it costs a tenner and includes tastings of the flagship ciders. Image: Paul Beutel
In 2025, the wondrous cinematic world of Wes Anderson is expanding again. The beloved filmmaker's latest release The Phoenician Scheme has a date with Brisbane picture palaces before May is out, boasting another all-star cast, telling another tale of family chaos and loving symmetry, as are among this writer/director's trademarks. Any new Anderson flick is worth seeing and celebrating — and so is his entire filmography. Fancy making a day of it in advance of The Phoenician Scheme's release? Wes Day: The Motion Pictures of Fantastic Mr Anderson and a Marathon of Them has you covered. Because you can never have too much of a good thing from this auteur, Dendy Portside is dedicating Saturday, May 17 to screening six of the director's features. Cinema lovers can enjoy Anderson's distinctive visual stylings, compelling soundtracks and roster of familiar faces, with tickets available per film at $18 a pop. First up, the stop-motion animation delight that is Fantastic Mr Fox is getting Wes Day started. Next comes The Darjeeling Limited with its chaotic train trip — and The Brutalist Oscar-winner Adrien Brody — followed by the magazine-style The French Dispatch. From there, you can also catch the family dramas of The Royal Tenenbaums, then the exceptionally cast The Grand Budapest Hotel and the canine-loving Isle of Dogs to round the day off.
Food-themed days are threatening to become the culinary equivalent of the boy who cried wolf: so many manufactured eating occasions, only so much stomach space. Still, no matter how frequently they seem to pop up, there's one thing that always grabs attention. Boy oh boy do we all love freebies. Perhaps that's why Brisbane's pop culture pun-loving poultry slingers are celebrating National Chicken Wing Day by giving the people what they love. Yes, Lord of the Wings is handing out free chook pieces. On July 29 between midday and 3pm, the chain's Carindale and Indooroopilly stores will be serving up free three-packs of traditional wings with buffalo sauce, with one pack available per person. The free wings are available both in store and via delivery, though the latter requires you to order something else as well. Anyone rushing along to get theirs in person will also find jugglers and stilt walkers turning the place into a party, though we're assuming no one will be throwing chicken into the air. Lord of the Wings' National Chicken Wing Day celebrations take place from midday to 3pm on July 29. For more information, visit their website.
Craving the kind of cake your mum definitely doesn't make, but find yourself in the CBD rather than Newstead or South Bank? Sweet treat fans, rejoice — Chester Street Bakery is bringing its epic wares to you and setting up a third store in the centre of the city. Since late July, Brissie's favourite bakers have been slinging their creative creations from their new digs inside the entrance to the King George Square bus station. Just like its express setup over the river, expect another small in size, big in taste location from the same dessert-focused empire as Doughnut Time and Mister Fitz. Delicious from start to finish, CSB's menu will feature their signature cakes, hot chocolates and other edible items; if you're already fan, you know the drill. Their big cakes have garnered a huge reputation over the years, whether rainbow layers, death by chocolate, cookie dough or doughnut offerings take your fancy. Or, opt for frozen goodness courtesy of cookie monster, red velvet and banana split ice cream cakes. With Oreo-crusted unicorn cream pie Nutella pavlova, Kit Kat cheesecakes, M&M Brownies, Ferrero choc tops, and peanut butter whip shakes also served up, the list well and truly goes on. Find Chester Street Bakery's new CBD store inside the entrance to the King George Square bus station from July 25. Head to their website and Facebook page for more information.
Another week, another round of free rides for bus patrons. Yes, it's becoming a common occurrence. Brisbane's bus drivers are still fighting for better conditions, and they're still not getting anywhere — so they're going to help the city's commuters get to their destinations for free. The city's buses aren't fleeing from the roads this time, but they will be refusing to collect fares once again. If catching a bus is on the cards between Wednesday, August 9 and Friday, August 11, then your trip may very well cost you nothing. As happened on July 27 and August 4, some drivers won't be taking your money or checking that you're using your Go Card. The key word there is some, of course, so hopping on board without a method of payment in your wallet isn't recommended. The latest stint marks the fourth consecutive week of industrial action as part of a continuing campaign by the RTBU's Queensland Branch for safer buses, a fair wage increase and modern rostering practices. Image: Andrew Thomas via Flickr.
