The folks at Cheated Hearts are back in full swing for 2014, and are wasting no time getting you back into the groove with another of their infamous parties. Those lovers of hip hop, R’nB and the tunes in between will be treated to a night of DJs spinning the biggest and baddest tracks, designed to lift the roof off the favoured Oh Hello. The likes of Dre, Eminem, Destiny's Child, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, Iggy Azalea, Lil Wayne, Missy Elliott, A$AP Rocky, Azealia Banks and Kanye West (and more) will be on deck, courtesy of Nikk-C, Jane Doe, Dotwav, The Gatling Gun and Cvlt Teens. If that wasn’t enough to keep you sweet, there will be free fairy floss and popcorn a-plenty. The culture creatives over at Cheated Hearts know what you want, and how to defy expectations; head along from 9pm for a night that will breathe new life into your Sketchers and tube tops, and leave reservations at the door.
Catching the Brisbane Heat in action is the perfect match for a warm summer evening, with Sunday, December 22 welcoming the Adelaide Strikers to town. With the Heat achieving the ultimate glory in last season's Big Bash League, securing a win over the Strikers will put them in good stead for another championship victory. You and your pals can give them a helpful hand from the stands alongside thousands of other passionate supporters.
Craving a trip to Tokyo? We've got the next best thing. All you need is a whiff of a cherry blossom tree (hot tip: they usually bloom in early spring in Brisbane Botanic Gardens Mt Coot-tha) and a quick browse of the Harajuku Gyoza menu. These Japanese dumplings come in sets of five, and you can choose from flavours including pork and prawn or grilled lemongrass chicken with a ginger and spring onion dressing. Throw in a serve of salted edamame and a cup of piping-hot miso soup and South Bank can become Shibuya in no time. Don't fret if your chopstick skills aren't worth flexing — these gyozas are perfectly fork-friendly. Image: Tim Ireland.
Plenty about the past couple of years has felt dystopian, but that isn't stopping one West End spot from indulging in an annual tradition. That'd be Archive Beer Boutique's signature event, its craft beer fest Armakeggon, which returns on Saturday, August 17. Obviously, the bar will still be around long after the shindig is over. It isn't the end times on Boundary Street. Head along, though, and you'll find a lineup extra-special beverages being poured through the establishment's taps until your beer-loving heart is content. Expect both new and rare brews, plus old favourites, too. For those after more than an out-of-the-ordinary drop of the yeasty good stuff, there'll also be games throughout the day, as well as live music providing a soundtrack. Entry is free from 11.30am, or you can nab a $35 VIP ticket to head in early at 10am and get sipping before the event opens to the general public. The paid option also includes a tasting paddle with four brews, plus a bacon and egg roll to line your stomach. Images: Archive Beer Boutique.
Don't just walk through inner-city Brisbane with your head buried in your phone. Across parts of the CBD — including Howard Smith Wharves and Fish Lane; Eagle Lane, Irish Lane, Edison Lane, Giffin Lane and Hutton Lane; Ann, Queen and Elizabeth streets; and the King George Square car park — Brisbane City Council's Outdoor Gallery wants your attention. Don't just people-watch when you're strolling along either, then, because you've got art to check out. This opportunity to celebrate creativity isn't new but it's still going strong, changing its exhibitions every few months or so. Paradise Gloss is the latest, and it too is a celebration of creativity — and play, as filling laneways, streets, lightboxes and car parks under the curation of Laura Brinin. Until Sunday, November 3, 2024, you can check out works by 14 artists, including Rachel Burke, Bonnie Hislop, Sunday Jemmott, Jessica Nothdurft, Frances Powell and Susan Lincoln. Some are Brisbane locals. Some hail from around the country. All are assisting make the River City more vibrant. In some spots, you'll see colourful artworks. In others, you'll spy something more sculptural. Either way, this exhibition and the Outdoor Gallery initiative means that it's always worth keeping your eyes peeled while wandering around.
Unfortunately, the art of letter writing is nearly extinct. Can you remember the last time you sat down and wrote a thoughtful and carefully constructed letter to a friend expressing your innermost feelings in beautiful prose? No, neither can I. In this day and age it's much easier to text, email, call, instant message, post on someone's wall, Skype and the list goes on. After last years success, The Zoo is once again hosting the event, Men of Letters, to celebrate the charming art-form of letter writing. This Sunday Michaela McGuire and Marieke Hardy, co-curators of the event, will bring together a mixed bag of gentlemen all of whom were asked to pen a letter to 'The Woman Who Changed My Life'. Speakers include actor Lucas Stibbard, host of ABC Conversations Richard Fidler, manager of Regurgitator Paul Curtis and author John Birmingham, amongst many others. Be sure to make a booking for this special event. As well as listening to the humorous, heart-warming and inspiring letters, attendees are also invited to stay for a glass of wine and to create their only short notes. The cherry on the top of this delightful afternoon – all funds raised go to non-profit organisation, Edgar's Mission.
The prestigious Nikon-Walkely Awards recognise the very best photojournalists of the past year and celebrate the full range of human emotion and experiences. Photos include depictions of daily life, photographic essays, sport and portraiture. This exhibition showcases magnificent photos that have the ability to stir emotion in the viewer. The exhibition and competition is in its 12th year at Brisbane Powerhouse and has maintained its standard of excellence. From January 17th to Monday 25th February, the Powerhouse will host over 100 works by the short-listed photojournalists. Spend an afternoon wandering through the exhibition and revisit all of the key moments of 2012. The art of photojournalism is to capture both a special moment and an emotion and this captivating. Be sure to see the work of these talented photojournalists at our stunning Powerhouse.
