If you're looking for laughs, there's no wrong way to dive into a comedy festival program. Already splitting your sides just thinking about the big-name headliners? Keen on new comic discoveries? Like late-night giggles? They're all options. And, at the 2023 Brisbane Comedy Festival, so is celebrating both cultural and comedic diversity during one hilarious afternoon at the fest's Multicultural Comedy Gala. In Brisbane Powerhouse's Powerhouse Theatre from 4pm on Saturday, May 13, five supremely funny folks will make all the jokes they can — well, as many as they can fit into a gala set. On the bill: He Huang, Andy Saunders, Khaled Khalafalla, Neel Kolhatkar and Fiona O'Loughlin. That roster of talent means a lineup that spans everything from recent national RAW Comedy finalists to veterans. John Safran is also part of the fun, taking on hosting duties — aka adding his comedic stylings between the night's other stars.
Trying to dance like Christopher Walken, pretending you're in Cruel Intentions, being transported back to the late 90s and early 00s: that's all on the agenda when Fatboy Slim, aka Norman Cook, returns Down Under in 2023. Hitting Brisbane on Wednesday, May 3, the British dance music legend will take to the decks to bust out a hefty range of dance floor fillers. His 1998 album You've Come a Long Way, Baby was the club soundtrack to end the 20th century — a staple of every 90s teen's CD collection, too — and responsible for hits like 'Right Here, Right Now', 'The Rockafeller Skank' and 'Praise You'. As for 2000's Halfway Between the Gutter and the Stars, it gave the world 'Weapon of Choice' and its iconic Walken-starring (and Spike Jonze-directed) video. You might not be able to dance along the walls when Cook plays the Riverstage, but you'll want to thanks to his big beat sound. Indeed, alongside the Chemical Brothers, The Prodigy, Basement Jaxx, The Propellerheads and Crystal Method, he helped bring the style to mainstream fame. Cook has been making music since the 80s, but took on the name Fatboy Slim in the mid-90s, starting with 1996 record Better Living Through Chemistry. His discography also spans 2004 album Palookaville and 2013 single 'Eat, Sleep, Rave, Repeat'. If you've seen Cook live before, you'll know that this is news to get excited about right about now. His Australian tour marks Cook's return after his 2020 headline shows — pre-pandemic — with his Melbourne gig at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl recorded for an epic live video that's notched up more than 2.4-million views. Top image: Secretaría de Cultura de la Ciudad de México via Wikimedia Commons.
By the time that Thursday night rolls around each week, most of us are thinking about escaping the nine-to-five grind. There's still one pesky weekday left to go until the weekend, of course, but sinking underground with a tipple in your hand — and with jazz tunes setting the upbeat but relaxing mood — sure does sound enticing. That's what's on offer at The Walrus Club's Thursday Jazz Club. In the past, the Regatta spot has turned its cosy, dark space into a whisky haven on Thursday evenings, or a shiraz-swilling joint as well. Since late 2022, however, it's now focusing on the tunes instead. The event kicks off at 6pm, and showcases as wide a range of jazz as it can — including traditional jazz, fusion, modern, bebop and gypsy, as well as big band, swing, avant-garde, latin and soul. Looking for something to sip? The Walrus Club boasts a hefty array of 300-plus spirits, including over 100 different rums. Entry is free, and reservations aren't required — and Prohibition-era bar vibes come with the territory.
With G20 blocking our streets and sucking all the fun out of the city, there's never been a better time to get out of town. And, though Stranded might not be everyone's idea of a relaxing Stradbroke retreat, if you've got great taste in music, a bit of a tolerance to sunlight, and a quick fiddy to spare, we'd say it's the perfect weekend getaway. Hosted at McLarens Landing on South Stradbroke Island, Stranded is a music festival that throws a heap of great musicians and a flock of music-goers onto an island. It's kind of like Lost, but with more DJs and less disappointing twists. The line up this year includes Kite String Tangle, Golden Features, Tkay Maidza, Taiku Nulight and heaps more. Though running away to an island sounds extreme, it's actually only an hour away from Brisbane. There will be parking, buses and plenty of transport routes. Plus UBER are throwing around some free rides so do your best to get in on that. Other than that just pack your bag for a normal day at the beach. You'll need sunblock, water and disposable cameras aplenty. But, be sure to wear shoes — your feet will thank you for it in the mosh.
If sparkling wine puts some extra fizz into your life, then you'll want to drink your way through this Brisbane event. Across Friday, May 12–Saturday, May 13, the Bubbles Festival is coming to town to celebrate the most effervescent boozy beverages there are. You'll sip, you'll chat, and you'll meet the folks who make and distribute the tipples in question as well. You'll also eat canapes — no one wants to down champagne, prosecco and other sparkling drinks on an empty stomach — while you're sampling and tasting across two hours. At least ten different wines will be on offer, and your $94 ticket also includes a champagne tasting glass to take home with you. The venue: Customs House in the CBD. You can take your pick of three sessions: from 6–8pm on Friday, and at either 12–2pm or 3–5pm on Saturday. If you're feeling like really treating your sparkling-loving self, you can pay an extra $65 for a VIP ticket, which gets you access to a special cuvée tasting before the regular doors open — and two tasting glasses, rather than one.
Brisbane might be buzzing about APT8 — it has taken over the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, after all — however it's not the only showcase of Asia Pacific art in town. It's not the only APT exhibition, either. Some of the highlights of APT7 are still hanging around. Because there's no such thing as too much Asia Pacific art, Indo Pop: Indonesian Art from APT7 is currently doing the rounds of regional galleries. Redcliffe is far enough away from the CBD to count, while still close enough for Brisbanites to head to for a leisurely look at the creative efforts of artists from one of our closest neighbouring countries. The exhibition not only spans everything from painting to stop motion animation, but highlights a group of the region's up-and-comers. It also shines a light on some of Indonesia's artistic, political and social issues. And, it'll keep winding its way around Queensland until September 2017, should you miss this stopover. Image: Tromarame, Indonesia est. 2004/ Wattt?! 2010 / Single-channel stop motion video animation: 5:48 minutes, colour, sound / Purchased 2011. Queensland Art Gallery Foundation / Collection: QAGOMA.
World champion athletes, renowned dancers and acclaimed musicians don't usually all share the same stage, but when they do it's something special. That's the idea behind 360 Allstars, which combines the circus with extreme sports — all at QPAC's Playhouse between Wednesday, January 5–Sunday, January 16. A reimagining of the conventional big-top acts, 360 Allstars injects breakdancers, basketball freestylers, BMX flatlanders and rappers into its performance to give the arena a whole new colour and shape. If you're wondering why, the better question is 'why not?'. The circus is where anything can happen and, in this case, anything very well might. A hit on the international circuit, 360 Allstars has played sold-out shows everywhere from Broadway to the Sydney Opera House — and if you missed its last trip to Brisbane, here's your change to make up for it. All those performers will be accompanied by video projections and dazzling lighting design, adding to an unconventional night at the theatre for thrill-seekers young and old.