Whether you're grabbing something from a food truck, dropping by a cafe or sitting down at a high end eatery, there's one item you'll find on most menus these days. Ever since the concept of slow cooking came back on trend, there's no escaping meats that have been simmered, stewed and roasted over time, and then torn apart into tasty chunks. Of course we're not complaining. Neither is 2 Forks, Milton's newest addition. Actually, to say that they're embracing the trend is quite the understatement. Customers simply pick their preferred ten-hour-cooked, hand-pulled protein (with char sui pork, tequila beef, beer lamb and more on offer), then decide whether they'd like it in burger, burrito, salad, rice or nacho form (or a share platter for social slow-cooking folks). From slow-cooked pork drizzled with bourbon barbecue sauce to pomegranate-glazed lamb to Mexican chipotle chilli beef, the bulk of their selection really is dedicated to the most patience-testing of cooking styles. Slow-cooked ribs are also available, and should you want something that hasn't been sizzling all day for some strange reason, 2 Forks still has you covered. That's where their chicken and vegetarian burgers come in, plus a host of sides such as spicy wings, corn on the cob, both potato and sweet potato chips, and onion rings. Find 2 Forks at Shop 4, Westmark Milton, 22-36 Railway Terrace, Milton. Check out their website and Facebook page for more information.
Think Oxford Street is the only place to eat in Bulimba and Hawthorne? Think again. In fact, the road that shares its name with the latter suburb is doing its best to tempt hungry diners away from the inner east's main drag, with newcomer British Colonial Co. its latest weapon. An alfresco dining and lounge bar inspired by the British Empire during the era of colonisation, British Colonial Co. is due to open by the end of June, and aims to offer Hawthorne residents the tapas restaurant and laidback drinks spot they probably didn't know they needed. The entire establishment will endeavour to cultivate a global mindset within a local eatery — though it may have to tread carefully. Plenty of places take their cues from history, but Britain's colonisation efforts aren't something that everyone wants to celebrate. However, if you're a fan of grabbing a share plate, a cocktail and or a glass of wine before or after seeing a movie in style, you'll find British Colonial Co. in the perfect location. Cineplex's Hawthorne Deluxe complex isn't the only reason to head to 274 Hawthorne Road — or at least, it won't be soon. And yes, that applies to anyone getting their movie fix early in the day, with brekkie and brunch definitely on the menu. Find British Colonial Co. at 274 Hawthorne Road, Hawthorne from late June. Head to their website and Facebook page for further information.
Confession time: when was the last time you ducked down for a swim at South Bank? Tourists travel from all over the world to marvel at this inner city man-made beach, but locals often forget that we have such a stunning stretch of sand at our fingertips. Monday blues got you desperate for an escape from the urban grind? Streets Beach has enjoyed a recent makeover, with the spruced-up pools the ideal spot for a few lazy mid-week laps. Image: Kgbo via Wikimedia Commons.
Just a 30-minute drive out of Brisbane's CBD, Wynnum is well worth a day trip — for a splash and for some fish and chips. As far as the former is concerned, the shorefront pool fills with sea water, making it the perfect spot to dip your toes. And when it comes to the latter, you could easily enjoy a fish 'n' chip crawl of the area's abundance of greasy spoons. Pick from Cooper's, Baywatch Café, Pelican's Nest and Barramundi Boys, or order something from each place you pass as you walk along the Esplanade. Image: Brisbane City Council via Flickr.
As much as we love catching a movie under the stars, it's not usually something you do while sitting in a pool of heated water. Enter Hot Tub Cinema Brisbane. Coming to an undisclosed location from September 1 to 14, this novelty nickelodeon works exactly the way you think it does: you and your mates strip down to your togs and enjoy a flick from the comfort of a bubbling tub. Melbourne has already dabbled with the concept, with retro films and cocktails aplenty — and Sydney will be splashing around in warm water come July. Now it's Brisbane's turn, and much of the rest of the country as well. The Gold Coast, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra will also get in on the fun in September, while Newcastle, Hobart and Wollongong are listed as coming soon. The organisers of Hot Tub Cinema Brisbane are yet to reveal which films will feature on the program, although shame on them if they don't include Jaws or, failing that, Splash. And yes, in case you were wondering, their upcoming Sydney season does include the obvious pick: Hot Tub Time Machine. Spots will be sold on a first-come, first-serve basis, although you can sign up for pre-release tickets. For more information and to stay in the loop about Hot Tub Cinema Brisbane, visit their website and Facebook page. By Tom Clift and Sarah Ward.
