Starring the beautiful and charismatic Emma Watson, coming of age film The Perks Of Being A Wallflower has been championed by critics, with potential nominations hinted at next year’s BAFTAs, Golden Globes and Academy Awards. Based on Stephen Chbosky’s 1999 novel of the same name, The Perks Of Being A Wallflower is narrated through the eyes of introvert freshman Charlie (Logan Lerman), an endearing and naïve outsider who must cope with the pains and challenges of adolescence, along with his own mental illness, the suicide of his best friend and the heartbreak of first love. Taken under the wings of two seniors, free spirit and love interest Sam (Emma Watson) and her step-brother Patrick (Ezra Miller), Charlie is removed from the isolation of his own existence, and welcomed into an unfamiliar real world.
Cheated Hearts began as an alternative to the Brisbane queer club scene, for people looking for a place to be themselves and to have a good time; so far they have lived up to lofty expectations. Their third event is happening at AllOneWord and is looking like it will be a massive hit, following the trend of previous Cheated Hearts parties which were reportedly out-of-this world insane, in a good way. There is a great selection of DJ’s on hand to get everybody moving. Veterans like DJ Mikey and Heavy Leather will be getting things started, followed by what will be an entertaining battle between Cheated Hearts regulars Jane Doe and Frankie Trouble (pictured). This will be the spot to hear all the best indie, electro and hip-hop mash-ups in a free spirited environment where dancing is encouraged and fun is mandatory.
Sleeping Beauty is an iconic story of love triumphing over adversity and has been re-told countless times through different methods of interpretation. The Queensland Ballet are performing the epic tale of Princess Aurora and the curse that put her in a seemingly endless sleep at QPAC this week. The production, spearheaded by Francois Klaus, honours the style of Marius Pepita, with captivating examples of mesmerising classical ballet set sublimely to the iconic compositions of Tchaikovsky. If you are in the mood for a night of stunning ballet theatre, QPAC has you covered.
Since rising to prominence witth their debut album, 2010’s Liar to a Thief, The Tiger and Me has continued to rise with performances at festivals across Australia while releasing more material to the ever-growing legion of fans around the country. Having recently released two EP’s, The Howling Fire and The Silent City, The Tiger and Me are touring in support of their latest release, The Drifter’s Dawn – a full length effort. This year, The Tiger and Me were signed to ABC’s FOUR|FOUR label which includes Boy in A Box and Tim Rogers on its roster. The Tiger and Me are playing at Black Bear Lodge and will be supported by The Phoncurves and The Mouldy Lovers.
As far as crime writing goes, UK author Ian Rankin is a master of the craft. Since the release of the first book, 'Knots and Crosses' in his 'Inspector Rebus' series, Rankin has become an international bestseller and one of the biggest names in crime writing today. With books translated into 22 different languages, Rankin has risen to the ranks as one of the world's most recognised and loved crime writers. Now Brisbane is being given the opportunity to meet with this acclaimed author as he discusses his newest novel, 'Standing in Another Man's Grave'. After reader's where left hanging at the conclusion of his last book, Rankin has brought his well-loved character, Inspector John Rebus, out of retirement as he returns to investigate the disappearance of three women in all his maverick glory. Books will be on sale at the Powerhouse with the opportunity for them to be signed by Rankin at the conclusion of the event. Don't miss your chance to meet one of today's greatest crime writers.
If you caught The Danger Ensemble's most recent productions, The Hamlet Apocalypse and Loco Maricon Amor you would know that these guys put on a great show. Their last productions were critically acclaimed and their newest play promises to be just as spectacular. Their latest offering, Children of War, puts the spotlight on the children who have faced horrors and suffered in silence. This performance spans the generations and takes stories from various points in history, all the while looking through a child's eyes. The Danger Ensemble have paired up with Vanguard Youth Theatre to give a voice to the voiceless and portray the difficult relationship between children and war. This performance will ask difficult questions as it showcases what a cruel and frightening place our world can be. Make sure you see this special production, running from 14 November – 1 December.
A group of strangers are stranded during a snowstorm, huddled together inside Monkswell Manor waiting for the weather to clear. Slowly, the guests realise one of them is a murderer, but which one of the strangers could it be? Will they discover the identity of the killer before it is too late? The Mousetrap is one of Agatha Christie's most loved mysteries. Adaptations of the production have been seen by over 10 million people worldwide, with audiences being held on the edge of their seat until the final moments of the taut and thrilling story. The Official Diamond Anniversary Production has sold out seasons across Australia as it tours for the first time down under, so make sure you get your tickets early to catch the killer in this iconic whodunit murder mystery.
