Love is in the air at South City Square in February, celebrating affairs of the heart at the perfect time for it. For two days across Friday, February 14–Saturday, February 15, 2025, the Woolloongabba precinct is hosting the return of the BLUSSH Romance Festival — a fest dedicated to amorous affairs on the page and screen. Film fans, get ready to fall in love with romantic movies all over again. A mix of new and classic titles is on offer, with Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy falling into the first camp and When Harry Met Sally sitting in the second, all screening at the Angelika Film Centre. The latest Bridget Jones flick kicks off the fun, complete with cocktails, as attendees check in with the franchise's titular character (Renée Zellweger, Judy) as she navigates two new romantic interests (Prime Target's Leo Woodall and Venom: The Last Dance's Chiwetel Ejiofor). Also on the lineup: more features, a range of shorts fitting the theme, poetry over lattes on the lawn, a chat about rom-coms making a comeback and authors getting talking. Plus, you can hit up the pop-up markets on the Saturday, which are taking over the cinema foyer from 9am–3pm.
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.
Roll up, roll up, it's show time — and not just in the obvious spot. The Ekka is back for 2024, but it isn't the only place for games and fun in August. Indeed, it's not even the only place in and around Fortitude Valley, with Netherworld arcade game bar upping the ante for nearly two weeks of the month. From Saturday, August 10–Sunday, August 18, the St Paul's Terrace hangout is hosting its very own Netherworld Sideshow as it does every year, combining the usual offerings with a few extra special inclusions. Expect its existing array of tables, machines and consoles, plus added carnival games, guest machines, fairy floss — and even creepy clowns. We'll let you decide if that last one is a good or a bad thing. [caption id="attachment_605033" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Sarah Ward[/caption] The onsite cafe, aka the Hellmouth Diner, will also be cranking out carnival-style fare, so your stomach can get in on the action as well. And, you'll be able to buy Netherworld showbags filled with merchandise and goodies. Entry is free, but you'll need your wallet to eat, sip and play. [caption id="attachment_622335" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sarah Ward[/caption] Top image: Cole Bennetts.
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.
It doesn't snow in Brisbane. Sometimes, if it gets cold enough, the skies can whiten around the Granite Belt; however, that isn't Brissie. For seven days in Fortitude Valley, however, you will be able to surround yourself with the best thing that winter has to offer without leaving the city — and there'll be 50 tonnes of the stuff, in fact. Yes, all that snow will be real. You'll find it at The Prince Consort as part of the venue's returning Snow Week, and it'll be falling from the sky from Tuesday, June 25–Monday, July 1. The Wickham Street spot is turning into a winter wonderland, because it's that time of year. And, it's hosting a heap of snow-themed festivities to help you make the most of the event. Fancy a round of Snow (Drag) Queen Bingo? Have an ugly sweater you'd like to bust out at a party dedicated to terrible woollen wares? Fancy pretending you're at a ski resort? They're all options throughout the week. So is attending a shindig dedicated to Canada, to celebrate Canada Day — poutine included — and, for the same occasion, a Shania Twain appreciation party. Also on offer: nooks to get cosy in, live tunes and DJs, and special food menus to suit the occasion. Even the week's State of Origin viewing is happening in the snow. Rugging up is recommended, obviously.
Angus Stone is embarking on a solo tour to promote his new album, Broken Brights. Known mostly for his work with sister Julia in the award winning folk-pop duo, Angus and Julia Stone, Angus is breaking away on his own with a mammoth tour that will see him performing not only in Australia, but also Europe and North America. Broken Brights has been earning favourable criticism all over the world, with Mojo Magazine giving it 4 stars and Triple J naming it ‘album of the week, this solo effort is doing well even before its release on November 6th. Stone describes the album and “a whole different trip” to his previous efforts, with reports saying that the album ‘deftly shifts between genres without compromising’ and is as ‘steady as a heartbeat’. If those quotes piqued your interest, check out the album and check out Angus when he performs at The HiFi.
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.
I don’t know if you have heard, but Brisbane has somewhat become the Soccer capital of Australia over the past two years thanks to the massive effort of the Brisbane Roar. Our local team have been champions for the past two seasons and are constantly doing us proud by playing with massive amounts of heart and passion, not to mention copious amounts of skill. This weekend, they take on Adelaide United in what will surely be another cracker of a match. There are few atmospheres as electric as one at Suncorp Stadium when it is filled to capacity with hometown support, so get behind your team and ‘roar’ your loudest as the Brisbane Roar compete to stay at the top. Ticket prices start from a very affordable $12, a small price to pay for some quality football.