So Frenchy So Chic is a celebration of all things fabulous and French. The Powerhouse is hosting this magnifique event and will be showcasing some of France's best musical talents. This Thursday will feature the former singer of the successful Nouvelle Vague, Melanie Pain. This gorgeous French singer serenades audiences with her bewitching voice. Pain is no stranger to Australia and has toured the country both as a solo songstress and as part of Nouvelle Vague a grand total of ten times. Her sound is typified by gorgeous vintage synths and bouncy beats. Next on the bill is songbird Carmen Maria Vega who is known for her captivating stage presence and unique sound of gypsy jazz. Vega's sound is a mix of old time class with a modern, sexy flair. Head to the gorgeous Powerhouse for an entertaining evening of French music performed by two of the country's impressive female musicians.
For the first time in Australia comes the interactive and cerebral dance theatre performance that is ‘Capital’. All the way from Slovenia for the Brisbane Festival, the work is a comment on consumerism and all its forms, performed and choreographed by Tina Dobaj Eder and Gregor Kamnikar. The performance will also include local guest performers and a live musician; such a rare partnership between Australian and Slovenian artists is highly anticipated, more so due to its non-traditional theatre format—the audience and the performers share the same space. Overall, it seeks to question, change and expose the consequences of capitalism. There are a host of shows being presented over its season, and group discounts are available when purchasing tickets. Be sure to get in quick – there is plenty of buzz surrounding this intriguing and immersive experience.
All-round funny guys and stars of the American sketch show, 'Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!' are in Brisbane for one night at The Tivoli. On their first trip to Australia, the comedic duo will be performing recognisable and much loved characters from their television series as well as sharing other jokes. The pair have worked with well known comedians on 'Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job!' such as, Will Ferrell, Zach Galifianakis and John C. Reily. Expect a night of fun as the twosome have prepared endless belly laughs for their audience. Sketches will range from songs, poetry and videos that will have you in stitches. Tim and Eric will also be making an appearance after the shows for signings, giving fans an opportunity to meet and greet. Grab your tickets now and get ready for a night of giggles at The Tivoli this Thursday.
The Iranian Film Festival Australia has returned for its second year to The Brisbane Powerhouse and aims to showcase the best in modern Iranian cinema. This years feature film, Ali Mosaffa's The Last Step ponders the heartbreak of lost love. Other stunning films that will be showcased include the award-winning, Facing Mirrors, a movie about challenging social expectations as it tells the story of transgender Adinah who crosses paths with Rana, a young mother working as a taxi driver while her husband is in jail. The Iranian Film Festival also offers discussions, seminars as well as a long list of films that span the genres, such as comedies and drama. The films are directed and feature actors who are both fresh to the film industry and established professionals. Immerse yourself in Iranian film and culture for this 3 day festival.
With over 500 shows under their belt, the Japandroids are known for being something special on stage. Rumours circulated about their electric vibe at Laneway earlier this year, where the band hinted at a subsequent Australian tour. The time has come for this high-energy duo from Vancouver to fulfil that pledge with a series of intimate shows in August and September. in 2009 they almost disbanded following the release of Post-Nothing. Revived at the last minute by a sudden surge in popularity, they have gone on to produce another album, titled Celebration Rock in 2012, which further bolstered their reputation for pumping out an engaging style of garage rock. After being saved by their fans, the Japandroids seem bent on repaying each and every one with as many good vibrations as they can muster in a show. The guitarist Brian King has even said he consciously writes in the first-person-pluralto further engage the audience.
If you haven’t caught on yet, full-sized, over-priced gloss prints with the prefix 'maga' are dead. The 21st Century is all about periodic papers printed from the family HP, loosely stapled and lined with independent art, writings and everything original – aka zines. If you haven’t familiarised yourself with the world of cult comics, independent publications or zines yet, you’d really best pop down to the Zine and Indie Comic Symposium at The Edge this weekend to learn about this ever developing craft. The fully-booked auditorium will hold some of our biggest local talents with their prints/pride and joys in hand as well as some tasty bargains and original art work for sale throughout the day - check out the full event program here. The weekend will begin, as all great weekends do, with a Friday party at The Edge, with live music, awards, and three live Scribble Slams – a competition that combines paint, speed and WWE. Burn your corporate-owned Bazaar, head to The Edge and get behind the local creatives all about doin’ it for themselves.
While some seem set on proclaiming that “the written word is dead” it makes this type of event even sweeter. Atavist Books are having their first birthday party, and you’re all invited. They’re teaming up with Sunday Social, who are celebrating their own terrible twos, for an evening of bands, books and boisterousness. Both of the hosts are promoting discounts and generally good times on Winn Lane. No bookings, tickets or reservations required. At Sunday Social you can pick up the rare and vintage treat, so when paired with their bookish party buds, you can bet on picking up a bargain at their shindig.
Lost Movements is back again at Brisbane's Coniston Lane. The event is designed to showcase upcoming Brisbane artists from a range of creative disciplines. Catch sets by musicians such as Desmond Cheese, Silas and the Seasons and Tony and Emma Dean. Art work will also be showcased as well as Burlesque performances. This is the third event for Lost Movements and the second time it has been held at Coniston Lane. The previous events have been wonderful successes and have drawn both a diverse crowd and performers. The artists featured at Lost Movements are motivated, passionate and eager to share their creativity with you. Lost Movements is a not for profit artist run initiative that focuses on assisting and supporting young, emerging artists, performers and musicians. Head along for a great afternoon jam-packed with talent!
