Not every ballet features dancers forming constellations, gramophone-shaped mirrors creating kaleidoscopic visuals, refractive and reflective surfaces making it appear as though performers are overlapping, and choreography created for every leaf in a 134-page text — but, not every ballet is Tree of Codes. Music, dance, art and literature fans, hold on to your hats: Tree of Codes is a collaboration between Jamie xx, Royal Ballet choreographer Wayne McGregor, Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson and novelist Jonathan Safran Foer. First previewing in Manchester in 2016, it's named after and based on the latter's book-based artwork of the same name. Also described as a "sculptural object", the printed work took Bruno Schulz's Street of Crocodiles, cut out the majority of words and fashioned what remained into a new post-apocalyptic story. We originally wrote about the show when it showed in London, but now it's making its way to our shores for a few shows as part of Melbourne Festival 2017.
After one heck of a year in 2015 with Conor Oberst, Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks, and the motherflippin' Village People, Melbourne Zoo Twilights are bringing the after-hours concerts back for another summer. Announced this morning, this summer's lineup is another slam dunk for the zoo, with beloved local and international artists every weekend from January 29 to March 12. Set amongst the bilbies and kangaroos of Melbourne Zoo, Twilights will see the likes of international dreamboat José González, supported by Tiny Ruins, alongside a solid crew Australian favourites like Tex Perkins and The Tennessee Four's Johnny Cash tribute Far from Folsom, the ever legendary Jebediah, C.W. Stoneking with Marlon Williams, Birds of Tokyo with Fractures, Josh Pyke with Winterbourne, San Cisco with Last Dinosaurs, John Butler Trio with Tinpan Orange, The Waifs and 'Heaven Is a Place on Earth' pop diva Belinda Carlisle with '80s new wave heroes Pseudo Echo. Tickets are $65, and that price not only includes the concert but full admission to the zoo itself. All profits also go towards the fight to save the near-extinct Eastern Barred Bandicoot. Of course, you're welcome to bring along your own picnic basket with loads of food, but you'll have to leave that bottle of wine at home. The event is fully licensed, but there's no BYO — an important measure to keep rubbish and glass away from those poor little animals. MELBOURNE ZOO TWILIGHTS 2016 LINEUP: January 29 — Far From Folsom Featuring Tex Perkins and The Tennessee Four with Rachael Tidd, supported by Vic Simms January 30 — The Waifs, supported by Ruby Boots February 5 — José González, supported by Tiny Ruins February 6 — John Butler Trio, supported by Tinpan Orange February 12 — Josh Pyke, supported by Winterbourne February 13 — Birds Of Tokyo, supported by Fractures February 19 — Jebediah, supported by Glenn Richards February 20 — Mark Seymour & The Undertow, supported by Ben Salter February 26 — San Cisco, supported by Last Dinosaurs February 27 — Kasey Chambers, supported by Karise Eden March 4 — Colin Hay March 5 — C.W. Stoneking, supported by Marlon Williams March 11 — Björn Again March 12 — Belinda Carlisle, supported by Pseudo Echo Melbourne Zoo Twilights runs January 29 to March 12, 2016. Tickets on sale 8am Thursday, October 22 from Melbourne Zoo, and zoo members receive a 10 percent discount. By Shannon Connellan and Meg Watson. Image: Ian Laidlaw.
You may not know it, but ramen, the quintessentially Japanese dish, may have actually originated in China. Traditional Chinese noodle dishes are very similar in style to ramen, and Lamian, a Chinese noodle similar to the type you find in ramen, may be the linguistic origin of the word ramen. But this is all conjecture. Now you can try for yourself and see. Shanghai Street Noodle Wizard has recently opened on Russell Street in the city and it’s serving up Suzhao noodle soups from China’s Jiangsu Province. Apart from having the all-time best name for a venue, Noodle Wizard also wins our hearts by being a part of the Shanghai Street Dumpling family. As such, they'll not only be serving up soup, but sets of your favourite dumplings and dumpling-adjacent cuisine (hellooooo spring onion pancakes). The menu and ordering system looks slightly confusing, as there are some options for how the noodles are served, so it's best to apply the KISS approach – keep it simple, sexy. For comparative data, traditional Japanese ramen joint Menya Sandaime is just up the road and open 24/7. You kind of owe it to science to compare the pair. Shanghai Street Noodle Wizard is located at 167 Russell Street, Melbourne. Open Monday - Thursday 12:00pm -3pm, 4:30pm-9:00pm; Fri 12:00pm -3:00pm, 4:30pm - 9:30pm; Sunday 12:00pm - 3:00pm, 4:30pm-8pm. Via Goodfood. Image via Faye.
Brisbane's a constantly changing city, with new rooftop bars, music festivals and outdoor food markets springing up every season. Famous for its bright, warm summery weather, blooming jacaranda trees and endless sports activities, Australia's river city truly thrives in the warmer seasons. Brisbane's weather is downright balmy, with no outdoor escapade off-limits. There's rooftop bars, openair swimming pools and outdoor cinemas aplenty and the crisp, blue days mean a uniform of sunnies, thongs and a t-shirt are commonplace, as are icy beers, night markets and seafood feasts. To help you get the most out of your Brissy getaway, here's a guide to experiencing Brisbane like the locals do — and every single entry has been tried, tested and very much approved. To experience these for yourself, head to the Visit Brisbane website and get planning. BREAKFAST AT DAVIES PARK MARKETS Start your weekend strong with a wander around the Davies Park markets in West End. While you’re there, grab a langos or two (a traditional Hungarian dish made of deep fried bread dough topped with cheese, garlic and sour cream), a cinnamon-spiced coffee and make your way to the adjacent park to watch the band and do some quality dog spotting. If you can still walk after all that indulgence, wander down the river to Orleigh Park, catch the CityCat to a sunny spot and just take in the morning. GET BACK TO NATURE AT CEDAR CREEK You don’t have to go too far out of Brisbane to be transported to completely new worlds. Cedar Creek Falls is a 45 minute drive north-west of the city and is a favourite day trip location for anyone who doesn’t have a swimming pool. After you’ve had a paddle, head to one of the hiking trails and get lost (though not literally) in the quietness of nature. To get to the creek, turn left onto Cedar Creek Road which is about 5.7km north of Samford if you’re driving along Mt Samson Road. CHECK OUT THE GALLERY OF MODERN ART It goes without saying, GOMA's got a solid local and international rep. Every reviewer and local and stranger on the street is constantly banging on about how amazing the gallery is, how balanced the architecture, how resplendent the views. Well we’re sorry to be repetitive but it’s all true and you really must join the cult of people who strongly believe GOMA should be on everyone’s bucket list. And while you’re there, head to the State Library next door and take a quiet time-out in one of the window boxes overlooking the river, grab a CityCycle and take off along the river or head around the corner to the newest entertainment precinct on Montague Road and grab a bite at The Milk Factory. GRAB AN AUTHENTIC MEXICAN DINNER AT PEPE'S Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or not, it’s hard not to love Pepe’s Mexican in Newmarket. Their menu is huge, varied and always fresh; and no matter what night of the week you go, always expect a crowd. The décor is thematic and homely but not tacky (no fake moustaches or sombreros here). You can’t really go past the chicken chipotle empanadas, unless it’s to run with open arms into a steamy chimichanga. And if you really want to indulge (and we know you do), order the chocolate fudge nachos from the desert menu and whisper “Hashtag YOLO” as they’re placed in front of you. BREAKFAST AT A WEST END ICON The Gunshop Cafe is a long-running West End standard who do a mean breakfast (the weekend lines around the block are a testament to this fact). We recommend the potato and feta hash cake with herbed sour cream, baby spinach and truss cherry tomatoes; or for those with a sweet tooth, try the brioche French toast with roasted rhubarbs, pistachio