Get merry for Christmas at The Zoo, with The Phoncurves, Dom Miller and Ben Salter. The founding member of The Gin Club, Ben Salter, has been a solo performer for over a decade, taking the world by storm with a striking vocal range and knack for captivating lyricism that has seen him compared to Neil Finn, Elliot Smith and Nick Drake. Abbie Roberts and Naomi Bunell are The Phoncurves, a Brisbane duo that blend distinct new music flavor with an aftertaste of pleasant nostalgia that sees them use extensive vocal harmonies in their folk pop sound. Dom Miller’s folk bordering indie vibes have seen him draw comparison with The Tallest Man On Earth, Whitley and Eef Barzelay.
Matt Smith’s Brisbane Roar and Jacob Burn’s Perth Glory meet in round twelve of the Hyundai A-league. With Brisbane currently one up from the bottom of the table and Perth around mid-way, neither team are on top form at the moment, with just seven wins between them after eleven games. The two teams have met once so far this season. Their first round matchup in October saw Perth avenge their tragic grand final defeat to Brisbane last year by winning one-nil. Brisbane haven’t won a game since round nine, but can they turn the tide against Perth? Find out Friday at Suncorp Stadium.
Well-versed trio The Necks are often pinned as a jazz mini-ensemble, other times characterised by their not-quite avant-garde, minimalist, ambient sound. However you describe them, this group comprised of Chris Abrahams (piano), Tony Buck (drums) and Lloyd Swanton (bass) have come to be known as one of the great cult bands of Australia. They specialise in lengthy pieces, those which unravel themselves to reveal mesmerising, deep grooves only made possible by longstanding and well crafted chemistry. With sixteen albums to their name and a new release reigniting the flame of anticipation, The Necks are back with a sound worth reacquainting yourself with. They have received a long string of praise in the wake of their live shows, and are coming to our own Powerhouse Theatre for one night only.
The latest exhibition taking place at Bird Gallery is shrouded in a bit of mystery. That is to say, there isn’t a whole lot of information floating around aside from an abstract abstract (repetition intentional) that gives nothing away except a morsel of intrigue that makes the idea much more interesting. What we do know is that Go Art Ur Self is a collaborative affair that includes live creations by three artists, interactive installations, a live DJ set and mixed media, stencil and street artworks. Sounds pretty cool, right? We think so. So, this weekend, if you have some time to spare, head down the small brick lane to Bird Gallery and see what all the fuss is about. Grab a coffee while you're there – it is some of the best in town.
Jasmine van den Bogaerde, also known as Birdy, has taken the world by storm following the huge success of her debut album. The English singer and songwriter has topped the ARIA chart and reached double platinum sales figures thanks to her successful singles ‘Skinny Love’ and ‘People Help the People’. Her soulful delivery, enchanting stage presence and focused approach to live performance have made her a hit everywhere she visits. She is playing at the Tivoli for a special all-ages, alcohol-free show, encouraging fans of any ages to come and witness the young phenom before she hits bigger stages. Birdy will be supported by UK singer Lewis Watson and Australian performer Lakyn Haperi.
Mild Manners is a new gallery project formed by Matt Rabbidge, co-founder of the now defunct yet iconic Nine Lives Gallery. After a short break, Matt jumped back into the art scene with Mild Manners, focusing on bringing diverse artists together from varied backgrounds. The collective specialised in short term exhibitions in unique spaces, which brings us to their latest exhibition featuring the k.O.M.A. group in a small space located on James St. Also launching that night is a brand new publication by Small House Books, featuring images and words on 5 solo exhibitions taking place in 2013. The k.O.M.A. residency will run until May 20, but make sure you get in on launch night for some great insight into the Brisbane art scene. The artists on display are: ANDREW GORDON BEN HAVENAAR HAMISHI JAMES ETTELSON JEDDA-DAISY CULLEY MARK ALSWEILER MIKE BENNETT The exhibition space is located above Ksubi on James St. Doors for the launch open at 6pm.
