The Ryan vs Seth debate incited gang wars (it's all Seth, all the time people, come on). Marissa made our eye twitch with stiff acting and then tore our hearts out in season three (no spoilers hey). Summer retrospectively became our life and style guru. And still, no true O.C. fan can hear Imogen Heap's 'Hide and Seek' without tearing up just a little bit. For everyone whose teenage expectations of life and love were shaped by the O.C. and Peter Gallagher's eyebrows, listen up: Bistrotheque is throwing a huge O.C.-themed party this weekend. Cue Youth Group, Death Cab for Cutie, Eels, Jem, The Futureheads, Spoon et al playing on repeat. Entry is free, so cancel all existing plans and start fashioning an outfit with maximum spaghetti straps and low-waist jeans that are neither skinny nor flared.
Getting attached to your favourite musical festival isn't the best idea — even the best ones come and go. In sad news for fans of tunes on the heavier side of the spectrum, Soundwave joined the long line of fests in the latter category after their 2015 event. That doesn't mean you can't gather in a great spot and remember the good times, though. Sabowave is the closest thing to the now-defunct real Soundwave as you're probably going to get, as well as a chance to do what Brisbanites seem to do best these days: reminisce. For the second year, Sabotage Social is leading the charge and serving up all of the necessary ingredients. That means punk, rock, metal and thrash sets, good vibes, some food, and plenty of fun. Turn up from midday on February 5 for a backyard barbecue, then knock back the drink you'll wish you'd thought of: Zooper Dooper cocktails. There'll also be beers from Rocks Brewing Company, and plenty of fellow Soundwave lovers recalling the fest that was. If you want to go for a memorial walk up to the RNA afterwards, that's up to you. Image: Michael_Spencer.
If you like live music in Brisbane — and frequenting an Ann Street mainstay for your local gig fix, in particular — then it has been a long six weeks. Back in December, The Zoo closed its doors to undertake some renovations, but now they're back. You know the drill; it's going to bigger, better and downright massive, really. Don't just take our word for it, though. Checking it out, and some ace Queensland talent, is on the agenda from 8pm on February 4. Think of the appropriately named The New Zoo as the type of housewarming party you have when your old place feels like new again. The relaunch will feature Gold Coast garage rockers Bleeding Knees Club, plus local folks Good Boy, Bugs and Black Sun. Sure, christening the revamped space is quite the responsibility; however, whether you like guitar riffs, indie refrains, noisy punk pop or all of the above, this lot are up to it.
In 2001, the movie-watching world was introduced to Hedwig and The Angry Inch. The story of an East German genderqueer singer who found solace in glam and punk rock had already graced the stage; however when theatre star-turned-film director, writer and actor John Cameron Mitchell took the tale from off-Broadway to the cinema, Hedwig truly stepped into the spotlight. To celebrate just over 15 years of the iconic film, MELT Festival is doing two things in one. First, they're playing the movie on the big screen in all its glory. Then they're hosting HEDWIG in Concert, corralling plenty of vocal and musical talent such as Sandro Colarelli, Josh Daveta, James Halloran, Bertie Page and Lucinda Shaw, and turning the whole night into one heck of a party.
Handball isn't just something kids play in the schoolyard. Well, it is for the most part, but that doesn't mean running around a slab of concrete while attempting to slap a tennis ball with your hand isn't something anyone at any age can't enjoy. In fact, if you haven't outgrown the game that filled many of your youthful lunchtimes — or if you want to relive those past glories — then the New Farm Bouncing Back Handball Festival is the event for you. The free all-ages event invites everyone to have some fun in the sun while competing in their favourite childhood pastime. When the festival was held back in 2012, 500 people took part. Last year, so did just as many. The New Farm Neighbourhood Centre is guiding the show, which means it's a community affair complete with food and drinks for those working up an appetite and a thirst. Bringing the suburb together is of its aims, as is promoting a positive mindset, with the event running as part of Mental Health Week.
How do you celebrate your birthday? Everyone has their own style. Throw the biggest party you can? Ignore it so that you can forget that you're getting older? Consume too much of your favourite edible and drinkable items? Or, maybe you just add bacon to everything? It sounds like a pretty great birthday treat to us. The folks at Statler & Waldorf clearly agree, because that's just how they're marking the occasion of turning three: with free bacon on everything. Okay, okay, so they'll also be offering up all their usual meals and antics, aka a Caxton Street hideaway perfect for having a few Friday evening beverages, playing a game of giant Jenga on a Saturday arvo, or tucking into a hearty roast for Sunday lunch. It's just that from October 14 to 16, they're doing all that with added bacon. Magical animal-loving Homer Simpson would be proud.
On October 11, The Red Room and Man v Bear are going back... to one of the best films of the '80s, and best time travel films in general, that is. Put on your best puffy vest and self-lacing shoes, jump on your hoverboard and slide into their Back to the Future trivia night. And if you don't have a wheel-free floating skateboard, a Delorean will do. It's enough to make you exclaim "Great Scott!", which is actually something you'll probably be doing once you're there. It's not just Doc Brown's go-to phrase — it can be yours, too. Get a question right? "Great Scott!". Surprised that another team has sped past you at 88 miles per hour? "Great Scott!". Can't remember which Jaws sequel is playing in BTTF's sequel? "Great Scott!" to that, too. Basically, it's the quiz most of us have been in training for our entire lives, even if we didn't know it. And if you don't emerge victorious like Marty McFly, maybe you can slip back through the gull-winged doors and into another time? We've heard 1985, 1955, 2015 and 1855 are worth visiting.
First, it was a zine. Then, it was a radio show. Now, it's a mini-festival. We're talking about Slubberdegullion, or Slubs for short. Yep, you either know what that means, or you're super intrigued by their name. Maybe you've read their more than twenty issues since 2011. Perhaps you've listened in to their weekly 4zzz spots. If you've enjoyed one, both or neither, you can tap your toes at 4zzz Octobermess at The Haunt on October 14. It'll do what Slubs does best, of course: mix music, art, zines and more into a Slubs-tastic combo. As far as tunes go, that's where Bottlecock, Tall Pines, the wrong man, Guava Lava, sydney2000 and Bad Bangers come in, so expect an ace evening of rockin' sounds. Stalls selling zines and other independent publications from local writers and artists — plus Zed merch, too — are also part of the equation, and the $8-10 entry price goes back to the station. There's your Friday night sorted. Image: Guava Lava.
