I'm gonna go slightly off topic for a moment: the following subject consists of images that have recently made their way onto my desktop wallpaper. Only the best of the best pictures have earned the right to be burned into my retinas when lappy's on standby and the winner for the last couple of months has been the intricate and delightful we miss you magic land! teaser image. If this 1024 x 768 pixel photo is anything to go by, the we miss you magic land! exhibition will be all my childhood dreams come true. It's no secret that the Children's Art Centre installations at GoMA are equally as interactive and entertaining for big kids as they are for regular-sized ones. we miss you magic land! is no exception. The exhibition, by Perth artistic duo Pip & Pop, is a vibrant, immersive environment for “children and families” (pfft!) and draws on children's stories, creation myths (yup!) and Buddhist ideologies, as well as video games and folktales. The large-scale, fairy floss-esque fantasy worlds are made using cake-decorating tools and heaps of layers of sugar, glitter, clay and mirrors. They look so good you’ll want to eat them. Walk the magical pathways and squeeze into peepholes to parallel worlds – there'll be a magical forest of odd flowers, vines, mushrooms and animals on the other side. If this sounds like the best thing you have ever heard, you're probably right. We missed you magic land, like candy, and it's time you came to GoMA for three months of fluffy bliss.
Think size is a reflection of quality? Think again. One of Brisbane's quaintest little bars is striving to prove otherwise by showing off some of the nation's emerging talent. Just head down to Ashgrove's Junk Bar this Saturday to catch some of Australia's best acts in the World's Smallest Festival. Playing on two incy wincy stages will be Trevor Ludlow and the Hell Raisers, Seja, Jeremy Cole, and returning hosts Greg Brady and the Anchors. The evening kicks of at 7.30pm, with all of Junk's signature cocktails and drinks guaranteed to be flowing. It's only $13.30, which probably makes it also one of the world's cheapest festivals, too — and it's recommended that you buy tickets in advance. If you've never been to Junk Bar before, this is as good an excuse as any to jump on the Maroon Glider as it heads in the Ashgrove direction and check these humble little digs out. And hey, you might even discover a new favourite band while you're at it.
A few people are saying the Simon Pegg/Nick Frost/Edgar Wright partnership is getting tired. There might be some truth to that, but it isn't tired yet. The World's End — the third film in their 'Three Flavours Cornetto Trilogy', a series of comic genre mash-ups that also happen to feature a random Cornetto ice-cream in each one — is a whirlwind of exuberant humour it's easy to get swept up in. Sure, some of the surprise of the mash-up twist has faded since 2004's breakthrough Shaun of the Dead, but the team has also matured as actors, filmmakers and observers of the human condition. The particular human condition they're concerned with this time around is the sad state of being stuck in one's halcyon days, particularly when they're situated in high school, particularly when you're now nearing 40. Pegg plays the thusly afflicted man-child, and it's far from the loveable, self-effacing type of loser character we're used to seeing him be. As Gary King, he is a real loser, still sporting his teenage sludgy black hair and greatcoat, still driving 'The Beast' registered in someone else's name, still embarrassingly overconfident and still sleazing onto women in the loos. He's so close to being unlikeable, yet there's just enough good in him — and just a smidge of relatability — that we want him to win on his ridiculous quest to unite his high school buddies and claim the victory that should have been theirs 20 years earlier: completion of a 12-stop pub crawl known as the Golden Mile. Gary's more capably adult friends — Andrew (Frost), Steven (Paddy Considine), Oliver (Martin Freeman) and Peter (Eddie Marsan) — want out of the caper not long after arriving back in their insular home town, Newton Haven. But then they discover the place has gone Invasion of the Body Snatchers in their absence, and fighting off invading alien robot hordes takes precedence over fighting each other. All the while, following some spectacular drunk-person reasoning, they continue the course of their pub crawl to the mythic World's End bar. In some ways, The World's End doesn't feel like the final movie of the trilogy; it has the anarchic, careening, appropriately drunken energy of an early oeuvre picture, but one suspects that mood is actually harder to control than it looks. The movie is also unexpectedly mature in its human drama, teasing out the fraught relationship we have with our histories and ultimately encouraging us to go a little less hard on our past selves. There's great joy in watching The World's End, and plenty of rewards in the team's signature brand of comedy. Maybe it is time to move on from the genre mash-up, but this is a thundering way to go out. https://youtube.com/watch?v=7ibQvQUpMTg
What's better than celebrating pink-hued wine for an entire afternoon? Spreading the love across a month. That's the plan for Rosé Revolution 2022, which has popped up as a one-off event in the past — but is keeping the pink drink-fuelled fun running across October this year, starting on Saturday, October 8, all at Fish Lane. In fact, the afternoon of sipping that's usually called Rosé Revolution isn't on the lineup; instead, it has been replaced with six different excuses to indulge in the titular wine, as well as three all-day (and night) offers that run until Monday, October 31. So, it's a choose-your-own-adventure kind of shindig, where you can decide to spend an afternoon, several or even longer getting into the rosé spirit. Among the specific events, it all starts with a tasting — and drinking — pop-up party from 2–6pm on Saturday, October 8, which'll take over Fish Lane Town Square with vino from more than 32 wineries around Australia, New Zealand, Italy and France. Tickets start at $55 per person, but you'll pay for your tastings from there — or you can opt for the $89 option, which includes an hour or sampling. Chu the Phat provides two other highlights: a rosé-themed paint and sip evening on Wednesday, October 12; and weekly Sunday-afternoon banquets across the month with two hours of rosé, rosé spritzes, sparkling rosé, Aperol spritzes and more for $60. Or, you can pick from two different four-course lunches with matching rosés at two different venues: at La Lune Wine Co on Saturday, October 15 (for $170 per person) and Maeve on Saturday, October 23 (for $150 per person). Billykart West End is also hosting a bottomless rosé brunch on Sunday, October 30 for $85 per person — and those ongoing specials cover rosé margaritas at Kiki and rosé martinis at Bar Brutus. Warm weather, rosé for days, hanging out in Fish Lane: yes, it's a classic Brisbane spring experience. Rosé Revolution 2022 runs from Saturday, October 8–Monday, October 31. For more information, or to buy tickets, head to the event's website.
Part dance movie, part dystopian comedy, The FP is a rare beast of a movie — an instant cult classic that feels both alluring familiar and completely its own creation, and that instantly sears every frame into your brain. Given the premise, none of the above should come as a surprise. This low-budget 2011 flick is set in at a time when gangs fight over control of their home turf, Frazier Park, by dance-fighting it out while playing a Dance Dance Revolution-style game called Beat-Beat Revelation. Basically, if Footloose was set in a post-apocalyptic future, it would look something like this. As you're no doubt thinking, it would look rather amazing. That's The FP from start to finish, and it's getting only its second-ever public Brisbane screening on Monday, February 25, after first showing here all the way back at the 2011 Brisbane International Film Festival. Even better — The FP now has a follow-up called FP2: Beats of Rage, and it's hitting Brissie as well. Both are written and directed by Jason Trost, who also stars, and they're bound to make for one unique night of staring at the silver screen. Fitting, this double feature is coming to Netherworld as part of its regular Two Bit Movie Club, with tickets costing $10 — which includes both flicks plus popcorn and a drink. Here's a taste of the sequel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgdVv6MK1PA
Christian Thompson is one of the most celebrated contemporary Indigenous artists working today, and Ritual Intimacy represents the first major survey of the artist's extensive and diverse works. Through photography, video, sculpture, performance and sound, he explores notions of identity, race and history, often placing these themes against the backdrop of the Australian environment. Thompson's prodigious talents were recognised from an early age with his early career spent at the side of world-renowned artist Marina Abramovic, who became his mentor. Later, Thompson was accepted into Oxford University, making him one of the first Indigenous Australians to study at the institution in its 900-year history. Taking place at the Griffith University Art Gallery, Ritual Intimacy features a new major commission first unveiled at the exhibition's Melbourne run, while also highlighting Thompson's continued exploration of musical works centred around Indigenous language. The showcase will be on display until September 23. Image: Christian Thompson: Ritual Intimacy installation at Monash University Museum of Art, shot by Andrew Curtis.