mascarpone, fresh berries and toasted flake almonds (do we even have to explain why? Pistachio mascarpone, that’s why). After you’ve filled up on tasty treats, take a wander around West End, a suburb that shines on the weekend. Stop in at SWOP second hand clothing shop next door to Gunshop Cafe and famed bookshop Avid Reader on Boundary Street. TRY BRISBANE'S BEST SUSHI Words can’t describe the bounty of delight that is Sushi Kotobuki. Words like “tastiest”, “cheapest”, “moreish” and “cream cheese” all float in the aether when you take that first bite of aburi salmon. Until recently, Kotobuki only had one location on Lytton Road in East Brisbane, where lines ran out the door and tables were scarce. Luckily, they’ve recently opened a shiny new venue in the CBD. We urge you to embark on a journey via plane, train, bus or dog sled to get there and order as much fresh sushi as your stomach can handle. Our particular favourites include the cream cheese chicken fusion roll, the tofu agesdashi and their speciality ‘Crunch Chicken’. ABSEIL OFF KANGAROO CLIFFS We know this seems bananas. Why would anyone ruin a relaxing weekend getaway by plunging feet first and backwards off a sheer cliff? But hear us out. Think of the breathtaking view out over the Brisbane river, the rush of adrenalin as you turn your back to it and the feeling of invincibility when you finally get to the bottom. Not to mention that the experience is totally safe, fully harnessed and kids as young as eight can do it. Every day the cliffs are littered with adrenalin junkies chasing adventure, so you know it’s legit. EAT STREET MARKETS The Eat Street Markets are a local commodity that wouldn’t work in any other city in Australia. But they thrive in Brisbane, where the nights are balmy and the food is steaming. The market boasts dishes from around the world: Brazilian steaks alongside Greek honey puffs and Korean BBQ; Japanese Takoyaki alongside Coffin Bay oysters and Filipino street food. It’s multiculturalism at its best. After the smorgasbord has died down, take a wander through the market and check out the ware on sale from local craftsmen, fashion designers and fudge artisans (yeah for real – check out their cute, Instagram-worthy watermelon fudge). LIMES ROOFTOP CINEMA There’s nothing more invigorating than drinking a cocktail at a rooftop bar. Why? We don’t know. Maybe it’s the rush of looking out over the city and yelling “I’m the king of the world!” or pretending that the beautifully decorated Limes bar is actually the deck of your penthouse apartment. But whatever it is, the elation pairs well with a trashy movie, cocktail and reclining in a plush chair. Catch an array of questionable titles, like Adam Sandler’s 50 First Dates, which should only be viewed while buzzed and in good company. GO BAR HOPPING THROUGH THE CBD AND FORTITUDE VALLEY A fantastic quirk of the Brisbane nightlife scene is that most of the good bars and clubs are located in the CBD or Fortitude Valley, the most happening and hedonistic quarter of Brisbane. For an appropriately paced night, start with a few classy cocktails at Super Whatnot bar in Burnett Lane in the CBD. Pick at their light and vaguely Spanish bar menu until you’re feeling jolly, then take a quick Uber or bus up the road to the Brunswick Street Mall and prepare to get silly. Start off slowly at Kerbside on Constance Street and eventually make your way over to Cloudland on Ann Street for dancing or Laruche to vibe off the resident soul and funk DJs. And just so you know, there is a New York Slice on Brunswick Street for your post-club, pre-cab midnight snack (no judgement). Top Image: Cloudland
If you can hear 'Greensleeves' on the wind, you'd better chase the ice cream truck down to Queensbridge Square. King of dessert-for-dinner degustations Pierre Roelofs will be giving out free ice creams today. Parking the truck at Queensbridge Square on Tuesday, September 29 from midday t0 1pm (yep, it's a tiny window of sweet, sweet glory, so get there early), Roelofs will be handing over the goods to the first 200 people to show up. It's all to celebrate the announcement of this year's Good Food Month program today — and you can pick up a copy while you're there, or have a sneaky peek at our breakdown over here. If you can't get down to the square today, never fear. Roelofs will be serving up the goods at Sweetfest at GFM, a dessert-only festival featuring Katherine Sabbath, Philippa Sibley and more at North Melbourne’s Meat Market on November 28-29. If you can't wait that long, Roelof's insane dessert evenings have just returned to Melbourne, this week. Roelofs will be giving out free ice creams from midday to 1pm on Tuesday, September 29 at Queensbridge Square. For more information about Good Food Month's 2015 program, head over here.
One of Australia's biggest beats-loving festivals has been canned. Mushroom Group have announced the discontinuation of Future Music Festival today, after reporting low ticket sales for the last two years. Despite attracted huge crowds to this year's March festival nationwide, Future apparently underperformed with ticket sales. This means Future isn't returning for 2016, with Mushroom looking to steer away from large-scale travelling festivals and put more focus on its touring adventures with Frontier Touring, A Day On the Green, Melbourne's Sugar Mountain and under-18s event Good Life. "The decision to discontinue Future Music Festival was not made lightly," says Mushroom Group Chairman Michael Gudinski. "A point came though where it simply no longer made sense to continue. We believe in the festival industry in Australia and plan to announce an exciting new festival concept in the coming months." Mushroom Group are developing a new festival concept, planned for the same time period previously held by Future and set to be announced later this year. Image: Future Music Festival.
They're the round, iced, oozing snacks we can't get enough of — and they're possibly Brisbane's biggest export over the last year. Now, they're setting up shop in Degraves Street, making one of Melbourne's best foodie laneways even better. Yes, we're talking about Doughnut Time. Yes, they're continuing to plot their east coast domination. They've already popped up at Topshop in Melbourne's CBD and Highpoint Shopping Centre; however their latest site really does sound like a match made in heaven. Not sure why you should be excited? Well, let us enlighten you. If the pop culture-themed deliciousness such as the Home Alone (with milk chocolate glaze, wafers, a Kit Kat and dark chocolate glaze drizzle) doesn't sound like your kind of thing, then the humble ol' PB&J probably will. And then there's the vegan offering, because these sweet treats really should be enjoyed by all, regardless of dietary choices. We're pretty sure everyone's already well and truly onboard the Doughnut Time train though, given that their new delivery service sold out instantly when it was first unveiled. The Degraves haunt will make 14 stores, including on the Gold Coast and in Sydney, for the chain that only started serving their doughy morsels of dessert heaven twelve months ago. It really has been quite the year for Damien Griffiths' venture, with spots in Fitzroy and Hawthorn also reportedly in the pipeline for Victorians keen on all the beastly doughnuts they could ever hope for. Doughnut Time will open at 5 Degraves Street, Melbourne on Tuesday, February 24. They'll be giving away free doughnuts from 4-6pm. For more information, check out their website and Facebook page. Updated: Tuesday, February 23
In the most mathematical news since boffins discovered a pattern in prime numbers, the cast and crew behind of Adventure Time, the show that straddles generational gaps like it ain't no thing, are coming to town next March. It's going to be live, it's going to be loud and it's gonna be so flippin' awesome. Making quick trips to Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, Adventure Time Live will be an interactive, audio-visual festival that includes Q&As with cast and crew, cosplay competitions, live reads of classic episodes and much more to be announced. It's not a show, it's an experience, man. The event hits Australia between March 10 and March 12 next year, which will probably coincide with the largest gathering of adults pretending to be children pretending to be adults that this country has ever seen. Tickets go on sale on December 12, with more deets available here.