Modelling The Now looks like it must've been fun to make, particularly if interconnecting blocks have ever been your kind of thing. And, if it's as enjoyable to look at as it was to build, then your next trip to Milani Gallery is going to prove thoroughly intriguing. For five years, artist Nigel Lendon worked with a series of objects to fashion a range of different geometric models. The end result is on display until October 29; however it's more than just a series of pieces you probably think you could make. (Yes, we know that's what you're pondering.) How each one comes together as an individual creation — and how it fits in with the works around it — is the contemplative fodder that could fill many an afternoon. And, that's just the outcome you want when you head to an exhibition. Image: 2015:10. "Model: Tesseract" 2015 (13 variants of 2013:9, acrylic on PR., each 126 x 148 x298) total including wall plinth 2004 x 272 x 572.
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 a bunch of handy folks were wondering, so back in 2015 they did something about it. After a successful first year last year, the second-ever Brisbane Mexican Festival is once again the result of their handiwork. For one day only, the fiesta will take over Roma Street Parklands to celebrate one of the most fascinating cultures worldwide. Think live entertainment, food and folklore that's 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 — and don't forget to bring your amigos.
We've all dreamed of roaming the halls of a certain school of witchcraft and wizardry, watching the great hall light up with floating candles, finding its hidden nooks and crannies, and putting on the Sorting Hat. For Harry Potter fans, that's where an active imagination comes in handy; however, at Windsor State School's annual fete, you'll have help stepping into your Hogwarts fantasy. Grab your wand and start practising your best incantations because this year's WindsorFest features a Haunted Hogwarts. You'll wander around pretending you're in Harry, Hermoine and Ron's company, and you'll get more than a little scared in the process. And yes, this is the only place in the city that boasts such a spellbinding attraction. Head to the northside school from 10am on October 16 for what's certain to be a magical experience — and don't forget to enjoy everything else on offer, too. That includes rides, dodgem cars, laser tag, slides, a petting zoo, a dunk tank, a bar, and a food truck gathering that includes Mr Burger and Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers. Accio fun.
With its iconic steps sequence and distinctive use of montage, 1925 Soviet-made movie Battleship Potemkin changed the way the world thought about film. Making enduring efforts such as Solaris and Stalker, Russian director Andrei Tarkovsky also achieved the same feat during the '60s and '70s. And in 2003, roaming historical drama Russian Ark did too courtesy of a single 96-minute take. Yep, this was more than a decade before Birdman tried something similar. They're just some of the highlights of Russian film history, and there's more where they came from. In fact, that's the domain of the Russian Resurrection Film Festival, which brings future classics and beloved greats alike to Australian cinema screens for an annual celebration of Russian movie making. In its thirteenth year, the fest has curated a collection of twenty efforts that showcase just what makes the country's film output so stellar. Whether you're keen on diving into a duelling epic, going swashbuckling with a beloved animated pirate, or catching a glimpse of uncompleted relics from the past, you'll find plenty to watch here — plus our five must-see picks, of course.
There's no need to sugarcoat Brisbane's newest event — you'll find plenty of sweetness on offer regardless. After all, that's what you'd expect at the city's first-ever dedicated dessert festival. It's called The Sugar Market for a good reason. Taking over the Alden Street laneway behind The Wickham in Fortitude Valley from 11am to 5pm on Saturday, October 29, The Sugar Market promises the kind of wonderland Homer Simpson couldn't even dream of. Specific details are still being kept under wraps, but The Wickham and Lucid Sweets are involved, with the event currently seeking expressions of interest from other dessert masters. Regardless of the final lineup of vendors, sweet treats will be available for brekkie, brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert and every excuse in-between. The festival explicitly promises "more brownies, cupcakes, macarons, meringues and doughnuts than you ever thought could fit in once space". That sound you can hear? It's your stomach grumbling.
Dr. Röt Fifer is the guy that keeps on giving — or the beer, to be precise. The character is a one-off collaboration between Young Henrys and legendary Melbourne artist Doug Holgate (Regular Show, Red Sonja), and adorns the limited-release lager that bears his name. So far, he's popped up at Oz Comic-Con and at The Scratch's comic challenge art exhibition in September. Next stop: another Brissie bar, and another display of creativity. At Dr. Röt Fifer vs Bad Teeth Comics at Saccharomyces Beer Cafe, Holgate's work will be jazzing up the place alongside Bad Teeth. Select pieces from both will deck the walls throughout November and December; however the showcase's opening weekend (aka November 11 to 13) is extra special. As well as pouring the brew that started it all, if you purchase a pint or a meal you can win a Dr. Röt Fifer prize pack.
It's the coastal place everyone from Australia's southern states always wants to visit, as well as the beachy city just down the highway from Brissie that locals don't head to all that often. Yep, it's none other than the Gold Coast, and it really is a treasure trove. Whether that's good (as Goldie), bad or a combo of the two is up to you. For Burleigh Heads-based artist Rebecca Ross, the Goldie isn't just the place she calls home, but a source of inspiration. As her new exhibition at Boxcopy demonstrates, that includes elements both expected and not-so. Photos of dolphins frolicking in the blue, blue ocean sit alongside collages featuring photos of a Sizzler sign, a pre-reno Pacific Fair, the pale brick buildings that are oh-so-common, and a glistening shot of Gold Coast Suns footy player Gary Ablett. With a name like Dream Sea Movie Water, theme parks also pop up; however, given current events, they're sure to take on a much more sombre tone. We said there'd be highlights and lowlights, didn't we? There'll also be an array of works that explore images of leisure, culture, fashion and architecture on the Coast, and all that that entails. Image: Rebecca Ross, Miami Long Time.
Think of all of the amazing events Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art has hosted over the past decade. Now, imagine what it'd be like if they put on a heap of similar art, film, music, performance and culture happenings, but over the course of five days. That's what the GOMA Turns 10 Summer Festival is all about from January 18 to 22. There's 117 entries on the fest's calendar, in case you needed convincing. Sound sweet? Well, before you even take a look at the lineup, so will another part of the program. Their first-ever Brisbane store is still in the works, but in the meantime Gelato Messina will be joining the GOMA fun with a four-flavour pop-up, with Robert Brownie Junior (milk chocolate gelato with chocolate brownie and chocolate fudge), red velvet (cream cheese gelato with red velvet cake), salted caramel and white chocolate, and salted coconut mango sorbet on the menu. Artistic highlights? We've got a few, starting with the bright horse costume mania that is a repeat instance of Nick Cave's HEARD·Brisbane, plus oh so much music. As far as the latter is concerned, Regurgitator, The Goon Sax, The Grates and I Heart Hiroshima are all on the bill, with the weekend the best time to get your rocking fix. Tours and talks-wise, you can hear a ten-minute chat about the gallery hitting the big one-oh, take a guided wander throughout the day, or join the likes of Benjamin Law and Patience Hodgson as they reveal their favourite pieces and spots. Plus, you can get creative with an Arts & Crafts After Dark, which is also the only ticketed event in the otherwise completely free program. For those that prefer to sit and watch, there'll also be screenings of gorgeous all-ages fare Wall-E, Fern Gully: The Last Rainforest and Song of the Sea, as well as a three-film community shorts program. And because all of this fun is thirsty work, the level two lounge will be turned into a Yerling Station wine bar, while a Buddhist Tea Master will also conduct a daily tea ceremony.