In Victoria, enjoying a meal at a restaurant run by chef Scott Pickett's hospitality group is always a good bet. Whether you're after a European bistro experience at Chancery Lane, modern Australian dishes at Estelle and Matilda, or Thai dishes at Longrain, Melbourne has an option. On the Mornington Peninsula, there's also the eateries at The Continental Sorrento. Smith St Bistrot is Pickett's French restaurant in Melbourne, too, but it isn't the only place that Gallic dishes will be on the menu under his watch in April. For one night only, he's heading to Brisbane to team up with Woolloongabba's C'est Bon. The date to mark in your diary: Wednesday, April 10. Keen to experience the Melbourne culinary figure's dishes without a trip south? This is your chance. There'll be sittings at 6pm and 8.30pm, with Pickett teaming up with C'est Bon's own Andy Ashby — after they initially collaborated at Pickett's The Point in Albert Park more than a decade go, where Ashby worked under Pickett — for C'est Bon and Beyond: A French Affair. Patrons will enjoy four snacks and four courses, with Pickett also bringing Scott Pickett Group Executive Chef Stu McVeigh to help. C'est Bon advises that the night "draws inspiration from the rich history of French gastronomy, with the menu paying homage to classic French techniques while incorporating innovative twists and locally sourced ingredients". On the snacks menu: oeuf mayonnaise caviar, parfait onion jam brioche, barbecue redclaw with basque piperade and mustard flowers, and smoked potato croissant with truffle. After that, the courses start with Moreton Bay bugs with sweetcorn, kelp and shellfish sauce — and then move on to Murray cod a la Grenobloise with roasted cauliflower and finger lime. Next, dry-aged quail and foie gras pithivier with rouge cherry and chicory will be on offer. Finally, the evening will go out with roasted chestnut 'Mont Blanc' with burnt vanilla crème. Consider it the meeting of two standout Gallic restaurants over one impressive evening. Expect $135 tickets to sell out quickly, too, when they go on sale on Wednesday, March 6. Pay extra and you'll get wine to match.
Sometimes you've just got to be in the right place, at the right time. Singer/songwriter Timothy Carroll first struck up a musical friendship with guitarist and composer Oscar Dawson in South East Asia and again, a few years later, in Stockholm where a stint of recording culminated in a demo for what would be a future Holy Holy song. Since then, the inter-city-loving duo have returned to Australia and, working with Hungry Kids of Hungary drummer Ryan Strathie, have produced insanely infectious singles like 'Impossible Like You' and 'House of Cards'. Support performances for Emma Louise and The Trouble With Templeton last year have impressed Australian audiences while their debut album, The Pacific EP, released earlier this year and recorded with local superstar producer Matt Redlich, has attracted Midlake comparisons. Now with a third single, 'History', up their sleeves, Holy Holy are embarking on a national headline tour. Expect gripping chorus builds and impassioned vocals as the band transports their rich production sounds from the studio onto the stage. https://youtube.com/watch?v=oLu-DNXrs04
When Caper Byron Bay Food and Culture Festival debuted in 2022, Louis Tikaram from Stanley in Brisbane was on the lineup. In 2024, the chef from the standout Sunshine State restaurant has curated the program. He has ties to the area, growing up on a 110-acre farm in Mullumbimby before hopping from Sydney's Tetsuya's and Longrain to E.P & L.P. in Los Angeles and then the Queensland capital's go-to Cantonese fine-diner — and he's now doing his part for this culinary fest's second event. Caper returns with a few changes. The festival has expanded its lineup from a four-day weekend to a ten-day run, and also moved from spring to autumn, taking place from Friday, May 17–Sunday, May 26. But its focus remains on celebrating food and culture in its seaside New South Wales home and the surrounding region, whether you're keen to eat, drink, listen to live tunes, or enjoy a drag night and trivia show. "Being part of the first-ever Caper Festival as a guest chef back in 2022 was a blast, and now I'm stoked to come back home to Byron Shire and curate," said Tikaram, announcing the 2024 lineup. "With heaps of mates in the chef and supplier scene, and top-notch produce at our fingertips, we've got some cracking events lined up. Can't wait to get stuck in and show off what we've got cooking." Tikaram's program is filled with fellow culinary names, including when the opening party takes over Three Blue Ducks. On the bill just for that night alone: Dave Moyle from Salty Mangrove (who organised the first Caper), Jason Saxby from Raes on Wategos, Ben Devlin from Pipet, Matt Stone from You Beauty, Mindy Woods from Karkalla, Karl and Katrina Kanetani from Beach Byron Bay, Pepsi Nakbunchuay from Bang Bang, Robbie Oijvall from Lightyears, Bruno Conti from The Hut, Marcello Polifrone from Harvest and, of course, Darren Robertson from the host venue. At the other end of the fest, the closing-night event will see Tikaram, Hawaiian chef Kanetani, Ross Magnaye from Serai Kitchen in Melbourne and Jedd Rifai from North Byron Hotel hone in on Hawaiian buffet-style snacks. In-between, long lunches, a yakitori party and a five-course smoke-fuelled feast are all among the fellow Caper highlights. Some meals will get you eating seaside. Other events are serving up an Italian-inspired aperitivo hour or a gin garden party. With Tikaram doing the honours again, you can also tuck into east-meets-west canapés at Byron Chinese restaurant Hutong Harry's. Whatever you're heading to, the North Byron Hotel is the fest's official watering hole, hosting tunes, cooking demonstrations, and cheese and wine tastings. If you've got a ticket to the fest, you'll score a drink coupon for a complimentary beverage, too. Caper Byron Bay Food and Culture Festival runs from Friday, May 17–Sunday, May 26, 2024 at various locations around Byron Bay and the Northern Rivers region. For more information, head to the festival's website. Images: Jess Kearney / Ella Dice.
Like Highlander, when it comes to formally wrapping up this year's BIGSOUND, there can be only one. Official closing party, that is, which the Triffid is taking care of. They've enlisted Born Lion, Dorsal Fins, The John Steel Singers, Fraser A Gorman, Ben Salter, Ngaiire, Caitlin Park, All Our Exes Live In Texas and Robbie Miller to provide live performances from 4pm until after midnight; however anyone with a spare afternoon can hang out in the beer garden from midday. Sure, you're probably supposed to be doing something else — but did someone say unofficial long weekend? This event is one of our top five picks of BIGSOUND. Check out the other four here.
When it comes to loving a particular film, not all affection is created equal. There's the type of fondness that inspires a fan to tell all their friends about something great that they've seen, and then rewatch it over and over again. Then there's the kind of adoration that becomes a fully fledged obsession. Kumiko (Rinko Kikuchi) fits the latter bill, but even then her fascination is a little more passionate than most. Joel and Ethan Coen's Fargo is the object of her excessive attention, and she doesn't just fixate over it, she believes it. It's not the bickering hitmen, inept car salesman and determined local sheriff — as anyone who has seen the blackly comic crime classic will be familiar with — that strikes a chord. Instead, it's the briefcase filled with money buried in the Minnesota snow. To understand why she's so intent on thinking the movie is more than fiction is to understand her largely solitary existence in Tokyo. Kumiko is 29 years old and still working as an office lady, a position her boss thinks she should've well and truly outgrown. Her mother only calls to scold her about her dismal personal life, and her only friend is her pet rabbit, Bunzo. So when she happens across a VHS copy of Fargo, embracing its tall tale as truth adds purpose to her days, and trekking across America to find the stack of cash it tells of becomes her destiny. Reality is actually at the heart of Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter, though the filmmaking Zellner brothers — writer, director and actor David and co-writer and producer Nathan — aren't just living this fantasy themselves. They're delving into an urban legend that sprang up around the death of a Japanese woman in the US, which was first chronicled in 2003 documentary This Is a True Story. Indeed, those exact words are the first seen in Fargo itself, sparking reports at the time that it was based on real-life circumstances. Keeping that in mind, Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter makes its own fable out of diving into the strangeness that can stem from both truth and fiction, as well as the tenuous relationship between the two. The basis for its premise aside, the film also offers an offbeat look at isolation, and the lengths someone will go to in order to escape into a dream rather than face their reality. There's no mistaking the magical realism at work in the Zellners' approach, as their gorgeous icy frames make Kumiko's quest seem larger than life, and the atmospheric score by The Octopus Project proves both haunting and hopeful. There's no avoiding the questions it raises about the protagonist's fragile, lonely state, either. Kikuchi plays the titular character with perfection, her performance as slow in building as the movie itself, but also as beguiling the longer she's on screen. It's one of quirks and details adding up to something you can't look away from, even if you're simultaneously enthralled and frustrated. That's the reaction Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter elicits: whole-hearted intrigue in its ideas, and traces of exasperation in its meandering. Well, that, and making you want to rewatch Fargo as soon as possible — and as long as you don't book a plane ticket to America to search for the briefcase yourself, that's not a bad thing.
The spirit of cabaret is alive and well in Brisbane, with one of the world's most celebrated chanteuses lighting up The Princess Theatre for 2023's Open Season. Her particular mix of debauchery, dark humour and biting social commentary make this one of the festival's must-see shows. German kabarett superstar Bernie Dieter — described as "an electrifying cross between Lady Gaga, Marlene Dietrich and Frank-N-Futer in sequins" — will bring her infamous gin-soaked haus band and her troupe of bombastic bohemians to the River City for four nights this winter, from Wednesday, July 19–Saturday, July 22. Gather your fellow deviants for this one. [caption id="attachment_841679" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Johannes Reinhart[/caption] The show encapsulates the spirit of the notorious kabarett clubs of Weimar Germany, and features a vibrant lineup of international talent. The billing includes the dangerous art of hair hanging (we're getting split ends just from the mere mention of this one), flame breathers, gender bending aerial performances and plenty of strip teasing and pole dancing. The colourful show celebrates freedom and diversity in all its forms — Dieter herself describes it as "the ultimate party at the end of the world".