First it was the children's book that stunned a generation into awareness. Australia's colonial history was powerfully, simply laid bare by the allegory of The Rabbits — arriving, multiplying and eventually controlling the peaceful native marsupials. Now, it's an Australian-grown opera, dreamed up by John Sheedy, the artistic director of Perth's Barking Gecko Theatre Co. Before its premiere at this year's Perth Festival, Sheedy revealed why he had to make the show. “I was completely inspired, and in awe that, between Shaun Tan’s illustrations and John Marsden’s powerful and economic language, they tackled such huge themes," he told the Australian. "You can spend an hour on each page and make discovery after discovery ... The epic nature of the illustrations just lent itself to an opera.” Two of our brightest female artists were enlisted to create the music and libretto: Kate Miller-Heidke (who also performs as the principal soprano) and Lally Katz, along with set and costume designer Gabriela Tylesova. From the looks of it, the expressively angular animals dwarfed by dusty landscapes look just as magical as Tan's. Indeed, the Perth season saw The Rabbits applauded as an exceptionally brave, vital and moving work.
The tentpole theatre production of this year's Melbourne Festival arrives direct from London's West End. Adapted from George Orwell's iconic novel about a dystopian future governed by a totalitarian regime, the show generated rave reviews during its initial UK run, and earned a Best New Play nomination at the prestigious Olivier Awards. Festival organisers have also programmed a number of supplemental events around the production, including a film program at ACMI about surveillance in cinema and a one-off live reading of Orwell's book by a group of journalists, writers, actors and politicians in the chambers of State Parliament. This event is one of our top ten picks of the Melbourne Festival. Check out the other nine.
Gather a gaggle of your best mates and get ready to hit the town. White Night, Melbourne's massive all-night arts bash, is back for another year, with a jam-packed program of music, film, performance, light shows and interactive art. Perhaps you'll see a school of jellyfish floating down Flinders Lane, or pay a visit to the NGV's Andy Warhol | Ai Weiwei exhibition. Alternatively, you could spend the whole night skateboarding or dancing up a storm. The only thing that's for certain is, with so much on offer, you'd better know ahead of time what you really want to see and do. That's where we come in. We've pored over the program, combed through hundreds of events and artists, and narrowed it down to the ten events you simply can't afford to miss. Circus acts, grumpy cats and a giant golden monkey are just a few of the things you'll find on our list, which we've conveniently ordered by location (starting north and heading south). Dive in! FOR PROJECTIONS: PITCHA MAKIN FELLAS Anyone who was out and about at White Light last year would tell you the projection at the Royal Exhibition Building was one of the absolute highlights. Luckily for us, Portuguese creative studio OCUBO are returning to the historic building, and this time they're collaborating with Indigenous arts collective Pitcha Makin Fellas. The resulting work will see traditional Aboriginal stories reinterpreted and brought to life via a mesmerising light show. Sounds like the perfect way to kick off (or close out) your evening, depending on which direction you're heading. FOR ACROBATICS: CIRCUS CIRCUS Run away and join the circus at the Melbourne Museum Plaza, where some of Australia's most talented acrobats will be putting on a show. Artists from Circus Oz and the Women's Circus will join students from NICA and various other community circuses for a non-stop, 12-hour display of aerials, acrobatics and death-defying stunts. You'll also get the chance to see behind the scenes and even learn a few simple tricks yourself. Think juggling and hula hooping — tightrope walking might be a little too advanced! FOR AQUATIC VISUALS: INCUBATOR Something strange is bubbling just beneath the surface at the iconic Melbourne City Baths. Using a combination of projections and 3D animation, celebrated artist Craig Walsh will turn a 30m lap pool into an oversized glowing petri dish positively writhing with strange and sensational life forms. You'll likely never want to go swimming again, but we'll be damned if it doesn’t sound fascinating. Or maybe we're confusing 'fascinating' with 'horrifying'. It's such a fine line. FOR SPARKLY SKIPPING: JUMP ROPE It's back to the playground at the RMIT Alumni Courtyard, where illuminated skipping ropes will weave rainbows through the darkness. Designed by public artist Ainslie Macaulay, a team of rope twirlers will be on hand all night to keep the glowing ropes moving and provide participants with a few helpful pointers. Anyone is welcome to throw themselves in, regardless of age or ability. Although, come to think of it — if you've been pre-drinking, you might be better off watching from the sidelines. FOR LIBRARY LIGHTS: IDEATION Step into what the White Night program describes as "a multi-sensory ecosystem of imagination", when a group of artists invade the State Library of Victoria. Ideation will give visitors the chance to explore the magnificent building, and see the iconic dome lit up as part of a spectacular light and sound show. Basically, it's the perfect event for any bookworms out there who've dreamed of spending the night locked in the library. FOR A SURPRISE: GOLDEN MONKEY There's an air of mystery around this particular artwork, with the White Night website promising that "all will be revealed on the night". What we do know is that this major installation, from acclaimed Melbourne artist Lisa Roet, involves a 10-metre high golden monkey and the facade of the Melbourne Town Hall. If you just had a vision of the end of King Kong, then rest assured, you're not alone. Sounds like a whole lot of monkey business to us — but we have to admit, we're intrigued. FOR SMALL-SPACE PERFORMANCE: NEON LANEWAY Graffiti and contemporary dance may not seem like a natural pairing, yet they're being smashed together on Rutledge Lane as part of this collaborative piece of after-dark promenade theatre. With eight performances throughout the night (at 8.30pm, 9pm, 10pm, 11pm, midnight, 2am, 4am and 6am), expect a vibrant mix of street art, mime, clowning, dance, contact improvisation and physical theatre — all accompanied by a beat-driven soundtrack from sound artist Sam McAuliffe. FOR KITTIES: INTERNET CAT VIDEO FESTIVAL Yes, it's exactly what it sounds like. This White Night, ACMI are hosting a film festival dedicated entirely to internet cat videos. Screening every half hour, this compilation of the web's most amusing felines should provide a welcome reprieve from the more serious, thought-provoking stuff on the program. While you're at ACMI, you can also check out the Next Level Games Lounge, their collection of virtual reality shorts, or pay a visit to Julian Rosefeldt's ongoing Manifesto exhibition. FOR INTERACTIVITY: CMD. CTRL. DECIPHER Seize control of one of Melbourne's most recognisable landmarks, as part of a large-scale interactive light show at the Arts Centre. White Night revellers will be asked to work as a team, using touch sensitive floor tiles in the Arts Centre forecourt to change the colour of the building's 162-metre spire. Meanwhile, sensors in front of the NGV North Wall can be used to unlock a hidden puzzle, triggering waves of light and sound. FOR ALL-NIGHT BOOGIES: MUSIC PRECINCTS This one's cheating a little, since it's actually several dozen events in one. In fact, this year's music lineup is so massive that organisers have had to spread it over four separate stages. At Live on Lonsdale you'll find a whole heap of Melbourne-based acts, including Thelma Plum, Emma Donovan, Briggs and The Harpoons, while the Bourke Street Mall stage will be partying NOLO style with the likes of Donut, Kylie Auldist and Horns of Leroy. Trip the Light Fantastic will turn Birrarung Marr into one gigantic dance floor, with beats by Sol Nation, Funk Buddies and Quarter Street. And lastly, Alexandra Gardens will welcome musicians from Melbourne's thriving blues scene, including Miss Whiskey, TK Reeve and The Screamin' Honkies. Phew. White Night kicks off at 7pm on Saturday, February 20 and runs until 7am on Sunday, February 21. For more information, including the complete program, visit whitenightmelbourne.com.au.
There are movies, and there are movies. At MIFF you'll find the latter. The largest and most prestigious event of its kind anywhere in the country, the latest edition of the Melbourne International Film Festival will feature more than 350 films over two and a half weeks, spanning every imaginable genre, language and style. MIFF 2016 kicks off on July 28 with the world premiere of Australian sci-fi drama The Death and Life of Otto Bloom. From there it's off to the pictures — and with literally hundreds of options to choose from, there'll always be something to see. There's a stream dedicated to movies made in Australia, and another one on films about food. Fans of arthouse cinema can catch the latest titles from Sundance, Berlin and Cannes in the 'Headliners' section, while horror buffs get to stay up late with the weird and wonderful 'Night Shift'. For our full list of recommendations, check out our ten must-see films of the festival.