This Friday night, two things you haven't seen before will occur. Firstly, Jenny Wynter will perform her new, fully improvised cabaret show. And, she'll unleash her quick-thinking singing not on one of the usual stages around town, but at Woolloongabba vintage store and lounge bar Can You Keep A Secret? An on-the-spot show in this eastside treasure — yep, it's a duo of firsts, all right. As for what else is in store at Fully Made Up! An Improvised Cabaret, expect Viking Mama's Wynter to play a veteran cabaret performer crooning her greatest hits and sharing stories, all of which will stem from audience suggestions. Expect intimate and interactive too, plus a glass of wine upon arrival included in your $20 ticket, because everyone will want to get their creative juices flowing. Attendees are asked to help get into the mood by dressing for the occasion. Wearing something vintage that you've never donned before, and just deciding in the moment, really would be keeping with the spirit of the show.
"Look, I don't want to take up a ton of your time, but I'm gonna kill myself," Nadine Franklin (Hailee Steinfeld) announces to her history teacher, Mr Bruner (Woody Harrelson), at the beginning of The Edge of Seventeen. Whether she's making over-dramatic statements in class or bickering with her mother (Kyra Sedgwick), a definite mood is established: Nadine is not only awkward, opinionated and sarcastic, but she's also bitterly unhappy. Actually, as flashbacks from her childhood show, she has always been less than content. Now that she's watching her best friend Krista (Haley Lu Richardson) hook up with her brother Darian (Blake Jenner), she's even more miserable than usual. First-time writer-director Kelly Fremon Craig charts the fallout as Nadine tries to cope with this change to her status quo, a development made all the more devastating given her outsider status and lack of other friends. The Edge of Seventeen is packaged as a peppy coming-of-age comedy with humorous yet realistic banter and a soundtrack full of new and retro tracks to match. But it's not just about relaying a story. As Nadine wallows, rebels, chases the hot older guy (Alexander Calvert) and is courted by the shy aspiring filmmaker (Hayden Szeto), the film also interrogates the narrative that Nadine keeps telling herself. Everyone watching should be able to relate, with even the most perky and positive among us telling themselves a tale about their existence as it is unfolding. Moreover, if you've ever felt like an outsider, the story you've spun probably hasn't always been all that positive. Thoughtful and wise, The Edge of Seventeen understands this. By the time it works through the usual checklist of adolescent antics — think boys in cars, drinking too much, fights between BFFs and run-ins with authority — the film won't just have imparted life lessons to the characters, but to everyone in the audience as well. That's one of the things that separates a great teen flick like this one from the pack. Even as it follows the same basic formula, Craig's film boasts an abundance of insight and genuine emotion. It also helps that Nadine defies easy categorisation, thanks to a savvy script and a raw yet robust performance from one-time Oscar nominee Steinfeld. She thinks she's a put-upon loser, but her loud-mouthed tantrums often paint Nadine as a petulant brat. If this was Mean Girls, she'd be both Lindsay Lohan's Cady Heron and Rachel McAdams' Regina George. Not everything about The Edge of Seventeen hits the mark. Some of its jokes try a little too hard, some of its performances fade into the background, and on the whole you shouldn't have much trouble guessing where the story is going. Even so, as you're laughing at Steinfeld and Harrelson's rapport, cheering for Szeto's wannabe love interest, and coming to the same realisations as Nadine, odds are these small issues won't bother you.
By 1976, David Bowie had achieved many things. He'd pondered whether there's life on Mars, transformed into both Ziggy Stardust and the Thin White Duke, and rocketed up both the singles and album charts. So, he tried something different: a new place, a new sound, and a creative time that would result in three distinctive records. Spanning until 1979, it's what's now known as his Berlin period. This is when the idea that we could be heroes — even just for one day — was born. And when Bowie wrote one of his most famous songs in the shadow of a wall. It's this that Bowie in Berlin pays tribute to, obviously, with a selection of works from the great artist's Low, Heroes and Lodger albums. With this January marking Bowie's 70th birthday — as well as the 40th anniversary of Low's release — when better for musical director Mick Harvey to corral vocalists Kylie Auldist, Dave Graney, Ron Peno, Kim Salmon and Max Sharam into honouring one of most fruitful creative periods? There'll be sound and vision on this fantastic voyage, plus beauties and beasts, as the boys keep swinging and no one looks back in anger.
Brisbane mightn't boast a banana stand, but thanks to everyone's favourite Milton dive bar, it will host the next best thing. Just put on a $4000 suit, channel your inner Gob Bluth and ask yourself a very important question: "Why go to a banana stand when you can view a painting of a banana stand?" Of course, we're freely assuming that one of the artworks on display at There Are Dozens of Us: Arrested Development Art Show, The Scratch's latest exhibition, will have taken inspiration from the Bluth family's first business. We're also assuming that people will wear cutoffs, or paint themselves blue, or do their worst impression of a chicken. Or all of the above. The only way to know for sure is to head along on June 12 from 5pm; however television-themed creativity isn't the only thing on offer. You'll also find beverages from Newstead Brewing and Brisbane Brewing Co, such as the "Baby, You Got A Brew Going" American Balboa Brown and the "Ry've Made A Huge Mistake" Rye Lager. As far as we know, no one has made their own version of hot ham water.
You don't call an exhibition The Dark Hour without delving into moody and gloomy topics. Like death, for example — and the way everything from the grim reaper to serial killers have been considered, depicted and dissected throughout history and across popular culture. Sure, it's a subject most of us don't like to think about, but it's actually one that pops up in films, novels, on the news and on social media much, much more than you probably realise. It's also perfect fodder for a showcase of works, found items and projections that proves both dark by name and dark by nature. Expect rusty saw blades, faded gothic novels and other items and images that will trouble your subconscious as local artist James Bourbon takes audiences on a macabre journey. Be warned: with symbols, the occult, black metal, xeroxed posters, horror movies and all forms of dark matter providing inspiration, this one-night-only experience isn't for the faint-hearted.