If you're a fan of mellow reggae, you'll love Kingfisha. Jamaican rhythms, silky smooth vocals, a dub vibe and masterful melodies combine to make a genuine and fresh sound. Their music is reminiscent of sweltering hot summer days relaxing by the beach – bliss. The six piece won Triple J's Unearthed Fuse Festival Roots competition in 2010 and have been working on their album ever since. After years of hard work, the sextuple are excited to launch their debut self-titled album this Friday at the Hi-Fi. Joining them on stage are Brisbane based group, Kooii. Like Kingfisha, Kooii has a sound of their own, blurring the lines between genres such as reggae, jazz, folk and African music. Make sure you head to the Hi-Fi early to catch their set. Kingfisha have put their heart and soul into their debut album, so why not enjoy the fruits of their labour this Friday. It'll be one to remember.
Usually, when Jungle Collective hosts one of its huge sales in Brisbane, it fills a Coorparoo warehouse with indoor plants — and jungle vibes. But between Wednesday, January 19–Sunday, January 23, it's going virtual with its weird and wonderful pieces of greenery instead. Whether you're after a hanging pot plant, some palms for the garden or a giant Bird of Paradise, chances are you'll find it here. You'll just be doing your shopping online via the Jungle Collective website rather than heading in-store. Generally, more than 170 different species tend to be on offer in-person — so here's hoping that hefty range makes the virtual jump. While this is a 100-percent online event, tickets work in a similar way as Jungle Collective's physical sales. Due to expected demand, it'll be held in multiple sessions — with your ticket specifying when you'll need to hop online and start buying. Virtual shoppers will need to register for free tickets in advance. As for deliveries, your plants will make their way to you over the following week between Tuesday, January 25–Wednesday, February 2, with more details given when you make your purchase. Delivery costs $15–30 depending on your area, with orders within 25 kilometres driving distance nabbing free delivery if you spend $150 — and everyone living further away getting $15 off. Or, if it's easier, Jungle Collective is also doing pick-ups as well. You'll just need to be able to head to its Nundah warehouse at Nundah Street from 4–6pm on Tuesday, January 25.
From Friday, May 1, 2020 a maximum of two adult Sydneysiders can visit a second household, so you can start planning small dinner parties. Remember, though, that you need to continue to follow the rest of the social distancing and public gathering restrictions. If, like us, you've suddenly realised that you go to bed before 10pm, enjoy a fair slosh of milk in your tea and your ankles crack inexplicably when you stand up or sit down, you might be feeling like you're getting too old for places like 'the club'. Well, we say embrace it; start doing grown-up things like having dinner parties instead. Trust us, you're probably not the only one in your crew who'd much rather be at home on the couch, sipping G&Ts with mates and in bed by a wholesome hour. The days of nice cheese, top-shelf (or close to) alcohol, decent home cooking and adult conversations about the state of the world (you'll need the drinks for this) have arrived. So your dinner party is as successful as it can be, here are some tips. Start by buying some matching crockery, teach yourself to make a good roast and move on down this list. [caption id="attachment_731075" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Julia Sansone[/caption] THE APERITIF Luckily this one is easy. Well, it can be. You can throw together a refreshing G&T — this timeless combination of gin and tonic water isn't to be sneered at — whip up a spritz or get fancy with something slightly more complicated, like a negroni (which is just equal parts Campari, gin and sweet vermouth). If you want go even fancier, we've wrapped up some recipes for run tipples, such as sangria, a basil collins and le grand fizz — over here. [caption id="attachment_689382" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kitti Gould.[/caption] THE NIBBLES Proven over the centuries, the Italians know what to do with their savoury pre-dinner snacks. So, get your head, heart and stomach around the bellissimo antipasti game. Head to a proper Italian food store to stock up on the goods, because if there's something worth spending most of your week's pay on it's a really, really good pecorino and some deluxe salumi. Try the truly hallowed halls of Mediterranean Wholesalers in Melbourne's Brunswick, the storied Paesanella Food Emporium in Sydney's Marrickville or New Farm Deli in Brisbane's New Farm, which has been operating since 1975. You can also check out our Gin List for some recipe ideas for your pre-dinner eats — and what's more, each one comes with a gin cocktail pairing to try. You're welcome. THE TABLE SETTING Being an adult is all about putting in the effort — think making bread from scratch, remembering to send birthday cards or, you know, finally graduating from the sharehouse vibes and hanging art on the walls. The same thing goes for when you're hosting a dinner party: why not put in just a smidge more effort? Look up how to properly set a table, invest in some cloth serviettes (it's an eco-friendly decision, too) and make place cards for your guests. (Pinterest has approximately 200 million ideas to inspire you.) For the final touch, find every candle and candleholder you may own and scatter them across the table. Just no scented candles, please. You don't want those Glasshouse fragrances clashing with the meal you've thoughtfully prepared. THE LIGHTING Nothing can make a dinner party more uncomfortable than glaring fluorescent lights or the sun setting mid-meal making it almost impossible to see the food on your plate. Ease your way into the darkening evening with soft, warm lighting a la the candle collection above— or just throw a scarf over a lamp and call it décor. Whatever floats your lantern. If you're sitting outside for the evening, set up some candles early on to light once the sun dips beneath the horizon. Oh, and a string or two of fairy lights never goes amiss. THE MEAL It's the pièce de résistance of the evening, the opportunity to impress your friends with your cooking prowess (be it newly learned or well-honed). What you'll serve to eat should come with careful decision. Do any of your guests have dietary requirements? How much time do you have to prep and cook? Does your current salary afford a full roast to feed ten guests? When you've considered all these factors, then it's time to scour Google for the best-rated recipes. We've also delved into our archives to find you some past recipes we've scored from the likes of Sydney's Thievery, Porteño, Big Poppa's and Three Blue Ducks. THE PLAYLIST The first knock or ring of your doorbell may alert you of the fact that you have no music playing yet. Your mind has been kept busy prepping and cooking and primping that the evening's soundtrack hasn't even yet registered. Don't panic — we're here to help. Grab your phone and just chuck this smooth dinner party playlist on for the evening. Erykah Badu and Toto will help you chase away the nerves and comfortably settle into the evening (G&T in hand — you deserve it). https://open.spotify.com/user/concreteplayground/playlist/6SBK5b5pwaqhyGo8scJnQl
You don't have to go to Tokyo to enjoy an immersive Japanese experience. You can, of course, and you should at some point — especially now that Japan has reopened to tourists — because there's really nowhere else in the world like it. But if you're eager to eat like you're already there, watch performances and take part in cultural activities, you can save yourself the airfare at the Matsuri Japanese Festival. Your bank account will thank you, and you'll take care of that nagging travel envy for an afternoon. A one-day celebration that's moving to Whites Hill State College in 2023 — and taking place from 11am–5pm on Saturday, September 2 — it's Brisbane's own ode to the country that brought us sushi, katsu, yakitori, sake, matcha lattes and more. Expect to find more than a few things from that list on offer, and plenty of things to see and do as well. Admission is free and, like every great cultural festival, you can expect a little bit of everything that makes Japan so ace.
The perfect pit stop for city suits making the mad dash to work, either straight off the train or post gym sesh. Situated at the Queen Street Mall entrance of the Wintergarden complex and open seven days a week, Nutrition Station’s menu is designed by internationally recognized dietary nutritionist and resident 'diet doctor' at Men’s Health, Moodi Dennaoui. Expect to find a series of protein and supplement-packed shakes, super smoothies, froyo and nu bowls of acai and pitaya.