In an attempt to reach the key demographic of 'women aged 14-400', The Place Beyond The Pines opens with a three-minute shot of Ryan Gosling topless. When he does eventually put on a shirt, it's only so that he can ride his motorbike with casually reckless abandon, thereby expanding that key demographic to... 'women'. Thankfully, though, this is not just another 'Ryan Gosling is nice to look at' movie, and as a result we're able to enjoy a far more nuanced and layered performance by the actor. Gosling plays Luke Glanton, a soulful carny whose heavily tattooed body (complete with dripping dagger beneath the eye) alludes to a troubled past that's never spoken of aloud. When an old flame (Eva Mendes) resurfaces and reveals they have a one-year-old son, Glanton quits his job and turns to robbing banks in an attempt to provide for the child. His accomplice and mentor is the reclusive mechanic Robin, played by Ben Mendelsohn — an actor who appears to have cornered the market in two-bit crims who drink, smoke and speak with protracted drawls. Eventually his and Glanton's activities lead to a run-in with the law, and it's at this point that the movie takes quite a turn. Instead of following the traditional three-act structure, The Place Beyond the Pines plays more like three chapters, each with their own distinct stories and characters. It's almost like an anti-Forrest Gump, in that instead of one man telling his story to three strangers at a bus stop, it's three strangers telling their separate stories to one man — the audience. In that respect, 'chapter two' follows Bradley Cooper as the earnest but ambitious cop Avery Cross. Like Glanton, he's a father of a one-year-old boy and, also like Glanton, his colleagues (Ray Liotta, Bruce Greenwood) and wife (Rose Byrne) seem to complicate, rather than complement, his life. Eventually Cross's story moves onto a third protagonist, at which point The Place Beyond the Pines attempts to reconcile all three vignettes into one neat, all-encompassing resolution that's either masterful or impossibly convenient, depending on who you listen to. The film was directed by Derek Cianfrance, whose last (and essentially plotless) film Blue Valentine was a far cry from the myriad of fateful encounters and interwoven acts of providence that take place in The Place Beyond The Pines. This is very much a film about fathers and sons, cause and effect and — some might argue — karmic destiny. It's an ambitious project (and, with a run time of 140 minutes, also a long one); however, Cianfrance and his actors manage to achieve enough drama and tension to maintain your interest right through to the end.
'Success' in the music world isn't the easiest word to define (being only slightly less tricky than 'indie rock'), but it's hard to think of a description that Bloc Party would fall outside the parameters of. They've released four commercially successful albums (the most recent being last year's assertive Four), they defy decades with a unique blend of razor-edged sonics and catchy pop hooks, and they're still really cool. This March the East London art rock quartet are hitting Future Music Festival (where they sit directly opposite Steve Aoki near the top of the impressive line-up), and have just announced a string of satellite shows too. It'll be the band's first appearance following a hiatus in 2009 when singer/guitarist Kele Okereke moved to Berlin to focus on his solo work. Four marks a return to the sound that first shot Bloc Party to fame nearly ten years ago, which means angular guitars on top of anthems on top of anthems. https://youtube.com/watch?v=p1CSMdDIRGg
Hans van Vliet is a Brisbane-based electronic musician. He is recognised as a synth and beat craftsman who hand-draws his own waveforms, and his music combines chiptune samples, old-school gaming as well as live instruments, the result being a feast of aural pop music that presses all the right buttons. By day, Hans is a game and motion designer, recently creating a rhythm skateboarding game for iPhone, iPod, and iPad called Penny Time, the soundtrack to which he also wrote, and has been compared to the likes of Gotye and Foster the People. Now, his passions for music and digital art have combined to birth 7bit Hero. 7bit Hero is a bit-pop band that uses video games, audience interaction, and visuals that turn your smart phone into a joystick. You play alongside strangers in the crowd to perform as part of a band. It sees sound and technology perfectly paired, where music and video games high-five.
Don't confuse Crass Creatures as just another cheap imitation garage band– these guys are so much more. Hailing from Brisbane, these five talented guys combine the likes of Les Savy Fav, The Pixies and Die Antwoord to create a sound that easily rivals some of the garage-band industry's greatest talent - check out their unique sound here. Crass Creatures will be joined by local favourites Lucky Bradford and The Bee's Knees in a night of freakishly fun rock at The Zoo. Lucky Bradford are a fresh face to the Brisbane music scene. Having formed in 2012, this dynamic group quickly formed a large, and ever growing fan base with their catchy riffs and lead singer David's unique voice. Their counterparts, The Bees Knees, are best known for their on stage antics, raw rhythms and ear-drum ringing sound . For only eight dollars, this night of fresh entertainment is a steal - don't miss it.
Inspired by the words of Miles Franklin award-winning author Alexis Wright, Dirtsong is a culmination of artists partaking in musical “conversations” about country, memories, nature, roles and community. Australia’s premier Aboriginal musicians alongside entrusted musical mavericks from the jazz scenes of Melbourne and New York will be brought together to present this latest production from Black Arm Band. Drawn from Aboriginal Australia, Dirtsong mixes traditional approaches and contemporary songs, existing repertoire and newly commissioned music to create an entirely new experience. The night boasts many talents, including Archie Roach, Lou Bennett, Emma Donovan, Deline Briscoe, Djolpa Mackenzie and William Barton, alongside guests Jimmy Barnes, Paul Dempsey (of Something for Kate), Nat Pa’ap’aa (of Blue King Brown) and Shane Howard (of Goanna). The performance is also the headlining event of Clancestry – a celebration of country by way of the arts and cultural practices of the world’s first nations peoples. It is showing one night only, and is sure to be a one-of-a-kind cultural show.