While we've seen plenty of films set amidst the heat of battle, very few explore what happens next. Opening in West Germany in 1958, Labyrinth of Lies endeavours to understand how a divided nation attempted to recover from the atrocities of the Second World War, why many of its citizens tried to disregard their history, and the efforts required to bring war criminals to justice. Though it might surprise modern audiences, some Germans in the wake of WWII claimed not to have heard of Auschwitz concentration camp. Others decided not to speak about it, or the war in general. Prosecutor Johann Radmann (Alexander Fehling) learns of his compatriots' willing ignorance when journalist Thomas Gneilka (Andre Szymanski) brings a man to his attention: a former camp commander, responsible for overseeing countless deaths, who now works as a schoolteacher. Unlike those around him, the eager young Radmann can't overlook the past — even as his investigation is met with apprehension and derision, deemed almost impossible, and impeded by mountains of paperwork. "This is a labyrinth. Don't lose yourself in it," Radmann is warned early in his search for answers. That line of dialogue may sound obvious and clunky, but it's thankfully the only time (unnecessarily romance aside) that the film is guilty of those charges. As evident in the movie's stately pace, muted tones and solemn mood, writer-director Giulio Ricciarelli and co-scribe/researcher Elisabeth Bartel take a measured approach to telling an important tale. Blending fact and fiction (Labyrinth of Lies' protagonist is fictitious, but based on several real-life figures), their first feature proves as subtle as it is significant. The duo perfects the delicate balance of bringing attention to the lesser-known Frankfurt Auschwitz trials, while avoiding following too closely in the footsteps of fellow war films. Consider their approach to a crucial part of Radmann's quest: interviewing Auschwitz survivors. Knowing that the details are already a matter of record, the film presents a montage of images, but emphasises mournful music rather than the content of the conversations. Instead of letting viewers hear harrowing specifics, it forces them to focus on the faces of those doing the re-telling, as well as the shocked expressions of those discovering the truth for the first time. Given that the movie is as much about the inherently human preference to sidestep tough memories and topics as it is about Germany after WWII, it's not just a stylish way of structuring a pivotal scene, but a savvy and effective one as well. Amidst the drama, Fehling weathers Radmann's journey, making the character a figure of determination and defiance. Best known outside of Germany for appearing in Inglourious Basterds and TV's Homeland, his is a complex portrayal, as befitting a rich and layered film. With his character finding out about much of the Nazi's Auschwitz activities for the first time, he's not quite an audience surrogate, but his voyage of discovery is never less than believable. You won't just see his horror — you'll feel it, directed towards not only the realities of war, but the ways people try to forget it.
How do you celebrate the 90th birthday of one of cinema's true shining stars? With a screening of one of their most famous films, of course — and an accompanying pre-movie party. When it comes to marking the occasion, and making sure birthday gal Marilyn Monroe gets the shindig she deserves, trust the dynamic duo that is Kristian Fletcher and New Farm Cinemas to be involved. They're not just bringing Billy Wilder's iconic Some Like It Hot back to the big screen for one afternoon, and showcasing Monroe and her co-stars Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis, too. They're also kicking off the revelry with '20s-style jazz music and performances. That's the decade that gave birth to the woman once known as Norma Jeane, after all. As always, donning your best period outfit is wholeheartedly encouraged, as is arriving a little early to soak in the entertainment.
If watching An makes you feel hungry, that's completely understandable. Named after a type of Japanese red bean paste, the film is set in a small bakery that specialises in delicacies known as dorayaki, and when it's characters aren't making them, they're wolfing them down. Chief among these folk is unhappy store owner Sentaro (Masatoshi Nagase), who makes the pancake sandwich-like desserts, which are stuffed with the titular paste. When the elderly Tokue (Kirin Kiki) answers his advertisement for an assistant, he's initially reluctant, but changes his mind after sampling her delicious version of the necessary filling. Cue two predictable elements: an array of scenes depicting the careful preparation and loving production of the tasty treat in question, and a narrative that charts the unlikely bond that blooms between the two colleagues. Both play out largely as expected, although that doesn't mean that An can't provide a few pleasant surprises. Just as the students who frequent Sentaro's shop find delight in his new and improved recipe, so too will audiences find delight in the film's earnest take on a recognisable formula. The film's biggest asset is the endearing Kiki, who brings texture and depth to a tale that is both bittersweet and hopeful. Her efforts are instrumental in elevating the movie beyond its well-worn plot. Indeed, filmmaker Naomi Kawase can hardly bear to tear the camera away from her leading lady, which could be why scenes focusing on Sentaro's troubled background, or teenaged customer Wakana (Kyara Uchida), don't feel quite as engaging. With the writer-director employing her trademark slow pace and lingering visuals, it's Kiki who gives the proceedings a noticeable burst of energy. Alas, while the film's star and style both serve it well, other aspects aren't quite as successful. Only some of the plot developments work, with the film assured in its patient first half yet less convincing when it becomes concerned with dramatic revelations. As Kawase tries to work in bigger and broader themes, including passing wisdom between generations and ignoring social conventions in general, her material veers further into sentimental territory. And then there's the accompanying score, which fires up the piano a little too mournfully at obvious moments. Of course, not just finding but perfecting the right balance of ingredients is as difficult for filmmakers as it is for pastry chefs. Though An marks Kawase's 24th film in 23 years, she's clearly still tinkering with her recipe book. Still, she does more than enough right to make her latest concoction appetising.
Everyone loves a food truck, but chasing your favourite source of meals on wheels around town can be more than a little time consuming. Thankfully, the legends at Pizzantica have come up with another solution. Their bricks-and-mortar Hawthorne store might still be in the works, albeit with a few delays; however that's not the place they'll be setting up shop. For the next year, they're parking their VW Kombi at 276 Edward Street in the CBD. Whether you're fond of their Margherita pizza with tomato pizza sauce, mozzarella and fresh basil, or their spicy salami-topped Diavola, they'll be serving up fresh-cooked, made-to-order slices of Napoli-style deliciousness from 11am to 6pm every day of the week. Yep, that's your lunch covered for the foreseeable future — and your takeaway dinner as well. And soon, you won't even have to line up to get your dough, tomato, cheese and topping fix, with SMS and email ordering in the works. Now that's convenient and tasty.