Whenever winter rolls around, Riverbar and Kitchen gives itself a cold-weather makeover. Now that spring is here, it's doing the same for sunnier times. So, until Tuesday, November 30, you can head by the waterside spot to immerse yourself in its spring spritz garden. The theming: greenery, florals and all things in-between. The drinks: sparkling spritzes, with four different varieties on offer. They all go heavy on fruit flavours — thanks to everything from orange bitters, mango syrup and lemon to peach syrup and passionfruit — because that firmly fits the mood, too. And, if you're heading by with the gang, one of them is a shareable tipple dubbed A Walk In The Tropics. On the menu, food-wise, is a high-tea spread filled with sweet and savoury options. Spring is perfect for grazing over drinks, after all. For that, you'll need to book in advance for between 10am–3pm, and pay $50 per person. From there, you'll be ticking into macarons, churros with chocolate hazelnut sauce, crumbed chicken sliders and more, as well as the spritz of your choice.
The friendly folk behind Brisbane Festival have done some pretty incredible things this year. They’ve lured some of the world's biggest up and coming music acts, hand-selected some of our finest local performers and commissioned one of Oz’s most renowned artists, Stormie Mills to create and build a really big, pink… thing. Call it a rabbit, mouse, or Michelin Man-Deadmau5 hybrid, you’ve probably seen it pop up around Brisbane, quickly judged, taken a photo and been left pondering it’s existence. The four-metre high, bright pink statues have already worked the Westfield Carindale, Woolloongabba and Queen Street Mall scenes with more due to pop up by the day – and there’s a chance for you to nab some prizes if you’re the first to find them. Simply follow Brisbane Festival's Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for clues as to when and where the installations will appear. Accompany your snap with the hashtag #TheStormieMillsProject and you could be rewarded big time – Brisbane may be stingy with government money, but they sure aren’t with prizes. Hop to it!
Don’t you just hate it when you are eager to pop some tags, but lack the quintessential twenty dollars in your pocket? If only you could trade your grandad’s outdated, over-worn clothes for someone else’s grandad’s cool, and hip attire, without having to indulge in the capital practise of legal tender. Well count yourself lucky, because on the 21st of April Southside Tearoom will be providing such opportunity, without lowering themselves to the standards of a flea market. Clothes swaps are more than a budget means of getting a trendy new outfit, but also ensure that your new look can be original and just a little bit startling.The thing about your trash, and other people’s trash, is it is coincidentally someone’s, or your treasure. You’ve worn that outfit all month, so trade it for a new outfit - you can finally be rich and original. Starting from 5pm, Southside Tearoom will be ablaze with vintage lovers, fashionistas and bargains galore. So, do it - trade what you don’t need for something far more dashing.
Perfectionism is often a vice for budding artists, but for Mr Penfold it is his edge. His obsessions with exactness have lead to the creation of many hand-painted works that look as though they were designed by electronics and produced by a printer. His latest exhibition Part Time Technophobe is an example of his latest offerings; the title offers an explanation of how the paintings came to be. A student of the technological age, Penfold discovered the capabilities of the program Adobe Illustrator, and promptly taught himself how to use it. After the basics were securely under his belt, he realised that what he wanted to create was a tangible product, something that he created with his hands directly, a something that was flawless by talent, not by design. Brisbane’s taste of this remarkable body of work will be for one night only, before it moves to Melbourne for its extended showing. Be sure to catch a glimpse while you can; paintings without a human fingerprint are a rare treasure, a new realm of human production.
In the fleeting game of fashion, it is hard to find or create a brand that is consitent, on trend and sustainable. Noticing the need for some environmentally concious clothing, Undress Brisbane emerges as a brand which proves sustainability, and should be celebrated. Undress Brisbane are hosting Australia’s biggest sustainable fashion show. Indulge in an evening of entertainment: runway shows, design exhibitions, music and organic cocktails, all hosted in the (re-usable) venue of the Chinatown car park. There will be three runways to catch throughout the evening – swimwear and lingerie, day wear, and evening wear and accessories. Continue the celebrations late into the evening, with the after party congregating at Oh Hello after 10pm, directly across the road on Ann Street. Head to the event website to see the full list of designers whose talents will be on display during the evening. Attendants are encouraged to act responsibly throughout the celebrations, which includes donning your own sustainable garments for the show.
When The Westin opened in Mary Street, finally filling the CBD's giant hole in the ground, it brought with it Brisbane's first swim-up watering hole within a body of water. That was great news for everyone planning a luxe staycation — and now it's great news for everyone, with Nautilus Pool Bar opening to the public from Friday–Sunday between October 11 and February 9. The luxe hotel is turning weekend afternoons into a pool party, which is a mighty apt way to spend a few hours at this time of year. Cool off with a dip and a drink, with rosé, frosé, wine and cocktails on offer. There'll also be food stalls serving up bites, as well Nautilus' usual array of poolside snacks. Then, all you need to do is lounge around on the daybeds while you're sipping and eating — and between splashes — too. On weekends from 2–5pm, live tunes will also provide a soundtrack. The Westin Pool Party runs from 3pm on Fridays, and from midday on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets cost $20 if you buy online in advance, or $25 at the door. Image: The Westin. Updated December 24.
There's something oh-so-relaxing about staring at the sea, even if you're feasting your eyes on the water via the big screen. That's the concept behind the Ocean Film Festival Australia. You can't always spend all your time at the beach, by the river or in a pool — but you can spend an evening peering at the next best thing in a cinema. From Tuesday, February 28–Friday, March 3, the festival will unleash a cinematic feast of water-focused wonders onto the silver screen at Brisbane Powerhouse. Sessions screen at 7pm each night. [caption id="attachment_840734" align="alignnone" width="1920"] John Kowitz[/caption] Film-wise, viewers will spend time both above and below the ocean's surface thanks to a compilation of shorts from around the world. Expect to chase big waves, explore a range of sea life and get a hefty ocean rush, plus a heap of other sea adventures. The program is united by a love of the ocean, an appreciation of the creatures who dwell in its waters and a curiosity to explore the substance that comprises more than two-thirds of the earth. It's the next best thing to diving in, all without getting wet.
If one person's trash is another man's treasure, then a trunk full of junk may as well be a treasure chest. Suitcase Rummage gets that when it comes to shopping, secondhand reaps the best bang for your buck. For years, it has been hosting regular events around town — and, although the past few years have been a bit chaotic, it's still going strong in 2023. Next unpacking its bags from 12pm on Sunday, October 1 and Sunday, October 15 — then on Sunday, November 5 and Sunday, November 19 as well — at Reddacliff Place, Suitcase Rummage will feature a crowd of open suitcases filled with the type of clothes, knick-knacks and craft you probably don't need but definitely deserve. [caption id="attachment_653944" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Yan Chen[/caption] If you can't make it now, try again on the first and third Sundays of each month. And, if you've got a pile of unwanted bits and pieces that someone else could love, you could always take your own suitcase along. Those who wanting to sell their wares must register — and it'll cost $33 for a 'stall'. You can bring up to three suitcases, so you can lug in all those shoes you've been promising to wear but certainly will not. [caption id="attachment_885725" align="alignnone" width="1920"] tcfairyqueen via Flickr[/caption] Top image: Suitcase Rummage. Updated September 19.
You've heard about starting something as you intend to continue, whether it's the day, week or year. But how about ending the weekend as you'd just generally like to live all the time? If bottomless margaritas sounds like your idea of heaven, then make a beeline to $35 Margarita Sundays — where you'll sip as many cocktails as you'd like for two hours. Two tacos are also included in the price, because every sensible drinking session needs to start with a bit of food, with vegetarian options available. As for the main attraction, you can expect Patron margaritas to quench your thirst with a blend of tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice and salt. $35 Margarita Sundays hits The Defiant Duck every week until the end of February, with the endless booze served from 3–5pm. Bookings are recommended by contacting the venue — and if you need a live soundtrack to this Sunday fun, The Vibe Creative will take care of that.