Supple Fox, the folks behind Dark Mofo's Ferris Wheel of Death, are hitting Melbourne for three weeks. And, thanks to riverside bar and eatery Arbory, they're bringing with them a living art installation. Titled The Ends, it'll be taking over the narrow slip of land between the Yarra and Flinders Street Station between October 5 and 23. Prepare for a steady stream of art, live performance and unexpected happenings on and around the river. Leading the project is the world premiere of artist Shaun Gladwell's latest work. Its star is Maddest Maximus, a new Aussie anti-hero who dresses in black, wears a helmet and floats high above the Tasman Sea. Gladwell's mixed media photographic pieces will be arranged around the site, in conversation with the landscape. Meanwhile, fellow Dark Mofo alumni The Huxleys have been commissioned to create a series of sculptures, which you'll find suspended in palm trees, growing out of roof tops and, every now and again, casually floating by on rowboats. And Melbourne-based performance artist Gabi Barton has choreographed a slew of unpredictable movements and happenings for the space. So, between riverside cocktails, keep an eye and ear out. "We very consciously looked to create something that felt human, breathing, absurd and curious," said Hannah Fox, who co-founded Supple Fox with Tom Supple. "And to directly reject the clean lines and endless triangles of the Melbourne design world." The Ends will happen at Abory Bar and Eatery every evening from 6.30pm till late between October 5 and 23. Images: Arbory, Oli Sansom.
Vivid Sydney is really cranking it up this year. With a kaleidoscopic festival program of light, music and ideas, Vivid's 2016 will be taking over building facades, creative spaces and music venues throughout the city from May 27 through to June 18. Obviously, the lights are the main event here, the drawcard millions of visitors descend upon Sydney for. This year, Sydney Opera House features the absolutely stunning Songlines, with new and iconic contemporary Indigenous works from Karla Dickens, Djon Mundine, Gabriella Possum Nungurrayi, Reko Rennie, Donny Woolagoodja, and the late Gulumbu Yunupingu. The Light Walk is back, with Sydney's building facades lighting up with spectacular artistry — including Selena Griffith, Edison Chen, Nila Rezaei, Nathan Adler's I LOVE YOU, a giant heart that changes colour when you scream those exact words at it. Taronga Zoo is playing host to an illuminated animal trail, and The Royal Botanic Gardens is celebrating 200 years with its own highly Instagrammable installations — including Mandylights' Cathedral of Light. The Chatswood precinct lights up with WildLight, inspired by the animals of Gondwana, and Martin Place sees the technical debut from NIDA in Martin Place called Fountain, a giant installation of human birth rate data as 'water jets', and Simon Aitken's unmissable Geometrics. Have a flick through our gorgeous gallery from Concrete Playground's Bodhi Liggett, then rug up and get amongst the lights, music, parties and ideas. Want to have a bite while you're watching the lights? Here's ten spots with panoramic Vivid views.
Earlier this year, some of Australia's best bar teams went head-to-head to nab mad bragging rights, an epic photo shoot and a huge trip to Glasgow for Auchentoshan Whisky's national Distilled Different competition. Bar teams across Australia created an Auchentoshan American Oak cocktail for the competition, and twelve were then paired with an up-and-coming Australian photographer who worked with them to create a photographic masterpiece to reflect the team's personality. On Tuesday October 18, the winner of the cocktail competition was crowned. Sydney bar team Eau De Vie won for the originality of their cocktail and portrait, which was snapped by Brendan Fitzpatrick in a fully-styled photo shoot that judges agreed captured the essence of their bar. Eau De Vie and Fitzpatrick were chosen as the winning team by a panel of industry professionals, including our very own managing editor Shannon Connellan. The team from Eau De Vie will be jet-setting off to Glasgow as part of their prize. Glasgow is the home of Auchentoshan — the only triple distilled Scottish single malt whisky in the world. Triple distilled, people. The winners will of course get to visit the Auchentoshan distillery while they're there. The team at Ramblin' Rascal Tavern were also chosen on the night as the winners of the People's Choice Award. Take a look at what went down on the night.
This one-off event with NYC yoga instructor Dina Smirnova is swapping the traditional yoga sounds of babbling brooks and wind-chimes for Drake in a hip hop yoga class — proving that anything is possible when it comes to this strange new world of hybrid yoga classes. Dina's original teaching style combines all the classics of vinyasa, but with a R'n'B flavour. In a candle-lit room. Expect a few hip hop battles, fast-moving sequences to a live DJ set blaring all the Drake classics. It's not your average way to open up your chakras, and will be testing for those used to downward dogging at a slower pace. But YogaDrake has been praised by non-yoga lovers as a great way to find their personal namaste — albeit onewith heaps more street cred. This class will be held at Footscray's Bluestone Church Arts Space on Saturday, November 14 from 7-9pm, and vegan treats will be available on the night. Best of all, entry is by gold coin donation.
Who better to help launch you into weekend mode than the one-and-only Beyoncé? From 7pm each Friday night, hip hop-loving Mr Scruff's plays host to Bey Party — a fun, beginner-friendly, Beyonce-themed casual dance class that'll have you breaking a sweat and throwing down some serious party moves. Rock up early to fuel your session with some of the kitchen's stellar food, and stick around afterwards to show off those newfound moves once the bar's Flyday Fridays DJ action kicks into gear. You'll shake off all the week's stress and get a nice bump of endorphins in the process — for only $15 on the door.
Australia's finest gin makers are on their way to The Boatbuilders Yard for a one-day celebration of that most sensational of spirits. Juniperlooza is a home-grown gin festival that should in no way be confused with Junipalooza (spelled with an 'a'), which is a totally different thing. We know it's confusing, but are you really going to complain about Melbourne having two events dedicated to gin? Yeah, we didn't think so. Held on Saturday, November 18, Juniperlooza will showcase some of Australia's best gin. There'll also be food to help line your stomach, DJs and live music, and special talk + taste sessions to fill your brain with gin wisdom. Hopefully you can still remember it the next day.
Things are pretty frosty in Melbourne, so the team at Welcome To Thornbury are bringing back one of their most intuitive event ideas to help warm your weekend — a mini festival dedicated to mulled wine and hot cheese. Following a successful first run in May, the party returns to the High Street food truck park from noon, Saturday, August 12, pulling together a selection of hot, gooey creations from some of the city's favourite cheese-slinging vendors. This is where all your cheesiest dreams come true, chowing down on lush cheese fondue from Frencheese, mulled wine donuts from Dip'd, ricotta cannoli from That's Amore, a raclette burger from the folks at Mr Burger, and other treats from the likes of The Cheese Rebels, That Arancini Guy, Sparrow's Philly Cheesesteaks, Brunetti Woodfired Pizza and Pasta Face. Of course, you won't find a better drink match to all that rich, melty dairy than some hot, spiced booze, so the bar will be rounding out its usual offerings with a special mulled wine, available all day long, along with tastings from Wimmera Hills Winery.
Ask any racer. Any real racer. It don't matter if you win by an inch or a mile. Winning's winning. Especially if you make it to the end of this movie marathon. If the recently released The Fate of the Furious has you keen for some NOS-driven binge-watching, St Kilda's Astor Theatre is taking that urge to the extreme. From Saturday, July 15 through to the wee hours of the morning on Sunday, July 16, they're showing the Fast and the Furious octalogy in its entirety — all 16 glorious hours' worth. This lengthy marathon will be arranged by plot chronology, not release date, so you can truly watch your favourite pseudo family grow from humble street racers to international super spies in order. Settle in for a casual eight films including The Fast and the Furious, 2 Fast 2 Furious, Fast and Furious, Fast 5, Fast & Furious 6, The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, Furious 7 and, last but certainly not least, The Fate of the Furious. It will be an explosive, all-day veg-out session, with multiple bags of popcorn and extra-large colas a must. Make sure to book early to avoid the neck-breaking front seats and get ready to live a quarter mile at a time — for 16 hours straight.
