"Don't you dare ruin my childhood!" Such is the inevitable complaint from nostalgic movie fans whenever a beloved film from yesteryear is tapped by studios for a remake. Setting aside what kind of fragile childhood you must have had for a movie to be capable of destroying it, the sentiment is at least a sincere one: please be respectful. Like a thoughtless cover song robbing an original of all its heart and meaning (here's looking at you, Madonna's 'American Pie'), the arbitrary remaking, rebooting and reimagining of successful pop-culture properties threatens to expend a great deal of fan goodwill. Paul Feig's Ghostbusters was the last film to attract this level of ire, though that was as much to do with sexism as anything else (and proved doubly misguided since the female cast ended up being the best thing about it). Then came the Jumanji announcement and, again, childhoods were imperilled the world over. The beloved Robin Williams vehicle from 1995 (itself an adaptation from a book) was a critical meh at the time, but made bucketloads of cash. More importantly, however, its status as a cult classic grew with each passing day – so much so that the remake's star, Dwayne Johnson, recognised the risk early on and did his best to allay people's fears. "We wanted to do something that was respectful of the work of Robin Williams as well as creating something fresh," he insisted. So was he true to his word? Well, yes and no. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle certainly isn't fresh, in that it's largely just an appropriation of Tron coupled up with body-swap stories like Freaky Friday and 3rd Rock from the Sun. Nor does it really address the legacy of Robin Williams, since his character scarcely rates a mention, and the story itself in no way resembles the original. But is it a good film? Absolutely. Updating itself, quite literally, for more modern times, the film sees the original Jumanji board game transform into a mid-90s video game cartridge and promptly suck a hapless teenager into its hidden universe. Fast-forward 20 years and, in a clear nod to The Breakfast Club, the game is discovered in a storeroom by four motley teens during high-school detention. Sure enough they too – the nerd, the jock, the princess and the loner girl – find themselves pulled into Jumanji's perilous jungle. But there's a twist: they're now in the bodies of the game character they chose. So it is that the nerd becomes the muscle-bound Dr Smolder Bravestone (Johnson), the jock becomes pint-sized zoologist Moose Finbar (Kevin Hart), the loner becomes uber-babe and biologist Ruby Roundhouse (Karen Gillan) and – most amusingly – the princess becomes the portly, middle-aged cartographer Shelly Oberon (Jack Black). From there the film becomes a non-stop action-adventure romp, one in which its stars engage in a retro video game quest to return a glowing green jewel to its rightful home. The laughs are frequent, coming mostly from the body-swap setup, but also from the tongue-in-cheek references to 90s point and click games – like having non-playable characters only speak a limited number of lines that repeat themselves if you fail to progress in time. Each of the main cast members plays impressively against type, with Black in particular soaring in his part as the vacuous it-girl. Together they make an entirely likeable crew, lending the narrative a nice emotional undercurrent even as a "be true to yourself" message is jammed clumsily down our throats. Funny, breezy and full of memorable performances, nervous film buffs can rest easy. Your childhood is going to be just fine. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QKg5SZ_35I
As I settled down in Event Cinemas to see Once Chance, I didn't realise I'd also be seeing my mother's cinematic debut. But more on that later. A British film directed by David Frankel (The Devil Wears Prada) and written by Justin Zackham (The Bucket List), One Chance is based on the true story of Paul Potts, a shop assistant and amateur opera singer who won Britain's Got Talent in 2007. It's a kind of hero's journey meets love story, with Potts' marriage to wife Julie-Ann (Alexandra Roach) at the core. Her patience and loyalty sustains him through a seemingly unending amount of bad luck. As does his love of opera. The film opens with Potts' troubled childhood and ends with his first audition for Britain's Got Talent, now a YouTube favourite, where he sang Nessun Dorma so beautifully he received a standing ovation, judges cried and even Simon Cowell beamed. Before we get to the happy ending, things get pretty dark. There's his bully-ridden childhood. Then there's his dysfunctional relationship with his father, his financial struggles, his chronic self-doubt (enforced by no less than Pavarotti in one of the film's most painful scenes) and his ill health, from bicycle accidents to appendicitis to cancer. Even the setting of Port Talbot is depressing. But without depicting the struggle, the film's final scenes wouldn't be quite as moving. We wouldn't appreciate how glorious a victory this was for Potts, the eternal underdog. I just wish we could have had a bit longer to bask in it before the credits started rolling. James Corden was an unusual casting choice. He's known for his cheeky, brash confidence, and at times you can almost feel him holding back. But for the most part he succeeded in giving a believable performance as the shy, self-effacing Potts. (And before you ask, no that's not him singing; he is lip-synching to Potts' voice.) Sometimes the plot and dialogue feel a tad schmaltzy, a bit 'Hollywood', potentially because it's a British story with British actors but in the hands of American filmmakers. The film could use a splash more irreverence, but there are real moments of humour, often thanks to the comedic timing of Corden, Julie Walters (as Potts' mum) and Mackenzie Crook (as his friend and inefficient manager at the Carphone Warehouse). One Chance is entertaining and tells a genuinely inspiring story. It's not the most well-written script, but if you like stories about self-belief and pursuing your dreams no matter how many obstacles life throws at you, then you should see it. Or if you want to see my mum's unwitting extra-work. She's the tourist in the white trousers in the final scene, standing in the middle of Piazza San Marco and staring straight at the camera. Hi mum. https://youtube.com/watch?v=1wtq5hN2eOE