Brisbane trio, Avaberée are eager to release their debut single Lover of Mine at The Hideaway this Thursday night. Their beautifully produced single is three minutes of infectious pop at its classiest. Elegant and sweet harmonies infused with electronic textures makes Lover of Mine the type of tune that circles around your head for days - in a good way. The track is artfully layered and uses the human voice in a unique and experimental manner. Avaberée's original music is unparalleled as the girls use their individual musical strengths to create something special. Aimee, Genevieve and Irena are the songstresses that comprise Avaberée. Their years of onstage experience, charming stage presence and obvious love of music makes their performances a joy to watch. The girls have supported big acts such as Matt Corby, Emma Louise and Tin Sparrow. These songbirds are rightfully proud of their single Lover of Mine, taken from their forthcoming EP (2013) and are excited to share it with you. Head along to the Valley's cutest watering hole, The Hideaway for a night of beautiful music.
It has been 23 years since Australian audiences have been visited by Rick Astley, and now fans can reacquaint themselves when he returns to The Tivoli. It is the pop hits of the ‘80s that catapulted Rick Astley into international stardom, with classics such as “Whenever You Need Somebody” and “Together Forever” holding him in good stead in the UK Top 10 charts. That was until the release of his ultimate success with the song “Never Gonna Give You Up” which not only soared to number 1 in 25 countries, it became an internet phenomenon by means of the classic “Rickroll” – the official video for which has been viewed over 55 million times online. It is the power of the internet and the maintained affection for Rick Astley that brought him back into the spotlight in 2008, and his reignited passion for live performances is bringing him to Brisbane.
Daddy’s Girl, Mackenzie, is settling in for an afternoon of dress-ups with her best friend and sister-from-another-mister, Kim. The only problem is that Mackenzie’s annoying little brother Heath is hanging around like a bad smell, and so is his forever-running nose. When Heath’s sniffing and snotting becomes too much, the girls decide to take action and devise a spell to turn him into... a girl! However, things go awry when the girls find the spell backfiring and themselves transported inside Heath’s gooey nose. As they dig around for clues to their way out, the girls are met by a bunch of crazy characters and obstacles, including a gigantic finger that keeps coming in for a pick! La Boite is getting sticky with Shake & Stir Theatre Co to create “Out Damn Snot”, a new show especially for kids of all ages. It’s based loosely on Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and tightly squeezed into a family-friendly, disgustingly delightful tale that’s sure to be yet another box office hit for the talented crew.
The Silly Season brings a whole heap of perks such as endless ham, gorgeous summer weather and enough sport to keep you entertained for days. From 30 December – 6 January the cream of the crop of the tennis world will be in Brisbane to battle it out at the Brisbane International 2013. Head to the Queensland Tennis Centre to see the superstars doing what they do best. This arena has previously hosted the likes of Andy Murray, Serena Williams, Kim Clijsters and Sam Stosur so you know you're in for a great show. The Brisbane International 2013 will give tennis buffs and idea of who to watch this season. Catch all of the drama and talent in a front row seat as the players give it their all.
Performing this Thursday at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, are Triple J’s 2009 unearthed winners, The Jezabels. Having rested for the last couple of months following their appearances at the Big Day Out festivals and their tour of the States throughout March, you can find them embarking on their latest national tour. For a relatively new band they have managed to cram a lot of accolades into a short career. Their debut LP went gold and reached number 2 in the ARIA charts, was subsequently nominated for the ARIA, APRA and AIR awards, and received the album of the year for the 2011 Rolling Stone Awards. They also achieved top ten success in this year’s Hottest 100. No mean feat for the three year old group! Supporting them for this tour are Unearthed winners and Triple J alumni, Snakadaktal. Already receiving significant airplay and a following to match, this band is part of the next crop of up and coming Aussie talent. With the repertoire and ability these two bands possess, it should undoubtedly be a show worth seeing.
When you think of vibrators, 'charming' probably isn't the first word that comes to mind. It may not even feature in the top hundred. In fact, 'charming' has probably never been used in that context at all, yet Tanya Wexler's film about the invention of the vibrator is precisely that: charming. Set in 1880, it follows the young Doctor Mortimer Granville (Hugh Dancy) and his unsuccessful attempts to modernise medicine against ardent resistance from the old establishment. This was, after all, Victorian England — an era when bacteria were still just theoretical, phrenology was well-respected, and women were considered neither capable of, nor interested in, sexual gratification. Shunned by the profession, Granville ends up in the employ of Dr Robert Dalrymple (Jonathan Pryce), an elderly physician using the unlikely method of clitoral stimulation to 'treat' women of their so-called 'hysteria'. Reeking of misogyny, hysteria was the convenient diagnostic catch-all for every unsightly or erratic female act, be it the mildest melancholia or the most extreme necrophilia. Unsurprisingly, Dalrymple's niche practice soon grows in popularity as the duo unwittingly perfect their 'treatment', and it's necessity rather than ingenuity that drives Granville to invent what will eventually become the world's bestselling sex toy. Hysteria is all tremendously light fare, playing for laughs whenever possible and leaving it entirely up to Maggie Gyllenhaal's character, Charlotte (Dalrymple's rebellious and progressive daughter), to address issues of class disparity, sexual inequality, and the overall prudishness that defined the time. Rupert Everett plays a wonderful supporting role as Granville's eccentric and wealthy benefactor, and Wexler does a wonderful job of keeping the subject matter amusing instead of awkward. It's a remarkable (and true) period piece played out with the cheekiness and charm of an Oscar Wilde play. So much so that you could take your mum along and not cringe even once. https://youtube.com/watch?v=_alb352gqAk
After spending the last three years touring the world, writing new material, and occasionally indulging in some spare time, the five likely lads from Perth’s Karnivool have just embarked on their Melodias Frescas tour, gracing us with their presence this coming Sunday at the Hifi. Having recently been bunkered down in a studio working on new material, the band have emerged, promising their devoted legion of fans a swag of new tunes to be showcased on the upcoming shows. Of course however, the finest of the back catalogue will also be on offer for the more curious concert goers. Game ready from jaunts at European, Asian and Indian music festivals, the show promises to be a blissful, audible assault on the senses. So you can be sure that you will still be humming the tunes and tapping your feet for days after.
