New King, new cast of The Crown. The latter isn't a result of the former; however, change has come to the monarchy IRL, and is also clearly on its way in season five of Netflix's hit regal drama. Chaos and scandal is in the air on-screen, in fact, with the series jumping to the early to mid-1990s — aka the era of Prince Charles and Princess Diana's marriage breakdown. In The Crown's just-dropped trailer for its fifth season, things are tense in the House of Windsor. Actually, that's an understatement. As the relationship between the now-current off-screen King and his first wife stretches, strains and snaps, media interest heats up, Queen Elizabeth II has plenty of worries and Diana refuses to simply toe the family line. None of this will be new news to anyone aware of history, just like almost everything in The Crown since 2016, when it started bringing the British royal family's ups and downs from newspaper headlines to Netflix. And, yes, the film Spencer did cover some of the same territory as The Crown season five, just on the big screen, earlier this year — but come Wednesday, November 9, streaming viewers will be able to see how this award-winning series handles it. Also part of The Crown's fifth season: approaching the 40th anniversary of the Queen's reign, the public questioning the role of the royal family and changes on the international landscape. But it seems that the bulk of the new episodes' focus will sit with Charles, Diana, divorce requests, press scrutiny, explosive books and interviews, and the rest of the fallout. This time around, Downton Abbey, Maleficent and Paddington star Imelda Staunton dons the titular headwear, while Game of Thrones and Tales from the Loop's Jonathan Pryce steps into Prince Philip's shoes — and Princess Margaret is played by Staunton's Maleficent co-star and Phantom Thread Oscar-nominee Lesley Manville. Also, Australian Tenet, The Burnt Orange Heresy and Widows star Elizabeth Debicki takes over the role of Princess Diana, with The Wire and The Pursuit of Love's Dominic West as Prince Charles. The Crown shakes up its cast every couple of seasons. After starting out with Claire Foy (The Electrical Life of Louis Wain) as Queen Elizabeth II, Matt Smith (House of the Dragon) as Prince Philip and Vanessa Kirby as Princess Margaret (Pieces of a Woman) in its first two seasons, which aired in 2016 and 2017, the series returned in 2019 with Olivia Colman (Heartstopper), Tobias Menzies (This Way Up) and Helena Bonham Carter (Enola Holmes) in those roles. Plus, it added Josh O'Connor (Mothering Sunday) as Prince Charles — and, in season four in 2020, Emma Corrin (Misbehaviour) and The X-Files icon Gillian Anderson joined the cast as Lady Diana Spencer and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, respectively. Netflix's full trailer for season five comes after a first sneak peek back in September, which also honed in on Charles and Diana. Season five arrives two months after Queen Elizabeth II's death in early September, and following a pause in the show's production afterwards. News around the show's fifth and sixth seasons, with the latter following the monarch into the 2000s, has changed a few times over the past few years. At the beginning of 2020, Netflix announced that it would end the royal drama after its fifth season. Then, the streaming platform had a change of heart, revealing it would continue the series for a sixth season after all. Check out the trailer for The Crown season five below: The Crown's fifth season will hit Netflix on Wednesday, November 9. Images: Keith Bernstein / Netflix
If you wouldn't trust Gumtree, Domain or Craigslist to find you a new roommate, you're not alone. You're probably pretty smart, as well. To help you avoid the slob, the creep, or the no-concept-of-personal-space roommate, Friends With Rooms has created a Facebook roomie-finding app. The app utilises Facebook's social graph to match you up with other people whose profiles contain similar information and interests. Users answer a series of general questions designed to get a more in-depth concept of what type of roommate he or she might be (Do you prefer to stay out late or to rise early?). If you do happen to find a 'match', you can even have a mutual friend vouch for the other person. So rest assured that, thanks to this app, not every roommate has to be like your infamous first-year uni roommate. [via Mashable]
Cannes may be the world's most prestigious film festival, but it sure can be predictable. First of all, you can guarantee there will be a host of big name auteurs strutting around with A-list celebrities, you know the films will largely be about war or poverty — and yes, the critics will of course go crazy for them. With all the glitz and the glamour that comes with such prestige, you can't help but yearn for a little more intrigue. So, to combat all the glowing end-of-festival reports written by the world's best critics, here's a list of the festival's oddities — the things we didn't really see coming. Jean-Luc Godard is still alive, and he's messing with our minds Okay, this may sound insensitive but we just had no idea this guy was still around. It's not totally unreasonable either. Now at age 83, this legendary auteur of the French New Wave has officially reached the time usually reserved for shuffleboard and cryptic crosswords. If he was still making films, we'd kind of expect them to be dawdling black and white tales of an elderly intellectual's battle against his noisy young neighbours. Instead Godard's offering to this year's festival, Goodbye to Language, was a daring formal experiment. In terms of plot, the film is unsurprisingly lacking. In fact Indiewire summarised it simply as a film about a couple and a dog: "She wears clothes only very rarely ... he likes to talk about shit while taking a shit, and the dog is drawn to [some] water." But the buzz around the film came from its unexpected use of 3D technology. At one point in the film, the audience was presented with what reviewers described as "a headache-inducing blur". However, when viewed with one eye closed a clear picture comes into focus. When opening the other eye, a different picture comes to the fore. Who would have thought Godard would be the one to bring Magic Eye books into cinematic reality? Films can basically be shot with Instagram now Another noted formal innovation was by the 25-year-old Canadian wunderkind, Xavier Dolan. His prize-winning film Mommy was shot in an unprecedented 1:1 ratio — the same square size as your average Instagram video. Following the story of a single mother and her 15-year-old son who suffers from ADHD, the film coincidentally shared the Grand Jury Prize with Jean-Luc Godard's Goodbye to Language. The move has created an understandable buzz in the filmmaking industry and has been given incredibly positive reviews by critics and audiences alike. It's been reported that this tight field of vision intensifies the action of the film and gives an effective lens to the character's struggle with ADHD. Not to give anything away, but the screen ratio does however change to full-screen in moments of happiness during the film. It sounds a little corny, but with such a huge prize and stacks of audience approval, Dolan must pull it off pretty well. Ryan Gosling made a film and it sucked I know it seems impossible. Ryan Gosling is supposed to be some kind of superhuman specimen capable of anything except eating cereal, but apparently he's not that great at directing either. Lost River was his very first foray into the director's chair. At first it seemed promising — he recruited his buddies Eva Mendes and Christina Hendricks onto the cast, and the film made its way to Cannes. But after being universally panned by both audiences and critics, it's officially being labelled a flop. Following a single mother's struggles in a new city, the film has harshly been described as both "a student film with an A list cast" and "a cacophony of meaningless motifs stumbling round in service of a plot best summed up by 'woman decides to move house'". Yikes, sorry RyRy. Cinema is dead (according to Quentin Tarantino) We really should have seen this one coming. Between throwing whole scripts away and making films that are basically one giant in-joke, Quentin Tarantino does have a reputation for being a bit of a diva. But before entering a screening of his cult hit Pulp Fiction, the legendary director threw a bit of a hissy fit about digital film. "The fact that most films now are not presented in 35mm means that the war is lost," said Tarantino. He complained that screening films in a digital format is basically the same as watching television in public. "What I knew as cinema is dead," he said. Soon after, Tarantino announced new plans to create a TV miniseries from the unused footage of Django Unchained and did a little dance on the red carpet. So, who knows what this guy will do next. Sometimes sex scenes with Robert Pattinson pay off We know that's an unfair way to put it, but it's true all the same. This year Julianne Moore has won a Best Actress award for her role in David Cronenberg's Maps the the Stars — a satirical filmic look at Hollywood in which Moore has sweaty car sex with Pattinson. Obviously she also entirely deserves the award for her unflinching portrayal of an ageing Hollywood starlet, but seriously... who thought some vehicular good times with RPattz could get you a top gong at Cannes? Better luck next time, KStew.
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia wrapped up last Friday after showcasing the best of local fashion design against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour. Noticeably absent this year were big names Lover, Josh Goot and Dion Lee, as well all as our well-shod friends from across the ditch like Kate Sylvester and Stolen Girlfriends Club, but often it's the emerging designers who put on the most impressive shows. To celebrate five days of more laser lights and short shorts than you could poke a complimentary bottle of San Pellegrino Aranciata at, here are five exciting local labels to familiarise yourself with immediately. 1. MICHAEL LO SORDO To say rising cool kid Michael Lo Sordo’s show at The Apollo was highly anticipated would be a sweeping understatement. Sydney-based Lo Sordo recently took out the Qantas Spirit of Youth Award for his prodigious grasp of construction, and lived up to the hype with a meticulously tailored collection of soft white shirting, coloured metallic tees and knockout party dresses with graphic prints and gladiator detailing. Buy his pieces at Maubourg, Roots & Wings Design or Adelaide’s Chasing Nel. 2. KAYLENE MILNER Among the six talented graduates showing at the highly anticipated TAFE show was Kaylene Milner. Milner has just been selected for an internship with Diane von Furstenberg, and it's thanks to this patchwork-luxe collection juxtaposing earthy furs with vibrant colours. The young designer also has a gutsy back story — she was flipping through a 2007 Vogue during a uni lecture when she decided to ditch musicology in favour of whipping up a portfolio to submit to the prestigious TAFE. Previous designers to have made their runway debut at the Innovators show include Dion Lee and Emma Mulholland, so expectations are justifiably high. 3. AJE Design duo Edwina Robinson and Adrian Norris staged a confident runway debut which mixed sequins, mesh, fishtail skirts and scalloped micro hemlines — sometimes all at once — without sacrificing the label’s nonchalant elegance. Among the many standout pieces was a heavily sequinned mermaid-inspired gown, fittingly anchored by beaten leather boots with the tongue hanging out. Aje is stocked in Desordre in Sydney and Strada in Noosa. 4. CHRISTOPHER ESBER Most 23-year-olds are navigating life one mistake at a time, but Christopher Esber is not most 23-year-olds. The young Sydney designer was one of the standout newcomers at Rosemount Australia Fashion Week last year, consistently proving himself worthy of the hype that has surrounded his collections since he debuted alongside Dion Lee in 2008. Esber’s clothing is characterised by minimalist design, meticulous tailoring and luxurious fabrics, and this season he's all about clinical whites offset by delicate sheer fabric. 5. AN ODE TO NO ONE Few things kick of a runway show like a holographic laser light display, but you don't want the theatrics to outshine the clothing. Luckily An Ode To No One designer Adi Setiadi is a sartorial genius. Last year he penetrated a market saturated with digital prints by rendering his own in trippy 3D, and this time he paraded an army of sci-fi bombshells in Tron-esque geometric dresses, sharply tailored pantsuits and silks that rippled like water. Setiadi cut his teeth working for iconic Aussie designers Akira and Nicola Finetti before starting An Ode To No One in 2008, but his futuristic aesthetic is all his own.