“Save Live Australia’s Music (SLAM) is a collective of non-politically aligned, independent, local music-loving citizens. The only pre-requisite to getting involved is a love of live music.” That is the mission statement of SLAM, an organisation dedicated to creating a vibrant and entertaining live-music industry, nation wide. SLAM Day itself involves live music fans in every state organising gigs of every size and genre – celebrating local musicians and die-hard punters. This year, hundreds of live shows have been organised, making 2013 the biggest SLAM day to date. Check out the extensive list of gigs on the SLAM Day website for shows near you. If you are simply looking for a recommendation, we reckon My Fiction (Pictured) and The Familiars are playing at The Zoo and should be extremely entertaining.
Father John Misty has been making quite the splash in the airwaves of late. Otherwise known as Josh Tillman, as well as the drummer of folk-pop group Fleet Foxes, he has been on the receiving end of rapturous critical acclaim worldwide for his smooth song writing, sweet melodies and thoughtful lyrics. Misty has wowed crowds at Splendour in the Grass, sold out shows at Sydney’s Oxford Art Factory as well as The Corner Hotel in Melbourne. Now, Father John is returning to Brisbane to continue his journey of mesmerising live audiences and captivating hearts. To Father John Misty, the performance is just as important as the music. Gig-goers are in for a unique treat—this charming entertainer brings an element of quirk to his songs, bringing them to life with the ease few can boast. Get in while you can.
The Southside Tea Room has become a hub of unique activities. Not only do they provide great food and drink to their patrons, but nearly every week there is some kind of special event where people can indulge their creative side and take part in something different. This Easter Sunday, the Tea Room will be hosting Plaster Fun House – a night where patrons can get crafty and make something they can treasure. The ticket includes one glass or wine or a beer upon arrival, so get into the Easter spirit and see what you can whip up! Make sure to check out the Southside Tea Room website for information on future events, great things like this happen regularly, make sure you keep on top of it!
If burgers are your thing then you must head along to the Red Robin Supper Club's latest pop-up night out. Chef Rory Doyle hosts ridiculously delicious nights out where he takes over a venue for the night and provides lucky Brisbanites with a taste of his favourite fare. Usually cooking with a homestyle American influence, the latest Red Robin Supper Club is certain to please burger aficionados. The food is so good that it brings a tear to the eye, and is also incredibly reasonably priced so if you're looking for a top feed and a unique experience on Saturday night head along to the Southside Tea Room for some mouth-watering morsels.
The Brisbane Society of Sound celebrates all things music and performance; though deep within their hearts rages the demon of rock and roll, and it’s begging to be released. For all your headbanging, thrash-dancing, foot-stomping needs, head along to Brisbane’s Beetle Bar to see local rock at its finest. On the bill are modern rockers Calais, the colourful pop-rock of Fushia, Skin and Bones, the mixed bag of post-hardcore, indie, blues and folk, and the ambient post-rock of Wolver. This is just one of the many events held by the Brisbane Society of Sound around Brisbane’s many music venues, and they’re the ones in the know when it comes to our city’s thriving music scene. Hot tip: check out their Facebook page for more information on this and other upcoming events. Tickets are best bought before the show as the intimate venue is likely to sell out.
New arts collective Nuclear Family, believe everyone deserves nice things — especially you. As a result, you're invited to join in their new and very exciting arts event, HEY, NICE THINGS — and boy, is it full of some the most delightful things Brisbane has to offer. Hosted by Burnett Lane's cosy alcove of a bar Brew, HEY, NICE THINGS is a showcase of Brisbane's best upcoming musicians, matched with a selection of art by Henri Henri, Kendall Coffin-Grey, Lynette Letic and more. The evening will begin with melancholic, pop-folk songwriter Hannah Karydas; followed by the quirky, mischievous sound of Sahara Beck; with funkalicious brothers Wheeler finishing the evening with a healthy dose of angsty, fun-filled rock. Browse the art, grab a drink and let the delightful selection of sights and sounds take you to a place of all things nice — you deserve it.
"Get a little closer... Cut open my sternum and pull my little ribs around you," Megan James sings on Purity Ring's 'Fineshrine', a song so immaculate and pretty it takes a few listens for the darkness of the lyrics to come into focus. The Canadian duo revel in this kind of contrast: lush, manicured synth pop with a dark undercurrent that leaves a more unsettling afterglow. Initially formed out of Montreal indie band Gobble Gobble, Purity Ring's debut full-length Shrines ranks as one of the year's best, an immersive, swirling collection with pulsing rhythms and pockets of deceptive darkness. Touring for Golden Plains festival, the pair will also bring their live show (which includes a renowned light show courtesy of the other member, Corin Riddick).