Following successful shows in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra, Love Vintage is finally coming to Brisbane for its inaugural clothing show at the Brisbane Convention Centre. The event runs from Friday evening to Sunday, featuring quality vintage fashion and original couture from beaded flapper dresses and ‘30s glamour to revolutionary swinging ‘60s minis and ‘80s retro. Vintage and antique dealers from across Australia will be selling clothing for men and women, fine and costume jewellery dating from 1900, as well as sewing patterns to recreate your own vintage-inspired looks at home. There will also be inspirational demonstrations and ‘how to’ masterclasses. On Saturday, Australia’s premier vintage stylist Candice DeVille will be running a 3-hour workshop on mastering your own vintage style. And on Sunday, stage demonstrations and masterclasses include vintage make-up and hair styles, how to create your own vintage weddings and putting the elegance back into 21st century glamour. Tickets need to be bought in advance for masterclasses, which range from $80-$86 including goodie bags and a glass of bubbly on arrival.
Live music outpost Black Bear Lodge will again host its wild and audacious Jazz Party Tuesday event this week. The popular monthly party, curated by local barbershop trio The Melotonins, takes inspiration from the infamous jazz parties of Jack Kerouac’s beat generation. A loosely formatted affair, Jazz Party Tuesday will see local jazz veteran Evan Mackenzie lead a group through numbers inspired by immortal gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt. Other jazz musicians including The Melotonins will perform on the main stage or around the house piano while vinyl from jazz’s golden age is spun during interludes. The event’s climax comes in the form of a raucous free-for-all jam that will burn well into the early hours of the morning. Musicians and music fans are all encouraged to come along, sink a gin and reimagine the glory years of jazz.
Oh, the things that creative couples can do! Jon Hamm and his partner Jennifer Westfeldt may be the latest amazingly talented pairing on the Hollywood scene, hopefully with a lot less drama than those we read about in the gossip rags. Hamm, the loveable face we've come to know from Mad Men, once again gets to show off his comedy chops in Friends with Kids, not to mention also take a producer credit on the film. But it's Westfeldt who steals the show, writing, directing, and starring in this very interesting rom-com about having children that manages to leave out the schmaltz. Julie (Westfeldt) and Jason (the very funny Adam Scott) have been friends since college days and share absolutely everything with each other, except themselves. While all their friends are coupling up and deciding to have children, they are continually searching for 'the one' that they can finally settle down with and procreate. After seeing their friends' marriages deteriorate at the arrival of children, however, they decide to go for parenthood as friends so as not to kill the romance. While the path to your typical Hollywood rom-com is crazy clear with this plot description, the journey there isn't. The characters are witty, real, and very well-crafted for screen. Relationships in pain and the reality of having children and how it changes you are very clearly and thoughtfully portrayed without always going for the easy comic route. While this film may only particularly reach an audience at the time in their lives when all their friends are having children, there's enough fiery banter along the lines of a slightly more crass Chandler Bing coming from Scott and Westfeldt that most viewers will find something to laugh at. The film is not without fault; it is slightly long in places, and it's unclear why they get Chris O'Dowd to do an American accent when he quite clearly can't. But with a spectacular support cast that might as well be a reunion special for Bridesmaids, this could be the Bridget Jones's Diary meets Knocked Up of the teens. Read about the history of relationships on screen, and what they say about us.
If Brisbane is good for one thing, it's breeding top-notch, a-grade artists. Our local art scene is bustling, with artists, such as Shida, making it big on the international scene from humble Brisbane beginnings. Local artists Dan McCabe and Mitchell Donaldson, co-founders of Addition Artist-Run Initiative, have well and truly bolted themselves on Brisbane's healthy list of emerging talented artists. Interrogating notions of form, stasis and presence surrounding memorial practices, Donaldson’s work gently dives into the potential of subtle interventions to unmake found objects and images. McCabe, on the other hand, encourages his viewers to approach his compositions that mold the preconceived understandings of an image, with great scrutiny by altering their own material and visual stability. Their latest exhibition, Seeing Things, will present a wide variety of new work from both these provoking artists. Indeed, it is the creative partnership between the two that ensures the rigorous critiquing of each other's work and practices, in turn creating work, and an exhibition, nothing short of perfection.
Ever wished you were a fly on the wall at a rock star after-party? How about being part of the action? Fallen star Uta Uber Kool Ja (aka Melbourne actor Georgina Symes) is inviting you to one of her raucous hotel room soirees. The “almost-was” Uta and her assistant George will be hosting an intimate, decadent and revealing party in her glamorous Holiday Inn penthouse suite (that’s right, with harbour views). As the champagne flows, so too do Uta’s stories, party games and meltdowns. There may also be some nudity, dancing and a little dress up... and Uta feels better if everyone gets involved. Uta Uber Kool Ja is immersive theatre at its most up-front and personal: expect to get down and get loose, party people. With rave reviews from the Melbourne and Adelaide Fringe Festivals, it'd be wise to book in advance.
Experience everything India has on offer at Brisbane's week-long Encounters Festival. Let the tantalising tastes and aromas of fresh, handmade food tease you while fall in love with the sounds of a solo sitar. Southbank will be transformed for seven days from early morning till midnight with vibrant colours and exquisite Indian imagery. Seasoned India-lovers and adventorous armchair-travellers will be able to immerse themselves in bursts of Bollywood, fragrances and myriad musical styles through more than 50 concerts and masterclasses. From film buffs to self-proclaimed food critics, the Encounters Festival Program will have an activity and event for every taste, interest and generation. For the music lovers, opera, orchestras and world-class solosist. For families and children, free community events in the Parklands. And for those who can handle the hottest of spices, an adventure through some of the best restaurants and cafes. Join the bustling parade of Indian celebration and experience at this year's Encounters Festival.