A couple of weeks back, in an attempt to stop the spread of COVID-19 in Queensland, the state closed its borders. Since midnight on Wednesday, March 25, travel in and out of the state has been limited to certain essential purposes — freight, travelling to and from work, compassionate grounds, medical treatment, court orders including family court, emergency vehicles and emergency workers — with police manning roadblocks to enforce the restrictions. The idea is that people should only be visiting Queensland, or leaving the state and returning, for a mighty good reason. "People should stay in their own state — and where, as far as possible, they should be staying in their suburbs and as much as possible staying at home," Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said at the time. Since coming into effect, the lockdown has already been tightened once, completely blocking non-Queensland residents without an exemption from entering the state from Friday, April 3. Now, as the Easter long weekend approaches, further rules have been announced. As revealed by the Premier today, Queenslanders will now need to obtain a permit to cross back over the border if they're returning from interstate — even if they're a permanent Queensland resident. Previously, border passes were only required for people living outside of Queensland but providing critical services to Queensland; folks needing to enter Queensland to care for a relative, see a doctor or abide by a court order; or those living in a border community. If you were a Queenslander who lives in the state and drives a car with Queensland registration plates, you didn't need a permit. https://www.facebook.com/annastaciamp/videos/1178577669145309/?__xts__[0]=68.ARDZ86noMEjPzNqXeZZbw0v9iuBssyXkau-qj6qwwjFyYGY2AuUkV9UJenZT0YX9LP4YPm-q6S5JBBTf704L3Fb23aT-p0LGNg69BiIKqJMz8c1qrN1aQrzyLxR2mq5Pf7DU7WitpQUtsbNJGJ72dr4KwsjXSac8wVPsUSf0IxjtWZRT1ez_qBaAvDw2n2oG_unSQHu3vlG1xYzobN07i2oV--mIJ038Uw8_iOP0WxyHCts2-Fw_pIlXavlJHCFuEdnaDz3kQtQMgQhC2h3ASFqKl2o2UtpLNgfxWtFiM15fSGXuGLEZtewGfSrTL9FLyoJ9StWrO_N5miJIr8d8EbgDMqndfMkfNjIJCw&__tn__=-R The new pass requirements come into effect from midnight on Friday, April 10 — and those affected can apply for a permit online. Permanent Queensland residents returning to the state after visiting an area of Australia currently considered a hotspot, such as the greater Sydney area, will also now be required to quarantine for 14 days. As proved the case with the initial border closure, the rules cover all Queensland borders, including access via road, rail, sea and air. No one is allowed to come into Queensland that isn't a permanent resident, or doesn't have an essential purpose — regardless of whether they have symptoms of COVID-19. As of 6am on Thursday, April 9, 943 Queenslanders have tested positive for COVID-19. For further details about Queensland's border restrictions, visit the state government's Queensland border closure website — and for further information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, check out the state's dedicated COVID-19 site. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
When Hotel X opened in February, it added a new boutique hotel to Brisbane's ever-growing list, and also marked the brand's first-ever venue anywhere in the world. And, if you're in need of somewhere different to eat and drink, it gave Fortitude Valley's hospitality scene a new French restaurant, thanks to the launch of Bisou Bisou. Hotel X is also set to welcome a Mediterranean-themed rooftop bar and restaurant called Iris down the line; however, for now, Brisbanites can visit the site's ground level and pretend they're in a different part of Europe. The Ghanem Group is behind both venues, adding to a portfolio that already includes Boom Boom Room Izakaya, Donna Chang, Byblos Bar and Restaurant, Blackbird Bar and Grill, and Lord of the Wings. At the brasserie-style Bisou Bisou, Ghanem has enlisted head chef Anthony Donaldson (ex-Blackbird) and executive chef Jake Nicolson to head the menu. Think seafood bouillabaisse, parmesan and thyme-crusted chicken schnitzel, escargot and bone marrow on toast, steak tartare and, of course, steak frites. There's also an oyster and caviar bar, a freestanding rotisserie and a cheese trolley. And, because this is an all-day eatery, you can even tuck into half a dozen oysters for breakfast, or start your day with caviar with warm eggs. Other food highlights include croque monsieur and French toast with strawberries on the brekkie lineup, Lyonnaise sausages first up and on the mains menu, and multiple types of sorbets for dessert. Many of Bisou Bisou's dishes are available on the bar menu, if you're heading by for a cocktail or a glass of wine with a snack while sitting on luxe red bar chairs. And, decor-wise, the restaurant heroes neutral tones, marble tables, patterned and textured finishes, and exposed brick walls, as paired with splashes of deep greens and reds. There's also indoor and outdoor seating, and the wine collection takes pride of place along one wall. Find Bisou Bisou inside Hotel X at 458 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley — open from 6.30am–late daily.
Someone somewhere has dressed up as one of IKEA's coveted blue bags for Halloween, or fashioned an outfit out of them for the eerie occasion. This year, in the lead up to spooky day, you can do that too if you like. Or, you can just wear whatever frightening threads you prefer, or even your normal getup, to the Swedish chain's four-course Halloween dining experience. Yes, two faves are joining forces: IKEA and Halloween. No, you won't just be eating those Swedish meatballs. Happening at the brand's Logan store in Brisbane, the Halloween feast costs $30 for adults and $25 if you're an IKEA Family member. On the menu: nachos or wings to share as a starter, a soup for an entree, either a mushroom or chicken burger with fries, and mousse for dessert. IKEA's food events are always popular, with this one happening from 5pm on Thursday, October 26. The furniture and homewares giant is also hosting kids' activities around the dinner at some locations, complete with trick-or-treat sessions, scariest drawing competitions and costume contests, if you feel like being a favourite aunt or uncle for the night.
Fear, dread, tension, apprehension, just being creeped out — they're all strong emotions. They're also exactly the types of reactions that Darkfield and Realscape Productions trade in. The two companies have been teaming up for a couple of years now, with UK creators Darkfield first collaborating with the Melbourne-based Realscape Productions on Seance, Coma and Flight, those eerie shipping container installations that have popped up around the country. Then, when the pandemic hit, the pair pivoted to at-home audio experiences. If you've listed along to Double, Visitors and Eternal as part of the Darkfield Radio series — all of which are back streaming again now — you'll know that putting people on edge is firmly on the agenda here. Announcing their latest Darkfield Radio project, Darkfield and Realscape aren't messing with their successful formula — so audiences can expect another unsettling experience designed to be listened to at home. But this duo never serve up the same thing twice, even if their current works all spin nerve-jangling tales and unfurl creepy audio experiences. With Knot, which'll make its Australian premiere on Friday, June 25, you won't just sit in one place, don your headphones and listen attentively, for instance. You'll initially head to a park bench to listen in — still wearing those headphones, of course — and then you'll need to sit in a car. For the last section of this three-part experience, you'll then get comfy in a room in your house. To get the full experience, you need to work through all three of Knot's sections in one evening — untangling them in your head, naturally. Darkfield and Realscape always keep the minutiae of their shows close to their chests, so that audiences experience them for themselves while listening, but they have released one clue for Knot: "Here I am, I have come from nothing, created in this moment, as your brain improvises me into existence, improvised into existence... but with no hidden depths." "Season one exposed audiences to the mysterious and supernatural inside their homes, magnified by Darkfield's signature 360 degree binaural sound,", said Realscape Productions Amy Johnson. "We're looking forward to getting audiences outside of their homes for Season two — in COVID-safe settings of course — and pushing them out of their comfort zones even more." Leading Darkfield Radio's second season, Knot will arrive in Australia fresh from playing as part of the Tribeca Film Festival's 2021 immersive lineup. The company's shows have been earning that kind of attention over the past year, with season one becoming the first audio-only experience to ever be a part of Venice International Film Festival last year. Knot will be available to listen to every Friday, Saturday and Sunday between Friday, June 25–Sunday, September 30. For further details or to buy tickets, head to the Darkfield website. Images: Empty Bottles Media.
This winter, Carseldine's markets aren't celebrating Christmas in July — but they are still celebrating. And, they're popping up later in the day, too. There mightn't be an overt emphasis on festive cheer at this stint of browsing, buying and eating, but you'll still be feeling merry when the weekly northside market makes a one-off move to twilight from 4–9pm on Saturday, July 23. Dubbed CarselDINE Twilight Markets, this event is putting food firmly in the spotlight, with more than 40 culinary stalls and trucks serving up their best. Shopping is still on the agenda, of course — and, if you want to go home with all your present-buying taken care of well in advance of Christmas, that's an option. There'll be a sizeable array of handmade wares to peruse, including Carseldine's usual array of vendors. In total, there'll be more than 200 stalls to check out. Entry costs $2, and you'll also score a soundtrack to your eating, drinking and shopping thanks to two stages filled with live music.
Sick of waiting in line to pick up a coffee? Have a drone fly one to you instead. Costa Coffee in the UAE has trialled "coffee-copter" delivery, ferrying caffeinated beverages to Dubai beachgoers. If there's an occasion that calls for aerial beverage service, it's lazing on the sand getting some sun. Coffee-loving customers had iced versions of their drink of choice in their hands within 15 minutes of ordering, with Costa's Jumeirah Beach Drive-Thru store stepping into the future to test out the concept. The move came after a survey of their patrons revealed 82 percent were open to getting their brews via drone. Really, the most surprising part is that 18 percent said no. Delivering food, drinks and more by drone is a concept that isn't going away, so prepare for more such instances in the future. Sushi, burgers, slurpees and pizza have all received the same treatment in the past, while Amazon wants drones to bring its packages to your door, and Aussie beaches will deploy the technology to patrol the beaches for sharks over summer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1S3OiTOemxY Via The National.
For loved ones that prefer their flowers edible, Gelato Messina is once again happy to oblige. It has created a new frozen floral creation, dubbed The Tart Breaker: a limited-edition gelato rose cake, which will be released exclusively for Valentine's Day this year. The red rose cake is complex inside and out — in true Messina fashion. It's a chocolate tart shell filled with layers of Basque cheesecake gelato and dulce de leche, topped with petals made from hand-piped burnt vanilla chantilly. Yes, it's as decadent as it sounds. The rose cake will cost you $69 — likely less than a big bouquet of (non-edible) V-day roses — and can be cut into 6–8 slices, which can serve 6–8 people or just you and your partner; the decision is yours, we're not here to judge. Orders are only available for pickup on the days leading up to Valentine's Day. The Tart Breaker is available to pre-order from all Messina outposts except The Star from Monday, February 1 for pick up between Friday, February 12–Sunday, February 14.