Victoria had managed to clock up 28 days without any new locally acquired COVID-19 cases before yesterday's announcement that a hotel quarantine worker at the Grand Hyatt Hotel has tested positive to the virus. As a result, the government has brought in new statewide restrictions around mask-wearing and household gatherings, starting from 11.59pm last night, Wednesday, February 3. Public health teams are now working quickly to control any potential spread, with the Department of Health and Human Services identifying a list of 14 possible exposure sites as part of its contact-tracing efforts. A Hotel Quarantine worker at the Grand Hyatt Hotel has tested positive to coronavirus (COVID-19). Anyone who has visited these exposure sites during the times below must immediately isolate, get a coronavirus (COVID-19) test, and remain isolated for 14 days. pic.twitter.com/BNpSOEcpHY — VicGovDH (@VicGovDH) February 3, 2021 Anyone who visited any of the below places during the specified exposure periods is being told to isolate immediately, get tested and remain in isolation for 14 days. As further contract tracing is undertaken, new spots may be added to the list — check the DHHS website for updated information. LIST OF CURRENT EXPOSURE SITES FRIDAY, JANUARY 29 Kebab Kingz, 438 Spencer Street, West Melbourne — 23.24–00.15 Exford Hotel, 199 Russell Street, Melbourne — 23.00–23.35 SATURDAY, JANUARY 30 Aces Sporting Club (driving range), Corner Springvale and Hutton roads, Keysborough — 22.00–23.15 Club Noble, 46/56 Moodemere Street, Noble Park — 14.36–15.30 SUNDAY, JANUARY 31 North Point Cafe, 2B North Road, Brighton — 8.10–9.30 Kmart, Brandon Park Shopping Centre, Corner Springvale and Ferntree Gulley roads, Brandon Park — 16.35–17.10 Coles Springvale, 825 Dandenong Road, Springvale — 17.00–18.00 Kmart, Parkmore Keysborough Shopping Centre, C/317 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough — 16.00-17.00 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1 Nakama Workshop, 85 Main Road, Clayton South — 11.15–12.00 Melbourne Golf Academy, 385 Centre Dandenong Road, Heatherton — 17.19–18.35 Lululemon, DFO Moorabbin, 250 Centre Dandenong Road, Moorabbin — 17.00–17.45 Bunnings Springvale, 849 Princes Highway, Springvale — 11.30–12.15 Sharetea Springvale, 27C Buckingham Avenue, Springvale — 18.50–19.30 Woolworths Springvale, 302 Springvale Road, Springvale — 18.30–19.30 For further details on the latest exposure sites and updated public health advice, see the Department of Health and Human Services website. Top image: Woolworth via WikiCommons
The onset of those searing summer rays should remind us that skin cancer is Australia's biggest killer. But national awareness doesn't seem to mirror the scary statistics. In an attempt to rectify this, Pretty Shady is injecting some style into the skin cancer awareness campaign, with sun protection gear you can get your hands on for free — some of it rather covetable and limited edition. Included is a beautifully designed Basil Bangs beach umbrella (there are 50 of those) and a rad Lister-designed tee (just 40). There's also a stack of reversible bucket hats (800), some handcrafted sunnies (800), and a few hundred litres of sunscreen up for grabs. These items ought to help you kick the habit of poolside tanning. Pretty Shady is aiming to be the generation that stops the spread of skin cancer, one summer at a time. With high-profile ambassadors such as Nicole Warne, Anthony Lister and Gossling, they're packing a pretty powerful cool factor. Enter the competition to win Pretty Shady gear and you'll automatically go into the draw to win even more. The five limited edition items will be released one by one. So jump on in as soon as possible to increase your chances of securing a piece of the shady action. And even if you don't win, we encourage you to find a way to, in the words of a much daggier campaign, slip slop slap.
You've read the books, watched the TV series and seen the concert experience. You're looking forward to all of the television spinoffs that are currently in the works and, once international travel resumes, you're keen to take a tour of its sets, costumes and props. Now, Game of Thrones fans, you can add something else to your list: watching George RR Martin's fantasy world on the stage. Yes, Westeros is heading to the theatre, thanks to a new stage adaptation that'll be set at an important moment in the history of the series. And, with a 2023 target premiere date and seasons on Broadway, in the West End and in Australia mooted, it's set to arrive sooner than you might've expected — and closer to home, too. Martin is involved, working alongside playwright Duncan Macmillan (Lungs, Every Brilliant Thing, 1984), who'll be adapting the author's works and writing the play. Overseeing the production is director Dominic Cooke (On Chesil Beach, The Courier), while Simon Painter and Tim Lawson (The Illusionists) are producing the show. If you're wondering exactly what the as yet unnamed theatre production will cover, few details have been revealed — but, unlike Jon Snow, we do know something. Familiar and well-known characters will definitely feature, as will a story centred around "love, vengeance, madness and the dangers of dealing in prophecy, in the process revealing secrets and lies that have only been hinted at until now" according to the press release announcing the play. Martin himself has offered further information. "The seeds of war are often planted in times of peace. Few in Westeros knew the carnage to come when highborn and smallfolk alike gathered at Harrenhal to watch the finest knights of the realm compete in a great tourney, during the Year of the False Spring," he explained. "It is a tourney oft referred during HBO's Game of Thrones, and in my novels, A Song of Ice and Fire... and now, at last, we can tell the whole story... on the stage." Obviously, it's far too early for cast announcements — so just who'll be bringing these dramas to life, and whether any of the TV show's cast members will be involved, is yet to be revealed. If you're wondering whether there'll be dragons, White Walkers or direwolves, that's also yet to be unveiled. Exactly when in 2023 the play will debut also hasn't been advised as yet, or details of the proposed US, UK and Australian seasons. But, thanks to all of those television prequels and spinoffs set to hit the small screen and now this theatre production, you can safely expect to spend plenty more time in Westeros over the coming years. The as yet unnamed Game of Thrones stage production is set to premiere in 2023, with producers aiming for seasons on Broadway, in the West End and in Australia to start. We'll keep you updated when more information comes to hand.
Dust off your sombreros, amigos. The latest international excuse for a good time to reach our shores is Cinco de Mayo — a celebration of all things Mexican (which, if we’re being nit-picky, is really more of an Americanisation than anything but shh, let us party). In celebration, the folks at Corona and Beach Burrito Company West End are putting together a fiesta, complete with face painting by local street artists and the first ever Taco Time Trials Eating Contest. For the less competitively inclined but equally taco-happy, Cinco de Mayo falls conveniently on a Tuesday, and Beach Burrito Co’s regular $3 taco deal applies, so your pesos’ll stretch further. With what you’ve got left, you can sip salt-rimmed margaritas, down trays of tequila shots (not recommended) or share a bucket of ice-cold Coronas. And, of course, come prepared to smash and whack your way to glory, because they wouldn’t be doing Mexico right without pinatas.
When you've already announced that you're turning 31 with Kraftwerk, what comes next? Adding an impressive list of other acts. Back in July, Meredith advised that 2023's fest would feature the German electro pioneers. Now, the beloved Victorian event has unveiled who else will be taking to its Supernatural Amphitheatre. Also leading the bill: Caroline Polachek making her first trip Down Under, plus Alvvays and Alex G. Eris Drew & Octo Octa, Flowdan and Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs join the roster, too, as well as Sneaky Sound System, No Fixed Address and Souls of Mischief — and there's more where they came from. 2023's list of talent continues to demonstrate Meredith's knack for curating its lineup to perfection. Australia boasts no shortage of music festivals, but no one puts together a bill like the Aunty crew. "From deep discovery to elementary enjoyment. Subterranean treasures to searing virtuosos, from sunlit essentials to late-nite blasts. Never-thought-it-would-happens amidst hometown heroes. A bellow of resonant revelations." That's Meredith's own suitably evocative description of everyone taking to its single stage from Friday, December 8–Sunday, December 10. There's still a few more names to come — "a handful", the festival notes — for what's set to be a massive long weekend. To nab tickets to the beloved three-day BYO camping festival, you'll need to enter the ballot, which is up and running now until 10.31pm AEST on Tuesday, August 22. And if you'd like to head along by volunteering instead, applications are currently open as well. MEREDITH 2023 LINEUP: Kraftwerk Caroline Polachek Alvvays Alex G Eris Drew & Octo Octa Flowdan Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Sneaky Sound System No Fixed Address Souls of Mischief Cable Ties Blawan Floodlights moktar Telenova They Hate Change C.O.F.F.I.N. dameeeela Bumpy Kuniyuki Meninyan Miss Kaninna Gut Health Ali Milo Eastwood Watty Thompson Mary Lattimore Pachyman City of Ballarat Municipal Brass Band Meredith Music Festival will return to Meredith on Friday, December 8–Sunday, December 10, 2023. To put your name in the ballot to get your hands on tickets, head to the festival's website before 10.31pm AEST on Tuesday, August 22. Top images: Michael Ridley, Adam Ricco, Chelsea King, Steve Benn and Ben Fletcher.
Doing right by the planet and nixing disposable coffee cups is all fine and dandy...until the dreaded day comes when you accidentally leave your reusable cup at home. It's no easy task forgoing your daily coffee. Well, your forgetful tendencies can impact your caffeine habit no longer, with the launch of Viva La Cup — a nifty new initiative from Melbourne's Benjamin Korff and Lily Yap. The pair started the social enterprise to help squash the use of single-use plastics and cups, aiming to be a zero-waste operation. Viva La Cup's signature reusable cups are available to borrow from a network of participating cafes across Melbourne. You'll pay a $10 deposit when you buy your coffee and then receive a full refund when you return the cup to a participating business. They'll even do the hard part and wash it for you. The cups themselves are crafted from long-lasting stainless steel, double-walled to keep your coffee hot without burning any hands. In keeping with Viva La Cup's zero waste philosophy, the material has been carefully chosen for its reusability, high recycling rate and minimal environmental impact. Korff and Yap are even taking it one step further, and have pledged to donate 50 percent of their profits to projects working in waste reduction, waste management and conservation of marine wildlife. Venues currently participating in the scheme — which starts trials on Wednesday, July 25 — include The Basement Cafe & Bar, Jungle Juice Bar, Manchester Lane's Là Kuàizi and Kings and Knaves Espresso on William Street. The Viva La Cup reusable cup program launches on Wednesday, July 25. To find out when more cafes sign up head to the Viva La Cup Facebook page or the website. Image: Letícia Almeida
Now you're spending a little more time in your home, you may as well pick up a new skill. Always wanted to know how to shake a martini that would impress James Bond? What about learning some handy tricks in the kitchen for the dinner party you're planning when this is all over? Well, Sydney bar and vegetarian diner Golden Gully is letting you level-up from the comfort of your living room. If you're keen to take your boozy drinks from the humble G&T to a whiskey sour or manhattan, join bartenders Rachael and Danny over video chat for a one-hour class, which will show you how to mix up whatever you've got lying in your liquor cabinet. So, you can put that shot of Midori down now. Prefer to learn how to be a whiz in the kitchen? Golden Gully's chef Emma Evans (ex-Alibi) will help you turn water into wine — well more like mi goreng into pad see ew, which is still a mean feat. You'll join her for an hour via video chat to go through a recipe and cook up something tasty, even using the most mundane ingredients in your panty. Each class costs $60 and will not only see you through self-isolation, but also are life skills you should probably have under your belt anyway. To purchase a class, head here. And once that's done, message Golden Gully on Instagram to arrange a time and date. Images: Trent van der Jagt
Spooktober claims to be Melbourne's spookiest Halloween festival, so you know it has big things up its sleeves when it comes to giving you a fright. The St Kilda Town Hall set up will feature, over five days, an Escape The Swamp escape room, and two custom haunted house experiences called Coven and Phobia…. sounds like some real American Horror Story-type vibes over here, so be warned. Some of the festival is recommended for ages 12-plus as the scare level is rated 'extreme', but if you're an adult and you're still scared that's okay. There's a food truck park and a Haunted Spirits Bar so you can get some liquid courage into you, stat. Also on the lineup — keeping things a little more light-hearted — are nightly performance by drag queens HalloQueens. On top of all that, look out for games and costume competitions, Dr. Evil's Slime Lab, face-painting and free Wizz Fizz.
Summer has had a blistering start, with the country yesterday clocking its hottest ever day on record. Australia's average maximum temperature soared to a whopping 40.9 degrees, barrelling past the previous record of 40.3 set back on January 7, 2013. But, things are looking much more bearable for December 25, as Christmas Day promises some balmy mid-20 conditions for Australia's barbecuing, beach-going and festive-feasting adventures. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Melbourne's the big day is set to hit a maximum of 28 degrees, with partly cloudy skies and only a ten-percent chance of any rain. It'll not only be cracking beach weather, but a welcome change of pace, after this coming Friday's expected top of 43. It's also a jump above Melbourne's December average, which clocks in at 24.2 degrees. [caption id="attachment_651722" align="alignnone" width="1920"] St Kilda Beach by Josie Withers for Visit Victoria[/caption] Sydney is on track to enjoy similar conditions, with an overall maximum of 27 degrees and a 40-percent chance of showers on the cards for Christmas Day. However, if you're venturing west, you'll probably want to line up a swim (or air-conditioning) of some sort, as Penrith hits an expected top of 32 degrees. It comes after NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian declared a seven-day State of Emergency on December 19, handing over executive powers to the RFS Commissioner, because of predicted worsening bushfire conditions. It's the second State of Emergency declared this fire season, too, which has been particularly devastating, with 768 homes lost and more than 2.7 million hectares burnt at last count. Those travelling over the festive period are being told to prepare for possible road closures, diversions and delays as a result. And before you head out of town, it's suggested you check Fires Near Me and heed any instructions and warnings. Further north in Brisbane, things are looking especially balmy with a sweaty forecast max of 33 degrees. It's just another in a long string of mid-30 days the city's been through this month, though Christmas Day is bucking the trend with a forecast 40-percent chance of rain. You might want to have a contingency plan for that outdoor barbie. [caption id="attachment_703464" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bunya River Crossing[/caption] Perth's set to unwrap a sticky top of 36 degrees for Christmas, way beyond the average December maximum of 29.1. With zero chance of rain forecast, it'll likely be the hottest day locals will have had all week, rounding out a string of high-20s and low-30s. Darwin is in for a similarly steamy maximum of 35 degrees with the added bonus of potential thunderstorms — pretty much the exact conditions it'll see every day in the lead-up. Meanwhile, Adelaide folk will be ringing in Christmas Day with a festive top of 32 degrees and Canberra is wrapping up a week of low-40s and mid-30s with a partly cloudy 33. As usual, Tasmania's playing things a little cooler, with Hobart in for a partly cloudy, potentially drizzly maximum of 23 degrees.