“Is love a tender thing? It is too rough, too rude, too boisterous, and it pricks like thorn.” A Tender Thing, the 90 minute tale of love and sacrifice, is the achingly beautiful retelling of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Superbly crafted by British playwright Ben Power, it celebrates Shakespeare’s relevance to a contemporary audience, this time transformed into the tale of two older lovers. This play was first commissioned and premiered by the Royal Shakespeare Company in 2009, and featured in the World Shakespeare Festival at Stratford in 2012. It’s not often that a highly celebrated and influential play comes to our home town, and this one in particular is ideal for a wide audience. School groups are welcome to attend as part of their own studies, just as older attendees are invited to re-experience this timeless classic, where “language [is] made fresh” – The Stage. Discounts are available for preview sessions, as well as groups of 10+ people and school groups. Check on the website for more details.
Never again will you have the opportunity to witness a collaboration like this. One part, a man whose musical exploration and creativity has made him one of our finest exports; the other, a just as renowned pianist whose music transcends time and space to create something rather enigmatic. They are Mike Cooper and Chris Abrahams and they are teaming up to show off their new work at The Box. The Necks' pianist Chris Abrahams is one of Australia's most revered composers, with his latest record, Memory Light, being one of his most complex and haunting to date. Abrahams' appearance will mark his first solo performance in Australia in nearly two years. His counterpart, Mike Cooper, is just as widely recognised as one of Australia's best. Cooper's rock-solid songwriting in both the folk and blues genres has made him one of Australia's most respected artists, especially since the release of his 2004 Rayon Hula. Celebrate the launch of Abrahams' Memory Light and Cooper's White Shadows of the South Seas in this highly anticipated night of mesmerizing groove. https://youtube.com/watch?v=Bnm7KBtq53I
Under her stage name of Cat Power, US musician Chan Marshall has established herself as one of those real rarities in music nowadays — an original. Trying to categorise her music is difficult, especially as it has evolved ever since her debut in 1993. Calling it 'her take on soul' or 'her brand of indie' is unjust since nothing she makes feels try-hard — it all feels real. From the sparse, haunting melodic indie of 'Cross Bones Style' to the uplifting blues of 'Lived In Bars' to the discordant R&B of 'Cherokee', Chan is always unmistakably unique. Her 2012 release Sun is her first album of original material in over six years. With increasing onstage confidence (and her notorious onstage meltdowns a thing of the past) Chan's more striking stage presence matches her powerful voice. https://youtube.com/watch?v=PDbPrOuXq2s
Have your finger firmly on the pulse of fashion by attending the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Festival hosted by the newly renovated City Hall. In its eighth year, the festival brings a sneak peek of new Spring/Summer trends and collections to the runway and maintains its position as one of the most coveted events of the year for Brisbane fashionistas. Catch new-season showcases by designers such as Ellery, Charlie Brown, Tengdahl, sass & bide, Wayne Cooper and Sacha Drake amongst a bevy of other big names. The festival is filled with fun fashion events that would have any trend-setting squealing with delight. Standouts include A conversation about 'Queensland Style', Emerging Designer Shows, Napoleon Perdis Top 5 Looks and Bridal Shows plus many more. Tickets start as low as $25 but are sure to be snapped up quickly.
The humble “selfie” seems so common and widespread that it is rarely given thought to. However, to artists and philosophers, it is a continuation of the traditional practices of self-portraiture, and so can help represent the progressions in medium, technology and therefore attitude and cultural norms. A collection of artists, including Dana Lawrie, Lee Lombardi, Nicola Scott and Tyza Stewart, will merge their own works in order to closely examine what a contemporary self-portrait entails. These artists will question, push boundaries and redefine how a person can visually represent themselves, as well as look at what it means to live within and experience a body in today’s world. This is an exhibition that is sure to produce more questions than answers, and shall hopefully make you see yourself from a different perspective, and consider how others perceive themselves.
What is Everyday Magic? No… It’s not Ricky Martin’s jawline. It’s not Velcro. Why, it’s not even Mos Burger. Everyday Magic are those simple things that make life just a little more dreamy, as well as QAGOMA's latest, and most blissed exhibition to date. As an embodiment of John Cage’s remark ‘beauty is now underfoot wherever we take the trouble to look’, Everyday Magic is all about seeking gratitude, appreciation and thanksgiving in a materialist world. The free exhibit holds a collection of art that reflects everyday materials and situations in a way which is humbly enchanting, so that we can see the magic in our lives. While it may sound a tad meta, the focus on transformation from the simplest presences is the foundation of a collection of work that transcends the raw establishments of everyday to expose something quite complex. Everyday Magic will be open from the 7th of September to the 16th of March next year, so give it a go and hopefully become a more conscious person in the act. It'll at least be a little more riveting than a bunch of quilts.
Presented by the Walkley Foundation, the Nikon-Walkley Slide Night is a celebration of those whose passions and talents lie in photography. The Walkley Foundation aims to support and encourage professional and ethical practices in journalism, and rewards excellence within the Australian media. Whether you are a member of the artisan community or industry, a beginner or professional, or simply an admirer, this night is for you. For those who know their way around a camera, you are invited to submit your work for showcase on the evening, in front of an enamoured audience and media representatives. The winner, chosen by those in attendance, will receive a $1,500 Nikon voucher. This event is free to attend, but please indicate your interest to walkleys@walkleys.com.