Since 2011, DJ Tom Loud's travelling dance party Hot Dub Time Machine has ripped up stages the world over, offering a rolling crossfade of the last six decades of pop-music. Now, ready to sink his teeth into a new chapter of music-infused revelry, Loud's announced his latest project, Hot Dub Wine Machine — a series of al fresco get-togethers that'll take over four of the country's best-loved wine regions. This Australia-wide tour follows the raging success of Hot Dub Wine Machine's inaugural event, which saw over 6000 wine and music lovers flock to McLaren Vale's Serafino Winery in December last year. This time around, the scenic vistas and rolling hills of Hope Estate in NSW's Hunter Valley, Rochford Estate in Victoria's Yarra Valley, Ocean View Estate in Queensland's Somerset Valley, Home Hill Winery in Tasmania's Huon Valley, and Houghton Winery in WA's Swan Valley (so many valleys!), will play host to the festivities. Each boutique event will run from early afternoon through to after dark, and feature a hand-picked smorgasbord of Australian musical talent. This will all lead into one of Hot Dub's signature sets, which will see audiences dancing their way from 1954 to today, as the DJ mixes an iconic song from each year. Backing up the tunes, expect a careful curation of locally-sourced gourmet eats, craft beer, cocktails, and of course, some sensational vino from these iconic Australian wine regions. Safe to say, it's probably the rowdiest event these wineries will host all year. Hot Dub Wine Machine will take over Home Hill Winery on Saturday, March 4, Hope Estate on Saturday, March 18, Rochford Estate on Saturday, March 25, Ocean View Estate on Saturday, April 1, and Houghton Winery on Saturday, April 8. Tickets are now on sale here. Images: Pat Stevenson. Updated: January 19, 2017.
At some point in most zombie movies, the ravenous undead stop rising from the grave, shuffling through the streets and craving the taste of human flesh. Alas, it seems the same just might be true for city-wide strolls filled with living, breathing people pretending that their pulse isn't beating — the Brisbane Zombie Walk might be coming to an end. Now, we say might because there's a little uncertainty about just what will happen with the blood-splattered walk next year. And while the prospect of this celebration of the undead dying out is sad news for a whole heap of reasons — it is the biggest zombie walk in the world, after all — its possible reanimation after being declared deceased couldn't be more fitting. In the lead up to the eleventh Brisbane Zombie Walk on October 23, organisers announced that this year will be the last due to a combination of rising costs and the fact that most participants take part in the trek for free. It's not cheap to pay to for things like shutting down parking meters on the route, closing roads and hiring Roma Street Parklands. And while attendees have had to buy a ticket for the market and music component of the day since 2012, actually joining the procession of the walking dead doesn't cost a thing. But then, after the news broke, Brisbane City Council reportedly agreed to waive the main fee — however the future of the walk still remains uncertain. Operations manager Mat Bryant told the Brisbane Times that a decision wouldn't be made until after Sunday's event, which is tipped to attract 20,000 Brisbanites doing their best not-quite-living impression. Moving to another council area is also under consideration, but, at the time of writing, the BZW Facebook page is still calling the forthcoming trek "the very last Brisbane Zombie Walk EVER". Basically, if there was ever a good reason to awaken from your not-actually-eternal slumber, head to Brissie's CBD and start muttering "braaaaaaaaaains" — and, honestly, who needs a good reason when that's something you can really do? — then this is it. Of course, the Brisbane Zombie Walk doesn't just give everyone an excuse to look ghoulish and have fun, but also raises funds for The Brain Foundation. Braaaaaaaaains indeed. Via Brisbane Times. Image: greyrose.
When it comes to a piece of gallery curated art, half its story tends to lie in its caption – where, when and how it was painted, and what the artist was trying to say. And there’s no artist who understands the powerful connection between story, text and art better than Dr Theresa Renando. Jugglers Art Space’s newest exhibition, Re-imagining Narratives, is a culmination of the appreciative inquiry doctoral research project by Renando. Her research is presented via visual and narrative forms, at the hands of an exploration of the stories of 479 people their personal spirituality and what an ideal form of spirituality might look like in the future. This deep, well rounded perspective into theology, cultural studies and of course art, is as rich as it is strange, and is a window into how and why the everyday tends to reflect moments of obscurity. There is a welcome deepness and intense thoroughness to Renando’s work, one that she has long been personally exploring as a researcher, facilitator of learning and mixed media artist. Catch the opening of this exhibition on Friday, July 11, at 6pm, or trek along during the gallery’s opening hours till June 21.
When that slice of inner-city delights known as Teneriffe was officially named a suburb back in 2010, locals threw a party to celebrate. More than a decade on, the shindig is still going strong — you know it as the Teneriffe Festival. For its 2022 outing, the event will boast another wide-ranging day of fun, aka the kind of shindig that previous attendees have come to expect. When 10am–9pm rolls around on Saturday, May 28, there'll be music, food, markets and more, all helping locals and visitors alike make the most of the bustling locale. This is all familiar news, because the fest announced its date for this year last month — but now the event has also revealed its lineup. Leading the all-Australian bill: Ben Lee, so expect a 'Catch My Disease' singalong, and also local legends Resin Dogs. If you've lived in Brisbane long enough, you'll know that isn't really a party in this town of ours if the latter isn't on the lineup. The music program is curated by the crew from The Triffid — they are right there in the neighbourhood — and doesn't stop with its headliners. Also hitting Teneriffe Festival's two stages: the likes of The Steele Syndicate, Will Wagner, The Predators, Great Sage and Melaleuca. Between stints of dancing in the street — including at a jazz-fuelled, wine-pouring riverside garden — Brisbanites will be able to sample the area's bars and restaurants, find a feast of from a food truck, hit up pop-up beer gardens, then walk around more than 100 bespoke market stalls. Usually, everywhere from Green Beacon Brewing Co and Zero Fox to Dalgety Public House and Campos join in — and more than 50,000 people have attended in previous years, so you'll also have plenty of company. TENERIFFE FESTIVAL 2022 LINEUP: Ben Lee Resin Dogs The Steele Syndicate Will Wagner The Predators Great Sage Melaleuca Yb Danny Widdicombe and Dana Gehrman Pandamic Mojo Webb Jo Davie Holly Joy Miranda vs Arizona House of Harlen Lucy Korts The Verandahs The Dandys Jazz on the River Teneriffe Festival 2022 takes place from 10am–9pm on Saturday, May 28 on Vernon Terrace, Teneriffe.
Secure your caffeine fix at popular Grey Street hole-in-the-wall cafe Espresso Garage, then hit the pavement to walk the Art and the River Public Art Trail. This short 2.4-kilometre walk winds its way from South Bank to Kangaroo Point, and showcases a range of artworks that incorporate the river's energy, beauty and sense of place. If biking is more your thing, go for a meandering ride on one of the Brisbane Lipton bikes. Image: Anwyn Howarth.
What's better than knowing that one of the biggest Australian movies of the past couple of years is getting a sequel? Adding that second effort to your must-watch pile for 2023. It's been four months since it was revealed that The Dry was scoring a big-screen follow-up, and it's now been confirmed that it'll start flickering across the big screen sometime next year. Exactly when in 2023 that Force of Nature will surface is yet to be revealed — but add it to your future cinema-going list anyway. And yes, to answer the crucial question, Eric Bana is returning as Detective Aaron Falk. [caption id="attachment_787502" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Dry[/caption] When it reached Aussie cinemas at the beginning of 2021 — making the leap from bookshelves to theatres, adapting the debut novel from author Jane Harper — The Dry became an enormous success. If you went to the movies at the start of last year, you likely saw it. It currently sits sixth at the box office among local titles over the past ten years, notching up more than $20 million in ticket sales. It also came in sixth in 2021 overall, after Spider-Man: No Way Home, No Time to Die, Godzilla vs Kong, Peter Rabbit 2 and Fast and Furious 9. That kind of response was always likely to spark a sequel (and it shouldn't escape attention that the five movies that made more cash in Australia last year were all either sequels themselves, or part of long-running franchises). Cue this new adaptation of Harper's second novel Force of Nature. This time, the focus is on a corporate hiking retreat attended by five women, after which only four return. So, alongside fellow federal agent Carmen Cooper (Jacqueline McKenzie, Ruby's Choice), Falk heads deep into Victoria's mountain ranges to try to find the missing hiker — who also happens to be a whistle-blowing informant — alive. [caption id="attachment_796115" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Dry[/caption] As The Dry was, Force of Nature is being written and directed by Robert Connolly (Paper Planes). Again, it'll boast quite the pair when it comes to Aussie crime cinema — with Connolly the producer of one of the best local crime movies ever made, aka 1998's unnerving The Boys, and Bana famously the star of the similarly excellent Chopper. Also featuring in Force of Nature, which'll have a powerhouse Aussie cast like its predecessor: Anna Torv (Mindhunter) as missing hiker Alice Russell, plus Deborra-Lee Furness (Jindabyne), Robin McLeavy (Homeland), Sisi Stringer (Mortal Kombat) and Lucy Ansell (Utopia). Richard Roxburgh (Elvis), Tony Briggs (Preppers) and Kenneth Radley (The Power of the Dog), too, while Jeremy Lindsay-Taylor (Sequin in a Blue Room) is back in the role of Erik Falk. Although the first image from the film has been released — see the header picture at the very top of this article — it's still too early for even a teaser clip. Until one arrives, check out the trailer for The Dry below: Force of Nature will release in Australian cinemas in 2023 — we'll update you when an exact release date is announced. Read our full review of The Dry.