This July sees the return of another packed program from Open House Melbourne, even despite the current pandemic. If you're not familiar with the annual event, it opens up some of the city's most iconic buildings, new structures and urban environments for the public to explore and appreciate. And this year, it's all happening virtually. Eighty-eight buildings are included in this first-time digital program, which kicks off from July 16 and remains online until the end of August. Fire up that device and get ready to scope out architectural gems from all over the Melbourne region. A highlight of the program will be the chance to take a virtual tour through the grand expanse of Studley Park's Villa Alba — an 1880s Italianate mansion bearing some of this country's most significant examples of late nineteenth century decoration. Elsewhere, you can check out Australia's first truly contemporary mosque with a virtual visit to the Australian Islamic Centre, designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize–winning architect Glenn Murcutt. Or, catch a presentation on the fascinating construction of the iconic Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Or, peek inside the National Trust- and heritage-listed South Melbourne building that's home to The Australian Tapestry Workshop, featuring classic Victorian Free Gothic stylings by renowned local architect T.J Crouch. An online exhibition and guided virtual tour explores the history and future of the Montague area, now part of the Fisherman's Bend redevelopment, while the 1893-built Tay Creggan building — long home to Strathcona Girls Grammar's Year 9 campus — will play host to its own digital tour, sharing stories and designs by current students. Well-known structures like La Mama Theatre, Trades Hall, Lyon Housemuseum and Bunjil Place are just some of the many others opening their doors for virtual walk-throughs and close-up events over the coming weeks. [caption id="attachment_775300" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Villa Alba Museum by Russell Winnell[/caption] Top image: Australian Islamic Centre courtesy of AIC.
If there are two things that are helping us through this latest stretch of lockdown, it's good food and good tunes. So, it's an extra win that the two are coming together for one exclusive virtual knees-up on Saturday, September 12. Attica's renowned culinary maestro Ben Shewry is teaming up with local electronic legends The Avalanches to host A Party for Melbourne, streamed live and loud, straight to your living room. They're aiming to send fans a big 'thank you', while blasting away a few of those dreary iso blues. The celebrations kick off early with a series of online 'How To Party' videos released in the week leading up, which'll see Shewry sharing his tips and tricks for whipping up the ultimate shindig. He'll guide you through everything from transforming your house into a disco den to creating game-changing prawn cocktails and sausage rolls. They'll be free to watch over on the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival (MFWF) website, as well as Shewry's and MFWF's social channels. On the big night, things will fire up with a set from DJ Soju Gang, before The Avalanches grace your screens with a show of their own, streamed via YouTube. Best make sure you've cleared plenty of room for dancing the night away. Tickets to this house party are free, but you'll need to register over at the MFWF website.
It's no surprise that many of us are looking to upgrade our home comfort level at the moment. Aussie furniture brand Koala is keen to help you do just that with its cyber sale where you can nab up to 20 percent off mattresses, sheets, sofas, desks and armchairs to help you upgrade your pad or improve your night's sleep. A heap of products from across the brand's range are on sale from Monday, November 23 to Monday, November 30, including the popular Koala mattress, which you can score for up to $250 less than the usual price. Plus, if you order a bed today, you will be sleeping pretty tonight as Koala offers a free four-hour delivery service. Also on offer in the sale is the WFH desk, which is made in Ballarat from hand-sanded timber, easy to assemble and designed with home office use in mind. If you've found yourself working from home a lot more this year, you can pick up the desk for a sweet 15 percent off. Comfy Koala sofa beds, TV units, pillows, bed bases and more are going with a 20 percent discount, too, so you can give your whole house a makeover. And everything comes with a 120-night trial — though, it might be hard to give any of these up after four-months of comfort. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Sydney siblings Angus and Julia Stone have some pretty talented blood pulsing through their veins. Hitting the road once again off the back of their third, self-titled album, the pair's Summer 2015 Tour comes as a welcome surprise after rumours the duo had called it quits in favour of their highly successful solo projects. Fans would be familiar with their long-time success; sparked by their ARIA #1 2010 album release Down The Way featuring the triple j Hottest 100 winner 'Big Jet Plane'. Fast-forward nearly five years, and their reach has gone global, playing sell-out shows across the States and a thirty-date headline tour of the UK and Europe cementing the pair's place as triple-platinum artists. So what inspired these two to turn away from pursuing their own stuff? Legendary producer Rick Rubin (Beastie Boys, Jay Z) was keen to join the Stone family and work on their latest album, but refused to jump on board unless these kids came back together. So naturally, family reunions flowed. Supported by the likes of Cloud Control, Little May and Jarryd James, Angus and Julia Stone are back on the Australian live circuit with the nicest bunch you could ask for in a return tour. Secure your stubs early, this one's going to sell out.
They're famous for singing about an island in the sun. Come October, they'll be playing on one: Australia. Yes, add Weezer to the list of acts that first made it big decades ago that are hitting our shores again, and soon, with the Los Angeles-formed alt-rock band just announcing three big Aussie arena gigs for this spring. Expect the supremely cruisy, holiday vibe-heavy 'Island in the Sun' to get a spin, plus 'Undone — The Sweater Song', 'Buddy Holly', 'El Scorcho', 'Beverly Hills', 'Hash Pip', 'Pork and Beans' and more, all from across the group's three-decade career. Rivers Cuomo, Patrick Wilson, Scott Shriner and Brian Bell will take to the stage in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane on a whirlwind three-day, three-show trip between Friday, October 6–Sunday, October 8. [caption id="attachment_912637" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Murphy[/caption] Music lovers in Victoria and Queensland's capitals, you'll be catching Weezer play through its hefty discography as headliners, with the band picking up their instruments at John Cain Arena in the former and Brisbane Entertainment Centre in the latter. In support, Brissie legends Regurgitator will warm up the crowd in both cities — another favourite that began rocking the airwaves in the 90s. In Sydney, Weezer fans will need to see KISS, too, with Weezer's only Harbour City show in support of KISS in what's been dubbed the makeup-clad icons' last-ever Australian concert. Weezer love a bit of a nostalgia, at least where their Aussie tours are involved. Back in 2020, they were announced for the Hella Mega Tour's Down Under run, which was meant to hit the country that November with Green Day and Fall Out Boy also headlining. Then the pandemic hit, and the trio's successful worldwide combined gigs cancelled its Australian plans. WEEZER 2023 AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES: HEADLINE SHOWS: Friday, October 6 — John Cain Arena, Melbourne Sunday, October 8 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane KISS: THE FINAL CURTAIN WITH SPECIAL GUESTS WEEZER: Saturday, October 7 — Accord Stadium, Sydney Weezer will tour Australia in October 2023, with early-bird pre-sale tickets for their solo shows available from 9am AEST on Tuesday, August 15, and general sales from 9am AEST on Thursday, August 17. Head to the tour website for further details — and to Ticketek for KISS tickets now. Top image: Hunter Kahn via Wikimedia Commons.
Dripping ice creams are just one of the unavoidable realities of a scorching summer day. Until now. Some geniuses at the Biotherapy Development Research Center in Kanazawa, Japan have invented a popsicle that doesn't melt, keeping its cool even when temperatures are skyrocketing. The frosty treats, called Kanazawa Ice were released earlier this year, according to Japan's Asahi Shimbun. They're made using polyphenol, which is extracted from strawberries. Developer Tomihisa Ota told the paper that the ingredient's properties "make it difficult for water and oil to separate, so that a popsicle containing it will be able to retain the original shape of the cream for a longer time than usual and be hard to melt". The company stumbled upon this discovery while trying to create a new kind of confectionary using strawberries that weren't good enough quality to be sold. What they ended up making instead was a frozen snack that stays in perfect drip-free condition, even after a five minute stint in 28-degree heat. A post shared by 金座和アイス (@kanazawaice) on Nov 18, 2017 at 12:45am PST They're currently available in a range of flavours and designs at stores across Kanazawa, Osaka and Tokyo. But we're hoping this icy technology makes its way down under — with sweltering days approaching and our Frosty Fruits in extreme peril, it's a matter of national importance that we ship some here, stat. Via The Asahi Shimbun.
Let there be rock indeed: when AC/DC announced their first Australian tour in a decade, it was always going to be popular. It should come as no surprise, then, that extra gigs have been added now that tickets have gone on sale. Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne have all scored additional shows, with the band now playing two concerts in each of the New South Wales, Queensland and Victorian capitals. Since 2015, it's been a long wait for Aussie fans if you want to rock 'n' roll with AC/DC live, but the group's Power Up tour will see Brian Johnson, Angus Young and company performing at local stadiums in November and December 2025. With the just-announced extra gigs, Melbourne is getting thunderstruck at the MCG on Wednesday, November 12 and Sunday, November 16; Sydney at Accor Stadium on Friday, November 21 and Tuesday, November 25; Adelaide at the bp Adelaide Grand Final on Sunday, November 30; Perth at Optus Stadium on Thursday, December 4; and Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday, December 14 and Thursday, December 18. For this run of dates, Amyl and The Sniffers are onboard in support to make these massive Aussie concerts even more so, and to give attendees a taste of two different generations of Aussie rockstars. Playing Sydney isn't just part of a fitting homecoming for AC/DC, but comes more than half a century since the band played their first-ever show in the Harbour City. Their 2025 gig will be just over a month and a half short of 52 years since that 1973 debut. Power Up is also the name of the group's 2020 album, their most-recent record — which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, made multiple best-of lists for that year and scored Grammy nominations. For those about to rock, AC/DC's high-voltage current set list spans their entire career, however, including everything from 'If You Want Blood (You've Got It)', 'Back in Black' and 'Hells Bells' to 'Highway to Hell', 'Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap' and 'You Shook Me All Night Long'. So far, the Power Up tour has played Europe and North America, selling more than two-million tickets across 24 shows in the former and notching up ten soldout gigs in the latter. AC/DC will be back in Europe, hitting the Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Spain, Italy, Estonia, Sweden, Norway, France and Scotland, before their Aussie dates. AC/DC Power Up 2025 Australian Tour Wednesday, November 12 + Sunday, November 16 — Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne Friday, November 21 + Tuesday, November 25 — Accor Stadium, Sydney Sunday, November 30 — bp Adelaide Grand Final, Adelaide Thursday, December 4 — Optus Stadium, Perth Sunday, December 14 + Thursday, December 18 — Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane AC/DC are touring Australia in November and December 2025, with tickets on sale from Thursday, June 26, 2025. Head to the tour website for further details. Images: Christie Goodwin.