Ever been to a comedy fest, hopped between amusing folks tickling your funny bone, and wished you could also catch some live tunes in the middle? Or, maybe you've done the reverse — spent a day seeing band after band, but felt like giggling and guffawing to break up the music? Either way, Brisbane festival Super Fun Day wants to get you dancing as well as laughing, combining comedy and music on the same bill. The event debuted in 2022, enjoying its first-ever outing in March at Eatons Hill Hotel across two stages, both indoors and outside. And, it had such a good time of it, it's making the shindig an annual event. Mark Saturday, March 18, 2023 in your diary and get ready to enjoy a heap of talent — including headliners Dune Rats and Patti Harrison. [caption id="attachment_879216" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tonje Thilesen[/caption] Brisbane's own Dunies will top the music bill, heading home during a European tour to do the honours. As for Harrison, she'll make her Australian premiere on the comedy lineup, hitting the stage after appearing in The Lost City, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, A Simple Favour, High Maintenance and Search Party, and writing for I Think You Should Leave and Big Mouth. Also taking to the stage: FIDLAR, Ruby Fields, Pale Waves, Beach Bunny, Ocean Grove and The Reytons. More acts are set to be announced closer to the fest and, if it brings back everything from last year, you'll be able to play giant games while you're there, too, including Jenga, Connect Four and Noughts and Crosses. SUPER FUN DAY 2023 LINEUP: Dune Rats FIDLAR Ruby Fields Pale Waves Beach Bunny Ocean Grove Patti Harrison The Reytons Dan Rath Danielle Walker Frenchy & The Talent Hevenshe Hot Department John Cruckshank Juno Late November The Moving Stills Karaoke with Shaggy Knees
Pull out that old Discman, break out the cargo pants and start practising your smoothest early noughties dance moves — the pop tour of your wildest teenage dreams is hitting Aussie shores this summer and it's got more stars than a TV Hits sticker collection. This February, the inaugural So Pop festival is set to deliver a huge serve of nostalgia to stadiums across the country, pulling together an extra juicy lineup of old-school icons, headlined by none other than Aqua and Vengaboys. Eatons Hill Hotel will be transported back to the 90s and 00s for one afternoon, playing host to the pop-drenched soundtrack of your youth. Heading up the show are Danish group Aqua, who promise to leave tunes like 'Barbie Girl' and 'Doctor Jones' firmly wedged in your head, and from the Netherlands, Vengaboys, with party-starting smash hits like 'Boom Boom Boom Boom!!' and 'We Like to Party! (The Vengabus)' — and none other than Lou Bega with, of course, 'Mambo No.5'. Relive more of the glory days with sounds from Irish legends B*Witched — who gifted us with the likes of 'C'est La Vie' and 'Rollercoaster' — UK heroes Blue, of 'All Rise' fame. Italy's Eiffel 65, dance pop act Mr. President ('Coco Jambo'), the USA's Outhere Brothers and The Netherlands' 2 Unlimited ('No Limit', 'Get Ready') round out the throwback showdown.
Pucker up, fans of 90s teen flicks — whether you were the exact right age at the time, have discovered them since or found yourself looking backwards thanks to recent films like Do Revenge. After finally bringing its song- and dance-filled take on one of the most influential movies of the era to Australian stages this year, Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical is making a comeback along Australia's east coast in 2023. It seems that we can't get enough of this bittersweet symphony. We can't stop praising it, either. This time, audiences in southeast Queensland will get a second chance to get nostalgic — at HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast from Friday, January 20–Saturday, January 28. To answer the most crucial question, yes, the musical's soundtrack is filled hits from the period, including The Verve's 'Bittersweet Symphony' and Placebo's 'Every You Every Me'. In fact, Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical is a jukebox musical, so it's overflowing with a heap other tunes from that late 90s–early 00s time. Think: *NYSNC's 'Bye Bye Bye', Britney Spears' 'Sometimes', No Doubt's 'Just A Girl', Jewel's 'Foolish Games', Christina Aguilera's 'Genie In A Bottle' and Sixpence None the Richer's 'Kiss Me', for starters. The story remains the same, just without Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon and Selma Blair (and Joshua Jackson's blonde locks). If you've seen the movie — the original, not the direct-to-video 2001 and 2004 sequels, one of which starred a very young Amy Adams (Dear Evan Hansen) taking over Gellar's role — then you'll know how it goes. Based on 1782 novel Les Liaisons dangereuses, which was also been adapted in the 1988 film Dangerous Liaisons with Glenn Close, John Malkovich, Michelle Pfeiffer and Uma Thurman, Cruel Intentions follows step-siblings Sebastian Valmont and Kathryn Merteuil. Manipulating each other's love lives is their main hobby, a pastime that levels up a few notches when Kathryn places a bet on whether Sebastian can sleep with Annette Hargrove, the headmaster's daughter at their exclusive prep school.
January might be in full swing and the memories of your summer holiday may be fading, but that doesn't mean you have to stop celebrating — and saying cheers to the new year. Your latest excuse comes courtesy of Pint Palooza Part II, The Osbourne Hotel's returning four-day beer festival, which is serving up brews and more from Thursday, January 26–Sunday, January 29. A constant across the whole event: beer, obviously, with Stone and Wood doing the honours at a pop-up bar at the Fortitude Valley venue. You'll be able to sip the brewery's small-batch brew beer of the month, play games and even win prizes, all while listening to tunes. On Saturday, January 28, the fest includes two Hottest 100 countdowns: music, thanks to Triple J; and the Gabs Hottest 100 Craft Beer Countdown. The lineup also spans live performances from 3–7pm on the Thursday afternoon, 4.30–11pm on the Friday and 3.30–7.30pm on Sunday — and games such as air hockey, ping pong and Connect Four. Entry is free, but contacting the venue in advance to book a table is recommended.
If jungle vibes inside a Brisbane warehouse sounds like your perfect outing, head along to the Jungle Collective's indoor plant sale on Saturday, March 2 and Sunday, March 3. It's the latest greenery-filled Brissie market from The Jungle Collective, a Melbourne nursery that stocks all kinds of weird and wonderful species. Yes, it's trucking its way up north again for another Queensland venture. 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. Have a reputation for killing your cacti? Overwatering your ferns? Don't worry — there'll be horticulturalists onsite on the night to give you advice and chat through any questions you might have. At a Moorooka warehouse, you'll be inspired by greenery aplenty — and learn to incorporate plants into your home and living spaces — all while browsing and soaking up some tunes. Best get in quick though, as these markets are always popular. With more than 150 different species usually on offer, of course they are. Due to expected demand, the sale will be held in four sessions on both days (8-10am, 10am-noon, 12-2pm and 2-4pm), and attendees will need to register for free tickets from noon on Monday, February 26. Plus if you dress up in a Hawaiian shirt to fit the tropicana theme, you'll get $5 off your purchase.