Start your long weekend with an extra spring in your step — and an extra-special cup of coffee. When Good Friday rolls around, Bessa Coffee dedicates the day to damn good caffeinated brews. And while celebrating the occasion hasn't been straightforward during the pandemic, this buzzing occasion is going full steam ahead on Friday, April 15. As long as you roll out of bed before midday, you'll want to head to Little Cribb Street, which is where the Milton hangout will be whipping up a black coffee menu that'll have you pumped until Easter. (Don't worry, cuppas will be available in different sizes, so you will be able to sleep — and try them all.) On the Black Coffee Friday lineup are brews by Archer Specialty Coffee, Coffee Supreme, Light Coffee, Parallel Roasters and Passport Specialty Coffee, including on a five-coffee tasting platter. As for a soundtrack, that'll come courtesy of the Rodrigo Santiagio Trio. Who said public holidays were for sleeping in? You can also tuck into brunch while you're there thanks to Neighbour and Roesti Revolution.
Everyone has attended at least one dinner party that didn't quite turn out like anyone expected. Perhaps all the guests were a bit awkward, or the host was a little anxious, or maybe everyone just wasn't in the mood. Now imagine that combined with power play, manipulation and accusations. It doesn't sound like a fun thing to experience — but it does sound entertaining to witness. You can do just that at The Host, courtesy of award-winning choreographer Natalie Weir. In her dance theatre take on that dreaded social situation, an influential young man plays games with his dinner companions, offering an expose of society's insatiable desire for control and status. The talented crew at Expressions Dance Company brings the swirling greed, ambition and jealousy to life, accompanied by live music from the Southern Cross Soloists and clothed in costumes by Brisbane-based fashion designer Gail Sorronda. And while scheming, songs and style will certainly hold your attention, with all the talk of dinner that's bound to happen, we also recommend eating first.
What makes for a great speaker at a music conference? Experience and insight, obviously, and also plenty of stories from their time in one of the most exciting creative industries there is. Unveiling the first folks that'll grace its stage in 2023, BIGSOUND knows this. When you enlist ROC Nation's Omar Grant, who was once the road manager for Destiny's Child and now shares the President role at Jay-Z's entertainment agency — and also helped Rihanna's album ANTI become the smash it is — you're after a whole heap of wisdom and tales. Brisbanites and music obsessives hitting the Sunshine State capital between Tuesday, September 5–Friday, September 8 can look forward to Grant's chat, which means listening to one of the top names in the American music industry. And if you're keen to show off your own musical talents, he will indeed be looking for new discoveries. "Australia is at an exciting place right now musically and I can't wait to head down under to discover some great new artists," said Grant. "Some of the most innovative artistry in the world comes from Australia — and in an industry that's often so caught up online these days, getting in a room with passionate music people and discovering real talent performing live is a true privilege." While the full speaker roster hasn't yet been revealed, let alone the music bill, Grant has company in this debut drop. Also coming to Brisbane: Michele Ronzon from Interscope/Geffen/A&M Records, Hazel Savage from Soundcloud, Flighthouse's Ash Stahl and JKBX's Scott Cohen. Ronzon has overseen talent including Machine Gun Kelly, YUNGBLUD and Alesso; the Australian-born Savage was behind music AI company Musiio; Stahl is CEO of quite the hefty TikTok agency; and with Cohen, BIGSOUND is bringing in a royalties technology expert. In what'll be its 22nd year, the event has also started revealing some of the decision makers visiting the River City in search of deals. On the list: Netflix's Manager for Soundtracks, Strategy and Operations Andy Kalyvas, who heads to the fest fresh from working on Oscar-winner All Quiet on the Western Front; Paramount Television Studios' Vice President of Music Vanessa Palmer; and Downtown Music Publishing's Director of Sync and A&R Cabrea Casey. [caption id="attachment_851422" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lachlan Douglas[/caption] In total, BIGSOUND 2023 expects to welcome in over 100 international and national buyers, agents, music supervisors, bookers and other industry decision makers, all taking over Fortitude Valley as the event always does. And yes, deals are firmly in the fest's spotlight. "We approached this year's BIGSOUND with a singular vision: deals mean meals," advises programmer Tom Larkin. "Every person we are bringing to Australia can further an artist's career immeasurably. Whether that's formalising a global partnership or simply giving them a piece of advice that could transform their ability to create a sustainable career, BIGSOUND 's focus is to provide real results for Australian artists." Elsewhere, the huge music-fuelled celebration will keep doing what it always does: showcasing impressive acts, artists and bands, which usually sees more than 150 talents hit its stages at 20-plus Brisbane venues. If you're a BIGSOUND regular, you'll know that this entails filling as many spaces as possible with musos, industry folks and music-loving punters, all enjoying the latest and greatest tunes and talent the country has to offer. Past events have showcased everyone from Gang of Youths, Flume, Thelma Plum, Tash Sultana, Sampa the Great, Courtney Barnett and Cub Sport to San Cisco, Violent Soho, Baker Boy, King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, Methyl Ethel, Tones and I, Spacey Jane and The Jungle Giants, so BIGSOUND's program is usually a very reliable bellwether. If your spring routine usually involves bar-hopping around Brisbane while listening to bands — whether you're a local or you head north for the event — mark your calendars accordingly. And if you're an artist looking to take part in the event in general, applications are now open until Tuesday, May 2. BIGSOUND 2023 will take place between Tuesday, September 5–Friday, September 8 in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. For more information — or to apply to take part if you're an artist — visit bigsound.org.au. Images: Lachlan Douglas / Bianca Holderness.
Where in the world do you want to go shopping today? If you were asked that question a few years ago you probably would have scoffed. Now we do more and more of our shopping online, yet finding (and remembering) that little boutique that matches your personal taste from the other side of the world still isn't so easy. That's where District8 comes in. The site, which went live last week, is a compilation of boutiques from the best shopping districts in Sydney, London and New York City (Hong Kong and Paris coming soon). Want to see what the Upper East Side has to offer? No problem, you can browse through 30 different boutiques in the neighbourhood without getting out of bed. District8's fashion editor, Sara Kaplan, described the experience to Vogue as "that feeling you get when you spot a store while walking down a side street in Notting Hill, say, along with the ease of shopping online at one of the big e-boutiques". Clearly, this is no Amazon or eBay, as District8 is taking online shopping to the next, less mass-consumer level. District 8 creates a unique, online-meets-offline shopping experience. The easily navigable platform is a clever cross between Pinterest and Tumblr, which makes it totally tailor-able to the shopper. The motto? "The world has a new shopping district: yours." In a nutshell, District8 lets you digitally browse different locations, select your favourite shops, and add them to 'your district'. Conveniently for oft-frustrated Australians, you can limit your browsing to just shops that ship to your location. The site, which has scouted and sorted through hundreds of shops, includes detailed descriptions of every district and boutique so you know what you're getting into. Like the boho look? Go to Bondi. Want Trendy? Try Soho. By 'following' all your faves in a newsfeed-type setting, you can stay up-to-date on their latest news, collections and sales in one place. You can even safely unsubscribe from all those pesky mailing lists that clutter your inbox. The site also functions like a blog with tags and labels, so you can filter your search for shops based on categories like price, attire type and style. Sounds like it's time to build your dream district, whip out the plastic and get down to business.