Following standing ovations at the New York Burlesque Festival and general commotion at the Melbourne Comedy, Edinburgh Fringe, Glastonbury Music and Australian National Circus Festivals, The Birdmann returns to Brisbane with a new show. After blacking out, The Birdmann wakes to find himself cuffed and holding a single black stiletto. Cue flashbacks, montages, juggling of cupcakes and a one-man murder mystery of comic ingenuity. Joined by sideshow performer Tigerlil, this is sure to be an electrifying performance. Be sure to take advantage of the discounts for concession card holders and groups of six or more people. The Judith Wright Centre also offer a discounted parking deal. More info can be found on the event website.
With a classic, new-wave style, The Queensland University of Technology Art Museum brings together a collection that is pleasantly different. Centred around the idea that the best technology-based art doesn't always stem from the most high-tech or latest shiny gadget, Foundation's Edge: Artists and Technology teases out the raw creativeness that can emerge for the most basic of technologies. At the creative hands of artists Michael Candy, Lawrence English, Benjamin Forster, Caitlin Franzmann, Ross Manninng and Ken and Julia Yonetani, this display presents work that strays from the intended use of technological devices, pushing them to their potential as an art medium. Through the exploitation, deconstruction and the reworking of such commercial and recognised devices, these artists bring their work to a creative ends unexpected by the untrained eye. Be sure to check out this new and innovative collection of work – you'll be pleasantly surprised at the beauty technology can behold.
Writer-director Sarah Polley's follow-up to the much-loved drama Away from Her, Take This Waltz, follows the story of freelance writer Margot (Michelle Williams) as she meets a rickshaw driver from Toronto, Daniel (Luke Kirby). Margot shares with him an uncontrollable sexual chemistry, and when they realise they live just across the street from each other, the bombshell is dropped: Margot is happily married to sweetheart husband Lou (Seth Rogen), a gentle and caring cookbook writer. Margot finds herself in a complex and conflicting situation, not knowing whether her comfortable routine with her husband, whom she still loves, is enough in the face of the fiery desire of her alluring neighbour. She finds herself frequently trying to bump into the young man and testing the limits of her resolve by having late-night pool dips and sipping margaritas with him, yet not actually acting on the attraction. Far from being a shallow display of trivial conflicting desires, the movie poignantly illustrates the internal dilemma of whether familiarity and comfort will suffice when they come up against the temptation of exotic sex, romance, and art. Williams gives a heartwarming and evocative performance, making audiences sympathise and identify with her plight. Similarly moving displays from Rogen and Kirby work to make this film a heartwarming and complex production, which is a must-see for romantics and cynics alike. We're giving away tickets to Take This Waltz. Enter here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=xUQTNY5yaVk
In the two years since Lambda first started catering every Thursday night for poor students with a penchant for raucous partying, the atmosphere hasn’t changed much. It’s still every week, the red cups full of cheap drinks are in high abundance, and Mitch Exton is still lurking around flirting. Although the original crowd of indie kids might have grown up and moved on, you can be damn sure there is a constant stream of 18 year olds ready to take their place armed with chinos, button up shirts, flower headbands and long socks. In celebration of reaching their terrible twos, Lambda are throwing a party that’s apparently going to include lolcats, cake and balloons. Beyond that they’re being very mysterious in terms of what’s actually going to go down, but considering a regular Thursday night there involves excessive alcohol, slutty dancing and the high potential for kissing strangers, we can only imagine the excess that will occur on their birthday.
Eons ago Alhambra Lounge was infamous mainly for indiscretions made on the premises by footballers, and a regular saxophone performer who graced the stage. Thankfully it has long since evolved into a budget friendly party haven with red cups, attractive people and stellar performers in high quantity. And although they frequently bring in musicians of an international calibre, they love to showcase up and coming Australian acts, especially of the Unearthed Variety. Headlining this Saturday’s Anything Goes is Sydney four-piece Nantes. This band have been getting some serious air time on Triple J which should be an indication of the indie rock tunes they have in store. What should be an even larger indication is that their influences are Radiohead and Joy Division. Also playing on the night will be Trip Kick DJs, a group of guys from Byron with a serious penchant for mixing great music and ensuring a great night out.