It's new year time, again, and Fortitude Valley's The Lanes precinct is celebrating. To mark the Year of the Pig, Bakery and California Lanes are throwing together a heap of festivities from 6pm on Saturday, February 9. All of the bases are covered, so expect a double lion dance moving through both laneways, complete with roving musicians; plenty of food, including Fat Dumpling's finest and MisFortune Cookies getting into the appropriate cookie game; and themed cocktails — lychee martini, anyone? — from The Stand Cocktails and Desserts, King Tiki and TSO Lounge and Dining. If you'd like to get into the spirit of the date and learn a new skill, you can also drop by earlier in the day, with tea meditation workshops happening at 11.30am and 5.30pm. While attending the general shenanigans is free, you'll need your wallet for the food and drink side of the fun. And, to take part in the meditative bliss, which costs $30.
Brisbane's riverside Howard Smith Wharves precinct loves a party, throwing shindigs for Easter, to celebrate margaritas and basically whenever it can. That includes getting into the revelry every Saturday and Sunday at its long-running Weekends on the Lawn series. Taking place from 2pm on both days, the weekly event welcomes in Brisbanites eager to kick back by the water, have a bite to eat and knock back a few drinks. Bring along your mates to enjoy a refreshing beverage — Felons Brewing Co. is right there, after all, and isn't your only option. There's also be plenty of food to dig into, because lining your stomach is important. Mr Percival's, Greca, Yoko, Betty's Burgers, Goodtimes Gelateria and more are all right there, too with contactless ordering and payment via your phone available. Running until late, the live tunes echo from 3–6pm on both days, with the lineup changing weekly. All that's left is to grab your friends and your pets, and enjoy that sultry Brissie weather by the water. And entry is free, but your wallet is needed for drinks and bites.
Two hundred years ago, 18-year-old Mary Shelley sat around a campfire with her lover and their pals, and engaged in a horror story competition. They challenged each other to come up something haunting and ghostly — and it has to be said that Mary well and truly won. That's when she thought up the now-iconic piece of gothic literature that is Frankenstein; or, the Modern Prometheus, after all. Now, a couple of centuries later, a group of Griffith University theatre students have joined forces with actor, writer and director Lucas Stibbard to follow in her footsteps. After Frankenstein: Mary & Victor & Adam & Us ponders the three figures that have made the tale such an enduring classic (aka its author, the man who conjured life from death within her pages, and the creature he fashioned from body parts), as well as add their own modern interpretation to the mix. The end result is designed to inspire, surprise and question, much like Mary's story itself. Sure, you've probably seen plenty of different takes on Frankenstein's monster before; however we don't think you've seen one quite like this.
It only takes two tries to turn something into an annual event, so meet Brisbane's latest: Wynnum Fringe. First staged in 2020, and now Brissie's only yearly fringe festival, it's returning to the seaside suburb for six days of arts and culture between Tuesday, November 16–Sunday, November 21. Here, you'll find everything from cabaret and comedy to music and dance — whether you're keen to see a duet with an electronic device, which is what Jacob Watton's Alexa, Turn on the Lights is all about; you're eager to see a live and boozy re-enactment of Twilight, complete with its own drinking game; or you like your theatre shows to double as haunted mansions. There's also Brisbane music royalty Ben Ely doing his thing; Killer Queens, which pays tribute to glam superstars such as Freddie Mercury, Prince and David Bowie; and Anthony Lawrence performing poetry along the Wynnum mangrove boardwalk. Plus, across Friday, November 19–Saturday, November 20, Bay Terrace will shut down to normal traffic — and open up to two days of live tunes, street entertainment and food trucks. There'll even be a pop-up whiskey bar in an old church, if you need something else to say cheers to.
Usually when an exhibition takes over a display space such as the Institute of Modern Art, it weaves a story. Whether sharing a common theme or stemming from the same pair of hands, the various pieces remain connected — and that connection tells a tale. That's true of Khadim Ali's new show at the Fortitude Valley spot; however, Invisible Border also features weaving in a more literal sense. Its big eye-catching pieces: intricately woven tapestries. The centrepiece is called Invisible Border 1, and it stretches nine metres. Hand-woven by Hazara men and women, it's made by a community that has lost loved ones to conflict. The striking textile piece is joined by other tapestries, as well as miniature paintings and sound installations — and together, they all weave into an examination of war, displacement and the refugee experience. Staging his largest solo exhibition to date, Hazara artist Ali draws upon his own background, too, as seen in a wide-ranging display of both newly commissioned and existing pieces. Invisible Border graces the IMA's walls until Saturday, June 5, with the gallery open from 10am–5pm Tuesday–Saturday — and entry is free.
So, you eat meat— but how much do you really know about the work needed to get it onto your plate? Don't just think as far as the kitchen or the supermarket. And don't just think about the one piece you eat at a time. At Nose to Tail, you'll discover just how pork gets into an edible state by butchering, curing, drying, smoking and devouring it yourself. Across two Saturday sessions, you'll learn about specific cuts, make your own sausages, ensure no part of the animal is wasted, and then enjoy the tasty results of your efforts. Favouring a deliberately slow food approach that showcases traditional food techniques, and featuring a final shared meal with local beer and wine, no wonder it is one of The Makers Club's most popular workshops. At $200, it doesn't come cheap; however you can't put a price of how much you'll impress everyone you know next time you make a pork dish for dinner, now can you?
The downstairs bar at X & Y is now known as The Sean Connery. Here gentleman and ladies are invited to socialise in a civilised manner, sip on cocktails and lounge on the retro furniture. It's a suave sight on any given occasion but particularly on Wednesday nights when the bar celebrates Sean Connery's favourite spirit, scotch. The silky, woody, Ron Burgandy form of alcohol is much cause for celebration, which is why every Wednesday at The Sean Connery is affectionately known as Scotch Night. This week marks the fourth Scotch Night to go down (smoothly of course) and to make a good thing even better, this Wednesday will also known as Ladies Night. Not in the sense that Ladies get in for free and rowdy penis-straw drinking hens nights are welcomed, but rather that the live music on offer will be come courtesy of some of Brisbane's most talented female musicians. Delicate songbird Carry Nation, acoustic angle Jacinta Walker and Dana Hock of the all girl group The Madisons will be waxing lyrical while patrons enjoy a winning glass of scotch. Escape the chill and warm up with some lively tunes and fire-lighting scotch while you can. Cheers.
Whoever said an encyclopedic knowledge of a cartoon about a dysfunctional yellow family would never come in handy was a real narc. The Brightside is pulling the Comic Book Guy out of every Simpsons fanatic on Boxing Day with Simpson’s Trivia. If you don’t know squat about Homer, Marge, Lisa and Bart, then don’t even bother checking it out – this is for die-hard fans only. You should at least know the name of Lionel Hutz’s law practice? The name of Lisa and Bart’s hockey teams coached by Apu and Chief Wiggum? The names of two other Sideshows besides Bob and Mel? And who was Lisa’s first hook-up? These are elementary questions. You don’t know those answers, quit while you’re ahead. Prizes include bar tabs, a Jebediha Springfield hat, and if the night gets as ruthless as expected, a couple of souls. If you’ve ever been to a Simpsons or Seinfield trivia night at Black Bear Lodge you’ll understand these get pretty intense, with some competitors near crazed with cartoon intelligence. So be prepared for the moment you stare at the leader board, hypnotised by self-doubt, and repeatedly, self-pityingly mutter to yourself, “I’m not so S-M-R-T.”