Economic uncertainty and vast urban sprawl have made the dream of owning a home less likely for many citizens. Thankfully, architects and designers around the globe are fusing creativity with the latest technology to build unique homes at a fraction of the price. Pre-fabricated houses are gaining more relevance in today's society as homes that are affordable for most prospective owners. These houses are manufactured in factories and then transported and assembled at a location of your choosing. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, simplicity and a reduced impact on the environment, pre-fabricated houses are a solution that people are looking to with greater interest. Here we have collected some of the most innovative pre-fabricated houses. With the diverse range of materials and designs used in the examples below, pre-fabricated homes have also become one of the primary avenues for creative minds to flaunt their imaginations. Have a look below and consider a pre-fabricated home to make your own. MCube by MDesigns Superb-A House by mnm.MOD PLACE Houses mkLotus by Michelle Kauffman The Crib by Broadhurst Architects Haus Bold by Thomas Bendel House Arc by Bellomo Architects Loftcube Origin by Blu Homes zeroHouse
It's worryingly easy to lapse into the 'same old' routine that you're used to: work, gym, the new season of Orange Is the New Black, bed. It's much harder to find the motivation to go out and actually do something, especially when it's still a bit cold. But, Melbourne's cogs don't stop turning as soon as the sun does its yearly strop off to the other side of the world. In fact, there's much to discover in the city that doesn't involve your comfy status quo of pad thai on the couch. So, along with our mates at Mitsubishi, and in celebration of their new Eclipse Cross, we thought we'd gently remind you of that. Check out our ideas for making some local discoveries every day this week. From getting some science in you to scoffing down a hectic milkshake to seeing some art at the cornucopia that is the NGV, there are plenty of ways you can have a city-themed adventure and still make it back home in time to smash out a Netflix episode before bed. It's the best of both worlds, no? MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 3: LIVE PODCASTING Learn about the stuff you should know at this one-off live podcast recording. The guys behind the popular Stuff You Should Know podcast, Chuck Bryant and Josh Clark, are in town today doing a special one-off live recording. The podcast is a general knowledge affair from the duo who used to work at HowStuffWorks.com, so you can rest assured they really do know stuff about stuff. Having toured around the US, Canada and Europe with the podcast, it's Australia's turn now, with only one show in Melbourne. Expect a none-too-serious night of interesting facts and humour and to leave with a slightly broadened general knowledge about anything from Spam to zoot suits. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4: DRAWING THE HUMAN FORM Test your life drawing skills at an after-work art session. Work-Shop runs myriad classes and short courses, and its life drawing for beginners is a solid option for those who feel they might have an arty bone in their bodies somewhere but have never really found it. At this small group class centred around a live nude model, you'll be given one-on-one guidance on how to draw the human form — and then left alone and given space to spread your arty wings. All materials are included (plus some wine) so all you need to bring is your most creative self. [caption id="attachment_663227" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kate Shanasy.[/caption] WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5: A VERY AUSTRALIAN CURRY Prove your love of vegemite by ordering a curry made with the stuff at Sunda. Modern Southeast Asian restaurant/bar Sunda is tucked down the CBD treasure trove of eateries that is Punch Lane and is housed in a former car park, so that's already full marks for discovery vibes here. Combining Indonesian, Malaysian and Vietnamese flavours with modern Australian, and featuring native plants and flora, this fusion approach is perhaps seen to no greater degree than in the fact that there's vegemite on the menu. Mix things up a little for your palate by ordering the roti served with vegemite curry dipping sauce. A slightly different native ingredient than you probably had in mind, it certainly jazzes up your staid vegemite toast cafe order. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 6: RETRO BURGERS AND MILKSHAKES Head to Bentleigh's old school milk bar for a burger and a lamington shake. Lactose-intolerant people, look away now — unless you're up for a real challenge (digesting about a pint of Golden Gaytime-flavoured milkshake). The shakes don't muck around at Good Times Milk Bar in Bentleigh, and neither does the rest of the menu. The old school, pastel vibes at Good Times do just what the label says — you won't see a single bad time once you've decided on what you want from the bonanza of burgers and shakes. Discover a belly full of burger and milk, and more importantly, comfort. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7: AVANT-GARDE AUSTRALIAN ART Catch the NGV's new parallel retrospective of Baldessin and Whiteley. The NGV is hosting a retrospective of two iconic 20th-century Australian artists: George Baldessin and Brett Whiteley. Combining the work of the two for Baldessin/Whiteley: Parallel Visions, the exhibition will look at the similarities between the men —who both died tragically early. Baldessin and Whiteley created avant-garde works that played with surrealism, incorporating hints of pop culture. Along with some of their most famous works (such as Baldessin's MM of Rue St Denis series and Whiteley's The American Dream), there'll be some pieces on show that have never been seen before, too. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8: A NIGHT OF FOOD AND STARS Spend a night stargazing at Scienceworks' AstroLight Festival. Scienceworks is probably number one on your list if you want to discover things, with it being chockablock full of cool facts and interactive displays about science, technology, health and just general stuff. The museum is also hosting the AstroLight Festival tonight, perfect for the astronomers among us (or just those chillers who like to look at stars). Throughout the evening, scientists, astronomers and artists will present talks, performances and optics activities — and of course, stargazing if the weather is good. A bar, cafe and food trucks will cater your night sky discovery journey, as well. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9: VEGAN HOT SPOTS Go on a vegan walking trail through Fitzroy. Weekend days are often put aside for doing wholesome activities that make your body feel nice after your Friday night hijinks, and with the Cruelty Free Shop's Vegan Day Out happening this weekend, your wholesome plans will be highly achievable. Bargains and discounts abound during this roaming day out, where you'll be guided by a map laying out where exactly the best vegan specials are. Grab a map from your closest Cruelty Free Shop, and go on a stroll to discover meal deals, free tastings, discounted groceries and even wine samplings around town. Where to next? Make the most of every week with Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross and navigate to your next destination here. Top image: Kate Shanasy.
Star Trek has its Trekkers, Firefly has its Browncoats and Veronica Mars has its loyal assortment of Marshmallows. Taken off the air after just three highly underrated seasons, Ms Mars was assumed dead and buried, only to be resurrected earlier this year via a record-breaking Kickstarter film campaign. Hosted in ACMI’s Studio 1 on the evening of May 27, the latest Live in the Studio panel will dive headfirst into the critically acclaimed series, as well as the follow-up feature film. With a line-up that includes The Lifted Brow Deputy Editor Stephanie Van Schilt and feminist writer Karen Pickering, the discussion of TV's most intrepid teen detective will serve as a jumping off point for a broader exploration of fandom, crowd-funding and the key to lasting pop-cultural impact.
Jack White of the White Stripes, The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather will celebrate the release of his first solo album with a live streamed New York concert. The show, to be held April 27 at NY's Webster Hall, will be directed by Gary Oldman and will come three days after White's album 'Blunderbuss' (Third Man Records/Colombia) hits retailers. The event, the first instalment in the third season of American Express's 'Unstaged' series, will be available to view via YouTube, and mobile devices via VEVO and YouTube apps for iPhone, iPad, iTouch, and Android. 'Unstaged' is an artistic endeavour which pairs major musical acts with renowned filmmakers. Past collaborations have included an Anton Corbijn-directed Coldplay video, which drew over 19 million YouTube streams. Other participating musical artists have included John Legend, Mary J. Blige and the Roots. The show will air on April 27 at 9 pm ET (11am on the 28th for Sydneysiders). 'Blunderbuss' is also currently available for download on iTunes. https://youtube.com/watch?v=DsixWMdScUI
Beer garden and food truck park The Ascot Lot knows a thing or two about market stalls and festive entertainment. The colourful space regularly plays host to an always changing lineup of Melbourne food vendors, plus parties and events dedicated to dogs and drinks. So, it's safe to say you can trust The Ascot Lot to host a banging Twilight Christmas Market. This one's an after-work affair, running from 5–10pm on Tuesday, December 10. There'll be live acoustic performances, plenty of Christmas tunes, festive cocktails across two bars and gift wrapping services. When it comes to market stalls, you'll be able to browse wares from Fresh Sock Co, Love By Candlelight, Kitchen Language (who sell "cheeky tea towels not for the faint hearted") and The Plant Runner. Obviously, you'll also find a killer food truck lineup, too, including Burrito Bae, The Bearded Jaffle, The Pickle & The Patty and OMG Decadent Donuts. Oh, and dogs are very welcome.
We already know this summer's going to look a little different to those before it, as our cities set about recovering from months of pandemic-driven restrictions, while still trying to keep a lid on community transmission of COVID-19. But if you needed a reminder that 2020's social-distancing habits aren't going anywhere anytime soon, just check out the newly installed circle markers at Prahran Square, in Melbourne's south. Offering a glimpse into the near future of COVID-safe picnics and park hangs, these social-distancing guides appeared on the grass this week as part of a trial project by the Chapel Street Precinct Association and the City of Stonnington. The new additions were inspired by similar social distancing rings that popped up during New York's summer, in locations like Brooklyn's Domino Park. Sprayed on with eco-friendly white paint and spaced 1.5 metres apart, there are 25 of the circles now gracing Prahran Square's lawns, with another 50 in surrounding locations. If you're in Melbourne and fancy giving them a workout, just keep in mind the current rules for public gatherings. There's been a positive response to Melbourne's debut park circles so far, with a spokesperson for the City of Stonnington telling Concrete Playground it now plans on bringing more of these projects to life in parks across the region. Stay tuned for details on exactly where they'll be installed. [caption id="attachment_782750" align="alignnone" width="1920"] First Fleet Park by Destination NSW[/caption] And it seems other Aussie states can also expect to see similar circles soon gracing their own local parks and green spaces. In a COVID Safe Summer Plan unveiled by NSW's Department of Planning, Industry & Environment, it's revealed distancing markers are already in the works for spring at First Fleet Park in The Rocks, Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour, Murray Gardens and the Crescent amphitheatre in Parramatta Park. More circles for sites in Centennial Parklands, the Royal Botanic Gardens and Sydney Olympic Park are set to be unveiled in the lead up to summer, too. In some good news for Sydneysiders, the summer plan also mentions a hefty roster of events, which are set to take place in parklands and public spaces across the city. So far, the program includes 1000 gigs as part of Great Southern Nights and a 365-day celebration dubbed The Festival of Place. We'll let you know when more are announced. You can check out the new social-distancing circles at Prahran Square, Cato Street, Prahran.
UPDATE: NOVEMBER 14, 2019 — Last month, Urbnsurf pumped out its first waves — and today, the first pro surfers rode them. That means the park is one step closer to its slated January 2020 opening. Memberships have also just gone on sale, if you're itching to get on the surf. Landlocked surfers of Melbourne, rejoice — Australia's first surf park is finally makin' waves and one big step closer to opening. It's also a whole lot closer to the city than Torquay or the Peninsula. Urbnsurf Melbourne will open in Tullamarine, near the airport, just 16-kilometres north of the CBD. Plans for the park first surfaced way back in 2016 and, while the team was initially hoping for a spring opening, Urbnsurf is set to open its doors to the public this summer. And today, the two-hectare space, has started to pump out its first waves. It's just testing things out at the moment, but when running at its full potential, it'll power up to 1000 waves per hour, day and night. And you'll get a choice of waves. Want to ride nothing but perfectly-formed right-handers for an hour? Or would you prefer a random selection, like what you'd experience in the ocean? You'll be able to take your pick. According to Urbnsurf founder Andrew Ross, "every wave has six different take-off spots", which equates to 3600 surfable positions every hour. The ability to create waves means that the park is built for both pros who are looking for steep, barrelling waves and novices looking for a safe place to get their start in the surf. At Urbnsurf, Ross predicts, most novices will stand on their board within an hour and ride across the green face within two. And not only will you get guaranteed waves — you won't be fighting for them. The park holds 84 riders per hour. And, should you get seriously hooked, you'll be able to enter amateur competitions, maybe with (or against) your mates. [caption id="attachment_750759" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Adam Gibson[/caption] To kick things off, Urbnsurf has started to test out a few different wave types, including the Malibu, which is perfect for beginners, the intermediate-appropriate Turns and the Tubos — steep, barrelling waves for all you expert surfers out there. Also on the testing lineup are Giros I and Giros II, described as "performance turn waves" perfect for those wanting to carve and cutback. So how does it manage to create all these waves? Basically, they come from an 85-metre pier that runs down the centre of the lagoon. A series of pistons located on the pier then push the water to the left, then to the right, to create the waves. Ross likens the movement to "moving your hand back and forward like a shark's tail". If you need a break between sessions on the water, Urbnsurf will also be home to hot tubs, beach cabanas and a new two-storey restaurant by the owners of Sydney's Three Blue Ducks. And it's hoping to host a heap of live gigs, art shows and cultural experiences, too. If you're not in Melbourne, you'll be happy to know that a second Urbnsurf is set to open at Sydney Olympic Park in 2021. Urbnsurf is due to open in January 2020 near Melbourne Airport. You can still sign up to test out the surf park before it opens on the website — but get in quick. Images: Courtesy Urbnsurf, Ed Sloane and Adam Gibson.