UPDATE, August 31, 2020: Cats is available to stream via Amazon Prime Video, Binge, Foxtel Now, Google Play, YouTube Movies and iTunes. In case you don't already know, Cats is about moggies and mousers called Jellicle cats. If that means nothing to you, then you might want to keep it that way — unless you like overblown, nonsensical musicals that take place around a pile of trash, a sign if ever there was one. The word 'Jellicle' won't actually mean anything to you once you've seen Tom Hooper's adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber's popular theatre production, either, but you will have heard the term more times than any human or feline should. Cats devotes its opening song-and-dance number, called 'Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats', to explaining what Jellicle means; however the track only really succeeds in being repetitive and silly. The tune is basically Cats' equivalent of 90s hit 'Blue', using the same lyrics over and over until nothing means anything and you're praying for it to finish. The film's busy, jerky, bewildering opening — staged to initiate the wide-eyed Victoria (ballet dancer Francesca Hayward) into the Jellicle cats — is indicative of what's to come. As the song drags on, it also inspires questions that'll keep popping up: 'why?', 'how?' and 'what the?'. Those unfamiliar with Cats, the musical that's been prowling the stage since 1981, will be hard-pressed to understand its long-running appeal. You'll equally wonder how anyone could think it should get the big-screen treatment. Just because special effects can now cover humans with CGI fur, it doesn't mean that it should be done. And that fur, plus the twitching whiskers and ears that go with it (and the human breasts but lack of genitals, too), appear nightmarish at worst and distracting at best. After Victoria is abandoned in a London alley, and after Rum Tum Tugger (Jason Derulo) and his purring crew meow the word Jellicle at her relentlessly, she still has much to learn. It's the night of the Jellicle ball, where the Jellicle cats compete — and when the Jellicle choice will be made. Whoever is deemed the ultimate Jellicle by matriarch Old Deuteronomy (Judi Dench) will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn. So, the lazy Jennyanydots (Rebel Wilson), debonair Bustopher Jones (James Corden) and their four-legged brethren all sing their cat-sized hearts out. Alas, master criminal Macavity (Idris Elba) is also scampering about, attempting to trick his way to glory. Let's address the obvious hairball: these felines want to howl and caterwaul so they can float into the sky, die, then be resurrected for the next of their nine lives. That's a ridiculous, overtly religious concept, and it always feels the case in Cats. More kitties scramble around, competing and introducing themselves via song, but they can't croon past the baffling premise. That doesn't stop them from trying, including magician cat Mr Mistoffelees (Laurie Davidson), outcast Grizabella (Jennifer Hudson), cat-burgling duo Mungojerrie (Danny Collins) and Rumpleteazer (Naoimh Morgan), and elder statesman Gus the Theatre Cat (Ian McKellen). Those eager for Taylor Swift's catty moment as the mischievous Bombalurina, who drugs her fellow critters with catnip, will be waiting a while — and for just one slinky number. Cats is a sung-through musical, barely uttering a word that isn't belted out, which doesn't improve the storyline either. Lloyd Webber based the stage version on TS Eliot's poetry collection Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats and, even with Hooper (Les Miserables) and Lee Hall (Rocketman) tackling the film's screenplay, it's just a bunch of kitty ditties flung together like a dog's breakfast. That might've been entertaining enough if the tunes had emotional heft, but they don't. Even famed ballad 'Memory' feels thin — and that's the cowering Hudson's only substantial contribution. New Swift and Lloyd Webber-penned track 'Beautiful Ghosts' is similarly forgettable, although it does provide a noticeably quieter pace amid all the unconvincing feline razzle-dazzle. Consequently, Cats is something you endure — like emptying a cat's litter tray — with Hooper's flick failing to sink in its claws in any meaningful manner. The performances reach pantomime levels, perhaps to help you forget that Elba, Dench and McKellen are prancing, crawling and licking milk from saucers. (Or, so you don't ask why some cats don suspenders, others are naked, and Old Deut resembles The Wizard of Oz's Cowardly Lion.) Even beneath the special effects, every aspect of the movie looks like it's taking place on a stage, which is hardly immersive. Worse, Hooper can't decide if he wants to zip around amongst the cats, peer too closely at their faces or watch their dancing from afar, making the film as disjointed in its cinematography as it is elsewhere. 2019 hasn't been kind to singing cats on-screen, but at least The Lion King's uncanny photo-realistic jungle beasts didn't seem like they were staging a cat version of that other terrible recent musical: The Greatest Showman. Real-life cute kitties deserve far better than this catastrophe. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pv-n0ZZHbSY
Brisbane's new public transport lines are still five years away from being completely operational; however, that hasn't stopped the proposed system from getting bigger. Initially planned to span 21 kilometres and 18 stations across two routes, the Brisbane Metro plans have now been expanded to include Chermside, Carindale and Springwood. Brisbanes Times is reporting that the Brisbane City Council aims to extend its existing proposal, which had outlined two lines — one between Eight Mile Plains and Roma Street to take care of southern residents, and the second linking the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital to the University of Queensland. A Carindale route would tie in with the first line, while a Chermside track would connect to the second. Heading down to Springwood would involve lengthening the Eight Mile Plains line along the South East Busway. While construction isn't expected to start until 2018 for a 2022 completion, the idea of offering more frequent public transport services in more places throughout Brisbane can only be a good thing, as anyone who has suffered through the current mess of unreliable and infrequent services — aka everyone in the city — can no doubt agree. The project is currently in its feedback phase, with the Council hosting public sessions in the CBD, Holland Park, Woolloongabba and Upper Mount Gravatt until the end of April, before a preliminary business case is due to be delivered in May. For more information, head to the Brisbane Metro website. Via Brisbane Times.
When the ABC announced that Spicks and Specks would return in 2024 after sitting 2023 out, it was big news, as anything to do with the hit Australian take on the UK's Never Mind the Buzzcocks always is. IRL, here's something just as exciting: the Brisbane-born and -based Not on Your Rider is also back for this year, although it didn't take a year off. On the agenda: playing a music quiz show filled with well-known faces live not just in the River City, but also in Sydney and Melbourne as well. And yes, the audience gets to play, too. You'll be peering at a stage, rather than a screen. You'll be answering questions, of course. And if it has you thinking about pub trivia nights, they don't include The Creases' Aimon Clark — who is also behind Isolation Trivia — hosting, or Patience Hodgson from The Grates and Jeremy Neale from Velociraptor captaining the two teams, let alone a heap of entertainment-industry guests. At past events, guests have included Murray Cook from The Wiggles, Broden Kelly and Mark Samual Bonanno from Aunty Donna, Boy Swallows Universe author Trent Dalton, Agro, Cal Wilson, Ben Lee, Steven Bradbury, Kate Miller-Heidke, Robert Irwin, Ranger Stacey, Craig Lowndes and Tim Rogers. Among the other musicians who've featured, Powderfinger, Dune Rats, DZ Deathrays, Ruby Fields, Ball Park Music, The Jungle Giants and The Go-Betweens have all had members take to the stage. Brisbane's 2024 season kicked off in mid-February, and now has seven more dates locked in for the rest of the year, all at The Triffid. Yes, given there's a Thursday, October 31 event, you can probably expect another Halloween celebration. And, come Thursday, December 19, a Christmas show as well. In Sydney and Melbourne, Not on Your Rider has a show in each city locked in. For the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, it's popping up on Thursday, April 18 at Brunswick Ballroom. And at Sydney's equivalent, head to Factory Theatre on Sunday, May 5. Here's how it works: Not on Your Rider takes something that everyone loves — showing off their music trivia knowledge — and dials it up a few notches. While the two on-stage teams are always filled with musos, comedians, drag queens and other guests, anyone can buy a ticket, sit at a table and answer questions along with them. The quiz element is accompanied by chats about the music industry, plus other mini games involving attendees. Not on Your Rider 2024 Dates: Brisbane: Thursday, April 4 — The Triffid Thursday, May 9 — The Triffid Thursday, June 13 — The Triffid Thursday, August 1 — The Triffid Thursday, September 12 — The Triffid Thursday, October 31 — The Triffid Thursday, December 19 — The Triffid Melbourne: Thursday, April 18 — Brunswick Ballroom Sydney: Sunday, May 5 — Factory Theatre Not on Your Rider's 2024 season runs on various dates until Thursday, December 19 at The Triffid in Brisbane, and on one-off occasions in Sydney and Melbourne. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the Not On Your Rider website. Images: Dave Kan / Bianca Holderness.
It's been 100 years since the art world welcomed an icon with the birth of Jeffrey Smart, who went on to become one of Australia's most celebrated artists. And this summer, the National Gallery of Australia is paying homage to his life and work when it hosts a retrospective exhibition, aptly dubbed Jeffrey Smart. Running from Saturday, December 11–Sunday, May 15, the exhibition will dig deep into the renowned artist's legacy through a major survey of his works. Greatly inspired by the urban environment and the age of industrial modernity, Smart was known for his hyperrealist streetscapes, theatrical stylings and penchant for geometric composition. Vehicles, highways, factories and water towers are common motifs within Smart's art, as are eerily empty streets occupied by solo travellers. The National Gallery of Australia's centenary showcase will feature pieces from throughout his illustrious career and highlight the many varied themes Smart explored via his painting, as well as chronicle his evolution as an artist. Book your timed visit to check out Jeffrey Smart here — it'll be open daily (except Christmas Day). [caption id="attachment_834494" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jeffrey Smart, Wallaroo, 1951, National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, purchased 1959, © The Estate of Jeffrey Smart.[/caption] Top Images: Jeffrey Smart 'Self portrait, Procida', National Gallery of Australia, copyright The Estate of Jeffrey Smart. Jeffrey Smart 'Corrugated Gioconda', National Gallery of Australia, copyright The Estate of Jeffrey Smart.