Highgate Hill’s Laura Street Festival is really and truly one of a kind. Not only does it pride itself on not one but two pot luck meals, but it’s also a community event hosted by its friendly residents all in hope of showing off their wonderful, caring and super-festive neighbourhood. In its fifth year, Laura Street Festival is amping up the music, workshops, art, poetry, food and performance, with an afternoon-long showcase of the lot. Groove along to some Kpop, watch some spoken word and standup comedy, and eat to your heart's content at the various food stalls. Feel free to bring your own dish to share, and prepare to tuck into everyone else's; there will be plenty. For festival-bound fashionistas, there will be a free clothes swap — trade in something old and adopt something new — and for all those who need something a little more eccentric to get them in the mood, there will be an electronic music stage all day. Check out all the exciting things Laura Street Festival has on show at its website. The day kicks off at 1pm and rounds up at 10pm. Take your dog, take some cash, take your best attempt at a meal to share and have a wild time in a wilder neighbourhood.
If the Brisbane music scene proved one thing last year, it's that there's a grunge revival in the works — throwing a bit of surfer-rock gnarl for good measure. No band epitomises this more than our own local offspring, Doom Mountain. Jack, Jake and Lee make up a band that emits salty surf vibes, with offshoots of garage rock. Together, with White Lodge, they'll be kicking up a grunge-fuelled storm at Black Bear Lodge with a free gig this Friday night. 2015 is sure to be the year for Doom Mountain. They've already received claps from triple j’s Dom Alession, Maggie Collins and Sarah Howells. In 2014, they supported the likes of Step-Panther, Moses Gun Collective, The Good Sports and Pretty City — but this gig finally puts Doom Mountain as a deserving headliner. In support, White Lodge offer a similar sound to their stage counterparts, and are no stranger to Black Bear Lodge. They're awaiting the release of their recently recorded international split 7" with The Gorlons (USA), and aren't afraid to share their unique brand of psych, surf-centre rock. For all those sober Sallys out there, this could prove to be the highest entertainment return for little investment — again, tickets cost zilch dollars. And for all your drinkers out there, justify a few extra beers with ticket prices, and make this a night to remember.
When James Stewart peered out of his window and into the apartments of his neighbours in Rear Window, he looked into another world. Fans of the film — and of films in general — can surely relate. If you like catching a flick for a few hours of escapism and interesting stories, then you do the same every time you head to the movies. It's fitting, then, that Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece is among the drawcards in Dendy's latest cinema showcase. Every Monday evening, their Hollywood Classics program not only takes audiences to different places, but to a different time. Prepare to visit the golden age of movie making, St Louis from the early 1900s onwards, and Broadway during the depression — among others. Yes, Sunset Boulevard, Meet Me in St Louis and 42nd Street are all on the bill, alongside other greats such as Breakfast at Tiffany's, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and Rebel Without a Cause. Whether you're revisiting an old favourite, or catching an iconic effort for the first time, you're guaranteed to enjoy an evening of terrific and transporting cinema.
Pablo Picasso jammed plenty of creativity into his 91-year life, including paintings, sculptures, prints, ceramics, stage design, plays, poetry and more. During the 1930s, he also etched and engraved a set of 100 pieces, in a series that was named after the art dealer who commissioned them: The Vollard Suite. Produced over an eight-year period, the collection takes inspiration from stories, tales and myths, as well as the human form, his mistress and politics at the time. In other words, it proves an artistic overview of his favoured themes and fascinations, while also offering an autobiography of sorts. It's the kind of intimate work that gives fans an insight into the Spanish master beyond his more famous pieces. And, courtesy of the National Gallery of Australia — who boast a complete set — the suite is on display at the Queensland Art Gallery from December 2 to April 15. Image: Pablo Picasso, Spain 1881 - France 1973, Minotaure aveugle guidé par une fillette dans la nuit. [Blind minotaur led by a little girl at night.] between 3-7 December and 31 December 1934, or 1 January 1935 from the Vollard Suite (97). Etching and scraper, printed in black ink. National Gallery of Australia. ©Succession Picasso. Licensed by Viscopy, 2017.
There's a story behind The Wolfe — and we mean that literally. In fact, the latest addition to the East Brisbane stretch of Stanley Street has a 1000-year-old account of ravenous and resourceful villagers to thank for its name. If you've heard the legend of Morey-Saint-Denis, you'll know what we're talking about. If you haven't, let's just say it involves famished townsfolk from the winemaking French village stealing cattle from nearby communities, then blaming wolves for their misdeeds. Other than serving hungry patrons beef products, and boasting a drinks list heavy on pinot noir and chardonnay, we're not actually sure how else the folktale comes into play at Paul McGivern's new fine dining establishment — but it's got us talking. And given that owner-operator McGivern is a veteran of Camp Hill's Restaurant Rapide and Hamilton's Restaurant Manx, we're sure there's plenty about the 40-seat a la carte venue that will keep locals buzzing once its doors swing open on Tuesday, February 2. The seasonal menu is a talking point in itself. Despite the story behind the name, The Wolfe will not serve up French cuisine, but contemporary Australian fare; comprised of five entrees, five mains and four desserts, the menu it will change every four weeks. All made with local ingredients, current offerings include asparagus with hen's egg, comte and olive, plus lamb rump with olive, parsley and goats' feta. And they really do mean local — though they won't be sticking to the legend and pilfering from nearby parcels of land. Instead, the restaurant has plans to set up its own veggie garden in its outside area. The Wolfe is now open at 989 Stanley Street, East Brisbane. For more information, visit their website.
Everybody, be cool. This isn't a robbery — but it is a raucous rush through the filmography of one of the most distinctive directors of the past three decades. Two Man Tarantino is exactly what it sounds like, with two men hopping up on stage to re-enact diamond heists, twist dancing contests, blowing up bad guys, hunting down the hateful and more. Running at Wonderland between Thursday, November 29 and Sunday, December 2, it's an hour-long recreation that also has the perfect framing device: it's set in a video store. Everyone knows that's where Quentin Tarantino's love of movies blossomed long before he was asking Samuel L. Jackson to wax lyrical about royales with cheese — and revisiting the kind of shop that has died out in recent years is also part of the fun.
You know those presents that trigger a rapid physical response of overexposed pupils, a gaping mouth and a slight, pre-stroke tremor. Well, Trainspotters is unwrapping a pretty tasty line up for their first birthday that's going to have Brisbane kids freaking out just as much. The Grand Central Hotel has been playing host to Trainspotters for one year now and they've got a hell-of-a-lot to celebrate. They've established themselves as the go to, groove floor for any Saturday night, and they've set stage for some of Brisbane, and Australia's hippest, young musical talents - that's reason enough to buy the fancy streamers and full priced Woolies mud cake. It's only fitting Velociraptor lead the night. They're as sweet as birthday cake, and will make listeners just as sugar-dizzy. They'll be playing with The Kramers - those kids who haven't had nearly as many birthdays as you, but are 10 times as musically talented as you'll ever be. Their tune Ariel is one of the must happy go lucky songs we've seen stem from Brisbane's musical growth. Little Odessa and Surfing Bird will also be giving some hip hips on stage, making for a Christmas-rivalling line up. And if you're a party-pooper that hates music, birthdays and life, at least go for the free cake, balloons and cheap drinks - it's a birthday yo!