We thought we were done with macarons, but the food universe says otherwise. Macaron masters Ladurée are on their way to Melbourne like it's 2009, with the world famous French patisserie set to open in Chadstone this October. One of a number of new high-end food offerings at the recently renovated shopping centre, the store will feature a nine-seat marble bar decorated with mosaic artwork, along with a Parisian-inspired tearoom capable of seating 21. It's the brand's third Australian location, and first outside of Sydney. The standout item on the menu will obviously be the macarons, sweet double-decker creations with which the name Ladurée has long been synonymous. Raspberry, salted caramel, rose petal, orange blossom — the question won't be which one, but how many of each. Customers will also be able to purchase various other Ladurée items, including teas, chocolates, confectionaries and perfumed candles, along with various other items perfect for personal pampering and/or stuffing down your gob. Ladurée will open at Chadstone in late October. For more information, keep an eye on the Ladurée Australia Facebook page.
Grab a cup of coffee and your best highlighter pen because the program for Melbourne Fringe has just been revealed — and boy is it a doozy. From circus and dance to mind-popping installations and everything in-between, this year's festival consists of more than 450 events, brought to life by literally thousands of passionate artists. For punters, it's both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, there's certainly no shortage of things to see. On the other, it's basically impossible to get to them all. Inspired by the theme 'step into the light', this year's program is bookended by a pair of significant works from acclaimed audio-visual artist Robin Fox. Lighting up the city from September 15 to 18, Sky Light is a city-scale artwork that will connect iconic Melbourne skyscrapers with powerful lasers, invisible from some angles and breathtaking from others. Similarly, from September 29 until October 2, White Beam will pierce the sky above Prahran's Grattan Gardens with a focused beam of shimmering white light. But that's just the tip of a very impressive iceberg. As one of the biggest and most eclectic events on the city's cultural calendar, the Fringe lineup caters to every conceivable taste. There'll be eye-popping cabaret shows from the likes of James Welsby and Yana Alana, alongside a music lineup that covers everything from jazz to orchestral to disco. Comedy is, as per usual, a major focus of the festival, with Sammy J, Bev Kilick and rising star Laura Davis among those slated to perform. The latter, in particular, comes highly recommended. This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Fringe Furniture exhibition. Showcasing the work of exceptional Melbourne designers, find it at the historic Abbotsford Convent throughout the duration of the fest. And, of course, you'll want to spend plenty of time at the Festival Club in North Melbourne, where you can mingle with like-minded patrons and catch a different show every night. The Melbourne Fringe Festival runs from September 15 until October 2. For the full program visit melbournefringe.com.au.
It seems Melbourne could be over its Asian food obsession and circling back to its European roots. In the last few months alone we've welcomed Italian joint Mr Ottorino to Fitzroy, seen A25 expand to the CBD and French bistro Ôter open up in Flinders Lane. Furthering that trend, chef Joseph Vargetto has launched his new classic Italian restaurant Massi on Little Collins Street. Opening last month, the venue is the little sibling of Kew favourite Mister Bianco, and offers a similar mix of coffee, cakes, cold meats and antipasti as well as pastas and Sicilian-style mains. Named after the acclaimed chef's youngest son, the restaurant is located at 445 Little Collins, between Williams Street and Queen. Open Tuesday to Friday for breakfast, lunch and dinner (on Mondays they'll be open until 6pm), the space can seat up to 50 people, and is described by Vargetto as "comfortable and welcoming". Diners looking for a quick bite can pay a visit to the "crudo antipasto corner", where they can watch chefs slice up a selection of salumi and terrines. Those after something heartier can opt for steak or pan-fried barramundi, or choose from a number of appetising pasta options such as black spaghettini with virgule, blue swimmer crab, garlic and chilli. Dessert is designed to be shared – because why would you choose between mascarpone panna cotta and orange cake with ricotta cream when you can just order both? Massi will also welcome the city's post-work drinks crowd, with Aperitivo Hour kicking off at 4.30pm each day. Behind the impressive marble bar you'll find a great selection of beer, wine and Prosecco. Alternatively, you can take your booze home with you from their fully licensed bottle shop. Find Massi at 445 Little Collins Street, Melbourne. For more information visit massi.com.au.
Prepare to wolf down some really fucking hot poultry, as Belle's Hot Chicken flies south. The beloved fried chicken and natural wine joint teased the opening of its new store last week via Instagram, sparking a flurry among finger-lickin' fanatics trying to pin down its exact location. Now it looks like the cat chicken is out of the bag, with bird watchers identifying the green timber façade as the old Spud Bar in Windsor to be the new home to Belle's Nashville-style cooked chooks. Coming soon to 147 Chapel Street — just a convenient few minutes' walk from Windsor Station — the southside restaurant will be Belle's fourth permanent location, after their original coop in Fitzroy inspired spinoffs in Richmond and Sydney. Other than the address, information is thin, although it appears they are currently in the process of hiring staff. As for the menu, we have to assume they'll be frying up the same mix of wings, tenders and dark meat on a sliding scale of spiciness, along with sides like mushrooms, fries, pickles and oysters. We have another #belleshotchicken in the pipeline.. Can anyone guess where? #thatwithchicken A photo posted by Belles Hot Chicken (@belleshotchicken) on Jun 7, 2016 at 8:11pm PDT Seriously though, are there any two words more frustrating for foodies than opening soon? Belle's Hot Chicken will open...eventually...at 147 Chapel Street, Windsor. Keep your eyes on their Instagram for further information.
Beer Wine & Calzone may sound like a list of life's greatest offerings, but it's actually the name of your new favourite CBD restaurant. They're setting up shop on William Street and bringing a little pizza to a pocket of the city usually characterised by corporates and grey office buildings. And best of all? They do takeaway for those lazy days you when want to curl up in bed (or under your desk) with the best pizza variation ever invented. Opened by Jerome Dadon, the guy behind nearby CBD cafe Brother Thomas, this ode to calzone is now open above brand new jazz club Bird's Basement. The kitchen is manned by Marino Maffi, a professional pizzaioli who's studied at the Accademia Italiana Della Pizza — because both those things exist, what a time to be alive! — and the food menu is split evenly between pizza, pasta and calzone. Calzone, just FYI, are those delicious food lumps stuffed with smaller (but equally as delicious) food lumps, beloved by people everywhere, including Ben Wyatt on Parks and Rec. You'll only find the classics here, so leave your contemporary pineapple on pizza ideas at the door and learn to love a well-made margherita. But even traditionalists aren't above the inclusion of some heinously good dessert creations, like a banana, Nutella and custard calzone or panna cotta pizza slathered in berry compote. You might want to wear your loosest muumuu for this restaurant adventure. Beer Wine & Calzone is now open at 350 William Street, CBD. It's open seven days a week, noon to midnight. Find out more at beerwineandcalzone.com. Images: Simon Shiff.
Jimmy Hurlston, the burger fiend you know and love from Jimmy's Burgers and Collingwood's famous tram car nosh spot Easey's, is poised to take down Sydney and win hearts with his burgers. Hurlston has announced that come late April, his new venture, Guilty, will be opening in Darlinghurst. As well as bringing his Insta-famous burgs with him, Hurlston has suggested the new eatery, located in the Republic 2 complex, will encompass a broader American/South American-themed menu as well, including hot dogs and champagne. Guilty will be repping its hometown and showing off a range of Melbourne brewed beers on tap. No word yet on whether there'll include a genuine Melbourne tram car set up though. Sydney better ready itself because Hurlston has some ambitious ideas about burgers. An Easey's speciality, for the uninitiated, is the addition of creamy mac and cheese to an already towering burger. And the vegetarian option? Forget eggplant and grilled giant mushrooms, your burger pattie will be replaced with a crunchy potato cake. Jimmy Hurlston's burger creations are not for the weak of heart. Via Good Food. Images: Easey's. Guilty is slated to open late April on Burton Street in Darlinghurst.