Going back to study part-time can be a daunting process. Learning how to balance work and social obligations can be hard enough without adding in the massive third edge that is a uni course. Studying online with leading Australian universities via Open Universities Australia (OUA) can certainly combat some of the hurdles of juggling work and study — like needing to be in two places at once. However, it's still kind of scary to consider adding more to your already hectic schedule. But you don't need to jump in headfirst without any help. To give you a deeper insight into how to make your part-time study work for you, we spoke with Sydney career expert and psychologist Suzie Plush. Plush chatted to us about the challenges, hacks and keys to success when considering taking on part-time study. Here's what we found out. [caption id="attachment_732003" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Suzie Plush[/caption] LEARN THE ART OF THE PIVOT In a perfect world, your work-life-study priorities would be completely balanced — but we all know that life doesn't work like that. So, to achieve somewhat of a balance, Plush suggests you learn the 'art of the pivot'. "The concept of the pivot is more around leaning into what the priority is each week. If you're studying part-time and you're working part-time, you might have one week that's really crazy at work — that just means you pivot to focus on work, and then the next week you'll pivot back and do more studying." The goal here is not to achieve a perfectly balanced schedule all the time. Instead, you 'pivot' toward which is more important. Studying through OUA gives you the flexibility to scale up or down the number of subjects you're taking over the year. So, if you've got a huge project at work, a holiday planned or something else unexpectedly pops up in your life, you decrease your study load during one period and catch up later once things settle down. According to Plush, this can take a lot of the pressure off, because you're "purposely neglecting something rather than feeling like you're dropping the ball altogether." PACE YOURSELF AND DEVELOP A GAME PLAN Taking on too much at once will only lead to burnout. Instead, Plush suggests you pace yourself and focus on chipping away at your studies, rather than take on big chunks of work at once. A successful way to go about this is to develop a game plan early on. "Instead of procrastinating when you study, it's important to get organised. If you don't feel like studying, get all the dates in your calendar, download all your files and make sure you have a system at home for where you put your notes. So, when you do have that time to study, you don't have to waste it getting organised." Another study hack Plush recommends is to always take the time to listen to your lectures, as going over those audio files will save a lot of time when you sit down to study later. Having a study system in place is especially key for online work, as you really need to be a self-starter to ensure you don't fall behind. UTILISE THE SUPPORT THAT'S AVAILABLE When undertaking online study, it is all too easy to feel disconnected and isolated. But those support systems are there — you just need to know how to tap into them. It's so important to take advantage of every avenue of support that is available to you, whether that be chat rooms, forums, study groups or one-on-one teacher assistance. "You really want to try and build connections with people that are doing the same course as you and are in the same mode. Reach out to teachers as well — if you're doing online study, you may not be super clear on what an assessment is, so asking makes sure you're answering things appropriately. Be assertive and get that clarification and support you need." To aid with this, OUA gives you free access to a platform called Smarthinking — a tool that offers 24-hour access to qualified tutors. These tutors can help you plan assignments and work through them, too. Plus, Smarthinking tutors can also read through assessments and give constructive feedback before you formally submit them. Plush says it's also necessary to let your family and close friends know what your needs are and ask them to pick up some slack for you where possible. Managing your expectations and those of the people close to you helps minimise stress in your already busy life. [caption id="attachment_732002" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Suzie Plush[/caption] PLAY TO YOUR NATURAL RHYTHMS Whether you're a night owl or an early bird, it's important to notice when are you most productive and play to those strengths. It's easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to balance, work, study and personal commitments. By paying attention to those natural rhythms, you will become your most productive self. It will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and disconnected, too. "Really leverage your natural state. Are you better studying at night or waking up early? Play to those natural preferences rather than copying what other people do." Other daily hacks Plush mentioned include trying to incorporate some of your studying into your everyday routine, like listening to lectures on your commute. It helps you make studying part of your day-to-day and avoid procrastination. TAKE TIME TO RECHARGE With so much on your plate, it can be easy to lose sight of why you went back to study in the first place. "When it gets hard, always come back to the 'why' of it. It can get you the extra push of motivation and remind you why you're studying in the first place." But burnouts can still happen, and it is important for you to take time to recharge. Plush recommends spending ten minutes per day on mindfulness exercises — apps like Smiling Mind and Head Space can help you through your meditation. She also insists on staying active. "I talk a lot to clients about the art of recharging. Even for athletes, it's important to rest. You need to have those two modes and have strategic times of rest so that, when you're going back to studying, you're fresh." Plush suggests getting outside, into nature and away from screens. Moving your body and raising your dopamine levels gives you a fresh perspective, too. Often we think we're too busy to stop, but that's the most important facet in maintaining a healthy balance. Decided to take on part-time study, but haven't found the right course for you? Explore hundreds of degrees from leading Australian universities — offered online through Open Universities Australia. Hop to it.
Taylor Swift's Eras tour is the gift that keeps on giving, whether or not you're actually heading along in person when it finally hits Australia in February. Since October 2023, concert film Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour has let Swifties enjoy the show on the screen, first in cinemas and then via digital. Its next stop, if you're ready for it: Disney+ from mid-March. When the blockbuster movie hits the Mouse House's streaming platform on Friday, March 15, it will feature five extra tunes, including 'cardigan' and four acoustic tracks. So, Disney is calling it "the concert film in its entirety for the first time". You might be dubbing it reason enough to don your friendship bracelets in your lounge room. If your wildest dreams have been about getting in on Taylor Swift's Eras tour since it was first announced, then this is gorgeous and enchanted news, clearly. And if you missed out on tickets to the live shows, consider this the next best thing. Look what the world made Swift do: turn her current massive tour into a movie that's also proven a smash, taking in over $260 million at the worldwide box office. The film offers a money-can't-buy view of the 'Shake It Off', 'We Are Never Getting Back Together' and 'Bad Blood' musician's gig, working through her entire career so far by playing tracks from each of her studio albums in a three-hour, ten-act spectacular. The IRL Eras Tour kicked off in March 2023 in the US, then headed to Mexico and Brazil. Japan — around the Super Bowl — then Singapore, France, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, the UK, Ireland, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Poland, Italy, Germany, Austria, Canada, a return to the US and, of course, Australia, are all on the itinerary in 2024. "The Eras Tour has been a true phenomenon that has and continues to thrill fans around the world, and we are very excited to bring this electrifying concert to audiences wherever they are, exclusively through Disney+," said Disney CEO Bob Iger, announcing the film's impending arrival on the service. If you fancy picking yourself up some Eras tour merchandise to wear at home while you dance along, and you'll be in Sydney or Melbourne in February, that's on the agenda as well — via merch presales and a one-day-only Melbourne pop-up. Check out the trailer for Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour Concert Film below: Taylor Swift: The 'Eras' Tour will stream via Disney+ from Friday, March 15, 2024. Read our review. Top image: Ronald Woan via Wikimedia Commons.
Following the tragic death of Apple innovator Steve Jobs, a digital book containing his 'best' e-mails has been released. Letters to Steve: Inside the E-mail Inbox of Apple's Steve Jobs has been compiled and commentated by Mark Millan, a technology writer from CNN who has gathered the e-mails through various forums and blogs. Importantly, there are also some 'never-before-published e-mails' which are featured. It is said that this book will offer fans an insight into the character of Jobs, a passionate man who often replied to customer queries himself. It also shows his deep connection with his own products, as Millan notes that "he’d write long missives about Flash or the H.264 video codec or the Objective-C programming language." Millan also goes into great detail to analyse Jobs' online communication. He notes that "he was also inconsistent about whether he’d sign his name or include 'Best' in his sign-off signature. Some of the sources I interviewed for the book believed he had assistants help him with his mail, but I didn’t find any evidence to support that." At $2.99, this is a cheap read that will appeal to the most dedicated Apple technology enthusiasts. [via Mashable]
This article is sponsored by our partners, Rekorderlig. Longtime snow bunnies and powder purveyors know exactly what to throw in their duffle bags for a weekend away. But perhaps you've never trekked to the pearly white mountains, endeavoured to carve up snowfields, dangled your skis precariously from a lift only to reach the mountaintop and realise you've picked up the wrong skis. Never done it? Maybe your experience with snow looks like this: With the help of our seasoned snow enthusiasts Rekorderlig we're here to help the ski-pack go smoothly with our surefire list of winter essentials you'll be needing on your snow trip. If you're a seasoned snowgoer, perhaps we've nailed the missing element. From Cards Against Humanity to Out Cold on flickering VHS (all best fuelled with copious amounts of cinnamon-drenched hot cider), here's the ultimate list of what to pack when entering the realms of the White Walkers. Moon Boots Stomping and schlumping in novelty boots is half the fun of trekking to the snow. Bringing NASA to le neige, Moon Boots are just about the most fun you can have walking in a straight line. Tecnica created Moon Boots back in the early '70s, bringing technical finesse to snuggly footwear. They were coveted back then, they're still coveted now — with more ridiculous, customisable iridescent colours to choose from than ever. Even Dior makes Moon Boots. Rainbow Moon Boots are a favourite, also bright gold makes a Riff Raff out of any snowbound citizen. For post-carve-up downtime, whack on a pair of ugg boots. Hot tip, don't wear your uggs around icy areas if you want to keep your beanie-clad skull intact. Another hot tip, don't wear uggs as regular shoes. You may just have to rethink your life. Snuggly Threads Ah thermals, the unsexiest garment in anyone's wardrobe this side of Bridget Jones' nanna pants. But by the power of how unbelievably good a film Frozen is, they keep you mighty warm. Think '80s and look for either lycra or spandex thermals, they're the fabrics that keep the warmth in and let your sweaty ski body breathe. Hit up Uniqlo for the most acceptable of the cheaper thermal options, avoiding the cream lacy spencers of K-Mart. Keep your little paws toasty with some handwarmers and crank one of those ridiculous beard beanies — earning you the esteemed title of That Guy on the slopes for the season. Camera Strap a GoPro to your head, throw yourself down a mountain on a tiny, tiny strip of wood, upload it to YouTube. This is the quintessential essence of going to the snow. A Warm Winter Cider So your face froze off, huh? You've earned a good ol' defrosting session, kicking back with your fellow boarders in the lodge and mulling over the triumphs and epic fails of the day over a warm mug of cider. The Swedish legends at Rekorderlig make winter bearable, with their Premium Winter cider perfect when heated up and cradling in your frozen paws. This delicious apple cider, laced with cinnamon and vanilla, goes down super well at the end of a long, blizzardy, chairlifty day. Board Games If you're hauled up inside while blizzards shut down any lodge bar plans, what possible other way to spend the time than significant cider-fuelled boozing and old school board games — usually graduating from Balderdash to sexy Twister. Many a cold wintry night has been spent after a long, semi-successful black ski run unwinding with a bout of Mouse Trap, a spot of Scattergories or a lightning round of Battleship. There are certain so-called 'fun for the whole family' blatant lies to avoid — everyone knows Monopoly and Risk are ill-advised choices, unless you're up for a good ol' fashioned fallout with your mates. Perfect for a dark and stormy night, Cluedo usually starts out jovially and ends with someone's inevitable demise in the kitchen with the lead pipe. But if you're after the ultimate game to bring to the snow, Cards Against Humanity is your ticket to breaking the ice indoors. Offensive, yes. Inappropriate, yes. GUARANTEED-A-ONE-WAY-TICKET-TO-HADES-FUN, absolutely. Classic Snow Films Like watching the ever-genius Jingle All the Way only at Christmas time, cranking a good ol' snow-themed movie surrounded by the chilly stuff generates some kind of cheeseball magic. Start at the Empire Strikes Back, work your way to Dumb and Dumber and Edward Scissorhands, ice the cake with made-for-adult-viewing kiddie go-tos Frozen and Ice Age. If Cuba Gooding Jr's Snow Dogs just happens to accidentally play itself into your heart, that's cool. No judgement. Just don't let things get all Shining snow maze up in here. Fargo might be stretching the snowery a bit and Ethan Hawke's Alive might give you bad ideas, but if you're a James Bond fan check out On Her Majesty's Secret Service or For Your Eyes Only (plenty of sweet skiing chase scenes in which bullets ping off powder with physics-defying metally noises). Cool Runnings might get you to to the top of the bobsled course, while solid docos like Art of Flight will make you do dumb jumping-out-of-helicopter things the next day. But the most honorable of mentions goes to 2001's rambunctious screwball comedy Out Cold, best viewed on shitty VHS and only truly appreciated by Super Troopers fans. Oh yeah... one more thing. Skis. You'll probably need skis. Or a snowboard. Or the unbridled ability to personally roll down a hill at speed. At the end of the day (however dramatically you reach the base of the mountain) you're probably going to earn a snuggly defrost, a crappy movie and a mug of warm Rekorderlig. Happy packing.