Seeing a cult film on a big screen isn't too difficult these days — but that doesn't mean that all retro movie nights are created equal. Some play all the usual suspects. Others burst onto the scene by busting out 16-year-old flicks about weapon-wielding, junk food-devouring, human-sized talking reptiles. That's right, cinema-loving dudes: it's time to revisit a true film classic. The Milk Factory isn't just kicking off their brand new cult movie series, as run and curated by Kristian Fletcher. They're also doing so in crime-fighting, pizza-eating style. Well, we're just going to assume that pizza will be on offer, given that the 1990 version of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is the first film to grace the South Brisbane bar's pop-up cinema. And yes, that's just a taste of the monthly program. We'll say cowabunga to that, and to more great nostalgic delights to come.
A great glass of whiskey doesn't just dance across your tastebuds, warm your stomach and add an extra spring to your step — it also makes you feel like you've been transported to another place. Who hasn't sipped on some of Scotland's finest and dreamed about grassy hills? Of course, that's not the only country a good glass of amber-tinted liquid can take you to. If wetting your whistle with a taste of Jack Daniels, Wild Turkey or Maker's Mark takes your fancy, then your humble beverage can also whisk you off to the good ol' USA. Just ask the folks at Sabotage Social. They're so fond of the sensation that they've dedicated an entire evening to it. That'd be Double Denim — A Celebration of American Whiskey, and yes, the dress code and the drink of choice are all there in the name. Enjoy cocktails, platters and samples, strut your stuff to the rockabilly cowpunk sounds of Death Rides a Horse, and wear as much denim as you can. You won't just get into the American spirit in more ways than one; you might also win a prize for best outfit for your troubles.
Questionable reality television programs might try to claim otherwise; however beauties and geeks aren't mutually exclusive. In fact, at the latest exhibition to grace The Block at Queensland University of Technology's Creative Industries Precinct, they're the same thing. Geek Girls pays tribute to the lovely ladies at the forefront of art, technology, new media and anything else that could earn the nerdy tag. With a lineup that includes Antoinette J. Citizen, Meagan Streader, Michaela Gleave, Tega Brain, Georgie Roxby Smith, Lauren McCarthy, Soda Jerk, Sarah van Sonsbeeck and Chicks on Speed's Alexandra Murray-Leslie, the showcase's savvy bunch of female creative practitioners are certain to bust all stereotypes and labels. Their experimental and cutting-edge works don't just show off more than a few exciting and inventive individual pieces — they highlight the integral role women play in innovative and artistic endeavours, too. If you thought being called a "geek" was an insult, you'll change your mind here. That's what girl power combined with smart thinking does, after all. Image: Michaela Gleave, Eclipse Machine (Retrograde Motion), 2015, projection lamp, motors, prisms, timber, stand, 70 x 70 x 140cm.
If you live in New York and like fashion, the first Monday in May is kind of a big deal. That's when the Metropolitan Museum of Art hosts the biggest event on the fashion calendar. Yep, it's the evening that the Met Gala takes place, marking not only the opening night of the Costume Institute's annual fashion exhibition, but the be all and end all of all parties. Filmmaker Andrew Rossi (Page One: Inside the New York Times) was lucky enough to peek behind the scenes at the 2015 event, sparking a rather appropriately named doco. Boasting intimate access to costume curator Andrew Bolton and Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour as they put together the Met Gala's most attended fashion exhibition in history, The First Monday in May is the end result. It's a star-studded affair, with everyone from Wong Kar-wai and Baz Luhrmann to Karl Lagerfeld, Jean Paul Gaultier and Rihanna popping up. Alas, the film itself doesn't reach Aussie movie theatres until May 12, but the smart folks at Palace couldn't let the titular date pass by without doing something special to mark the occasion. As preparations for the 2016 Met Gala reach fever pitch on the other side of the globe, they'll be offering up first-look preview screenings around the country. You'll enjoy a glass of prosecco on arrival, step into a world of unparalleled couture-based artistry, and truly feast on cinema at its most stylish.
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 French-leaning fare from Restaurant Two 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 Esquire and Urbane's respective menus, one after the other? Thanks to a trio of local foodies, now you can. In fact, you can enjoy meals from all four — aka some of the city's best degustation places — at one event. The first-of-its-kind 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 $119 per head for the privilege, but when are you ever going to have a lunch like this again? Tickets are limited to 320 people in total, so we suggest getting yours as quick as you can.
World Whiskey Day might fall on the third Saturday of each May; however for the folks at Kerbside, one 24-hour period in every year isn't enough. They're celebrating the occasion, of course, but they're turning the festivities into five days of drinking fun. Can you blame them? No; but you should join them. Yes, whiskey lovers, that means that you can sip on your favourite fermented grain mash for even longer. Sure, you can actually do that whenever you like. You can't drink Kerbside's special cocktails after May 18 to 22, though. Once you've tasted the vanilla and chocolate-flavoured Gentleman's Mocha, cinnamon-infused Brother Jack and minty, sugary Julep Pie, you'll understand why the Fortitude Valley bar has extended the revelry. And if you think whiskey isn't for you, we heartily encourage you to give them a try — this heavenly spirit isn't just delicious; it's also versatile.
In 1999, video games changed forever. It was one of those moments that split history in two: before Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, and after. If you can't remember the momentous occasion, let us enlighten you. No, Pro Skater wasn't just a way get your skateboarding fix without actually doing real kick-flips and tricks. It was a way of life. Think we're overstating things a little? Then you just haven't experienced the true button-smashing bliss that is Hawk's first video game title. But don't worry — thanks to The Foundry's Tony Hawk's Pro Skater Tribute Night, you won't remain in the dark for long. Not only will the venue be decked out like it's the kind of warehouse space you could get your deck out in (aka a familiar sight to game aficionados), but it'll be filled with consoles and primed for a night of online ollying nostalgia. Local bands Hound., DELUSO and DEEDS will also be getting into the spirit by cranking out covers of in-game tracks. Yes, this is what Pro Skater heaven looks and sounds like.
If Tubular Bells sounds familiar, that's because Mike Oldfield's 1973 album provides the answer to many a trivia question. Which Celtic folk-rock record became a surprise hit, helped Richard Branson start his Virgin brand, pops up in The Exorcist, was once released as an interactive Commodore 64 computer game, and features its composer playing 17 different instruments? Yep, it's this one. Indeed, the legend of Tubular Bells has only grown over the years — although Aussie musicians Aidan Roberts and Daniel Holdsworth have had a little something to do with that in recent times. After listening to the album around a fire, as you do, they decided to do the impossible: recreate the whole thing, play it live, and do so without any other on-stage assistance. Since 2009, they've been showcasing Tubular Bells for Two to the world, and earning Fringe Festival awards around the globe for their troubles. Now they're treating Brisbane to the choreographed chaos that is two men playing everything from Spanish guitars to synthesizers, and paying tribute to an unlikely enduring classic in the process.