Happy Birthdays were in order at Southside Tea Room last week, with the small venue celebrating it's first year of operation, and reigning supreme as one of Brisbane's trendiest little cafe bars. Remarkably too, in twelve months they've proved to Brisbane they don't settle for less than top shelf when it comes to hosting gigs – connect the dots and you'll realise The Good Sports fit Southside Tea Room's mold quite snuggly. Nash, Jake, Andre, Liam and Lily are the geezers that make up this boppy little rock'n'roll band. Their 60s inspired sound and same era inspired look makes for a welcome alternative, grunge rock revival for the Brisbane music scene. The only way they could become cooler would be for them to add a sitar to the mix, wear matching sweaters and bring home-made quiches to their gigs. For now though, let's just say if David Boon, Wally Lewis and Thorpey had as much musical ability as they did sporting talent, they'd still be pressed making a funkier sound than The Good Sports.
One scrap of detail sums up much about the new Superman reboot, Man of Steel: He doesn't wear underpants. The 75-year-old character's red underwear, worn on the outside, is among the silliest ensembles ever dreamed up, but it's also iconic. To take on the role of Superman is sometimes called 'donning the red underpants' for that reason. The modern Superman interpreter can go one of two ways with this: 1. Keep the red undies, finding a self-aware spin on old anachronisms (we'll call this the 'Marvel way'), or 2. Ignore the undies, because contemporary superheroing is serious business (aka the Dark Knight way). So when you see Henry Cavill on the promo posters, looking pretty and pumped and decidedly sans contrast knickers, you should have a fair idea of what kind of Superman you're in for. And sure enough, it's Dark Knight's Christopher Nolan and David S Goyer who are behind this story, along with director Zack Snyder (Sucker Punch, Watchmen). The costume is not the only beloved bit of camp that's gone: this Clark Kent is not yet trying to keep up his dorky cover as a Daily Planet reporter, and this Lois Lane (Amy Adams) won't be unable to recognise him just because he puts on some specs (that last change, at least, is way overdue). Of the sprawling Superman mythos, Man of Steel tries to fit in the origin story and the bit immediately after. It opens on Krypton, as the planet is being torn apart following the over-mining of its natural resources (relevance!). General Zod (Michael Shannon) has also chosen this time for a military coup. Baby Kal-El's father, Jor-El (Russell Crowe), and mother, Lara (Ayelet Zurer), save him — and, with him, they hope, Kryptoniankind — by putting him on a shuttle bound for Earth. We next see Kal-El as a young man, drifting around the globe trying to find clues as to his real identity. In a spaceship buried in the Arctic, he finds the answers, recounted to him in detail by a hologram of his father. It's all ready-made, including his suit, and the film quickly moves on to its bulkier second part: The hero working out whether his place is with the human or the alien. And General Zod is on his way back from the Phantom Zone to help with that quandary, by invading Earth. Ahead of the screening, I thought there was no way the Dark Knight approach could work for Superman. Or any approach, nearly; he's a hard character to make interesting. He's not conflicted, he doesn't have a dark side and he's not funny. He's never going to have a battle 'with himself' or one that's morally ambiguous. His powers are perfect. He has no hubris. Like Captain America, he's just kinda lame. As it happens, the team does surprisingly well with portions of the material. They find an involving moral question without descending into darkness, and their 'scientific' explanations of a lot of the mythology work well. Cavill is super-handsome but also reasonably charismatic, which is the more important draw. In many ways, this is the strongest Superman reboot for a long time. Unfortunately, the story manages to be both rushed and overlong — because Clark finds the tell-all hologram in 30 minutes, there is no sense that he's struggled. The pace, afterwards, is flat. But Man of Steel has a bigger problem: director Snyder has no taste. Again and again, he's come up with some amazing visual styling and action sequences, but he doesn't know when to say stop. When to pull back. The fight scenes between super-strong characters, who destroy rows of buildings with a single punch, are repeated to the point of exhaustion. The final battle should have been two battles earlier. Lois isn't a 'strong female character'; she's superhuman herself. Exposition is heavy. It's all very loud. So there you go: a Superman with both strengths and weaknesses. It's rumoured an Avengers-style team-up of dour DC heroes will follow, which isn't hugely thrilling. But with his own sequel, this Man of Steel could yet firm up.
Ah, Go Violets, you make our hearts flutter. With their surf-rock goodness and babin' good looks, it's impossible to not fall for this all girl quartet. Head to Jet Black Cat Music for the Brisbane band's latest musical offering. Join Go Violets on Thursday night to celebrate the girls' debut EP, Heart Slice, and pick up a copy for yourself. In the meantime, listen to its tracks such as Josie, Teenager and Runner. Heart slice is filled with cheerful and irresistibly catchy chorus' with honest lyrics. These girls always put on an entertaining show and their love of music oozes into their performances. Go Violets are destined for big things so make sure you get your hot little hands on a copy of their debut EP while you can. What's more, this is one for all ages.
What event can guarantee a multi-country experience over a short span of time that isn’t a Contiki tour? If you guessed the World Theatre Festival, you were right! Put stamps on all the pages of your cultural passport (not your real one, that’s probably not legal) at the Powerhouse, which, for ten days, promises to bring sights and sounds to the stage that will appease everyone, from theatre buffs to first-time theatre-travelers. From the whiskey-fueled broken tunes of The Suitcase Royale to performances by Il Pixel Rosso that claim to engage all of your senses at once, it’ll be hard to find something in the World Theatre Festival program that you couldn’t enjoy. For those who prefer to be in the spotlight, there are ways for you to explore the theatre world even further – Motus Masterclass deconstructs the processes used in creating the internationally acclaimed work of Theatre Motus. Get inspired and influenced by the World Theatre Festival before they pack their bags and leave to their next destination.