Over the past 18 months, change has been sweeping through Bowen Hills, and it shows no signs of stopping any time soon. King Street continues to flourish as Brisbane's new foodie precinct, adding new eateries with frequency. A new boutique laneway is set to join the fold, complete with its own dining hub. And now a huge food truck hangout is speeding towards the Ekka site as well. The new meals-on-wheels mecca is named Welcome to Bowen Hills — and no doubt you'll be making yourself most welcome indeed when it opens in mid-February 2018. Designed to host a rotating array of Brissie's best food vans, it'll change its lineup daily. It'll also boast a permanent indoor bar slinging craft brews and cocktail jugs, plus a separate boutique gin bar called Swill. The concept not only follows in the footsteps of Melbourne's Welcome to Thornbury, but will be run by the exact same team. If you'd like an idea of just what might be in store, their Victorian venture has hosted burger festivals, mulled wine and hot cheese parties, vegan feasts and a mimosa and brunch fest — as well as events dedicated to hot chilli sauce, dim sims and dumplings, bacon and chicken nuggets. Welcome to Bowen Hills will make its home in the Dairy Hall and Sugar Building at the Brisbane Showgrounds Precinct, which has been revamped for its new purpose while also retaining the precinct's heritage. "It's full of history and atmosphere with a unique fitout, perfectly suiting the friendly community growing in this urban lifestyle precinct," explains Brisbane Showgrounds project director Andrew Hay. Find Welcome to Bowen Hills in the Dairy Hall and Sugar Building at the Brisbane Showgrounds Precinct, Bowen Hills, from mid-February 2018. Image: Welcome to Thornbury.
Inspired? A class that'll keep you wired? Both apply at Espresso Yoga. The natural evolution in the spate of beer, wine and cocktail-fuelled fitness sessions that've been getting Brisbanites active, this Saturday morning workout comes with an espresso martini at the end. Yes, you read that correctly — you won't actually be sipping while you stretch, but you will have quite the motivation to get through the day's poses, moves and salutations. This won't be the first time you've rewarded yourself for doing exercise with something tasty, although it might be the one with the biggest post-workout buzz. With Espresso Yoga taking place at the Mon Komo Hotel in Redcliffe, you'll also rove your eyes over coastal views throughout the session. Classes start at 9am on Saturday, January 12 and again on Saturday, January 19, with the liquid energy flowing at 10am. Tickets cost a very affordable $15, and if you'd like the bliss without the booze, you can head along for just $5.
A circus-themed arcade bar was the kidulting experience that Brisbane didn't know it needed when it opened back in 2019. That spot: Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq, which set up shop at Toombul as part of its then-new entertainment and dining precinct. But since the shopping centre was inundated with water in the 2022 floods, there's been no fun and games to be had. Now that Toombul is officially being torn down, the team behind Archie Brothers has announced that the brand's only Brisbane site is on the move. Next stop: Bowen Hills, settling into King Street from Wednesday, September 6 with arcade games, drinks, bowling and more. Funlab, which is also boasts boozy mini-golf chain Holey Moley, Strike Bowling, the also games-related B. Lucky & Sons and challenge-room venue Hijinx Hotel in its stable — and opened a new Holey Moley and Hijnx Hotel in Chermside just last year — will take over a 340-person space. Inside, visitors will find everything from excuses to mash buttons to OTT cocktails, plus a six-lane bowling alley and karaoke rooms. Archie Brothers Bowen Hills will also feature Hungry Hungry Hippos, Connect 4 Hoops and Mario Kart games, The QUBE virtual reality experiences, and party rooms. More dodgem cars, air hockey, basketball hoops, VR, Dance Dance Revolution — that's all on the way to the King Street precinct as well. On the drinks list: alcoholic concoctions like the Pop Till you Drop (made with fireball, butterscotch, apple juice, maple popcorn, bitters and whipped cream) and the Candy Stand (a strawberry shake featuring white rum, Frangelico, a vanilla candy frosted rim and a giant lollipop, plus whipped cream and sprinkles). Archie Bros' food menu focuses on over-the-top novelty American diner grub — and fits right in with the circus decor. At Toombul, that included three-meat burgers, giant pretzels, and potato gems with garlic aioli that's served in a syringe. The venue will launch with a shindig, taking place on Saturday, September 16 as part of Brisbane Festival. at the 80s-themed street party, expect games — obviously — plus dance competitions, DJs spinning old-school tracks and roller skating all across King Street. "Following the closure of our Archie Brothers venue in Toombul Shopping Centre after the 2022 floods, we've been looking for the next best home for Archie Brothers in Brisbane — and where better than Bowen Hills? The heart of Brisbane," said Funlab CEO Michael Schreiber. "We're looking forward to bringing our much-loved brand back to the people of Brisbane, providing residents and visitors alike with an unforgettable experience where imagination knows no bounds, and they can create joyful moments and lasting memories." Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq will open at 3/30 King Street in Bowen Hills on Wednesday, September 6 — head to the venue's website for further details.
Science and art: seemingly so at odds, one precise and exact, objective and without emotion, the other fluid and transformative, subjective and celebrated as such. It seems they hardly see eye-to-eye, no trajectories that might cross paths. Until now. Svenja Kratz, a contemporary artist hailing from Brisbane, has delved into the art of science, examining the incisions that can be made in both perspectives, so that they might piece together a little easier. In exhibition Intersections, she plays within the realms of opposition — the real and the imaginary, the balance of control and the depths of the human condition. So many people in far reaches of the globe have agreed to disagree on many of the facts upon which we extend our scientific discoveries and our artist endeavours, often disputing the idea of a universal truth. Exact sciences are formulated by human hands, and truths proven by science have been done so with the human mind. Perhaps there is room to rethink, reconsider, reimagine the stability of our constructed world? Come see this exhibition and find out for yourself.
Maybe you've left your Mother's Day shopping till the last minute. Perhaps you're immensely organised, but you can't pass up an opportunity to nab your mum one more gift. Or, you could be in the mood to treat yourself. Maybe you just really love markets, taking in the riverside air, and having an excuse to stop for a bite and a drink. Whichever applies, Portside Local Markets has you covered from 12–4pm on Saturday, May 8. Shop, stroll, sip — that sounds like a mighty fine weekend itinerary. More than 35 stalls will offer up plenty for you to browse and buy, including art, plants, ceramics, accessories and more. If you've been to markets at the Gasworks, or in Fish Lane, Coorparoo and Gabba South City, you'll have a firm idea of what you're in for — because The Market Folk is behind all of the above, and is running this new Portside pop-up as well. To give your shopping a soundtrack, live piano tunes will echo through the Hamilton precinct. And, if those hunger pangs strike — or you're just keen on having a drink — everywhere from Pineapple Express Cafe, Bamboo Basket, Burrito Bar and Ginga Sushi to Mr & Mrs Jones, Belvedere Bar 'n' Grill, Byblos Bar and Restaurant, Gusto da Gianni and Sono will be open.