It's the creative breakthrough that had to happen — and it did, six decades ago. The more that popular culture started to surround artists via advertising, television and comic books, the more that they worked it into their pieces. Yes, that's how pop art was born. These days, we live in post-pop art times; however you just can't take the 'pop' out of modern society. You can interrogate, subvert, examine and reconstruct it, though. In fact, that's what group exhibition Pop Goes the Weirdo is all about. Sydney's Simon Lovelace and SKEL have joined forces with Brisbane's Clay Smith and Tiffany Atkin to bring highbrow thinking to their range of lowbrow works. Whether manipulating previously 'innocent' images and characters, mashing up well-known imagery to get to the heart of the human condition, giving poster art a surrealist edge or challenging the boundaries of femininity, their two-week show is much, much more than a collection of paintings of soup cans. Images: via Tiffany Atkin.
Ever feel like your life is going in circles? Ever wondered if that could be a good thing? Don't go accepting your quarter-life malaise just yet, because we're actually talking about giving your hips a big ol' swing. At Work-Shop's monthly Hoop Dreams classes, you'll forget all your troubles and embrace all things circular thanks to a toy you probably haven't thought about in years. Yep, that'd be the hula-hoop. You'll step into its round confines, start moving your core, and then try to holdback the smiles and giggles. Plus, circus wiz Emma Shepherd will be on hand to help, just in case hula-hooping doesn't come naturally. Shepherd joined Flipside Circus at the age of nine, and has performed everywhere from the London Olympics to the sea-faring Pacific Cirque since — so if she can hula-hoop on a moving ship, then she can teach you to get gyrating on dry land for 90 minutes. Image: via S. Pakhrin.
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 — newcomers and experienced veterans alike. From the former camp, prepare your ears for the award-winning Sahara Beck, Little Black Dress Creatives' Alicia Cush and emcee Judy Hainsworth from #FirstWorldWhiteGirls. And in the latter, Leah Cotterell and Alison St Ledger know the drill, and have your evening of fabulous cabaret well and truly covered. Image: Dane Beesley.
People dream of finding someone who looks at them they way that Michael Fassbender looks at Alicia Vikander in The Light Between Oceans. A World War I soldier turned lighthouse keeper, Tom Sherbourne (Fassbender) has swapped the horrors of combat for the routine and simplicity of his new life — and he never glances anything less than adoringly at Isabel Graysmark (Vikander), the woman who'll become his wife. In a film that is unashamedly a weepie, his stare tells a sometimes heart-swelling, sometimes heartbreaking story, and silently speaks of the ups and downs of life that everyone wants to weather with someone by their side. An intimate tale working with big, sweeping feelings as well as notions of guilt and forgiveness, The Light Between Oceans is a melodrama through and through. Not that that's a bad thing, necessarily. This adaptation of Australian author M. L. Stedman's 2012 novel is not what might derisively be labelled merely a chick flick. Yes, it may tug at the heartstrings, and focus its plot around marital life and motherhood, but the sentiments this period-set romantic drama stirs up remain unflinchingly real. The aforementioned couple meet, wed and forge a life together in and around Janus Rock off the coast of Western Australia. They're the only inhabitants living off the mainland, though it seems they'll be joined by the pitter-patter of tiny feet until tragedy strikes on multiple occasions. Then, a lifeboat — or a rowboat, to be exact — brings them a lost baby girl. Keeping her will help them become a family. But unbeknownst to them, it will also tear the child's real mother (Rachel Weisz) apart. After exploring the complications of romance in the raw and resonant Blue Valentine, and pondering the ties between parents and children in The Place Beyond the Pines, writer-director Derek Cianfrance combines the two in The Light Between Oceans, as though he's been building up to this all along. It may not be the strongest of the three features, but it's as astute in matters of the heart as it is picturesque. Indeed, as far as the latter is concerned, Australian cinematographer Adam Arkapaw, who gave the recent version of Macbeth such an icy, compelling gleam, will have you gazing at the soft, glowing, frequently pink-lit images in the same way that the film's characters gaze at each other. Cianfrance provides ample space for Fassbender and Vikander to flesh out their loving but troubled characters. There's no mistaking the actors' chemistry, or the hard-earned range of emotions they cultivate, often in no more than their expressions. He conveys Tom's doting affection as well as the war-inspired melancholy he can't quite hide, while she paints Isabel as vibrant and determined, both in happiness and in pain. Even when the film's efforts to evoke tears are a little too evident, Fassbender and Vikander ensure that everything feels, and looks, utterly genuine.