Over the last two decades Zen Zen Zo have stapled their reputation as one of Australia's premiere physical theatre ensembles. The company's style and methods, inspired greatly from various Asian and European avant guard theatre, give audiences wondrous spectacles of light, movement and sound. Given their quirk for re-inventing classical tales, there's no doubt this new production will give anything less. Vikram the Vampire is a tale of adventure , seduction and madness. Adapted from the award winning production, The King and the Corpse and developed from a collection of Hindu tales, the story follows King Vikram and his journey to deliver a vampire to the evil sorcerer, Shantil. The adventure spirals off into different universes as the vampire, in an attempt to escape Vikram, begins to tell tales that spring to life around them. The voices of the dead and conjured pull Vikram in as he tries to decipher what is real and what is the workings of his own unstable mind. Brisbane audiences should anticipate something a little different, as this production with be the first endeavour of new directors Michael Futcher and Helen Howard. With it's epic plot and Zen Zen Zo's disposition for the intense and eccentric, Vikram and the Vampire is sure to be a captivating performance. Take a trip to the weird and wonderful and grab your tickets while they're still available.
Do your visits to the Sunshine Coast usually revolve around hitting the beach? If so, you're only seeing part of what this Queensland region has to offer. Make a date with the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden in Tanawha until Sunday, October 17, and you can soak in the other side of the Sunny Coast's natural splendour — and see an art exhibition designed to make a statement. At Final Call, six installations have taken up residence among the garden. Accordingly, you'll mosey around, rove your eyes over the greenery-filled scenery and look at creative pieces. And, whey you spot the artworks, you'll be peering at items created in designed to contemplate climate change. The roll call of Queensland artists involved is impressive, with Robert Andrew, Courtney Coombs, Caitlin Franzmann, Courtney Scheu and Itamar Freed all contributing, as well as Judy Watson with Tor Maclean and Aunty Helena Gulash. Checking out Final Call is free, with the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden open daily from 9am–5pm.
Like beer? Like monsters? Like your brews named after creepy critters, with bottle, can and label artwork to match? Horror-loving drinkers, there's never been a better time to pair your beverages with your fondness for all things scary — but Saturday, October 23 will be even better than usual thanks to Netherworld's Monster Menagerie Beer Festival. The returning event will bring together eight yeasty tipples, strange creatures and stellar collaborations, all for a day of boozing fun. And if you're wondering why it takes place in October, just think about it for a second. 'Tis the month of Halloween, after all. Everyone from Revel Brewing Co to 3 Ravens to Soapbox Beer will be involved, with Netherworld serving up blood orange-spiced witbiers, mulled stouts, spiced pumpkin ales and more. Entry is free, but a tasting paddle will cost you $35 for a sip of each and every one of these beastly beers, as well as a limited edition enamel pin and ten game tokens.
We're all guilty of sometimes fantasising about doing something different while at work. Whether your notebook is filled with shoe sketches or that yoga retreat has you seriously rethinking your potential to teach a downward dog, taking your daydream from go to whoa can can be confusing. And, as much as a theatrical arms-in-the-air-storm-out-on-a-whim from your job scene might be appealing, it might be worth getting tips from those in the know. That way, you can learn from those who've done it before and make sure you turn your side hustle into a success (and not have to return to your old job with your tail between your legs). On Wednesday, May 26, head to Queensland University of Technology's Education Precinct for an inspirational and educational day at the Accelerator for Enterprising Women Summit in partnership with QUT Entrepreneurship. The talk is targeted to female-identifying entrepreneurs aged 18–24 wanting to turn their passion into a full-blown profession. Connect with like-minded people and hear from other women in business who'll be discussing the ever-important idea of how to get people talking about your business. Guests include tinsel maven and designer Rachel Burke, Zest Robotics founder Sarah Eisenmenger and CEO of Queensland AI Hub, Dr. Sue Keay. To finish off, you can get involved in a workshop to prepare and refine your entry for the National Kickstarter Challenge where you could score some much-needed seed funding to take your idea from thought to thing. For more information and to register to attend — both in person and online — visit the website here.
If you've ever tumbled outta bed, stumbled to the kitchen, then felt like you're pouring yourself a cup of ambition, you know exactly what Dolly Parton was singing about in her 1980 hit '9 to 5'. You clearly know the lyrics, too, as everyone should. The song accompanied a biting comedy about office life, which has rightly become one of the go-to movies on the topic — and the film is one of the flicks on the bill at the Gallery of Modern Art's new work-focused free cinema program. Between Friday, May 21–Wednesday, June 30, All in a Day's Work will explore films about making a living. The lineup features an eclectic bunch of titles, reflecting the long list of different ways that we can all spend our days. Catching the 9 to 5 and Working Girl double on the program's opening night is highly recommended, as is revisiting Frances Ha's take on quarter-life malaise, delving into Sorry to Bother You's corporate savagery, getting spirited away by Kiki's Delivery Service and diving into Parasite's class clashes. The selection of stellar movies about the daily grind keeps going from there, including classics such as 1948's Bicycle Thieves and 1960's The Apartment — and the Charlie Chaplin-starring Modern Times, too. Plus, if you haven't yet seen The Assistant, which takes place across one day inside the office of a hotshot filmmaking producer, that's on the bill as well. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeISaoQDh2g
Like commemorating the birth and life of famous figures? Like multicultural festivities that shed a light on diversity and harmony? If so, it's party time. Brisbane's annual Buddha Birthday Festival is back for its 24th festival, this time taking place at the Chung Tian Temple in Priestdale. Running from Friday, May 14–Sunday, May 16, the 2021 program serves up three jam-packed days of lion dances, calligraphy, art, performances and more. While it probably won't cater to 200,000 people as it has in previous years, you still won't find yourself lacking in either company or something to watch. The festival isn't just about seeing other people strut their stuff, though. With a vegetarian food fair serving up culinary delights, tea ceremonies keeping you hydrated, meditation sessions taking care of your mental bliss and red lanterns on display, this isn't just a feast of entertainment; it's a complete mind and body experience as well. Images: Buddha Birthday Festival
When the Brisbane Comedy Festival hits town every year, it promises plenty of laughs in plenty of places. Delivering on that aim in 2021, the fest is serving up a dose of giggles and guffaws on four weekdays in a variety of cafes around the Brisbane CBD. Between Tuesday, July 20–Friday, July 23, comedians will be descending on different coffee-swilling joints and breaking out their best jokes twice a day: at 10am and 1pm. Think of it as a mid-morning or lunchtime happy hour, just with live stand-up and whichever caffeinated beverage takes your fancy. Even better — not only is Coffee & Comedy offering up free laughs, but the first 100 folks through the door for each session will receive a free cuppa as well. As for who'll be tickling your funny bone, the lineup includes Brisburned, The Naked Magicians, Shad Wicka, This Is Your Trial and Impromafia. [caption id="attachment_590382" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Botero[/caption] COFFEE & COMEDY LINEUP Tuesday, July 20, 10am — Brisburned at Bellezza Espresso Bar, 12 Creek Street Tuesday, July 20, 1pm — Shad Wicka at The Maillard Project, 119 Charlotte Street Wednesday, July 21, 10am — The Naked Magicians at Botero House, 258 Adelaide Street Wednesday, July 21, 1pm — This Is Your Trial at Coffee Iconic, 340 George Street Thursday, July 22, 10am — Brisburned at Aquila, G/82 Eagle Street Thursday, July 22, 1pm — Impromafia at Strauss, 189–191 Elizabeth Street Friday, July 23, 10am — The Naked Magicians at The Single Guys Coffee Co, 3/201 Charlotte Street Friday, July 23, 1pm — This Is Your Trial at Bean Cafe, 181 George Street Top image: Markus Ravik.