Both Spare Parts and Strangely Familiar discuss the issue of disability in Australia. One provides a light hearted outlet for artists to create awareness; another provides a look at the skewed perception of disability in the media. Both are sure to be fascinating exhibitions. Spare Parts is a project created by Priscilla Sutton, an amputee who decided to turn her unused prosthetics into art pieces. Her idea has taken off, with numerous exhibitions in Brisbane and overseas, with works by many artists using prostheses as canvases. The sale of these unique pieces will go to COPE, an organisation that provides prosthetics and orthotics to those disabled by munitions. The artists on display this year are, Anke Catesby, barek, Bec Peart and Martin Pedder of Blackbird’s Emporium, Benjamin Werner, Clarissa Bones for Raw Bones, Elisa Jane Carmichael, Erica Gray, Josh Rufford, Kerri Hobba, and Rachael Waith. Strangely Familiar takes a microscope to the perception of disability in the media, and provides a photographic portrayal of the unseen side of the ’differently-abled’. Created by Louis Lim, Strangely Familiar reveals the stories of those affected by disability, not as objects of pity or heroic idols, but rather ordinary people with their own stories of ‘love, belonging and identity.’ Both exhibitions will be on display until the 15th of September.
Art galleries come in so many different forms these days. Big and small, independent or state run, well publicised as well as secretive. It’s hard to know where to begin for those who wish to observe the work of the creatively inclined. However if you are looking for a gallery to peruse without the fuss of a major exhibition, paid parking and waiting lines, West End is currently housing Addition 2 – and we literally mean housing. Located in the Addition Artist-Run Initiative on Hardgrave Road this exhibition will be showcasing the work of local artists Kiah Reading, Pirrin Francis and Felix Fox, as they explore the vast ideas of balance, reverence and imagination. Opening night will also involve a special workshop led by Nat Koyama and Kathryn Danger Sawyer as they discuss the developed pieces with the three artists, offering a glimpse into their personal creative minds - something bigger galleries often lack.
Brisbane fashionistas will have a chance to get their fashion fix and support an amazing organisation at the Dress for Success Fashion Affair. Join a bevy of Brisbane beauties including Australia’s Next Top Model runner up Liz Braithwaite while they strut their stuff on the catwalk showing off the latest designs from Chi the Label. Love what you see on the catwalk? Get it into your wardrobe with pop up shops from Chi the Label as well as Oli Mac Heels, Jessica. T accessories, Endota Day Spa, Totally Baked and Wrapped with Style. All guests are asked to bring an accessory or item of clothing to donate to Dress for Success, a charity that aims to help unemployed women find work by providing them with business clothing and helping to build skills for the workplace.
Here lies an anecdote to the drab and often frosty clutches of the hump-month of June. The world of contemporary dance is having its boundaries challenged with the delightful commotion that is Essentially Dance. Passions will be stirred, borders crossed, desires ignited, and this will all be done with the sharp flick of some perfectly pointed bare feet. Queensland University of Technology boast the most vigorous dance program in Queensland and beginning on June the 5th, they are showcasing their talent and relentless work at the QUT Gardens Theatre. This original performance piece has been developed with the expertise of a collaboration of renowned choreographers, two aerial artists and the most promising group of aspiring dancers in the state. A far cry from the spectacle of swans and tiaras, this show is sure to be a tantalizing visual experience that will entertain and transfix you. Get your tickets quick! It’s only a hop, skip and a sashay away.
Redefining perceptions about technology and its purpose in art, Thrashing Without Looking is causing a stir and garnering rave reviews by combining performance art and cinema into a memorable experience. Utilising audience participation, video goggles and loud tunes, the 50 minute performance will thrill, and disorient attendees in a memorable and thought provoking way. Put together by art and cultural collective, Aphids, Thrashing Without Looking will create an experience that you wont want to leave behind. Tickets are selling out fast, so get in quick or miss out!
The Powerhouse are doing their part to keep appreciation going for innovative live music experiences. The Long Player Sessions are a series of shows that place two Brisbane bands on the same bill, both playing a different landmark album in music history. This week see’s Silver Sircus take on the task of performing The Velvet Underground & Nico while Rattlehand (Pictured) will be performing You Am I’s Hourly Daily. Both bands will also be throwing a few of their own songs in for good measure. The Long Player Sessions celebrate the music ‘album’; an icon of emotions and thoughts from a different time and a signpost of a different cultural era. In an age there instantaneous satisfaction reigns supreme, The Long Player Sessions continue to celebrate the classics and deliver them from start to finish. Lovers of classic, ground-breaking albums will enjoy this event.
Wanting to brush up on your culinary skills? Look no further as Brisbane is hosting a 14 day festival to showcase the best food and produce that our state has to offer. Food Bowl is a featured event during Delectable and includes 22 of Brisbane's best restaurants serving Queensland's finest produce on July 29. Bring your friends, family and an empty stomach for what is sure to be a finger-licking and delicious day out. Another highlight of the 14 day food extravaganza is the Food Series where Australia's best known and successful chefs will cook up a storm in demonstrations from July 22-28. Watch on as chefs such as Ben O'Donoghue, Poh Ling Yeow and Matt Moran do what they do best. Our sunshine state is known for its scrumptious produce. Be inspired by the pros and have your fill at Delectable this July.