Neighbouring CBD bars Section 8 and Ferdydurke have teamed up with New York's Brooklyn Brewery for Good Beer Week's free Brooklyn Block Party. From 2pm on Saturday, May 19, Tattersalls Lane will be pulsing with live music, street art, projections and a tonne of food and booze. Section 8 will keep things rowdy on street level with live art from The Bushwick Collective and a pop-up barber shop slinging cuts for just five bucks. Upstairs, Ferdydurke will be more Coney Island, with hot dogs, dirty carnival food and disco. Oh, and lots of beer.
Melbourne's normally buzzy CBD has turned all but silent through the pandemic, as work-from-home orders emptied office buildings and hospitality venues closed their doors. But now, with newly eased restrictions kicking life back into gear, we're about to see a suite of efforts aimed at returning the city to its former glorious self. And one of these initiatives involves a healthy dose of flower power, as a series of large-scale, all-local floral installations injects central Melbourne with some much-needed life and vibrancy. Urban Blooms will see 18 giant floral works installed in laneways, streets and public spaces across the city, where they'll feature boldly for two weeks, starting from Saturday, November 14. The project's been born of the $100 million Melbourne City Recovery Fund, as a collaboration between the City of Melbourne and the Victorian Government. [caption id="attachment_752632" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Botanics of Melbourne by Parker Blain[/caption] Local florists from the likes of Cecilia Fox, Botanics of Melbourne, Casa Verde and Fitzroy's Flowers Vasette have been commissioned to design these blooming works of art, creating a living gallery trail through the city. Prominent spots including Hosier Lane, Degraves Street, the Arts Centre and Flinders Street Station will play host to the flower bombs, each installation crafted using locally grown plants, and displaying information about the work and the designer. There'll even be a code to scan suggesting nearby cafes and stores to visit. Of course, these are COVID-19 times, so social distancing markers will also be a feature, along with marshals to monitor visitor numbers. After the installation program wraps up on Friday, November 27, the displays will score a second life, reworked into small bouquets for local community groups. The Urban Blooms project will feature at sites across the City of Melbourne, from November 14–27. Check out the map of locations and plan your visit over at the website.
Ever pondered what the human body might be like a couple more decades into the future? What sort of weird and wonderful things it'll be able to do by the time next century rolls around? Award-winning Aussie-born, Los Angeles-based artist Lucy McRae sure has, and she's offering a peek at her most captivating musings in a new free exhibition at NGV Australia, titled Lucy McRae: Body Architect. As a designer, science fiction artist, filmmaker and 'body architect', McRae's on a constant journey of contemplation, her work reflecting on the future of human existence through collaborations with everyone from scientists, to pop musicians. Kicking off today and running until February 2020, this survey of her work — which has strong The Fifth Element vibes — dives deep into these questions, showcasing a body of work that will not just pique the interest of art lovers, but sci-fi fans and philosophers, too. [caption id="attachment_739784" align="alignnone" width="1920"] You can play with your own face with the 'Biometric Mirror' installation. Image: Eugene Hyland.[/caption] For Lucy McRae: Body Architect, you'll see the artist's filmmaking skills at play in seminal work Institute of Isolation: an observational documentary exploring the concept of isolation and the impact it might have on people when experienced for decades at a time. It's questioned through the lens of space travel and how human resilience might be tweaked in order to better handle it. Meanwhile, immersive work Future Day Spa will see you hanging out in a vacuum pressure chamber, which mimics the feeling of being hugged tightly, boosting relaxation levels in the process. You can also get your own face up on the gallery's walls — and tweak it — with Biometric Mirror. [caption id="attachment_739777" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The image used for Robyn's 'Body Talk'. Image: Tom Ross.[/caption] Elsewhere, you'll spy the series of bold and ethereal digital images McRae created alongside Dutch textile artist Bart Hess. The pair's work imagines high-tech, futuristic body functionalities — like colour-excreting skin — captured in striking lo-fi imagery using things like pantyhose, balloons, grass and bath foam. Then, there are the pieces from McRae's many collaborations with musicians, both local and international. The iconic image created for pop-star Robyn's Body Talk album cover is on show, as are the artist's music videos for bands including Architecture in Helsinki and Reptile Youth. For a quick intro to her work, watch this TED Talk. As one of the youngest ever TED Fellows and having earned a spot on Fast Company's list of people shaping the future, McRae's an exciting pull for the NGV's next season of solo exhibitions, which is set to feature the work of Aussie photographers Polixeni Papapetrou and Petrina Hicks later this year. Lucy McRae: Body Architect will run from Friday, August 30 until February 9, 2020 at NGV Australia, Federation Square, Melbourne. It's free to attend but further details can be found here. Images: Installation shots by Tom Ross; Lucy McRae portraits by Eugene Hyland; © Lucy McRae.
For more than a decade, the Melbourne-based Human Rights Arts and Film Festival has been exploring human-rights issues through cinema. Exactly how this annual fest covers its subject matter and where it screens has varied over the years, however. Past iterations have included stints around the country, and some fests have solely remained in the Victorian capital. Across Thursday, May 4–Tuesday, May 9, 2023's lineup is only hitting cinemas in-person in Melbourne, but has a date with viewers elsewhere thanks to its online component. In its physical form, HRAFF opens with Kash Kash — Without Feathers We Can't Live, a documentary from first-time filmmaker Lea Najjar about her hometown of Beirut. For folks elsewhere, or for those who can't make it along on the night, it's one of the movies on the event's digital bill as well. From a lineup that includes work from Iran, Brazil, Ireland, Lebanon, Venezuela, South Sudan, Mexico, the US, Canada and more, Melburnians can also look forward to North Circular, which highlights the importance of music in culture in Ireland; Dark Days, telling the tale of a community living in New York City's underground train tunnels in the 90s; and Uýra: The Rising Forest, about trans non-binary Indigenous artist Uýra. From Venice 2022, Alice Diop's Saint Omer is an absolute must-see, with the documentarian drawing from true events to craft a drama about a young Parisian journalist and novelist attending murder trial, then wading through the complexities it surfaces within her own family history. In The Last Daughter, Wiradjuri woman Brenda Matthews charts her experience being taken from her family as a toddler, growing up with a white foster family, then being returned to her parents. And in closing night's Fashion Reimagined, designer Amy Powney's efforts to create a sustainable collection are in the spotlight. Viewers watching on from home can also enjoy The Endangered Generation?, which boasts narration by Laura Dern (Jurassic World Dominion) as it explores the fight against climate change — plus the world-premiere of We Eatin' Good, which sees Matisse Laida and Nisha Hunter get recipes for food and life alike from members of Melbourne's queer community. To take care of the 'arts' part of its name, HRAFF is hosting two exhibitions as well: Real Job, which ponders how the labour of visual artists is so often neglected; and A Wholesome Gang, a storytelling photo series by South Sudanese Dinka woman Awak Rech Kongor (and shot and edited by artist Joshua Sims).
Winter and comfort foods always go hand in hand, but fans of doughnuts should find the start of the frosty season particularly delicious. Each year, to kick off June, National Doughnut Day arrives. And, when the date hits, free round orbs are often on the menu. In 2023, on Friday, June 2, Donut King will be handing out freebies — and keeping Australians happy with their eponymous blend of sweets and carbs. The chain is known for its hot cinnamon doughnuts, and that's exactly what it'll be giving away at every store Australia-wide. Donut King hasn't advised exactly how many doughnuts are up for grabs, and it is a while-stocks-last affair. That said, the brand is intending to serve up a whole heap of its number-one treat to customers in exchange for zero cash, beginning at 1am AEST — if that's when your local store opens — and running through until 11.59pm AEST. The big caveat, other than the first-in-best-dressed rule: there's a limit of one free hot cinnamon doughnut per person. Also, you do have to hit up a Donut King shop in-person, with the giveaway not available for deliveries. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Donut King (@donutking_au) To snag yourself a freebie, folks in Sydney can make a date everywhere from Chatswood and Top Ryde to Leichhardt and Hurstville, while Melburnians can add Northcote, Sunshine, The Pines and Southland Westfield to their must-visit lists. Brisbane's choices include Indooroopilly, Carindale, Chermside and Mt Gravatt; Perth's venues cover the likes of Ocean Keys and Midland Gate; and Adelaide boasts stores in Glenelg, Tea Tree Plaza and more. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Donut King (@donutking_au) Donut King's free National Doughnut Day giveaway is happening in the chain's stores around the country on Friday, June 2. To find your closest shop and check its opening hours, head to the Donut King website.
One of the best directors to ever step behind the camera. Two of the absolute top living actors. An unnerving true tale. A Cannes-premiering film. That's a helluva combination — aka Martin Scorsese, Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, events in the 1920s in Osage County in Oklahoma and Killers of the Flower Moon. And, if you're not already excited, a third trailer for the soon-to-release movie has just been unveiled. Every Scorsese film is worth waiting for, but Killers of the Flower Moon has been decades in the making. The nonfiction book that the acclaimed director's latest film adapts also steps a century back, detailing a time when members of the Osage Nation became wealthy through oil, then targets for white interlopers. To bring this real-life story to the screen, the filmmaker has finally united DiCaprio and De Niro in one of his full-length flicks, too, after spending decades working with both separately. The end result, and Scorsese's first feature since 2019's The Irishman, premiered at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival in May. Next, it's headed to cinemas Down Under in October and then Apple TV+ after that. De Niro and DiCaprio have been in so many of the legendary director's movies that it's rare for any of his titles to not include one or the other. The former's run gave viewers gangster masterpieces such as Mean Streets, Goodfellas and Casino; also spans the iconic Taxi Driver, Raging Bull and The King of Comedy; and covers musical New York, New York and thriller remake Cape Fear, too — and, of course The Irishman. The latter began leading Scorsese's films in the early 2000s, kicking off with Gangs of New York, then starring in The Aviator, The Departed, Shutter Island and The Wolf of Wall Street. That's a mighty impressive resume for both actors, and for their favourite helmer. Killers of the Flower Moon is actually the second time that De Niro and DiCaprio have joined forces for Scorsese, but the first time in one of his features, with the pair playing themselves in the director's 2015 comedy short The Audition. The actors also have a past on-screen beyond that thanks to the non-Marty helmed This Boy's Life in 1993, back when DiCaprio was still a teen. Its main talents aside, Killers of the Flower Moon has looking backwards on its mind as well. As seen in the initial teaser in May, then the first full trailer and now this just-dropped next sneak peek, the film jumps into a series of real-life of murders. DiCaprio (Don't Look Up) and Certain Women standout Lily Gladstone play Ernest Burkhart and Mollie Kyle, a couple that gets caught up in the investigations surrounding the mounting killings — with Burkhart facing off against his scheming uncle William Hale (De Niro, Amsterdam). The deaths start when oil turns the Osage Nation into some of the richest folks on the planet, and quickly, which attracts the wrong kind of notice — attention fuelled by greed and envy, and resulting in manipulation, extortion and homicide. Killers of the Flower Moon surveys that story through Burkhart, Kyle and their romance, while also taking in the bitter resentment (and worse) expressed by Hale. Scorsese also co-wrote the screenplay with Eric Roth (Dune, and an Oscar-winner for Forest Gump), adapting David Gann's 2017 non-fiction book Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI. And, movie co-stars Jesse Plemons (Love & Death), John Lithgow (Sharper) and newly minted Best Actor Oscar-winner Brendan Fraser (The Whale). Oh, and Scorsese himself, albeit in a small part. Check out the latest trailer for Killers of the Flower Moon below: Killers of the Flower Moon releases in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, October 19, and will then stream via Apple TV+ at a later date — we'll update you with streaming details when they're announced.
A quarter-century ago, Christmas changed forever. Sure, the end of the year was filled with plenty of festive cheer before Mariah Carey released 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' — but since 1994, that upbeat ditty has become everyone's go-to seasonal soundtrack. Just last year, in fact, the track topped the US charts. It didn't even achieve that feat back when it was initially released, making it the song that has taken the longest journey ever to the top spot. Carey has re-recorded 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' several times, and it just keeps spreading its festive melody. Yes, we know you now have it stuck in your head just from thinking about it. The singer has several holiday albums to her name, too, which keep prolonging the song's longevity. And if that's all 100-percent okay with you, you'll be particularly excited about her next Christmas-themed project. As announced earlier this year, Apple TV+ is releasing Mariah Carey's Magical Christmas Special — aka the star-studded festive show you didn't know you had always wanted until now. And if you're wondering just when it'll head to your streaming queue, the company has just revealed that it'll hit come Friday, December 4 — in the lead up to Christmas (obviously). In its efforts to help salvage the trainwreck that is the past 12 months, Mariah Carey's Magical Christmas Special will feature Carey, of course, alongside a star-studded lineup of other guests. You'll also be seeing Tiffany Haddish, Billy Eichner, Ariana Grande, Jennifer Hudson, Snoop Dogg, Jermaine Dupri, Misty Copeland and Mykal-Michelle Harris take part — and, as co-directed and executive produced by A Very Murray Christmas alumnus Roman Coppola, the special will include not only music and dancing from this list of famous names, but animation as well. It's Apple TV+'s latest big-name project — with Sofia Coppola's new Bill Murray-starring movie On the Rocks also hitting the service this year, and its recent live documentary Beastie Boys Story earning a couple of Emmy nominations. If watching Mariah Carey's Magical Christmas Special is now all you want from the rest of 2020, you can check out a teaser trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhwdLOYOg-8 And because we already know you're humming it to yourself, you can also check out the music video for 'All I Want for Christmas Is You', too: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXQViqx6GMY Mariah Carey's Magical Christmas Special will hit Apple TV+ on Friday, December 4.