Ah, the mysteries of the cosmos. Stargazers everywhere, both sciencey and romantic, can rejoice at this exciting time because the Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2013 competition exhibition is showing at the Royal Observatory Greenwich in London through 23 February next year. We've come an awfully long way from the first photo of the moon taken ca. 1826, what with our insanely high ISOs these days, and our tripods and our knowledge and our penchant for standing around all night while our Canons painstakingly track the path of the stars. Now in its fifth year, the competition received more than 1200 entries from 49 countries. Turns out, it's not only nerdy Hubble astronomers and National Geographic lensmen training their eyes on the skies — all manner of enchanting and mind-bending space images are being made by inspired amateurs year-round (even a 14-year-old's work has earned some laurels this year). You're sure to deeply enjoy pondering the beauty of infinity as you check out these selects. So who's been judged the ultimate astrophotography kingpin? Australia's Mark Gee with his photo 'Guiding Light to the Stars' — and we just happen to have the Concrete Playground Bluffer's Guide to Astronomy Photography on hand, featuring all the advice you could need from Mr. Gee himself. It's not so easy making sharp and correctly-lit images of the night sky (Lord knows I've tried and failed), which makes Gee's wisdom, and the shots in the exhibition, even more impressive. Soundtrack while you are shooting meteors? 'Constellations' by indie quirkster Darwin Deez. The Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2013 book is out now, and the Flickr pool has all the submissions for your viewing pleasure. Top image: Hi.Hello photographed by Ben Canales (Runner up – People and Space Category) Guiding Light to the Stars by Mark Gee, winner of the Astronomy Photographer of the Year “Snowy Range Perseid Meteor Shower” shot by David Kingham (Highly Commended – Earth & Space Category) The Waxing Crescent Moon by 14-year-old Jacob Marchio (Highly Commended – Young Astronomy Photographer Category) Green Energy by Fredrik Broms, capturing the Aurora Borealis (Runner Up – Earth & Space Category) Moon Silhouettes by Mark Gee (Winner – People and Space Category) Celestial Impasto Sh2-239 by Adam Block (Winner – Deep Space Category) Floating Metropolis – NGC 253 photographed by Michael Sidonio of Australia, showing the rare appearance of a starburst galaxy, with many stars being born at once (Highly Commended – Deep Space Category) Via Hyperallergic
To fall in love and start a travelling folk band seems the impossible, unticked box on every romantic's bucket list. He wields a banjo, she sings, photos are taken, albums are released and life becomes one big beautiful folk ballad. It's impossibly unlikely for most, but for musical duo Those Folk it came quite naturally — as will your jealousy upon learning their story. He, Lawrence, was from California; she, Clare, was from Brisbane. They met in Scotland and before Nicholas Sparks had a chance to steal their story, they were up and away, writing tunes and performing for those who couldn't help but fall in love with their sound. You could listen to their songs with no context of their journey and still feel the heart of the story that precedes their sound. Between Clare's howling voice, and Lawrence's knack for just about everything with strings, keys and buttons, the talent that orbits around these two is rather unbelievable — talk about landing a catch. Now, for what seems like once in their career, they're keeping within 100km radius of home, as they tour their first album, Pacific Passages. https://youtube.com/watch?v=JBr3Bm_Z-14
Each year, Curryfest transforms the town of Woolgoolga into a bustling centre for celebrating the Punjabi heritage of the region. On September 23, the festival celebrates its twelve years by showcasing Indian music, dance, culture and of course, plates upon plates of curries. Head to the Woolgoolga Beach Reserve where the town's breathtaking Sikh temple is visible from its hilltop location. Apart from the Australian beachside views, you'll feel transported to the vibrant streets of India with all of its sights, sounds and smells. While a host of events take place in the lead up to the festival day, the main draw is of course the 170 food and market stalls that draw in thousands of visitors each year. The aroma of the brightly coloured curries will make for one mouthwatering day and a food coma should be expected by the end of it. The tents also include a mindfulness and meditation zone, along with a a special kids zone with rides and entertainment.
Mother once said: "If you've nothing nice to say, say nothing at all." On that basis, it's likely The Counselor will receive little to no press coverage whatsoever. To begin with, then, something nice. When production first began, this movie was promise itself. Potential made manifest. One of those films where every ingredient seemed perfect: directed by Ridley Scott, written by Cormac McCarthy and starring everyone you've ever heard of. Then something went wrong. Badly. In fact, in that respect the film closely reflects the story of the film, where a well-conceived drug deal completely falls apart to the ruin of many. To suggest, however, that this was Scott's masterful meta-direction would be far too generous. No, in more realistic terms, The Counselor is simply an incoherent piece of crap. It opens with a sex scene, and a none-too-subtle one at that. But just as it is in real life, sex in film requires at least a modicum of foreplay. With the darkness of the cinema only seconds old and the choc-tops largely intact, the audience was still drier than the days-old popcorn kneaded into the lining of its seats. Why this scene was in there, let alone as the movie's opener, remains entirely unclear. If its goal was to establish Penelope Cruz as a sexy woman, then Scott should probably have taken that 'as read'. If it was to set Michael Fassbender up as someone who likes to talk dirty, please break the emergency glass and retrieve your copy of Shame. Then comes the second scene (don't worry, this won't be a scene by scene account — nobody's that cruel), during which yet another crazy-haired Javier Bardem character sits alongside a cheetah-tattooed, gold-toothed, hombre-haired Cameron Diaz as they watch an actual cheetah hunt its prey. In case you missed it: yes, that's a metaphor. Then Bardem says, "Don't you think that's a bit cold?" to which Diaz replies, "The truth has no temperature." Together they stare off into the distance, as if silently aware that way off in that distance, the audience is already laughing at them. Finally, the third scene. Fassbender now discusses the purity and majesty of diamonds with a diamond expert in Amsterdam. Their attention turns to a particularly beautiful specimen which the expert calls his "cautionary diamond", saying "The flaws are there, but they are not visible." So, as the saying never goes: just like a diamond, getting involved with Mexican drug cartels might seem like perfection, but in the end one should exercise caution, because Mexican drug cartels are actually terrifically hard and can cut things. Ridiculous as it sounds, that is honestly the closest The Counselor gets to having a point: don't get involved with Mexican drug cartels, because it will probably end badly. There really isn't a whole lot more to say about this movie. Almost tragically, Cruz's performance is magnificent, representing one of The Counselor's few redeemable features. Bardem is similarly impressive, but everyone else either phones it in (Brad Pitt) or gets buried under impossibly dense dialogue (Diaz's script is, almost without exception, stupefying). With Scott at its helm, of course it looks fantastic and the action sequences are suitably menacing, but as the credits roll you find yourself shaking your head and wondering: what the hell was that actually about? https://youtube.com/watch?v=6ML50I0mVHY
Fashion, art, homewares and handcrafted goods as far as the eye can see — that's The Village Markets. A Gold Coast favourite ever since setting up shop over a decade ago, this regular browsing and buying mecca combines a specially curated stall lineup with food, drinks, live local music and creative workshops, plus a super relaxed vibe. In fact, TVM hasn't just spent ten years slinging wares. On Sunday, October 1, this market is celebrating its 15th birthday. How? With a birthday festival that's worth driving down the highway to Burleigh Heads for from 8.30am–1pm. Given how the year is creeping by, the event will be perfect for anyone looking for a gift — for others, and for themselves — as Christmas approaches. TVM usually boasts everything from colourful dresses to luxe jewellery and accessories for your pupper across its stalls, plus its famed pre-loved designer and vintage rack sales. Seeing that this is a birthday, there'll be even more sellers than usual, including success stories from over the years. And, expect bites to eat, live tunes, workshops and special offers, too. Images: Soda Photography.