If you weren't able to see Bleeding Knees Club earlier this year at their free gig at Ric's then you truly missed out. Despair not, now is your chance to see these young princes of indie punk in the flesh. Bleeding Knees Club will be returning to Brisbane for one show only at The Zoo this Saturday. If you have not been following the Bleeding Knees Club then here is your chance to jump on the bandwagon. Hailing from the Gold Coast, friends Alex Wall and Jordan Malane formed their band as “a joke”, but quickly gained a hectic and rampant reputation. Having already signed record deals in the UK, US and here in Australia, they've gained fanatic fans world-wide and a name for themselves as true teenage brat punkers. In a world where punk is too often associated with London Tower's Donny Tourette, let's be thankful that bands such as Bleeding Knees Club are emerging and dominating the Australian and international music scene. Check out Bleeding Knees Club's 'Teenage Girls'
To all those who thought that the days of Gary Numan inspired synth were dead, think again. Brisbane boys, Box Knife, in their short six-month existence, have quickly proved themselves as gifted crafters of dreamy synth sounds and ambient pop tunes. Having already played locally with a range of bands, and scoring a place on the 2High Festival line-up, these two young artists, Dom and Sam, are only going from strength to strength. With their simple yet compelling tunes, ability to pump out a new and innovative track every week or two, and the likelihood of an EP in the very near future, Box Knife are so much more than just a couple of guys having fun with garage-band. Don't miss Box Knife as they roll out their sound at Black Bear Lodge this Wednesday – they'll be sure to synth your socks off.
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.
It has been sixteen long years since Weezer last toured Australia. The thought of them coming back had long disappeared, but lo and behold, they return with a huge tour this week! The shows will include all of their greatest hits, plus some rare tracks that will surely be a treat for die-hard fans. Weezer dominated the 90’s with massive hits like ‘Buddy Holly’, ‘Say It Ain't So’, ‘Perfect Situation’, ‘Island in the Sun’, on albums like Pinkerton and The Blue Album. These albums have featured heavily in set-lists throughout Weezer’s recent tours, so long time fans and newcomers will not leave disappointed. Weezer will be supported by Cloud Control and Ball Park Music. Get a ticket now to ensure you don’t miss out on a great night of music.
One great thing about the scorching Queensland summer is the music festival season. It is the time where Brisbane’s music lovers come out of winter hibernation and get ready to party – this year is going to be no exception. Parklife is the first warm weather music festival to hit Brisbane stages. The touring dance festival hits all major cities, with Brisbane set to dance the night away this Saturday. The line-up includes killer acts like The Presets (pictured), Passion Pit, Robyn and Chairlift, with a host of other international and national acts in support. Break out your summer clothes and your dancing shoes, summer music is here at last.
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.
Theatre buffs should not miss this spectacular piece. The Beast is a creation by acclaimed theatre director and actor Stuart Bowden. It tells the tale of a man named Winslow, whose mysteriousness has earned him the name of 'The Beast'. A live musical soundscape accompanies the production and the combination of a ukelele and keyboard make the musical aspect of this performance a delight. This 50 minute long performance is charming and will pull on your heartstrings. Its themes of isolation, loneliness and hope will bring a tear to your eye, yet inspire. There is a quality of rawness in this piece as it features Bowden on stage, sharing the heartbreaking story of a man's plight. The one-man performance is captivating and unique, playing for 4 days only make sure you purchase your tickets from The Brisbane Powerhouse website.
Exploring dreams, memory and emotion is the brand new exhibition, Grace, by well known photographer Tina Fiveash. This series uses stop-motion animation and lenticular photography to create dream-like imagery that evokes emotional responses, enabling audiences to engage with the evolving narrative within the works. Grace is one of several new exhibitions currently on display at the Queensland Centre for Photography, so make a day of it and explore the brand new images from some of Queensland’s best.
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.