Walking around Brisbane is a great way to enjoy your own backyard, see the local sights and get in some exercise. For a 17-day period between Friday, March 12–Sunday, March 28 in 2021, doing just that will also allow you to engage with a series interactive installations. They're called 'curiocities', and they're part of the returning Curiocity Brisbane festival, which focuses on the interaction of science, technology, innovation and the arts. Spread around town — across a 6.8-kilometre circuit that links the City Botanic Gardens, South Bank, the Cultural Precinct and the Brisbane CBD, in fact — these hubs will serve up both physical and virtual experiences. One, Platonic Volumes & Cosmologies by Bits to Atoms, is a large scale-translucent matrix of recycled plastic beams, while another, Evanescent by Chimera Atelier and Pineapple Design Studios, will use colour-changing film that'll make it look like a huge bubble. Or, you can check out two augmented reality works, either venturing back to Brisbane on the day prior to First Settlement or working with other folks to build a digital ecosystem. Also on the bill: a chat-fuelled program called Curious Conversations, where Benjamin Law will host a range of speakers to talk about the future; a giant vertical kaleidoscope in the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens; and The Party Button, an interactive artwork on the Goodwill Bridge that plays party tracks and turns on flashing lights when pressed. And, a number of other big events fall within the program also — such as World Science Festival Brisbane and GOMA's Up Late sessions as part of its new motorcycle-focused exhibition.
Watching famous faces star in TV dramas about taking luxe holidays is 2021's current trend, and fans of The White Lotus and Nine Perfect Strangers are definitely here for it. Getting a big dose of travel envy while you're binge-watching? Fancy doing more than spectating via your screen once border restrictions and lockdowns lift? If you're particularly keen to spend some time hanging out in a scenic Byron Bay retreat that's been doubling as the fictional Tranquillum House — and playing host to Nicole Kidman, Melissa McCarthy, Michael Shannon and Luke Evans — you're in luck. In Nine Perfect Strangers, the real-life Somo Retreat doubles for Tranquillum — and it's now available to rent via Airbnb. So, your next getaway could see you literally following in Kidman and company's footsteps. We're talking about heading to the lavish location, and obviously not about navigating all of the show's twists and turns in real life. Soma is indeed all about heath and wellness just like its fictional counterpart, though, with the retreat stemming from technology entrepreneur Peter Ostick and wellness and meditation practitioner Gary Gorrow. You'll find it in Ewingsdale in New South Wales, and just a ten-minute drive outside of Byron Bay — and it has hit Airbnb as part of the platform's 'Luxe' offering of super swanky and expertly designed homes. If you've seen Nine Perfect Strangers, you'll know what you're in for in terms of facilities. The retreat comes complete with ten bedrooms all decked out with king-size beds, ensuite bathrooms, rain showers, and either their own balconies or direct access to the terrace — and there's also a freshwater infinity pool, communal fire pit and 22 acres of bamboo forest. Yes, that geodesic yoga dome exists, too, or you can soak in some calm in the zen garden. [caption id="attachment_823169" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Vince Valitutti/Hulu[/caption] Unsurprisingly, this is a real treat yo'self kind of spot — and the type of getaway that'd need to involve gathering the gang for one hefty hangout — with bookings for the entire place costing a whopping $6279.43 a night. You can also opt to pay extra to include massages, meditation courses, and breath and bodywork sessions as part of your stay, or Ayurvedic meals made by a specialised chef. You can book a stay at Soma in Ewingsdale, New South Wales, via Airbnb. Head to the platform's website for further details. The first four episodes of Nine Perfect Strangers are available to stream via Amazon Prime Video, with new episodes dropping weekly. Soma Retreat images: Romello Pereira. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
It's the first Australian-produced show to win the Tony Award for Best Musical. It's based on an adored Baz Luhrmann-directed, Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor-starring film that celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. With its tale of star-crossed lovers set to a toe-tapping soundtrack, it's been a Broadway sensation — and it's finally opening in Australia. That'd be Moulin Rouge! The Musical — and, if you're as keen to attend its Melbourne premiere season as its central duo are about each other (and about professing their affection through song), then you just might be able to nab yourself a cheap ticket. As has happened with The Book of Mormon, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Hamilton, a ticket lottery is being held for the production's homegrown debut run. Via Today Tix, you can sign up for your chance to score a ticket for just $30. Yes, that figure is accurate. This is your spectacular (spectacular) chance to see the acclaimed screen-to-stage musical for less than the price of a dinner. To take part in the lottery, you will need to download the Today Tix app — which is available for iOS and Android — and submit your entry each week for the next week's performances. The lottery will go live at 12.01am every Thursday morning, starting from today, Thursday, November 11, with winners drawn between 1–6pm on the following Wednesday. If your name is selected, you'll have an hour to claim your tickets from when you receive the good news. If you need a reminder, you can also sign up for lottery alerts via Today Tix, too. Opening at Melbourne's Regent Theatre on Friday, November 12, Moulin Rouge! The Musical brings to life the famed Belle Époque story of young composer Christian and his heady romance with Satine, actress and star of the legendary Moulin Rouge cabaret. Set in the Montmartre Quarter of Paris, the show is known for its soundtrack, celebrating iconic tunes from across the past five decades. The film was, too; however, the stage version backs up the movie's tracks with even more hit songs that have been released in the two decades since the feature premiered. Usually, tickets will set you back $95–219 a pop — so the $30 lottery really is an absolute bargain. There's no word yet on whether Moulin Rouge! The Musical will head to other Aussie cities later on. It's possible, as other big musicals, such as The Book of Mormon, have — and Hamilton has announced a move from Sydney to Melbourne, too. But, if you don't want to risk it, those located interstate should to start planning a trip ASAP — we think it'll be more than worth it. Moulin Rouge! The Musical will make its Australian premiere at Melbourne's Regent Theatre from Friday, November 12. To enter the Today Tix $30 lottery, download the company's iOS or Android app, and head to the company's website for more information — and to set up an alert. Images: Michelle Grace Hunder.
With their second album, Coexist, set to be released on Friday, September 7, The xx have given us a taste of what's to come with their new track 'Angels'. It's the first track off their forthcoming album, and is a beautiful song that left us wanting more. Thankfully it's not much longer now. Produced by The xx's Jamie Smith, Coexist was recorded over number of months between November 2011 and May 2012 in the band's own studio in London. The band said of their new song: “It’s been a long time since we’ve played you anything new. This song is called Angels, it is the first single from our new album, Coexist. We’ve been playing this song live recently, so it feels good to share with you the version we’ve been working on for so long. We hope you like it. xx The xx”. Tickets quickly sold out for both Australian shows — at The Forum in Melbourne on Wednesday, July 18 and The Metro in Sydney on Friday, July 20 — as well as Jamie xx's DJ Set at Goodgod on Thursday 19 July. There are unfortunately no hints of The XX crossing the ditch to New Zealand.
In a year where we've all become a little too familiar with our own kitchens and living rooms, the just-announced Eat Drink Design Awards 2020 should help fill a bit of a void. The annual hospitality design accolades have kicked on as normal, despite the pandemic, naming this year's pick of Australia's most stylish food and drink venues. While 2020 might have delivered fewer new hospitality haunts than usual, this year's awards still identified a cast of beautiful spaces located across the country. Where Melbourne and Victoria reigned supreme among the previous two lineups, this year was all about NSW, with the state claiming five out of the nine design awards. Sydney is home to a number of the recipients, including Surry Hills' Poly as joint winner in the Best Restaurant Design category. The "austerely chic" subterranean space beneath Paramount House Hotel won over the judges with its open kitchen, industrial edge and intelligent fit-out. It shares the title with the contrasting Osteria Tedesca — a relaxed, yet considered farmhouse-inspired restaurant located deep in the wine country of Victoria's Mornington Peninsula. Other Sydneysiders on the lineup include the Darling Exchange Market Hall, which took out the retail design category for its unconventional, new-school food court, and fellow Haymarket resident Dopa — a donburi cafe and milk bar whose playful branding claimed it the title of Best Identity Design. Further afield, Adelaide's Leigh Street Wine Room nabbed the covetable top gong for Best Bar Design, lauded for its timeless Euro aesthetic, cosy space and impressive use of a small budget. And to check out the winner of the hotel design field, you'll need to venture to Armidale in NSW's northern tablelands, where the Tattersalls Hotel is showing off an award-winning restoration that nods playfully to its glamorous art deco heritage. Fresh out of lockdown, Melbourne emerged victorious in the cafe design category, with top honours going to Footscray's There Cafe. Here, the lofty wool store space once home to the Lonely Planet HQ has been transformed into a restrainedly sophisticated venue, featuring subtle tones, leather banquettes and considered industrial touches. Melbourne also claimed this year's revered Hall of Fame accolade, for long-running and legendary laneway cocktail bar Gin Palace. The awards were judged this year by a cast of experts, including Movida's Frank Camorra, restaurant critic Gemima Cody, founder of IF Architecture Iva Foschia, Sydney architect Jonathan Richards and Artichoke editor Cassie Hansen. [caption id="attachment_790716" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Osteria Tedesca by Tommy Miller[/caption] 2020 EAT DRINK DESIGN AWARD WINNERS Best Bar Design: Leigh Street Wine Room by Studio Gram (Adelaide, SA) Best Restaurant Design: Poly by Anthony Gill Architects (Surry Hills, NSW) and Osteria Tedesca by COX Architecture (Red Hill, VIC) Best Cafe Design: There Cafe by Ewert Leaf (Footscray, VIC) Best Hotel Design: Tattersalls Hotel Armidale by Luchetti Krelle (Armidale, NSW) Best Installation Design: Orana in Residence by SJB with Orana, Promena Projects and Tracey Deep (Surry Hills, NSW) Best Retail Design: Darling Exchange Market Hall by Anthony Gill Architects Lendlease Design (base build architects of record) (Haymarket, NSW) Best Identity Design: Dopa by The Colour Club (Haymarket, NSW) Hall of Fame: Gin Palace by Skidmark Designs with Garner Davis Architects (Melbourne VIC) For the full list of winners and commendations, head to the Eat Drink Design website. Top images: There Cafe by Jenah Piwanski, Poly by Kitti Smallbone, Leigh Street Wine Room by Josie Withers, Darling Exchange by Ben Hosking.