He's an accountant. But he's also a hitman. But he's also a high-functioning autistic. But he's also a martial arts expert. And a marksman. Oh, and he's an art lover. He has a Renoir, but he prefers the Pollack. Man, it would've been a fun room to be in when they pitched The Accountant. And yet, the pitch worked, with the film they ended up making turning out like the lovechild of A Beautiful Mind and Jason Bourne. If that sounds somewhat genre bending, it is. There's even a bunch of quirky comedy in there to really mix things up. Ultimately, the premise of The Accountant, by director Gavin O'Connor (Warrior), is as out there as it sounds: Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck) is a genius mathematician whose autism saw his mother abandon the family during his childhood, and his military father apply psy-ops (psychological operations) training to inure both Christian and his brother to the world of hardship that awaited them as adults. 20 years later and all grown up, Christian now operates as an accountant to the international worst of the worst: mafia, drug cartels and gun runners, oh my! The Treasury wants to know who he is, while a cutting-edge robotics company wants his services to track down missing millions from its accounts. Wild as they sound, the opening stages of this movie actually hold up pretty well. Affleck plays Wolff very much like his recent portrayal of Bruce Wayne: hulking, detached and extremely socially awkward. There are the clichéd maths montages featuring blinking-eyed number crunching and frenzied writing on walls, but on the whole his depiction of a misunderstood neurological conditions is impressively understated. But the film takes a sudden turn for the worse about an hour in. Its determination to throw in plot twist after plot twist results in some excruciating exposition-heavy scenes. The violence, meanwhile, is extreme and comic-booky (think John Wick with a tick), and the characters' lives all end up being far more intertwined than necessary. The supporting cast is strong, featuring the likes of Anna Kendrick, J.K. Simmons, Jeffrey Tambor and Jon Bernthal. Sadly, none are given the kind of material needed to properly showcase their talents. The result is a film adrift, floating from one genre to the next without ever properly settling. It has some touching (and much needed) language about 'different, not worse' when it comes to non-neurotypicals, but the constant limb-cracking and blood-smattering that surround it means the message is fast muddled and forgotten. One suspects the film itself may suffer a similar and disappointing fate. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBfsgcswlYQ
'Based on real events'. It's been an incredibly popular theme of late, with an almost unceasing run of biopics and historical dramas coming our way every year for the past decade or so. Those four simple words imbue a movie with an immediate sheen of credibility, commanding the audience's attention and respect in equal measure. The thing is, it's also particularly sneaky. 'Based on real events' doesn't mean 'happened'. Instead, it provides filmmakers with a sizeable caveat upon which almost almost any fact can be supplanted by something far more exciting, or more moving or…whatever the movie needs, really. Hacksaw Ridge, Mel Gibson's first directorial offering in over a decade, stands apart on this front for two distinct reasons. Firstly, it opts for the far more concrete 'A True Story' at its opening. Secondly, it takes the almost unprecedented step of underselling the feats of its protagonist, American war hero Desmond Doss (Andrew Garfield). In real life, as in the film, the famous WWII conscientious objector refused to carry a weapon because of his religious beliefs as a Seventh Day Adventist, yet still earned himself the Congressional Medal of Honour when he single-handedly carried 75 wounded men on his back during the battle for Hacksaw Ridge, lowering them one-by-one down a cliff face to safety while under constant fire from the enemy. Doss' real world battlefield valour, however, extended far beyond this feat, with his citation referencing numerous other instances of extraordinary heroism that fail to even rate a mention in the film. Perhaps it was cut for time, or perhaps Gibson and his team concluded that Doss' actions were already so unbelievable, to detail all of them would challenge even the most faithful historian. Either way, it's refreshing to see an already humble hero presented without the need to over-emphasise, over-sell and over-indulge. Filmed in Australia with a predominantly local supporting cast, Hacksaw Ridge offers a surprisingly conventional first half for a director of Gibson's talent. The flashbacks to Doss' childhood and his troubled parents (Rachel Griffiths and Hugo Weaving), the romance with his sweetheart (Teresa Palmer) and his initiation into the military (under the supervision of Vince Vaughn and Sam Worthington) all play dangerously close to melodrama, saved only by the quality of the actors' performances. The sole purpose of this first phase is to establish with none too subtle a touch Doss' fervent religious conviction, cataloguing each and every instance of persecution, bullying and even the court martial that threatened to see him imprisoned for the duration of the war. But Gibson has made a career out of terrifyingly visceral combat scenes (see also: Braveheart and Apocalypto), and from the moment the first bullet tears through the air and into the flesh of the soldier it finds, Hacksaw Ridge sheds its corniness and transforms into a brutal, confronting and violent recreation of one of WWII's bloodiest battles. Neither as involved as Saving Private Ryan, nor as haunting as The Thin Red Line, Hacksaw Ridge nonetheless delivers a truly frenetic sense of warfare, at times seeming closer to the clashing armies of the middle ages than the modern combat of the last century. The film is unashamedly unilateral in purpose, and the closing shot of Doss essentially ascending to Heaven is rather on the nose. Still, as a tribute to a genuinely extraordinary man and a return to form by Gibson, both are as welcome as they are overdue. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2-1hz1juBI
Love community radio? Can't stop playing Pokemon Go? Or maybe you fall into the former category, and your bestie is in the latter camp. Don't worry — local music fiends and poke-addicts alike can band together at 4ZZZ's latest event. Consider it the best of both worlds. Actually, it's a very savvy way to get more than the usual listeners interested in the 41-year-old station's annual radiothon — and one that deserves to be rewarded. They'll throw open the doors to their Barry Parade digs for a People Powered Open Day, and pair it with a Pokemon Go party, too. The least you can do is throw open your wallet. Those keen on getting a tour of the place responsible for broadcasting many a Brisbane band can check out the new studios, meet station announcers and enjoy a barbecue in the carpark. And those wanting to hit the Valley's best pokestops can follow 4ZZZ volunteers on a 2.5 kilometre walk around the area before joining the rest of the fun.
When it comes to pizza boxes, it's not just what's on the inside that counts. We love a stacked slice of everyone's go-to Italian dish as much as the next person, but we also love seeing talented people showcase their work — and at Crowbar's 2016 Artist Pizza Box Series, a heap of local artists are using the containers that usually house your favourite fast food to do just that. And we mean a heap. No fewer than 50 talented Brisbanites have worked their magic, in fact. They were each given the challenge of making their own illustrated pizza box, with no design limitations whatsoever. For their efforts, the creation deemed the winner will be placed on a limited run pizza box by Alfredo's Pizzeria. That's the good news for those involved; however there's great news for anyone who just wants to see some ace artwork, eat some pizza and have a few drinks, too. The entire collection will be unveiled from 6pm on August 27, with Crowbar going into party mode for the evening. Sounds creative, tasty and fun. Image: Alfredo's Brisbane.
Taking over the city during September, Brisbane Festival does many things. It gives everyone an excuse to devour entertaining cultural delights — and it serves up a new hangout. Actually, make that hangouts. Yes, Brisbane Festival's central hub offers multiple spaces in one. Revamping South Bank's Cultural Forecourt, Arcadia boasts everything from the Little Creatures Treehouse to six pop-up food stops to a festival-first two-spiegeltent set-up. The good news keeps on coming, because the bulk of Arcadia's bustling lineup of fun activities is free. Fancy harmonica and ukulele lessons? Eager to sink a few at a beer workshop or a robot and brew night? Want to watch a wood-carving demo or indulge in some life drawing? Keen to chill out to some live tunes from Tuesday to Sunday? Well, you'll find all that in the Little Creatures Treehouse. Plus, you can catch the fest's big cabaret, comedy and music shows such as Blanc de Blanc, Meow Meow's Little Mermaid and gigs by Custard, Mick Harvey, Jen Cloher and Kim Gordon.