The Ryan Renshaw Gallery unveiled a new exhibition that s currently adorning the walls and floors of the fortitude valley art space. Fauxpas brings together five great artists who specialise in being unspecialised. Each multi-disciplinary artist has contributed a series of pieces that bring a vibrant aesthetic that is a real treat to look at. All five artists, Antoinette J. Citizen, Charles Dennington, Matthew Greaves, Genevieve Reynolds and Jared Worthington have been selected seemingly due to their energetic work which exudes colour and light in a way that aligns closely with a pop based aesthetic - albeit one with its own modern flavour. Painted landscapes have been adusted, household items have been reappropriated and space has been manipulated to create a unique and intruiging exhibition. Each artist is worth keeping an eye on, if only to see where their surreal imaginations produce next. Faux Pas is running until the 7th of September.
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.
We last saw Bob Evans (aka Kevin Mitchell) in Brisbane when he cruised through town to support his Double Life EP last year. He played some captivating shows on that tour, performing solo acoustic sets that showcased his natural musical ability and confidence on stage. In the lead-up to the release of his fourth studio album, Familiar Stranger, Mr Evans is touring the country again, this time with his full live band in tow. Making stops all across the country, the former frontman of alt-rock heroes Jebediah is bringing his (comparatively tamer) alt-country leanings to stages nationally. Familiar Stranger reportedly sees Mr Evans shifting away from the acoustic sound of previous recordings, with a "progressive pop sound from an artist brimming with new-found inspiration". This can only mean exciting things from a man with an immense back catalogue of material and legions of fans across the country. Bob Evans will be supported by Tigertown and Davey Lane.
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.
The Good Ship could easily be one of the greatest pride and joys of the Brisbane music scene. In their three years together, this eight-piece have toured Australia, gigged at some of our largest music festivals, and produced a big bundle of much loved jaunty blues ballads. Having released two highly successful albums and a number of singles, The Good Ship have decided to change course and move their work from the studio to the stage. Expanded from the band’s song of the same name, their latest work, The Seven Seas, tells of a boy looking to exact revenge upon the sea for the deaths of his father and brother by conquering her in all her might through musical performance. Typical of the band's musical approach, this 60 minute stage show encompasses an upbeat and jaunty feel, hiding a dark and morbid sentiment. Jump on board and discover this ship's salty, sweaty and shamelessly strange crew and their unique genre of musical performance. Check out The Good Ship's 'The Seven Seas'
Seven W/ Another believes in bringing together like minded people, regardless of their profession. With this in mind, they have gone about executing several successful art exhibitions around Brisbane, uniting creative minds in different creative fields to create something extraordinary. Their latest exhibition, their sixth, pairs 14 different individuals with similarly differing ideas with the aim of creating unique, unexpected and beautiful artwork. The end products are always different, but the result isn’t always the focus, but rather the creative process of discovery and experimentation often is the most fulfilling aspects of projects like this. It is certainly worth investigating.
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!
This true story of an Icelandic grandmother who, with the help of a Casio keyboard and cassette recorder, became an underground music sensation, is one of the must see films at this year's Brisbane International Film Festival. Aged 70, Sigridur Níelsdóttir revolutionised her life, and in turn the face of Icleandic underground music and senior citizens, when she decided she wanted to make music. With home-made sounds such as pet noises, kitchen percussion and her own keyboard, Níelsdóttir ended up creating catchy and wholly original tunes. The result – 59 albums and over 700 tunes that were actually distributed and sold far beyond that of her friends and family. Having spent 8 years with Níelsdóttir to create this documentary, the film makers do an extremely sensitive and thorough job of creating a heartwarming expedition into this grandmother's life. This story, which is just as peculiar and life filled as Níelsdóttir's music, is unveiled in animations, old photographs and her own words. Having passed away in 2011, this is documentary is a moving tribute to one woman's imaginative spirit - don't miss it. Grandma Lo-Fi
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.
Having taken Broadway by storm, and selling out shows across Australia, A Chorus Line is this year's must see musical. Described by the New York Observer as a show that provides “thrills from the opening number to the glittering finale,” this dazzling performance combines captivating song, stunning dance and riveting drama to tell a story of hope and struggle in the world of Broadway entertainment. This classic, nine-time Tony award winning Broadway musical has been brought to life for a 'new generation' by director Michael Bennett. Starring international choreographer and Dancing with the Stars judge, Josh Horner, as well as an array of talented Australian and international performers, A Chorus Line is a flawless, life-filled musical with a delicious combination of great characters and musical numbers. A Chorus Line truly is the hottest ticket in town, so grab seats while they are still available.