We all like gelato, but sometimes the occasion calls for something other than everyone's favourite creamy dessert. Maybe it's too cold? Maybe you already have an ice cream headache? Maybe Gelato Messina is closed, or just not in the immediate vicinity? Enter the food mashup that had to happen, really — and a concoction straight out of every gelato and biscuit lover's dreams. In 2017, Gelato Messina Tim Tams became the Aussie sweet treat hybrid everyone wanted to taste. Now, in inevitable news, a second batch is on its way from February. Due in stores around the country from February 5, the new Gelato Messina Tim Tam range will come in three styles: choc cherry coconut, iced coffee and Turkish delight. "We've delved deep into our gelato flavour bank," said Gelato Messina co-founder Declan Lee, with the company coming up with the new selection after the popularity of last year's lineup. Making this tastebud-tempting news even better is the fact that, like all Tim Tams, they'll be sold in supermarkets everywhere. Yes, that means more Messina goodness more often. The biscuits are expected to set hungry shoppers back $3.65 per packet. Come on, you know you're going to buy more than one.
The mark of any good city is surely the number of delicious breakfast spots on offer. The mark of a great city, however, is the number of breakfast spots that can cater to the hungover masses. Think all-day brunch, guilty pleasures, bloody marys and great coffee. There's not much worse than having to make the decision about where to eat when you're running on three hours sleep. Don't fret, we met up with our mates at American Express to do the hard work for you. We've sifted through our directory and handpicked the best spots across the city that can help you when you're not feeling particularly human. When the morning comes, let's make you feel human again, and we promise you'll have minimal contact with others — you'll be able to tap that Amex card at all of these so there's no need to do any money maths. But for now, grab your tenth beer and let your worries about where you'll nurse your hangover tomorrow dissipate. Here's where to head when you need a pick-me-up after a big night out, aka the places that'll help kick you back into gear. Got yourself in another dining situation and need some guidance? Whatever it is, we know a place. Visit The Shortlist and we'll sort you out.
When your nine-to-five plays out like a well-oiled machine, it can sometimes feel like each week is a little same-same. But Brisbane is brimming with a fine bounty of things to experience and explore each and every day. So aside from casual laziness and a little lack of inspiration, there's really nothing stopping you from squeezing some adventure and spontaneity into your schedule. We've teamed up with Mazda3 to help you celebrate the little things that bring a sense of adventure to life. Shake things up, as we give you seven different detours to take each week in Brisbane. From Monday to Sunday, enrich your everyday with one completely achievable activity that inspires you to take the scenic route as you go about your daily routine. This week, eat pasta served from a giant cheese wheel, cheap pho and steak overlooking the river. Plus, we've got your future detours sorted for the new few weeks here. All require no more effort than a tiny break from the norm — what's your excuse for not trying them all?
When your nine-to-five plays out like a well-oiled machine, it can sometimes feel like each week is a little same-same. But Brisbane is brimming with a fine bounty of things to experience and explore each and every day. So aside from casual laziness and a little lack of inspiration, there's really nothing stopping you from squeezing some adventure and spontaneity into your schedule. We've teamed up with Mazda3 to help you celebrate the little things that bring a sense of adventure to life. Shake things up, as we give you seven different detours to take each week in Brisbane. From Monday to Sunday, enrich your everyday with one completely achievable activity that inspires you to take the scenic route as you go about your daily routine. This week, try a sushi burrito, camp overlooking the ocean and unwind with jazz. Plus, we've got your future detours sorted for the new few weeks here. All require no more effort than a tiny break from the norm — what's your excuse for not trying them all?