Winter has a tendency to increase appetites and leave us hankering for good food, good wine and good company (all in large quantities). Whether you're catching up with old friends, celebrating a special occasion or you're simply hungry enough to eat several plates of food in one sitting, the classic banquet is a fantastic option for those wanting to eat a lot of good food for a good price. And thanks to the Suncorp Platinum Credit Card*, you can earn points for every dollar you spend on everyday essentials like that birthday card you should probably get, that bouquet for mum or the dinner you're about to plan. Read on and add these five eateries with set menus to your list — bonus: each spot will cost you less than $100 a head.
When roaming along Given Terrace, Lorna Jane bag in one hand, Fundies tote in the other, trying to pick a cafe to brunch at can be one of the most stressful experiences for any Paddington shopper. This strip is awash in cosmopolitan cafes, yet Tall Short Espresso is the one sit-down or takeaway safety net, where you can go, eat, pay and not feeling like you've been fleeced of quality and cash. Once upon a time Tall Short was a lone nomadic red VW Kombi that popped up around Brisbane serving A-grade coffee at a price that wasn't painful. Now in its fixed position on Given Terrace — just down from the hardware store — Tall Short has given itself an umbrella-shaded sidewalk and cafe-space to move, and boy has it stretched its legs. Whether you want to sit in and have some brekkie, nab a takeaway coffee, overdose on baked goods, or drink until dawn, Tall Short has the goods to deliver. They do the classics excellently; there's avo on toast ($4.50 a slice), croissants ($4 for jam, $6 for ham and cheese), baked beans on sourdough ($6 for one slice, $10 for two) and ham and cheese toastie ($6). If you're really out for a treat, try one of their bagels — the bacon and egg surpasses any other in the area (besides Scout) and their New York bagel is so richly laden in cream cheese it could have any American swooning. There's always a selection of brownies, carrot cakes, muffins and banana bread if you're in the market for something a little sweeter. While the coffee is rich and delicious, the sweetest bit about Tall Short is every cup comes with a gingerbread man — a smiling little bickie that can throw a silver lining around even the most solemn of days. You've got to admire a cafe that adds a little spice to the ordinary, and does it with crunch and smile. And if coffee, gingerbread, cakes and bagels aren't really your scene, Tall Short transforms into a bar Fridays from 5pm, Saturdays from 3pm and Sundays from 2pm. The beer selection is crafty, and the atmosphere is rife with conversation and cheer. Simply put, Tall Short caters to everyone and anything — it's family friendly, open enough to have the wildest of conversations, and dishes up food and coffee in tune with what you would expect from Paddington. If you're ever confused, coffee-starved, and searching the streets of Paddington for a little relief, Tall Short is your answer.
Brisbanites are gifted brag-worthy sunshine and clear skies almost all year around, which makes for perfect outdoor gig and picnic weather. As the site did back in 2018, the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens is letting everyone make the most of Brissie's ace climate with a Gigs & Picnics series. Taking place on the last Saturday of most months — running from 12–4pm on February 23, March 30, April 27, May 25, June 29, July 27, October 26 and November 30, in fact — the event will rustle up some of the city's best food trucks, put on some free tunes and invite folks to get cosy on their own blanket all afternoon. Entering through the main gateway at the intersection of Alice and Albert Streets, attendees can expect everything from jazz and modern reggae to dub and gypsy, all in gorgeous greenery-filled surroundings. You can also order a picnic basket in advance, which'll be there for you on the day. Or, if you're bringing your own feast, just remember that the gardens aren't BYO. Image: Gigs & Picnics. Updated October 21.
Remember the name Becky Lucas. So far, the Brisbane comedian has amassed quite the resume, dominating stages in support slots for the likes of Wil Anderson, Jim Norton and Joel Creasey, flexing her comic writing skills for Please Like Me and Matt Okine's upcoming TV show, serving up a riotous newsletter, and generating some of the best Twitter banter around. And that's just the beginning. So, what comes next? Little Bitch. That's Lucas' latest Brisbane Comedy Festival show, and her second in as many years. If you're after fresh, grassroots standup, this is your jam. This is one of our top picks for this year's Brisbane Comedy Festival. Read the whole list.
The World's 50 Best has just unveiled its long list, ranking the best restaurants in the world from 51 to 120 (expanding, for the first time, beyond 100). And there are quite a few dramatic changes. Melbourne's Attica — which was last year's top ranking Aussie restaurant at number 20 — has dropped 64 places, coming in at 84. Fellow Victorian Brae, which last year ranked 58, has this year missed out on the top 100, coming in at 101. The surprising changes don't seem to have just affected Australia's entries, either, with Eater noting that Thomas Keller's famed NY restaurant Per Se had dropped 35 places, down to 115 from last year's 81. This could mean, in seemingly sad news for Australia, that no national restaurants will feature in the top 50. But, hope is not completely lost. Seeing as it hasn't made an appearance in the long list, the 50 could, possibly, feature Sydney fine-diner Quay. This year will be the first time the restaurant, which has previously featured in the top 100 list nine years in a row between 2009 and 2017, has been reviewed by the World's 50 Best since its extensive renovations in 2018. [caption id="attachment_677791" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Quay by Nikki To[/caption] While the World's 50 Best is exceedingly popular, it's not without controversy. The awards have copped much criticism for prioritising "expensive European-esque tasting-menu restaurants run by men", as stated by Eater, and for its separate 'Best Female Chef' award. Famed chef Dominique Crenn, of the acclaimed Atelier Crenn in San Francisco, won the award in 2016 and has long been critical of the list's lack of diversity. Crenn slammed the female-specific award in an interview with the Washington Post, saying, "It's stupid. A chef is a chef." The late and great Anthony Bourdain also questioned the award's modern-day relevance — way back in 2013. https://twitter.com/Bourdain/status/319441022688051200 The World's 50 Best will be announced at a ceremony in Singapore next Tuesday, June 25. Get ready for some big changes here, too — this year, there will be an equal gender balance across the award's 1000-plus global voting panel for the first time. Plus, the awards have this year barred any former winners from being on the list, so there'll be no Eleven Madison Park nor Osteria Francescana. You can check out the full list of the World's 50 Best top 50–120 restaurants here. The top 50 will be announced on Tuesday, June 25. Top image: Attica
Coachella FOMO is no longer a thing. With its biggest livestream yet, YouTube is solving it in 2023. Sure, you can still wish that you were heading to the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California across April 14–16 and April 21–23. Yes, there's nothing quite like being there in person. But if you're all about seeing the fest's impressive lineup — seeing as much of it as possible, too — this year's Coachella and YouTube collaboration is beaming the entire event around the world. One of the globe's biggest music festivals has been teaming up with the video site for 11 years now. Earlier in 2023, they announced that they've locked in their arrangement till 2026, in fact. So expanding exactly what the Coachella livestream shows, and when, is the next logical step — with 2023's fest covering all six stages across both weekends. This is the first time ever that YouTube's Coachella footage has played the whole fest as it's happening, upping its feeds from three to six. Whoever you want to see — and if you want to catch their sets twice — you now can. 2023's bill is worth getting excited about, with Bad Bunny headlining the Friday nights, BLACKPINK doing the Saturday nights and Frank Ocean on Sunday nights. Down Under, you'll be tuning in on Saturday, Sunday and Monday to catch each, so mark your diaries now. Also on the lineup: a stacked array of acts that also spans everyone from Calvin Harris, Gorillaz, The Chemical Brothers, ROSALÍA and Blondie through to The Kid LAROI, Björk, Fisher, Charlie XCX, Porter Robinson and Idris Elba. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Coachella (@coachella) In-between sets, YouTube will fill its feeds with more on-the-ground coverage, so you'll be able to scope out the art and installations around the fest, head behind the scenes, see how the acts get partying before the hit the stage and more. 2023's set times haven't yet been announced, but keep an eye on Coachella's Instagram feed in the lead up to the festival — and, obviously, bookmark its YouTube channel ASAP. Coachella runs from April 14–16 and April 21–23 at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. To watch the livestream, head to YouTube from 9am AEST on Saturday, April 15 Down Under.
Created specially for Brisbane Festival, Arc is a brand-new dance performance by Australasian Dance Collective. Thirty young dancers will move together, and individually, to express a sense of our common purpose as human beings, which is to strive for purpose and unity — an especially poignant theme at a time after isolation and living through a mass feeling of an unknown future. The world premiere 30-minute performance is free to watch, and will take place at South Bank from 5pm on Friday, September 18 and Saturday, September 19. Created by Australasian Dance Collective's Artistic Director Amy Hollingsworth, the dance features a new score from award-winning composer Wil Hughes. It's suitable for all ages. Image: David Kelly