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.
The BrisStyle Indie Twilight Markets is a haven for lovers of everything handmade and unique. You are sure to find something you love at these quirky markets as there will be a plethora of stylish and gorgeous jewellery, trinkets, art and accessories amongst other goodies. What sets these markets apart from others is their successful fusion of the hustle and bustle of city life with the relaxed vibe of South-East Queensland. Christmas parade performers will be wandering throughout the markets, sprinkling a little bit of magic in King George Square. These gorgeous markets are held from 5-9pm, under twinkling stars and close to the magnificent Christmas tree. Support local artists by purchasing a few Christmas presents and soak up the festive atmosphere at the BrisStyle Indie Twilight Markets.
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.
British masters of the catchy pop tune, Bombay Bicycle Club, are bringing in the New Year in long-awaited fashion with an all-ages show at The Tivoli. The foursome have visited Australia early in 2012 as supports for fellow British outfit Elbow, the tickets for which were on high demand. BBC have been making strides since their debut in 2009; 2010 saw their sophomore album “Flaws” as well as NME’s award for Best New Band and a nomination for an esteemed Ivor Novello Award. Supporting Bombay Bicycle Club will be Melbourne five-piece The Paper Kites. Their ethereal sound and uplifting melodies are sure to complement Bombay Bicycle Club, ensuring a night of pop-driven euphoria. Tickets are still available, so get on your bike to avoid disappointment!
Via Studios is playing host to the Brisbane Collective Exhibition this weekend. The venue, commonly used as a rehearsal space and a recording studio, is undergoing a transformation into a gallery for what is sure to be a great display of artistic talent from a variety of local artists. This creative haven will host works from the following Brisbane artists: Susan Shambrook Lucy Wolber John Patterson Megan Starr-Thomas Jeff Paton Julia Palazzo Jade Thompson Cathryn Ruhle Kimberley Clifford Cameron Gillard Tiffany Howe Travis D. Hendrix Tommy Knott Chuck Mayfield Charly Designs Sophie Vaughan Adam Leigh Rita Rose Raven Hodgson Ella Mobbs Khi-Maree Brent Wilson Irkle It is free to enter, is BYO and will have a few sets of live acoustic music. This is shaping up to be a great night for the local artistic community. Make sure you are a part of it!
Asylum seeking Tibetans face one of the most dangerous journeys for freedom in the world. Some lose limbs to frostbite, perish in blizzards and are arrested. Others are shot. Olo was six years old when he was forced to flee his home in Tibet. Leaving behind his mother, Olo's story was discovered and documented by Japanese film maker Kuku Minami who was touched by the gruelling journey faced by such a young and innocent child. Olo: The Boy from Tibet, explores the deeply troubling friction between Chinese authorities and the millions of Tibetan's who live within the borders of China, and the potentially genocidal situation that is brewing. Providing a personal, and much needed update you on how Tibetans are surviving and maintaining their religion and culture against the odds, this 2 hour film will appropriately be shown to open Brisbane's Festival of Tibet. Living in Dharamsala, northern India, Olo asks ''Why did my mother urge me to leave my homeland?'' The camera films him as he looks for answers.
Although we've been feeling the cooler weather and putting on our woolly gear in the past few weeks, sadly, us Brisbanites don't get to experience all of the fun and frivolity that snow has to offer. The possibilities are endless, snowboarding, skiing, snow tubing... However, there is a way to visit stunning slopes and dream-like snowy scenes without leaving Brisbane. Warren Miller's film, Like There's No Tomorrow can take you to snow capped mountains and make you feel like you're breathing the crisp winter air. Brr! Miller's 62nd film celebrates first-class athletes as they carve up the snow in the world's most impressive snowy landscapes. Locations such as New Zealand, Chile, Alaska, Utah, Colorado and many more magical spots dotted around the globe feature in the film. Spectacular cinematography and skilful athletes makes this film guaranteed to inspire you to live Like There's No Tomorrow. There are only a handful of screenings so make sure you get your tickets now.