The mercury has dropped, the Uggs are dusted off, and you no longer need to feverishly crank the air con from the moment you wake. Pat yourself on the back, folks, because you've successfully survived another sweltering Brisbane summer. Don't listen to those naysayers who moan about the impending arrival of the cooler months. We promise you, it truly is a time to celebrate. Low humidity? Check. Less chance of sunstroke? Check. Finally getting a chance to crack out that ripper jacket you bought last year? Double check. Because we are lucky enough to live in the sub-tropics, we are keenly aware of the fact that the notion of 'summer' truly can be carried all year round. Here in Queensland, we teeter close enough to the equator to be blessed with damn decent weather all year round. You can almost pretend it's not winter at all. To do so all you need is good friends, good food, good beer and something fun to do. To help you keep the summer dream alive, we've teamed up with Coopers' new latest Session Ale — a refreshing new beer with distinct tropical fruit aromas and a crisp bitterness — to pull together five summer activities you can enjoy all year round. Because these guys know that the good times don't stop for the season. CONQUER A HIKE Remember all those hikes you had on your bucket list this summer? You and your gym buddies were going to wake up at the crack of dawn, strap on a CamelBak, and ascend some freakishly high terrain. We're willing to bet that the following things stopped you from achieving these goals: Christmas parties, engagement parties, New Year's Eve parties.... you catch our drift. But no longer shall you be swayed. With bright eyes, a clear mind, and cool, crisp winter's air, you cannot be stopped. Mount Tibrogargan! Mount Beerwah! Mount Coot-tha! Plus, you can exploit this opportunity to post some humble-brag Insta Stories from the summit. Need more of a challenge? Pack a six-pack (or two) and head further afield to conquer a multi-day hike. [caption id="attachment_621822" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Brisbane City Council[/caption] SWIM IN A HEATED POOL Yep, we love going to the beach. And we all know that swimming is a brilliant, whole-body workout, perfect for those looking for non-weight-bearing exercise. But once the cooler months hit, it can be tempting to sideline those swimming sessions in favour of… sitting on the couch eating pizza. But fear not. Your fitness levels don't have to be benched for the season —22 Brisbane City Council pools are heated for your swimming pleasure. The Spring Hill Baths is always a fan favourite — and one our top five — and we also love the Valley Pool and Langland's Park. And there's an added bonus: the pools tend to be a little less crowded at this time of the year, so you won't be sideswiped by any Olympic wannabes. When you're done, treat yourself to a pint — it's all about balance, after all. CATCH AN AWARD-WINNING FLICK If you were to poll your closest friends, you would probably find that a decent chunk of them have never experienced the sweet serenity of cracking open a beer in the cinema. Truly, it's a travesty. How about having a pizza, burger and even dessert delivered directly to your cushy leather chair? Mind-blowing, huh? Luckily for us here in Brisbane, we have a boutique, licensed cinema in our midst – the Blue Room Cinebar. Plus, since our winter lines up neatly with 'American Summer Blockbuster Season', the cooler months are the ultimate time to experience this little slice of luxury. Keep the brews coming. [caption id="attachment_594247" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Nightfall, Lamington National Park[/caption] GO CAMPING IN STYLE Sweating in a tent and drinking room-temperature beer might be fun for some (anyone? anyone?), but we prefer our camping trips a little more lush. A mini mid-year getaway is the perfect respite from the 9-to-5 drudgery (plus, you probably need some vitamin D). If you fancy yourself a Bear Grylls-type, you might want to fashion a shelter out of animal hide, but if you're anything like us, you'll want to step it up a notch. Hire a decked out tent in the hinterland. Camp out in a national park. Cosy up in a cabin at Moreton Island. The only essentials you really need are a six-pack of beer, warm socks, and a decent Bluetooth speaker. Marshmallows optional. [caption id="attachment_638442" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] The Osbourne[/caption] HANG OUT IN A HEATED BEER GARDEN On days when it's cold, or maybe when there's even a bit of rain, it's tempting for us Queenslanders to cancel our plans and hide under the covers. But simply mention the word 'pub' over the group chat and you'll find your mates are more than happy to meet up for beers. We are big fans of any venues that boast the winning combo of cosy indoor and outdoor seating, for the perfect summer/winter vibe. One such pub is Fortitude Valley's Osbourne Hotel. It has an impressive 400-seat glass-ceiling bistro and beer garden, plates of oysters and all-day pizza. Grab a seat under one of the heaters and a pint of Session Ale and the last thing on your mind will be the weather. Grab a Coopers Session Ale and make the most of summer, all year round. Top image: The Osbourne