"This is the captain…brace for impact". Of all the awful things you could hear while flying – crying babies, drunken tourists, Adam Sandler Movie Marathons – none come close to those seven simple words uttered by US Airways pilot Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger on January 15, 2009. After hitting a flock of birds mere moments after takeoff that caused in a catastrophic and unprecedented dual engine failure, Sully and his co-pilot Jeff Skiles were forced to execute a note-perfect ditching of their aircraft on the Hudson River. Their heroics saved all 155 souls on board and turned Sully into an overnight sensation. Directed by Clint Eastwood, Sully is an examination of the man behind the so-called Miracle on the Hudson. As such, the film opts to focus almost entirely on the days that followed Sully's astounding water landing – including with the National Transportation Safety Board investigations and media frenzy it precipitated – rather than honing in on the crash itself. That's not to say Eastwood omits it entirely. The harrowing sequence, when it finally comes, is a gripping and well crafted as any seen in film. But by prolonging its delivery and focussing on the lesser known story, the veteran filmmaker delivers a far more engaging and balanced tale than the more conventional drama Sully might easily have become. In the title role, Tom Hanks brings understated grace and dignity , albeit in a performance far more clinical (even analytical) than we're used to. The style befits the protagonist, a man whose impossible levels of composure enabled him to do what had never been done before, and all with a calmness of voice that defies belief (if you've not heard the official cockpit recording, try to imagine saying "We may end up in the Hudson" with the same level of poise most people evince when ordering a pizza). Aaron Eckhart, meanwhile, puts in an endearing turn as Sully's faithful co-pilot, while a solid supporting cast including Laura Linney, Mike O'Malley, Anna Gunn and Jamey Sheridan ensure the script by Todd Komarnicki stays on the right side of schmaltz – no matter how close Eastwood veers towards its limits. There's no question that Sully is unashamedly sincere in its portrayal not just of the extraordinary pilots, but also their crew, the passengers, the air-traffic controllers and the selfless New Yorkers who raced to their rescue without a moment's hesitation. Thankfully, Eastwood is the master of underplayed tributes to everyday heroes, especially those who shy away from the very notion of their own valour. Few could be more humble, or deserving of such a treatment, than the man who gives this remarkable movie its name https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjKEXxO2KNE
First there was Bigsound. Now, there's Little Sound as well. Nope, that's not a typo — it's Jet Black Cat Music's way of ushering a heap of the artists they know and love over to the West End record shop for a series of in-store gigs. Their addition to fold might be little in name, but it isn't in nature, with the program spanning two days. Wednesday sees Gabriella Cohen, Jarrow and more kick things off, while Thursday brings Ainslie Willis and Clea through the doors — and, with a lineup like that, and JBCM's usual vinyl racks to rifle through while you're there, you as well.
All the best things start late — and while Bigsound might include a few gigs that don't kick off the moment they're schedule to, that's not what we're talking about. Instead, as we tell you about Mammoth Midnight, you'll know what mean. No prizes for guessing when this show commences. Dinosaur City Records and New Farm Records clearly know this, and so do Loose Tooth, Jack T Wotton and The Wunderz, Cody Munro Moore, FeelsClub and sweater curse as well. Join them all for a late night to remember — or an early morning, depending on how you choose to look at it. Image: sweater curse.
'Twas the night before Bigsound, and all through The Foundry not a creature wasn't dancing. Fun twists on seasonal poems aside, if there's one pre-Bigsound party you don't want to miss, it's this one. Presented by Mucho-Bravado, Amplifire Music, Track and Field, Young Henrys and Sailor Jerry, The Night Before promises what these kinds of shindigs should: bands, bands and more bands. Did we mention that there'll be bands? Okay, we know we did, however when ADKOB, Born Joy Dead, Confidence Man, Mid Ayr, WAAX and Woodes are on the bill — as well as DJ sets by The Jungle Giants and Last Dinosaurs — and the whole thing is free, we're allowed to be excited.
Nina Eva Vida Jones, Alice Nicklin, Leila Perry and Catherine Helen Spence aren't household names, but they should be. The quartet of Australian women were born during the 19th century, and lived fascinating lives. Jones was a racing motorist, Nicklin survived a sinking ship, Perry was a socialite and Spence became Australia's first female political candidate. These descriptions only tell snippets of their stories — and if you're interested in more, then you're in luck. In her latest exhibition at Spiro Grace Art Rooms, Brisbane artist Camille Serisier takes an artistic look at accessing their largely untold histories in Ladies of Oz. Here, contemporary portraiture and the language of theatre combine to create fantastical combinations of still and moving images that engage with the intersection of art history and women's history. The interesting and important showcase kicks off on September 10 with an opening night event, complete with the premiere of Serisier's short films, before running through until September 22.
Feel like being inspired? In need of a positive evening out? Trust Peppermint Magazine, Australia's own eco fashion and lifestyle quarterly, to come up with an event that fits the bill: their PepTalks series. Hosting its fourth event on September 20 at Wandering Cooks, PepTalks embraces both interpretations of its name. Yes, fab folks featured in the magazine's pages will chat about their work, lives and efforts to make a difference. Yes, their discussion will pep you right up. John Elliott, Kylie Johnson and Kelly Elkin are the latest inspiring figures in the PepTalks hot seat, sharing their experiences selling shoes and giving just as many to children in need; creating a shop front, gallery space and studio house all in one; and fashioning organic sleep and loungewear. Plus, talk isn't the only thing on the menu, with food truck For The Pickles on site from 5pm, and everyone receiving a drink on arrival.
In the summertime, when the weather is fine, you're probably doing two things. You're heading to the beach (this is Queensland, after all), and you're taking photos of your sun, surf and sand adventure. You're only human. Growing up in Byron Bay, photographer and filmmaker Alana Potts is no stranger to this process; indeed, her coastal shots comprise Salty, her appropriately-named analogue exhibition. Expect raw, grainy pics of barren beaches and windy headlands that look like they were taken in the '60s and '70s, plus an original surf film that documents her happy-snapping travels. And yes, with all things digital taking over, we are at a stage when knowing that these photos are all analogue creations is a definite drawcard. Pretend summer is here early by heading to This Must Be The Place for Salty's opening night shindig from 5pm on September 23, or drop by any time between then and October 21.
When it comes to the works of the man known as the Bard of Avon, there's really only one way to get the real Shakespeare experience. Sure, you probably studied his plays at school, and likely watched one or two that have been turned into films — but have you witnessed his lines read live in a theatre production? That's how good ol' William intended his efforts to be consumed, after all, so one event is offering that chance to the masses. In its tenth iteration, the Brisbane Shakespeare Festival is back with another bustling program filled with flowery prose read aloud. Now that's how you commemorate 400 years since his passing. See As You Like It — aka one of the Bard's liveliest — performed for free across the city's outdoor spaces, and arrive early to enjoy the clash and clatter that comes with a demonstration of swordplay beforehand. Live music and abridged play readings of A Mid Summer Night's Dream, Macbeth and more feature too, and for those who can't tear themselves away from the movie realm, watching big screen productions of classics such as The Tempest and Twelfth Night is also on the line-up.