Sold out shows and chaotic scenes at in-store signings are all in a day’s work for Australian rapper 360. As part of his current tour, The Flying Tour, ‘Sixty’ will play his second Brisbane show this coming Monday 11 June. For 360, 2012 has been one success after another. He has graced the cover of Triple J Magazine, had a top 5 Aria album, platinum single and playtime across the major Australian radio networks. The Hi-Fi will host 360’s two Brisbane shows. Despite having more than enough fan interest to hold his shows in stadium-sized venues, 360 looked to reward his devoted fan-base with the opportunity to get up close and personal. Indie-darling Gossling will join 360 onstage to sing her part in the summer-hit “Boys Like You” and Hermitude and Bam Bam will open the show. Judging by 360’s recent successes, Monday’s show is sure to impress.
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.
A man born to make music, Ewan Mackenzie comes to Brisbane’s Black Bear Lodge. As a child, Ewan, like many others like him, was inspired by The Beatles and Johnny Cash, and doing so changed his life, leading him away from the bagpipes of his own heritage and towards his own separate musical future. By nineteen Mackenzie was earning a living supporting bands like Daddy Cool and Santana around the country, but one afternoon his life changed again when he heard the manouche guitarist, Tchavob Schmitt in the movie Swing. Soon, he began to devote himself to mastering Schmitt’s craft and, in time, became one of Australia’s foremost players in the genre, blending together his customary delicate melodicism and inventiveness with good ol’ fashion gypsy fire.
New South Wales alt rock sensations Stereo Addicts are set to hit Brisbane hard on the Going Away Tour, with music from their debut EP. With a sound fuelled and influenced by other great acts like Birds Of Tokyo, Calling All Cars and Children Collide, the band have developed a strong east coast following and shared the stage with the likes of You Am I and Magic Dirt, causing a rumble within the Australian music industry in the process. Stereo Addicts will be supported by a strong line-up of local Brisbane favourites including My Fiction, The Arachnids and The Moniters. My Fiction are a powerhouse of indie, synth and dance rock. Described as “personal, uplifting, clever, poetic” the band are getting bigger and better, with this show at the Hi-Fi proving to be just another notch on already proud bedpost. The Arachnids, a four piece groove rock band, ooze with energy, a hat tip to 90s legends Regurgitator/Custard. The Moniters play spacey, grungey music about girls and the meaning of life.
Showcasing the brilliance and mastery of young Canadian pianist Avan Yu, winner of this year’s Sydney International Piano Competition, the doors of the acoustically perfect concert hall will open for an intimate encounter with music at its highest level. Hotly tipped by Eduardo G Saluena as a talent of outstanding promise twenty-four year old Canadian Avan Yu has captivated audiences on four continents across the world, with performances at Carnegie Hall, The Philharmonic in Berlin and the National Auditorio De Musicain in Madrid. Since coming to attention at seventeen he has enjoyed numerous relationships with world-renowned orchestras and musicians, and won countless awards. Playing the works of Chopin, Schumann, Debussy and Liszt Avan Yu will perform at an intimate level, merging his sounds with the heartbeats of the audience.
An orphan, a witch, a virgin, an archangel, a duke and a devil. All is not as it seems in Wonders Of A Godless World. Based on Andrew McGahan’s novel and adapted for the stage by director Shaun Charles, Wonders Of A Godless World takes place on an unnamed island, in a gothic hospital resting in the shadow of a volcano, where a mute orphan girl works, caring for the insane. After the arrival of a peculiar foreigner, strange phenomena and bizarre murders begin to take place and patients and inhabitants of the island are thrown into turmoil. What happens next is an extraordinary exploration of consciousness, reality and madness. Wonders of a Godless World, performed by final year students of Griffith University, is a powerful and apocalyptic story that plunges those watching into a web of darkness and intrigue that goes to the farthest reaches of the universe and beyond.
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.
Since 2011, the LaBoite Theatre Company have been putting together a new series of shows called LaBoite Indie – a platform for independent theatre that provides a nurturing and sustainable environment for independent theatre practitioners to cultivate their work and attract new audiences. The latest in the series of shows being put on at LaBoite is Home; a re-imagining of life portrayed in a unique and enthralling manner. Margi Brown Ash is an experienced actress and theatrical coach who has been a member of the Brisbane theatre scene for many years. Home is a theatrical representation of her life experiences, including her formative high school years in rural New South Wales, the years she spent acting in New York and her work in Australia. Home is being called ‘moving and uplifting theatre’ and hopes to remind us all of the importance and significance of being ‘home’.
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.