In 1946, a 26-year-old Mr. Howard H. Scott was discharged from the Army, got a job at Columbia Masterworks and was assigned to a top-secret project - developing a long-playing record to replace the 78 rpm. disc, which could hold about four minutes of music on each brittle shellac side. What resulted was the Long Player. From The Dark Side of the Moon to Nevermind, the LP has since held home to some of our most appreciated music milestones – and there's no better mark of appreciation than witnessing a band cover an LP from start to finish. Now, after a stellar series in 2012, The Long Player Sessions are back for round 2 at the Brisbane Powerhouse. Your favourite LPs will be given the royal treatment by a series of bands who recognise the responsibility they hold in their hands. Danny Widdicombe and Friends kick of these season with Jimi Hendrix’s Bold as Love, followed by The Last hotel performing The Black Crowes’ Southern Harmony Musical Companion in one evening of entertainment. Watch and listen as some of modern talents breathe fresh air into a few classics at the Powerhouse's returning Long Player Session.
Every film is a portrait of ups and downs, no matter the genre. Without change and complications, plus either a sprinkling or a shower of chaos, there's little in the way of story for a movie to tell. In just three features, each hitting cinemas Down Under in successive years since 2022, Macedonian Australian filmmaker Goran Stolevski has demonstrated how deeply he understands this fact — and also that life itself is, of course, the same rollercoaster ride. So, when Housekeeping for Beginners starts by jumping between a joyous sing-along and a grim doctor's visit, he lays that juxtaposition between existence's highs and the lows bare in his third picture's frames. He has form: You Won't Be Alone, his folkloric horror film set in 19th-century Macedonia, segued early from new life to a witch's fate-shaping demands; Of an Age, a queer love story that unfurls in Melbourne, kicked off by flitting between dancing and a desperate against-the-clock rush. In You Won't Be Alone, the shapeshifting Wolf-Eateress who chose an infant to be her protege was played by Anamaria Marinca, the Romanian actor who has proven an unforgettable screen presence ever since the one-two punch of 2004's TV two-parter Sex Traffic — which won her a Best Actress BAFTA — and 2007's Cannes Palme d'Or-winning film 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days. Stolevski reenlists her assistance for Housekeeping for Beginners, and also illustrates his awareness of another immutable fact: that the eyes of Anamaria Marinca relay tales all by themselves. Here, they're weary but sharp and determined. They're devoted yet fierce, too. They possess the unrelenting gaze of someone who won't stop fighting for those she loves no matter what it takes, and regardless of how she initially reacts, a path that her social-worker character Dita is no stranger to traversing. That aforementioned crooning comes courtesy of precocious five-year-old Mia (newcomer Džada Selim), her rebellious teenage sister Vanesa (fellow debutant Mia Mustafa) and the charming Ali (Samson Selim, another first-timer), the young man who newly shares their Skopje abode. Everyone, including Vanesa and Mia's mother Suada (Alina Șerban, Bad Luck Banging or Loony Porn), dwells under Marinca's Dita's roof — with the latter not just cohabitating with her girlfriend and her kids, but turning the house that she inherited into a refuge for those that North Macedonian society frowns upon. Ali is the latest lover of Dita's longterm gay roommate and friend Toni (Vladimir Tintor, Kumovi), hanging around after an app hookup. Young lesbians Elena (Sara Klimoska, Tin Kamp), Flora (Rozafë Celaj, Sophia) and Teuta (Ajshe Useini, yet another newcomer) also call the spot home. Being queer isn't a criminal offence in Housekeeping for Beginners' setting, but both same-sex marriage and adopting children by LGBTQIA+ couples are illegal. In the country's class system, being anything but Macedonian is also hardly greeted with warmth; Dita is Albanian, while Suada, her children and Ali are Romani. This motley crew is navigating each and every day the best that they can together; however, their safe space has grief in its future. It's Suada and Dita who attend the medical appointment at the movie's start, with Suada diagnosed with stage-four pancreatic cancer. Her one wish: that Dita adopt her girls, and also get married to and play happy families with Toni, who is Macedonian, so that Mia and Vanesa will be free of the stigma that Suada has always had to weather as a Roma woman. Stolevski is a plunge-in director — and screenwriter and editor, again taking on all three roles on Housekeeping for Beginners as he did on Of an Age. He dives into lives already in action and motion, crafting films that feel like they're dropping in. Ups and downs have preceded the events that his movies spin into their plots, then, and more will follow after his flicks tap out. Accordingly, he isn't one to spoon-feed specifics and context. The dynamics between his characters in Housekeeping for Beginners are revealed to audiences naturally, as are the setbacks and discrimination they encounter, often as viewers spend time in Dita's always-noisy, always-bustling home. While this isn't a one-location picture — Šutka, the Skopje municipality that's the world's only local administrative area with Balkan Romani as its official language, also features heavily — it is a film where observing its key figures in surroundings both comforting and challenging conveys as much as dialogue. Putting Marinca at the fore, a mix of grace and intensity beaming from her performance as Dita, was always going to rank among Stolevski's best choices in a feature filmmaking career that's already filled with stellar casting (see: Constellation's Noomi Rapace, Bad Behaviour's Alice Englert and Elite's Carloto Cotta in You Won't Be Alone; and also Swift Street's Elias Anton, Eden's Thom Green and Savage River's Hattie Hook in Of an Age). He's also a detail-driven director, making emotions and complexities plain in decisions as simple as the arrangement of people at a wedding and where the camera peers (or doesn't) when someone is speaking. And, again and again, he guides portrayals to match. From Șerban, he gets blistering power, with Suada explosive from the moment that she questions whether her medical treatment is being shaped by her ethnicity. Džada Selim, Samson Selim and Mustafa are all discoveries, too, breathing realism and vitality into the movie's youngest hearts and minds. Roving and intimate cinematography from Naum Doksevski (Sestri) also ensures that watching Housekeeping for Beginners feels akin to stepping inside it — and pondering the same questions that Dita, Suada, Toni, Ali and company each are. As the film that was selected as North Macedonia's Oscar contender in 2024's Best International Feature category (The Zone of Interest won) rides just a sliver of the ups and downs that its characters will face in their days, albeit significant ones, it gets them examining what comprises a family. There might be no such thing as a smooth-sailing journey from birth to death, or a surefire way to avoid heartbreak and loss, for anyone. There certainly isn't within Housekeeping for Beginners, which can also skew darkly comic when it comes to the bureaucratic hoops that require jumping through. But as Stolevski charts in his third movie about yearning for a place to belong, it's the people that you share those travails with day in and day out that makes a household.
Like your burgers tiny and your tipples with a fruity flavour? As the name suggests, The Osbourne's Sliders 'N' Ciders Fest has your back. When it comes to the former, prepare to tuck into pulled pork, chicken breast and mini cheeseburger varieties, as well as vegan and vegetarian options. And as for the latter, expect the taste of apple and cherry to tingle on your tongue. The one-day festival's cider lineup includes Young Henrys Cloudy Apple Cider, The Hills Cider Co's and Newstead Brewing's boozy apple concoctions, and Pagan Cherry Cider — so you can pick your favourite or enjoy them all. With the event taking place on Monday, January 28, whichever cider and slider you opt for will be surcharge-free. As anyone who's been caught out on a public holiday knows, that's a definite bonus. Anything else you order from the regular menu will attract an extra 15 percent price, however. Doors open at 10am, with sliders on offer from midday. Entry is free, but bring your wallet for those bite-sized burgs and cold beverages.