It's that time again, seafood-loving Brisbanites, with the Sandstone Point Hotel bringing back its annual Oyster and Seafood Festival in 2021. If you're a fan of slurping down molluscs or munching on other morsels from the ocean, prepare to be in your element. Taking over the venue on Saturday, October 16, the day-long celebration of salty, slimy deliciousness will treat your tastebuds to oysters from all around the country, asking whether you can discern the difference. Get them freshly shucked at the fest's bars — and if you need something to snack on otherwise, you can feast on the rest of the ocean's finest bounty at an array of seafood market stalls. Mussels, calamari, prawns, bugs, fish: they're all on offer. Anyone who really, truly loves their oysters can make a date with competitive portion of the day, too, because it wouldn't be a food festival without a contest. Here, that means downing a heap oysters, and also peeling prawns. Chef demonstrations and live music are on the bill as well, all as part of a cruisy day hanging out by the water. And, you'll find plenty of drinks at the bar to help wash down all that seafood. Image: Sandstone Point Hotel.
It has been seven years since La Macelleria set up shop in Brisbane, gifting the city's residents with an array of inventive gelato and sorbet flavours. During that time, it has taught ice cream lovers how to make their own, served up all-you-can-eat sweet treats and expanded its footprint by adding more than a few new shops — and now it's throwing a big Italian fiesta to celebrate. To mark the huge milestone, La Macelleria will spend an entire day serving up more than just gelato — although that'll still be on the menu, of course. You'll just be able to pair it with Gerbino's pastries and Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers' eponymous dish. Eat your gelato before or after — it's completely up to you. With the celebrations running all day, there are other reasons to swing by as well. That includes a heap of soccer-themed fun, and live tunes — it wouldn't be a party without them.
No meal has ever suffered from having too many truffles — and at Emporium Hotel's Signature Restaurant, that idea is being put to the test. Until Saturday, August 7, the South Bank spot is serving up truffle degustations four days a week. Have a special occasion coming up? Need an excuse to have a fancy dinner? Just pleased to be able to head out of the house again? Here's one way to celebrate. Truffles don't just feature here and there in this seven-course feast. They're part of every single dish, including dessert. So, you'll be finishing things off with truffle fondue with cheddar brioche soldiers, roasted parsnip and honey — as well as almond, amatika and truffle delice with almond briselet and truffle ice cream. Before that, you'll be tucking into truffled celeriac profiteroles with apple compote, cannoli with whipped chevre and truffle honey — and Jerusalem artichoke chawanmushi with shaved truffle and hazelnut, seared abalone with mushroom risotto and truffled pecorino, and roast wagyu tenderloin with truffled potatoes, greens, beetroot, pancetta and truffle jus, too. This limited-time truffle-filled degustation will set you back $140 per person, and it's available for dinner only from Wednesday–Sunday, with bookings required.
Missing the Ekka, Brisbanites? That's the feeling this week, especially since our beloved midweek public holiday has been moved to a yet-to-be-announced later date. We haven't all scored a day off, but we can still convince our tastebuds that it's business as usual — thanks to strawberry sundae deliveries, a drive-thru slinging dagwood dogs and Bertie Beetle showbags, and Emporium Hotel South Bank's new Ekka-inspired menu. If the latter particularly tempts your tastebuds, be prepared for dishes that level up the usual Ekka experience. All of the hotel's eateries and bars are in on the special, which runs until Sunday, August 15. So, if you wanted to make your way through the building and try everything, that's a possibility. At Signature Restaurant, you can tuck into smoked hay parfait, which riffs on those popular strawberry sundaes via smoked hay ice cream, a waffle and strawberry gum. At Belle Epoque, it's time to celebrate French patisserie-style — so with the lolly-inspired Candyman Cake that features coconut rough dacquoise, freckles crunch, musk marshmallow and strawberry sundae mousse. Or, up at The Terrace, soak in the 21-storeys-up view while sipping a strawberry and raspberry granita cocktail, which features clarified strawberry milk and white chocolate among its ingredients. The Piano Bar is getting boozy too, this time with a nod to the hay bale race via a cocktail called the Hay Bae.