Hailing from Sydney, roots band The Beautiful Girls are in town for one show only at Fortitude Valley's beloved Tivoli. After 10 years, countless soulful tunes and touring the world 12 times over, the band have decided to call it quits. Embarking on a giant 26 stop tour across the nation, the boys are saying goodbye in style as they celebrate the successes of the past decade. The Beautiful Girls' final show is split into two parts. The first half consisting of heart warming acoustic songs, but don't forget to bring your dancing shoes as the second half is jam-packed with bluesy electric goodness. After playing gigs dotted across the world in countries such as Brazil, Canada and Japan, The Beautiful Girls have returned to Australian soil for one last hurrah. Make sure you catch their special show this Saturday as it will be one to remember.
In a special celebratory show for their new single, Buffalo Grass, on rare 7” vinyl, Oh Ye Denver Birds will take to the Black Bear Lodge stage this Thursday, the 6th of September. On the back of their new album, Good Ivy, the Brisbane natives will be sure to please their home crowd with their energetic and joyous live sets. Riding high after having played with the likes of Toro Y Moi and Akron Family overseas, Oh Ye Denver Birds will be keen to keep their momentum going back home. With pop sensibilities as well as experimental conventions to their music, the band has matured over the past few years to deliver a mature, concise and clever debut album that will undoubtedly make up their set list. Supporting them will be Young Men Dead, Moses Gunn Collective and Feet Teeth.
To add a bit of twinkle to your Brisbane Festival experience, head along to South Bank’s Cultural Forecourt for the Brisbane Airport International Lantern Garden. Each night of the festival, the Lantern Garden will illuminate after 6pm. The free show will feature lanterns of all different cultures, as designed by celebrated creative director, Tony Assness. There is paid parking available at the South Bank Parklands and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, both of which are a short walk away from the Cultural Forecourt, which is situated along the Brisbane River. Public transport is also ideal, with the Cultural Centre busway located nearby, as well as the South Brisbane train station. For your fill of "ooh" and "ahh" be sure to check it out.
Holly Ryan is unveiling her new jewellery line, Zephyr, just in time for the mid-year style change that we all inevitably go through. Maybe more importantly, Holly has shown some incredible foresight by launching this line of incredibly jewellery around tax time, or rather, the time where the government (hopefully) gives us some money back. After launching her first line of jewellery to much acclaim last year, Holly is again releasing a bunch of high-quality pieces, handmade in Brisbane using ethically-sound production techniques to create unique and mindful keepsakes for both sexes. The Zephyr line draws upon inspirations based on the concept of duality, connecting seemingly opposing aesthetics and redefining boundaries through a collision of separate ideas. Holly is launching Zephyr and ultra-stylish Valley boutique, Blonde Venus, so if you think you will receive a little bit of cash back from the government this year, maybe this could be the exact thing to treat yourself to.
Local literary force Holly Riding will celebrate the launch of the fifth printed issue of her debauched Nancy Zine at a very special laneway event. Nancy Zine is the often hilarious, sometimes outrageous brainchild of the young Brisbane writer. Casting her friends as contributors and featuring band interviews, tall tales and the ever-popular ‘whore-scope’ the limited edition printed piece will be distributed for free at the event. Winn Lane’s Atavist Books will play host to the launch, with live music provided by local punks The Kramers. As with previous Winn Lane Shop Late events local store’s including Outpost, EP by Easton Pearson and Ruby & Prankster will all remain open until 8:00pm and punters can enjoy refreshments at boutique eatery Flamingo Café.
With the last three years taking her across the world, from Australia to Asia, the US and the UK, Kate Miller-Heidke is back on Australian soil, and back on our stage. Playing two nights at Brisbane’s The Hi-Fi the aussie songstress is celebrating the release of her highly anticipated third album with the ten-date Nightflight tour. Described as ‘pop music for clever people” and “clever, insightful and revealing” by Rave Magazine the album debuted at number two on the ARIA chart, competing even with 2008’s platinum offering, Curiouser, and sees the falsetto-driven beauty meditating an emotionally stark lyricism and sonic, panoramic lushness. Audiences will be treated to a playful spectacle, one that has been enthralling international audiences for several years, along with plenty of classic tracks and memorable moments. Support is provided by Adelaide’s The Beards, a folk rock band that exclusively perform songs about one subject only; beards.
Following on from the success of its first outing in 2010 the Gypsy Jazz Festival returns for two nights at The Powerhouse Theatre. The night will be opened, and filled in at regular intervals, by DJ Tagada, founder of Balkan Beats Paris and modern troubadour for urban flavour. With a flamboyant performance that integrates rock, world music and gypsy elements with impressive speed and sensitivity French quartet Les Doigts De l’Homme will follow on. Closing the night Loulou Djine will take to the stage with heart rendering laments and fast, furious rhythms that revitalise the traditions of Balkan musical expression.