South Yarra's new healthy eatery has got us smäking our lips. Now open for just a few weeks on Daly Street near the Corner of Chapel Street and Toorak Road, Scandinavian-inspired SMÄK Food House is serving up simple, healthy food for breakfast, lunch and (in the very near future) dinner. Standouts on the breakfast menu include mixed nut granola with berries, apple, cashew yoghurt and manuka honey; silverbeet and leek fitters with poached egg, smoked miso salmon and chargrilled corn and quinoa salsa; and turkey chipolatas served with poached eggs, free range bacon, swiss brown mushrooms, truss tomato, kale and rye bread, and sweet potato rosti. The lunch and dinner options are similarly eclectic. You can opt for a salad, such as a spiced cauliflower, farro, celery, spinach, walnut and cranberry number, or one made with orange poached beetroot, thyme carrots, tomato, corn, lima beans and pepitas. Alternatively, your protein options include 12 hour juniper berry braised lamb with red cabbage and pickled beetroot, and poached tarragon chicken with an almond thyme crust and garlic. Rounding things out are a number of extravagant beverages, including spinach, celery, cucumber and parsley juice, and a banana and zucchini smoothie made with chia, spirulina, coconut milk, strawberries, granola and dates. SMÄK is located at 6C Daly Place, South Yarra. They are currently open 7am to 3.30pm seven days a week, but will extend their operating hours to 10pm starting in June. For more information visit smakfoodhouse.com.
When your nine-to-five plays out like a well-oiled machine, it can sometimes feel like each week is a little same-same. But Melbourne is brimming with a fine bounty of things to experience and explore each and every day. So aside from casual laziness and a little lack of inspiration, there's really nothing stopping you from squeezing some adventure and spontaneity into your schedule. We've teamed up with Mazda3 to celebrate the landmark 40th anniversary of their iconic small cars, and in turn, help you celebrate the little things that bring that sense of adventure to life. Shake things up, as we give you seven different detours to take each week in Melbourne. From Monday to Sunday, enrich your everyday with one completely achievable activity that inspires you to take the scenic route as you go about your daily routine. This week, glide along a pop-up ice skating rink, attend an international TV festival and smash stuff with a bat as a means to de-stress. Plus, we've got your future detours sorted for the next few weeks here. All require no more effort than a tiny break from the norm — what's your excuse for not trying them all?
Smokey. Bacon. Breakfast. Ramen. If those four words don't sell you on House of Lulu White, we just don't know what will. South Yarra's new brunch spot can be found at 4 Yarra Street, South Yarra, an address that has a bit of a storied history. Prior to this week's revamp, it was chic restaurant space Sth Central. But some Melburnians might know it better as the old home of Paradise Girls brothel — which is why the new eatery is named after an infamous former procuress. These days the site is operated by upscale hospitality company the Tommy Collins Group, who, it must be said, are laying on the innuendo a little bit thick. "Short time or long time, it's always a good time," reads a welcome message on their website. "Play with her coconuts as she quenches your thirst with bottomless cocktails and espresso martinis on tap… Lulu will have you screaming for more." Alright guys, we get it. Still, while you might roll your eyes at a menu split into sections marked 'naughty' and 'nice', there's no arguing with the actual food. In addition to the ramen, your all-day breakfast options include almond and fig loaf with whipped yuzu ricotta, umi plum syrup and matcha; buttermilk fried chicken and waffles with maple nahm prik and coriander; and sautéed 'green stuff' with hummus, pickled beetroot, seven seeds, avocado, lemon and a poached egg. As for lunch, Lulu's got a mean-looking chicken burger with double bacon, house made kimchi and sweet potato fries on the side. If that doesn't grab you, maybe try the steak baguette with roast onion, cavalo nero, beetroot pickle and whipped smoked cheddar, or the purple kale and roast cauliflower salad with sweet potato, pistachio dukkah, avocado and goats curd. Drinks-wise, you can grab tea or coffee, or split the difference with a tea latte: strawberry swoon, turmeric chai or apple matcha, take your pick. They've also got a small selection of beers and wines — although if you're really feeling boozy, your best option is their weekend bottomless brunch, featuring two hours of bottomless cocktails for just $30. Alternatively, you can just add a nip of whiskey to your porridge and call it a day. Find House of Lulu White at 4 Yarra St, South Yarra. For more information visit www.houseofluluwhite.com.au.
Gelato appreciation class. It's a thing. A real thing. It's not some fake class like 'Video Appreciation Class' at high school which is straight-up just watching Ten Things I Hate About You every Wednesday. It's legit. And of course, Gelato Messina are behind it. One of Messina's fastest-selling event every time, gelato class is an event worth jumping on right now. We mean now. Join the team at Messina HQ in Sydney or Fitzroy in Melbourne every Saturday and you'll find out what goes on behind the scenes of everyone's favourite gelato joint. What a bloody glorious way to spend your Saturday morning. Classes are now open for booking from January to April 2016. There are two types of classes: a Gelato Appreciation Class for $160 per person, a part gelato making class, part info session, part science lesson, and part gelato degustation with Messina's chefs; and a Hands On Gelato Class for $250 per person, where you'll learn the finer details of making gelato — and pasteurise and plate your own gelato or sorbet. Dear sweet mother of Benedict Cumberbatch, what a classroom. Book your delicious, delicious education at Gelato Messina's website.
Steel your livers, drinking buddies, because the booziest week (and a bit) of the year is upon us once again. Running from May 11–20, Good Beer Week celebrates everything you can pour into a pint glass, and this year's lineup looks as thirst-quenching as ever. From brewery tours to workshops to mouth-watering dinners – not to mention an alcohol-fuelled mini golf tournament – the Good Beer Week 2018 program is packed to the brim with highlights. Gastronomers will be licking their lips at the Foodie section, featuring events from some of the city's top eateries including Cookie, Yokocho and Arbory. Meanwhile, the Beer Geek and Beer School streams are perfect for anyone hoping to better understand their booze. You can even pick up some tips on how to brew your own. The Pint of Origin tap takeover also returns, with pubs around town showcasing some of the very best beverages this country has to offer. Only this time, they're going head to head with breweries from around the world, with beers from the US, Canada, New Zealand, Asia and Europe all getting in on the action. Need some help deciding what to get involved in? We've rounded out our seven picks for the festival.
Test out your putting skills over an ice cold bev courtesy of Brunswick Brewery, Good Beer Week and Howler. The Brunswick bar (the latter) is resurrecting its nighttime mini golf course, Howler Mini-Golf-O-Rama. Each of its nine holes corresponds to a classic mini golf theme (volcanoes, windmills, jungles). To use the course, all punters need to do is rock up and buy a glass of Brooklyn. And who knows, after a couple of drinks, maybe your aim will actually improve?