Wine. It's a perfect elixir that can make any ordinary, humdrum Wednesday into an unforgettable adventure. Sommeliers, wine folk and your parents have been harping on for years about wine's natural symbiosis with food — but what about situational drinking? What wine goes best with outdoor boxing in the park? (Yep.) Or should you bring white or red to the open air cinema? Don't worry, we've got your back. Using the same fundamental principles applied to pairing wine with food — take one element in the dish and pair it to one element in the wine — we've combed through the Vinomofo cellars to find you the best drinking drops no matter the occasion, time of day or experience you might find yourself in. And what's more, if you find yourself with some extra American Express reward points kicking around after all those winter purchases, you can use those babies to purchase some vino and start stocking up your home cellar. Here are the drops you should be looking to first. CHABLIS AND A TRIP TO THE FISH MARKETS Ah, Chablis: one of the purest expressions of Chardonnay there is. From its delicate acidity to the oyster shell, saline minerality that weaves its way through the palate, plus the wine's invigorating lemon sherbet finish, it's easy to see why the French drink it by the magnum. The most natural pairing in the world would be chilled oysters with fresh lemon squeezed over them (or if you want to be really French, a drizzle of the Chablis you're drinking) or a trip to the local fish markets to pick up some fresh scallops to sear at home. Add a little bit of 2014 Le Domaine d'Henri Les Allées du Domaine Chablis in the pan with some butter, garlic, fresh thyme and the scallops, and, more importantly, a little bit poured in your mouth while you're at it. Dinner, sorted. ROSE AND AN OPEN AIR CINEMA Springtime is well and truly on our doorstep. The daytime's losing that touch of chill in the air, the evenings are starting to feel balmy, and when you inhale, a sweet floral fragrance tickles your senses thanks to new spring blooms. This warmer, sweeter weather means the return of many great outdoor activities, including the spring/summer fave: outdoor cinemas. So, while sitting on the grass at your local open air cinema watching a classic like Top Gun or Ferris Buller's Day Off, you'll need a wine that encapsulates all those springtime flavours feels, something refreshing but also all about fun. Enter rosé. Dubbed 'spring in a glass' with its jasmine floral notes, hints of wild strawberries and just a touch of sage lingering on the finish to add dimension, the 2016 Chateau Sainte-Croix Charmeur Rosé is the perfect accompaniment to your homemade cheese and charcuterie plate as the sun goes down and the movie flickers on. PINOT NOIR AND FRIDAY NIGHT POKER WITH THE CREW It's Friday, the end of the working week, and this can be cause for celebration — or a chance to sit pants-less on the couch watching TV and relax. And for some, Friday calls for the overwhelming need to rob your friends blind of their hard-earned cash with a game of poker, all while inhaling slices of pizza. But what to pair with your large margherita pizza and the tears of your friends? If you really want to bring your A-game to pizza and poker night, bring a bottle 2014 Oakridge 864 'Lusatia Park Block B' Pinot Noir. At the higher end of the price bracket, this vino is worth every poker chip. It's a rare little gem from the Yarra Valley, with its cranberry notes and plum flavours that match harmoniously with the sweet tomato sauce of the pizza and high acidity that cuts through the greasiness of the cheese and dough. SPARKLING WINE AND AN OUTDOOR FITNESS CLASS We've all got that one friend, who, as soon as the weather starts to warm, wants to shake off the shackles of winter by throwing themselves into an outdoor fitness class or boot camp. And perhaps you are that friend. Well, do yourself a favour and put down that disappointing protein shake (with those lumps of banana that never quite seem to get pulverised in the blender) and pick up a bottle of bubbles, because nothing pairs better with sweat and sunshine like sparkling wine. Think about it; you're lying on the grass, exhausted, you've doused yourself in what feels like ten litres of water and you're still not refreshed. Then, a glass of NV Bisou Bisou Blanc de Blancs is handed to you, and from the first sip of its lemon zest and granny smith apple notes, you feel instantly revived. Now, aren't you glad you did those extra ten burpees? PRIMITIVO AND THE 'CASUAL' MEET-THE-PARENTS BARBECUE There is one experience we can all agree is universally terrifying: meeting your significant other's parents for the first time. When the day arrives, you start to break into a cold sweat with a thousand questions running through your mind. What do I wear? Do I have time for a haircut between now and then? What happens if they don't like my jokes? But one question inevitably rises above all others: what should I bring? This epitomises what wine was made for; it will be your friend and ally calming your nerves, your buffer between awkward pauses and the catalyst for a great first impression. So what's the ideal drop to get the conversation started? The 2015 Bollina 'Tavros' Primitivo di Manduria. And what's Primitivo you ask? It's the grape variety that has a long, proud lineage in Italy and is a very close relative (almost genetically identical) to the Zinfandel grape variety widely planted in California. The most appealing part of this style of wine is that it's a killer accompaniment to barbecued meats, as its flavour profile is similar to a Barossa Shiraz (another conversation starter) with firm tannins, dark and opulent fruits and just the right amount of vanilla oak that screams for protein to break it down. Treat yourself this spring. More and more places welcome American Express — like Vinomofo — and you can even use your reward points to pay off your purchases, so you'll feel like you're winning at life as you use all those points you've collected over winter
As early-pandemic travel restrictions fade into memory, vacationing around the world is beginning to return to normal. That said, if a Japan trip has been your dream for the past few years, you'll know that the rules haven't eased everywhere. Back in May, the Japanese government started trialling letting strictly controlled package tours — including with Australian tourists — into the country. Then in early June, it broadened those entry requirements and began allowing in visitors from a heap of nations. The next step: permitting travellers, including from Down Under, to make the journey even when they aren't on guided tours. In welcome news, from Wednesday, September 7, visitors will be able to enter Japan without being on a controlled tour — but there are still a number of rules in place. The key caveat: you do still need to have booked a package through a travel agency, even if it just covers your flights and accommodation. Whatever you lock in, it no longer needs to include a guide overseeing your every move. The Japan Times reports that travellers will be allowed into Japan as long as they meet the main requirement to book via a travel agency, and also apply for a visa — with the country's daily arrival cap going up to 50,000 per day, too. "The key is to have a sponsor in Japan, like a travel agency, and that they know the whereabouts of the traveller on a given day," a Japanese Government official told the publication. "They will also offer information on Japan's social-distancing rules and be the contact person if travellers get sick." If you'd like to stay in accommodation that isn't offered by travel agents, however — such as private rentals or small inns — your plans won't be permitted under the eased requirements. So, Tokyo jaunts will get easier, and soon — although the Japan Government hasn't announced if or when it'll revert to pre-pandemic travel arrangements as yet. Still, if you're desperate to hit up a Super Nintendo theme park, you've always wanted to walk across Shibuya's famous scramble crossing, or you're keen to sing karaoke in a ferris wheel — or you'd prefer to wander around the Studio Ghibli museum, make a date with the animation house's upcoming theme park, or hit up all the izakaya or ramen joints possible, too — this is welcome news. Also effective from Wednesday, September 7, pre-arrival negative COVID-19 tests will no longer be needed for travellers to Japan who've had three coronavirus vaccinations. Japan's new border rules will come into effect on Wednesday September 7. For further details about visiting Japan and its border restrictions, head to the Government of Japan website. Via The Japan Times / Bloomberg.
If you met a young man with the MTV logo emblazoned across his neck, there are a few assumptions you would probably make. 'This chap is a fan of music television', you might say. Or, 'Surely, at some point in the past, this man had too many drinks too close to a tattoo parlour after reminiscing on highlights of the '90s. What you probably wouldn't deduce is that the character before you runs a YouTube music account with almost 40 million views, that he was a key inspiration for James Franco's latest role as Alien in the Harmony Korine film Spring Breakers or that his mixtapes have garnered applause from Pitchfork, Stereogum and Complex. You definitely wouldn't guess that his soon-to-be-released major label debut, Neon Icon, will feature the likes of Wiz Khalifia, Mac Miller, Drake, A$AP Rocky and Snoop Dogg(/Lion), just to name a few. In fact, instead of gawking, it might be more appropriate to salute respectfully because the young man you've just been introduced to is none other than eccentric Texan rapper RiFF RAFF. Currently on his first Australian tour, the electrifying performer brings his notorious live show to Melbourne this Wednesday. Featuring the overblown bling, intelligent rhymes and hilarious antics that have gained him worldwide acclaim, this will be a night for the hip-hop fan with an ear for the weird. RiFF RAFF's only show will be supported by Fletch, Carlos Turner and Swick. Tickets are on sale now via Moshtix. https://youtube.com/watch?v=NlydTf5bJdo
There's so much more to postcards than the often drab ones you find in the local post office. The annual Linden Postcard Show is the place where you'll find the best of the best. Presented by Linden New Art and celebrating its 27th year, there's about a thousand submissions for you to check out, with the Linden Postcard Show being the quintessential place to see the best examples from across both the amateur and professional arts community. Every humble postcard presented is on sale, while an esteemed jury of art curators and directors will select a winner to take home the $5000 cash prize. Meanwhile you can get involved by voting in the People's Choice Award with the victor receiving $1000 for their 8x10 inch work. The Linden Postcard Show 2017–18 is on now and runs until Friday January 12.
Fort Green, Northcote's new health and wellness cafe, has just added an upstairs yoga studio to its offering — and it's celebrating the launch with a week's worth of free yoga from March 13 through 18. The studio will focus on all-level vinyasa, yin and pilates classes, with the fitout meant to look like a New York City loft — think flowing white curtains, timber floors and greenery, as well as a ten-metre-high mirror that helps yogis to perfect their poses. Along with free classes, they're also offering up 15-percent off regular membership and other packages during the week, some of which include cafe discounts and other wellness benefits. So, if you enjoy the freebie, don't forget to chat with your instructor on the perks post-savasana. Head to the Fort Green website for free class schedules and bookings.
The Melbourne Indigenous Arts Festival makes its return this February after beginning in 2012. This year, the program is bursting with a balance between communal events and individual pieces across all genres, and with everything so well spaced out, you'll be able to soak up as much as possible. Some performance highlights include Noel Tovey’s one man show Little Black Bastard at Arts House and Kylie Trounson’s The Visitors, part of the Melbourne Theatre Company’s Cybec Electric series of semi-staged play readings. Elsewhere, some of the larger public events showcase the distinctive sound that Indigenous artists have injected into Australia’s musical culture — on February 8, Briggs and Jessica Mauboy round out a packed lineup at Federation Square. If you prefer your music on a more intimate, eclectic scale check out Blak Cabaret at the Malthouse — an evening that spans comedy, music, drag and dance. The visual art on offer is equally as eclectic, from gallery exhibitions such as Ill-Fitted at fortyfivedownstairs, to more hands-on events like this interactive demonstration of First Nations craftwork. Head to the festival website to check out the full program.
This review is of the Sydney run of this production in March 2015. Sydney Dance Company’s Frame of Mind drills a hole into your heart and brain and makes you leak emotion in that sneaky, visceral way only dance can do. It's in fact two short contemporary dance pieces: Quintett, choreographed by William Forsythe, then Frame of Mind, by Sydney Dance Company’s artistic director, Rafael Bonachela. The result is stunning contemporary dance — neither pretentious, nor attempting any grand narrative. These are simply short, genuine outpourings of life and feeling from two very different choreographers, made accessible by committed dancers. Understanding the context of Quintett’s conception is pivotal to the experience. Originally created in 1993 (this is its Australian premiere), Quintett was a love letter from Forsythe to his terminally ill wife. Despite these tragic circumstances, Forsythe's work celebrates the chase of love. It’s full of pulls, falls and negotiations; at once both whimsical and profound. The quintet of dancers (Cass Mortimer Eipper, Chloe Leong, David Mack, Jesse Scales and Sam Young-Wright) engage in explorative play. Each dancer seems to ask, “what can my body do when I look at it anew?” They defy the everyday constraints placed on the body, and provoke their fellow dancers — taps on the bum, grabbing, shakes and whiplash — all to see how far they can possibly go. There is no storyline to follow, or characters to orbit, but the unshakeable feeling they are dancing a memoir. This may be a thank you letter for the moments shared, but it has no final signature. Each extension is intersected and retracted, each posture never fully completed. The bodies constantly interrupt each other's trajectories, so that one must always surrender to another, relinquish and release. The captivating Leong is still running and reaching as the curtain falls. The music mashes up a frail male voice singing a hymn with the crying sounds of strings. It's a simple but catchy looping that makes us aware of the eternal life/death cycle, and humbles us for thinking our own lives so important. Another beautiful element of both Quintett and Frame of Mind is the inclusion of ‘the watcher’. When dancers are not engaged, they pause and watch their peers. Spectatorship being so integral to human behaviour, it’s nice to see dancers drop their guard. Frame of Mind has a turbulent and moody atmosphere, exploding into action with the unnerving, staccato song of violins — the contemporary-classical soundtrack comes from The National's Bryce Dessner. We see warrior-esque rituals, moments of bared teeth and risk-taking choreography that leaves no room for error. We watch dances of despair, reverie and entrapment. The lighting of Frame of Mind is breathtaking. Forsythe’s uses mirrors and projectors to cast Quintett into the refracted/reflected world of memory. Meanwhile, Benjamin Cisterne creates the daily cycle of sun/moonlight for Frame of Mind, within the cavernous abandoned warehouse that designer Ralph Myers has created. Cisterne alerts our eyes to unexpected shades and silhouettes, such that we begin to doubt the materiality of this world. Are those watermarks on the walls, or ghosts, or continents? Quintett aches with shared memories, and Frame of Mind rattles the psyche. Anyone willing to submit to a corporeal experience should attend.