Prominent giggers up and down Brisbane and the Gold Coast Thin White Lines are just back from a set of dates across New Zealand. A tight, aggressive act known for their dynamic sound and stage presence the four-piece play loud and unabashed punk. Brisbane’s Question Everything are forever on the rise in their home city, with their solid live performances and catchy, old school pop-punk tunes attracting new fans everyday. Influenced by bands like New Found Glory, The Starting Line and All Time Low, Set The record are all colours pop-punk, with catchy vocal melodies, tight guitars and punchy drumming.
With a running time of about five hours Generate invites you to witness a selection of Brisbane’s finest young musicians from the Queensland University of Technology, with acts and individuals ranging from those with contemporary, electronic, neo-folk and post-rock sounds. The perfect opportunity to discover your new favourite artist. With a sound often time compared to Julia Higgins, Gabrielle Aplin and Missy Higgins, Hannah Rosa plays a potent combination of catchy melodies with a warm and friendly stage presence that eases listeners into her world. A group of Brisbane lads that plays ballad centric folk-rock with interesting time signature changes, sweet harmonies and zingy melodies, Bandito Folk are a Jeff Buckley and Fleet Foxes influenced five-piece that play original music taken straight from the heart. With All My Efforts is a progressive music project that combines different effects and drum loops to create a strong, atmospheric sound that draws influence from artists like Explosions In The Sky, Mono and Giraffes? Giraffes! Other artists on the bill include Dear Anonymous, Gabriella’s Bands, Denmark, Matt Graham and Jess Bryne.
Once you’ve been spoilt by the delights of The Brisbane Finders Keepers Markets, you’ll never shop the same again - nothing will be cheap, quirky or unique enough once you’ve had a taste of what these markets have on offer. Unsurprisingly then, Finders Keepers and their almost-too-affordable art, designs and knick-knacks have long been a collector’s dream and a starving uni student’s worst nightmare. Now, for the Autumn and Winter seasons, the markets will be back in full swing with over 65 stalls and three studios housing all things wonderful. From new contemporary independent artists and designers to live music, garden bar and food, this season promises an aromatic atmosphere of beautiful wares and displays for a kind entry of only $2. Break the piggy bank, search the car console or dare the haunting hideaways of the sofa – do whatever it takes to rack up enough coinage for a day at The Brisbane Finders Keepers Markets.
From Klimt’s portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer to Vermeer’s Girl with the Pearl Earing, the history of art and the female form has taught us one pretty definite thing - it’s where the magic happens. Now, in a celebration of women in art, Graydon Gallery presents an exhibit of over 100 paintings and sculptures that immortalize a range of female beauties of every shape and form. The artists who’ve come together in their dozens to contribute pieces to this exhibit range in age, style and technique, but are all masters of their craft. From fine artists, such as talented Jackson Hambridge, to those more adapt with spray cans, the range put on display is only second to the exuberant quality of the overall exhibit. The female form is nothing short of complex, and each artist’s interpretation of it is a journey well worth investing in – don’t miss out.
Ever seen a movie so amazing you just had to share? The people behind Cult Movie Night at Room 60 have heaps to share. They have some of the greatest gems from the early (and not so early) days of film. Action packed flicks, Sci-Fi thrillers, buddy-cop movies; there are plenty of amazing, relatively unknown movies to be seen at this monthly night of entertainment. This month, Room 60 are screening Malibu Express, “a cheesy 80s action comedy where beautiful women are the tough guys and sexuality their strongest weapon”. Malibu Express is, assuredly, a thrilling and raunchy watch, something that could be a topic of conversation among friends for the rest of the month. Doesn’t take your fancy? Don’t worry; each month sees a new cult favourite hitting the Room 60 screen, so check out the Facebook page for more details!
After a hearty run at fresh art-space, BoxCopy, Chris Howlett's exhibition makes it's way to Metro Arts. From online avatars to Middle-Eastern revolutionary displays of protests, celebrity obsessed Australian culture to sexuality, Chris Howlett in his latest exhibit, New Dawn, pursues his craft to the most divergent of mediums. As an exemplary multitasker, skilled in everything from installation, performance, sound art and digital modding, Howlett has an expressed willingness to engage with big themes and issues other artists would find to daunting – New Dawn shows he is indeed a man with no fear. This stage of New Dawn will consist of a three channel machinima projection which conflates popular myths surrounding near death experiences, extraterrestrial encounters, UFO sightings and new age spirituality, all entwined with the conspiracy theories, then neatly mapped onto the medieval, magical video game Skyrim. New Dawn will be showing from the 11th to the 28th of September, with Chris Howlett presenting an artist talk on Wednesday the 18th - don't miss it.