Deaf dance works, feminist hip-hop, an ecosexual labyrinth and a 24-hour performance piece are among the most eye-opening works on the lineup for this year's Next Wave Festival. Melbourne's biennial celebration of young and emerging artists, Next Wave 2016 is set to kick-off in venues around town on Thursday, May 5, with 36 world premieres across a wide array of disciplines. Let's get stuck in. Diversity is clearly a major theme on this year's program, with a whopping 75 percent of projects led by women. Queensland artist Hannah Bronte will deliver a politically-charged musical vision of an alternate Australia led by an entirely female parliament, while Nat Randall will spend a whole day and night on a performance inspired by the cult John Cassavetes film Opening Night. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists will likewise be well represented. Katie West from WA will examine the impact of colonialism through a work that incorporates native plantlife, while writer and performer Maurial Spearim has created a darkly-comic one-woman show told partly in the Gamilaraay language. The festival has also partnered with the Victorian Aboriginal Council for Languages on a series on Indigenous language workshops. Further standouts include a dance work featuring both deaf and hearing performers, an audiovisual concerto from artist Dylan Sheridan, and a immersive, ecosexual (yes, eco) labyrinth in the Royal Botanic Gardens.
When it comes to being male, middle-class, and white, there are few names bigger than pop icon Ben Folds. Since going on hiatus from his not-so-aptly named trio, Ben Folds Five, the eponymous figure is venturing beyond his traditional classic-pop fusion. He still sings and plays piano, but he's upgrading slightly from his three-man ensemble (bass, drums), to a legitimate New York-style instrumental group in the form yMusic (string trio, flute, clarinet, trumpet). This new ensemble has naturally influenced Fold's sound, one only needs to listen to his solo project released last year So There, heavily featuring the chamber ensemble to hear this. Folds himself testifies to his fraternal connection with the ensemble, and it will be on display all through Australia in the month to come. Starting at QPAC in Brisbane on August 18, Folds and his new band will be playing the Opera House on August 20 and 21, the Perth Concert Hall on August 23, the Adelaide Entertainment Centre on August 25, the Palais Theatre in Melbourne on August 26 and 27, and finally the Canberra Theatre on August 28. If you want to see truly canonical pop, bridging the last few decades, you might want to catch these shows.
Friday, July 1 will see Melbourne's Roxanne Parlour overtaken by a squad of Australia's most talented electronic musicians. The night, presented by local record label Good Manners, aims to showcase some of the solid gold coming out of the Australian electronic music scene. The showcase will be curated by Good Manners artist Banoffee, who'll be celebrating the release of her latest video for single 'I'm Not Sorry' alongside the excellently named experimental dance music producer Dro Carey. Loseless — the Oscar Key Sung and HTML Flowers collaboration — will also be supporting, fresh off the boat from performances at Dark MOFO with Melbourne duo Habits. Kicking off from 9pm, the evening will run late with DJ sets from The Harpoons, Jennifer Loveless and Brooke Powers. Tickets are on sale now for $23.50. Image: Freya Esders.
When we take that first sip of our barista-brewed coffee on a workday morning, a lot of us can't actually imagine living without coffee. But what about living without a roof over your head or a guaranteed meal? Unfortunately, this is what many homeless people around Australia face each day, but on Friday, August 5, you can help your fellow Aussies out simply by buying a coffee as part of CafeSmart. CafeSmart is an annual event from StreetSmart that raises money and awareness for the homeless and is back for its fourth year running. So how does it work? From every coffee purchased on August 5 at a participating cafe around Australia, $1 will be donated towards local projects. So if your go-to local isn't participating, shake things up for a day and head to one that is. Prefer a hot chocolate? You can also donate at the counter. Simply by aiming for a bighearted cafe, you'll be helping some of our country's most in-need humans, so treat yourself to a third or fourth coffee guilt-free. CafeSmart is happening around the country on Friday, August 5. Check the website for participating cafes near you.
It's been just a couple of months since the State Library of Victoria first showed off its wild side, hosting a huge week of gigs and dance parties as Melbourne Music Week's 2016 hub. Now, punters again have the chance to party in the usually grave-silent library after hours, with 3RRR transforming part of the space into a lively pop-up bar for two Friday nights this month. Set to rock the book stacks on January 13 and 20, the event ties in with the library's latest exhibition, ON AIR: 40 years of 3RRR, celebrating the history and evolution of one of Melbourne's best-loved radio stations. Each night of the pop-up will see RRR favourites like Chris Gill (Get Down), Steve Cross (Beat Orgy), and Sarah Smith (Breakfasters) spinning the tunes in the library foyer, as you knock back RRR cocktails on the Mr Tulk terrace and browse vinyl in the onsite bookstore, Readings. Even the library's galleries will be throwing open their doors, allowing a rare after-hours sneak peak at the current exhibition program. 3RRR's ON AIR pop-up bar is happening on January 13 and January 20, open 7-10pm. ON AIR: 40 years of 3RRR will run until January 29. Image: Pascal/Flickr.
Peel yourself away from Netflix and go digging for some cult classics at Fitzroy's first quarterly Film Fair. Frolic amongst Melbourne’s finest film buffs and collectors, where you can either buy, sell, swap or barter films and their associated paraphernalia. Discounted Blu-ray and DVDs will be available to purchase, alongside film posters, collectables, clothing, 16mm projections and plenty more. Plus, there'll be a VHS swap meet (yes, VCRs still exist, people). The fair will be held at Fitzroy’s super fun tiki bar, The LuWow, so you can be assured there’ll be live music brought to you by Mick Dog’s Boneyard and mai tais for everyone. Even if you have nothing to swap or sell, there are also door prizes on the day that dish out prizes every hour, so you’re likely to come home with something. Whether you’re a B-grade bandit or an arthouse fanatic, you’re sure to stumble across some gold that your media streaming provider of choice couldn’t offer you in a million years. Happy trading. Want more old school films? Check out our feature on Melbourne's best retro film programs over here. Image: Ludo.
Anyone old enough to remember the mid-'90s will likely recall that something happened on the world’s tallest mountain back in May 1996. Something bad. But how bad? Well, the specifics are probably a bit hazy. That’s why there’s always the great temptation with movies based on real events to look up what happened before you see them. Sometimes it’s to make sure you’re across the facts or so that you don’t get confused, but usually, if we’re honest, it’s so that we don’t spend the whole film wondering who lives and who dies. Everest is one such film, and whatever you do, avoid turning to the internet until the credits have rolled. Genuine, compelling tension is such a rarity in modern cinema that to rob yourself of the experience when it finally presents itself would be madness. And boy does it present in Everest. To behold the ordeal at the centre of this tale is to almost endure it on a miniature scale. The film is relentless and punishing, leaving you exhausted, shaking and breathless. "Human beings,” explains the expedition’s leader Rob Hall (played by Jason Clarke), “simply are not built to function at the cruising altitude of a 747. Our bodies will be literally dying.” Thanks to the extraordinary team behind Everest, you believe it. Heck, you feel it. This is an ensemble movie done the right way, where nobody engages in scene stealing despite some big names scattered throughout. Sam Worthington, Jake Gyllenhaal, Keira Knightley, Josh Brolin, Robin Wright, John Hawkes and Emily Watson all join Clarke with committed but reserved performances that ensure the focus remains on the film’s true star: the mountain. Granted that sounds incredibly trite, but the scale of this film and its sumptuous cinematography all serve to reinforce both the grandeur and the peril of such an extraordinary place; “another beast altogether”, as Hall described it. To date, more than 250 people have died climbing the mountain, and the means of their demise are more varied than you might expect. The difference between this film and so many other recent offerings, however, it that instead of sensationalising nature, Everest simply shows humility towards it. In light of its wretched and treacherous conditions, one well might question why anybody would ever even consider summiting Everest, but the film has an answer for that, too. Several, in fact. Some try for the thrill, others for the challenge, and one extraordinary mailman attempted it purely for the symbol and inspiration it might provide others back home. More importantly, though, for those who actually make it — those few exceptional climbers who literally reach out and touch earth’s upper limit — the moment of exhilaration and accomplishment is so powerful and affecting that you’re moved to tears. It is, in short, an exceptional and experiential film with a story steeped in both tragedy and indomitability. Worthy of its name, Everest is a staggering and spectacular piece of cinema that deserves to be seen.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that Melburnians love Nutella. Like, love Nutella. In fact we love it so much that we may have accidentally caused a nation-wide shortage earlier in the month. Oops. Sorry everyone in the rest of the country. That one was on us. Now you might have hoped that we'd have learnt something from that experience — that perhaps Melbourne should be enjoying Nutella in moderation, to ensure that we're never confronted with such a scarcity again. But that just wouldn't be our style. Instead, we're doubling down, with a full blown Nutella pop-up. We're talking s'mores, truffles and tarts by the hundreds. Because if anyone is going to wipe those heavenly nuts off the face of the earth, then you better believe it is going to be us. Organised by City Lane, the pop-up pops up at The Alehouse Project in Brunswick East on Saturday, September 12. The service window opens at 9am sharp, at which point you'll be able to grab yourself a $10 'bento box' containing a Nutella and peanut butter s'more, a Nutella and salted caramel chocolate truffle, and a Nutella and maple syrup tart with smoked hickory Italian meringue. If 9am sounds too early to be scoffing all that sugar then move to Adelaide, you traitor. Besides, they've only made 500 boxes — and we have a sneaking suspicion they're not going to last. Hell, we're planning on grabbing at least a dozen boxes for ourselves. The pop-up will also be serving Japanese style V60 pour over coffee at $3 a cup. Their set-up is cash only, so make sure you bring the Benjamins. You'll also be able to grab a glass of beer or wine once The Alehouse opens at midday — although again, that's only if you're willing to run the risk of missing out on the sweet stuff. Your call. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
One of Australia's most beloved historic cinemas, for more than 75 years the Astor Theatre has been home to some of the finest movies ever made. Silent classics and masterpieces of foreign cinema regularly light up the art deco auditorium, transporting audiences to worlds beyond their imagination. But all that pales in comparison to what they've got in store this Friday night. Forget about Casablanca, Metropolis and Apocalypse Now. Things are about to get... magic. Led by Channing Tatum's abs, The Kings of Tampa will strut their stuff across the screen for both Magic Mike films from 7.30pm sharp. No word on whether The Astor will be providing any live entertainment during intermission, although it'd seem like a pretty big missed opportunity if they don't (maybe the staff will show off a few dance moves?) Either way, pre-film cocktails on Chapel Street are highly recommended.
Friday Nights at the NGV are back. Coinciding with the last few weeks of the current Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition, Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, the gallery is inviting visitors to enjoy a jam-packed late-night program complete with food, booze, talks and live performances. The six-week program begins Friday, October 2, with a night headlined by contemporary jazz group The Paul Grabowsky Trio. Other musical guests on the program include Glenn Richards, Gareth Liddiard, Laura Jean, Underground Lovers and Jaako Eino Kalevi, as well as DJ sets from Darcy Baylis, Banoffee, Airwolf and Edd Fisher. In addition to the music lineup, other Friday night activities include drawing classes and short academic talks. Food-wise, the gallery kitchen will be serving casual dining fare and share plates in the Great Hall. All in all, top notch Friday adventuring in the gallery. Image: Banoffee, Sarah Chav.
The Preatures are back for their final national tour for the year. Not content with two critically-acclaimed EPs, the Sydney fivesome released their debut album Blue Planet Eyes late last year to many a raised plastic cup. The Sydneysiders have really been kicking goals as of late. After gaining serious momentum overseas, The Preatures are returning home for one more tour supporting Blue Planet Eyes before holing up and creating their much-anticipated second album. With applauded performances at this years Vivid LIVE and Dark MOFO festivals, The Preatures are taking their last Australian tour of 2015 with no holds barred.
Slow food? What's slow food? Nope, it's not the eating of snails. The philosophy of slow food (for those who may need a cheeky reminder) essentially boils down to produce that is good, clean and fair. If those principles resonate with you and your preferred eating habits, this farmers market is for you. Going strong since 2006, and in partnership with Melbourne Farmers Market, this smorgasbord of delectable produce calls the Abbotsford Convent home on the fourth Saturday of each month. The market features 60 of Melbourne's most hardworking local growers and food producers. These farmers' unwavering dedication to the quality of their produce and the integrity of their production methods ensures buyers that their dollars are going directly towards maintaining this high standard. It’s a $2 donation on entry, and we should also let you know that it is a plastic bag-free zone, so please BYO calico. If you have a well behaved pooch (or kitty) they are also welcome to attend, just keep them on a lead and you're golden.
Five seasons in, and you’d think Game of Thrones fans would have resigned themselves to the fact that most of their favourite characters are probably going to die. And yet, as the recent season five finale showed, audiences are still holding on to a faint glimmer of hope — and are then venting their agony on the internet when HBO stabs them through the heart. To help you cope with George R. R. Martin’s latest batch of executions, ACMI have assembled a team of four diehard Thrones fans for their latest edition of Talking TV. This Tuesday, June 30, film critic Luke Buckmaster, freelance culture journo Mel Campbell, broadcaster/writer Clementine Ford and writer/comedian Luke Ryan will examine the public reaction to the show and pitch their answers to some of the biggest questions in Westeros. Is you know who really dead? Is Daenerys ever going to fly to King’s Landing? Will anyone who swore to boycott the show next year actually stick to their guns? Just try not to like any of the panelists too much. Because you’d basically be signing their death warrant.
As with every long weekend in Melbourne, the list of parties thrown over the three days is positively endless. If we have to pick a winner for bonafide boogie times, it's undoubtedly Around The Way. Brought to you by party-starter extraordinaires Funf, and stylish as all heck crew YSTRDAYBONE, the pair are are creating a music and lifestyle event like none other in Melbourne. Headlining the event is Scottish techno producer Sei A in his Melbourne debut. In terms of local DJ fun, Cutting Shapes DJs (specifically Jesse Young and Jean Pierre) will get that dance floor going. Speaking of Melbourne lads, legendary Cut Copy DJs will bring an infectious blend of disco and house, and Andras Fox will be doing his thing live — certainly worth keeping an eye and an ear out for. Also joining the list is Lovebirds, Tin Man, Myles Mac, Turkish Prison, Michael Ozone and Sleep D DJs. If you want in on this party, get your tickets now — last minute-ing is a fool's errand.
A big happy birthday is in order for one of Australia's greatest electronic music promoters. Over the past 11 years, The Operatives have showcased world-class electronic music figures, as well as sending Australia’s finest into the world to make a name for themselves with international audiences. The Operatives are sure as heck going to party like it’s, well, their bday, with some very special international guests dropping in to help blow out the candles. Leading the charge is LA’s rabbit-lovin' producer Jennifer Lee aka TOKiMONSTA, the darling of Flying Lotus’s label Brainfeeder. There'll also be first-time Australian performances by BBC Radio 1 regular Toddla T, and Belgium-based collective Losco. Joining this already-epic lineup is Beat Spacek, Sunit, A13, Amin Payne, Headstone, Jade Zoe and Mimi, JPS vs NAM, Kano and Lady Banton. Throw on some Camo and head down to Revolt Artspace to get amongst the birthday festivities.
If Black Swan didn't make the ballet world look tough enough, the boys from The Dream are sure to fix that. The Australian Ballet has been putting its dancers through their paces ahead of the company's latest production. A fascinating rendition of Shakespeare's iconic A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Dream is part of a triple bill of works by leading 20th-century choreographer Frederick Ashton at his spectacular best. Expect magic and musicality, and did we mention men en pointe? That's right, to play the role of Bottom the donkey, the male dancers will have to make like the ladies and dance on their toe-tips (a technique they've learnt in just 12 weeks, as dancer Christopher Rodgers-Wilson described to us for our feature). Bringing Shakespeare's most magical work to contemporary audiences, think of this as the perfect first-taste of ballet for anyone who's never dared step foot inside the State Theatre.