While it's necessary, you'd be hard-pressed to find too many Melburnians excited about the latest pandemic-induced restrictions, which have sent metropolitan Melbourne into stage four lockdowns and a state of disaster declared from Sunday, August 2. But, there's one thing that should make those stay-at-home orders a little easier, and that's the absolutely stinking weather headed our way for the rest of this week. Yep, if the Bureau of Meteorology's forecast is anything to go by, you'll barely want to leave your front porch, let alone venture the five kilometres from home you're currently allowed to travel for grocery shopping and exercise. According to the BOM, Victoria is in for some serious couch weather, kicking things off with 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms forecast for today, Tuesday, August 4. In metropolitan Melbourne, temperatures aren't set to climb above 12 degrees until Saturday, when it's forecast to max out at a slightly balmier 13 degrees. Much like our moods, the whole week is looking very soggy, too, with a strong chance of showers most days and possible hail for Tuesday and Wednesday. Indoors weather, for sure. https://twitter.com/BOM_Vic/status/1289823421510164482 However, ski bunnies might be left feeling a little wistful at news of some decent snowfall expected for parts of Victoria. Metropolitan Melbourne could see snow falling as low as 400–600 metres over the coming days, and regions like Ballarat and the Dandenongs look set to score some flurries of their own. In fact, flurries have already hit Colac this morning, with dairy farmer Lachie Sutherland Tweeting this video of his snow-dusted cows. https://twitter.com/LachSuth/status/1290389831701282817 To keep an eye on Melbourne's weather, head over to the BOM website. For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Victoria, head to the DHHS website. Image: Paula R Lively via Flickr
We've heard of moving-out parties; however Barack Obama's version of a final celebratory shindig is about to put everyone else's to shame. What do you do when your time as the most powerful man on the planet is just about up, and you're about to vacate the world's most famous home? You bring SXSW to the White House. Obviously. The event is called SXSL, with the last two letters referring to the south lawn of Obama's not-so-humble presidential abode. As announced on the White House blog, South by South Lawn will bring together creators, innovators, and organisers for a one-day shindig on October 3. And as far as heading along is concerned, eager attendees can apply online. Yep, the Pres is throwing his very own festival, complete with interactive, film and music components. SXSL-goers will listen to panel discussions and learn about new technologies, watch shorts at the 3rd Annual White House Student Film Festival, and groove along to live performances by well-known and emerging artists. While there's no word on a lineup just yet, Obama's summer playlist could possibly provide a few clues. Clearly, both the US commander-in-chief and First Lady Michelle Obama had a mighty fine time when they attended and spoke at SXSW earlier this year. And clearly, once Obama out of office, nothing quite like this is likely to happen anytime soon. Image: Zach Rudisin.
To celebrate its 11th birthday, Sydney-founded restaurant chain Ribs & Burgers has added a premium birthday slider to the menu. The star of the burger is a wagyu beef patty accompanied by pink sauce, red onion, pickles, American cheese, barbecue sauce and mustard. The burger is available for a limited time and can be picked up for $8.90 on its own, with chips for $13.90 or with a serving of pork ribs for $19.90. On Tuesday, November 8, Ribs & Burgers is taking the celebrations up a notch offering the sliders for $5 each —for one day only. To get your wagyu fix for just $5, head into your local store or order online on November 8. Ribs & Burgers has outposts across Australia, including The Rocks, Chatswood and Bella Vista in Sydney, Craigieburn and Hawthorn in Victoria, and Fortitude Vallery and Woolloongabba in Queensland. You can find your local store at the Ribs & Burgers website. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ribs & Burgers (@ribsandburgers) 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.
Sporting giant Adidas has outdone itself with the adiZero f50 miCoach, a new soccer boot that boasts state-of-the-art technology. According to the manufacturer, the boot will be able to measure 'key performance metrics including speed, average speed (recorded every second), maximum speed (recorded every five seconds), number of sprints, distance, distance at high intensity levels, steps and stride rates.' Judging by this description, these super-intelligent boots are a serious athlete's dream. The information on the boot can then be stored for up to seven hours, and subsequently uploaded via WiFi or USB to other devices. The thoughtful guys at Adidas have then tapped into the social media aspect of the shoe, as your stats can then be shared with your friends on Facebook, or kept as a record for your own training regimes. You can even compare your own stats with professional (Adidas-sponsored, of course) athletes such as Lionel Messi as they upload their figures. With more features than necessary and more intelligence than you ever thought a shoe could possess, you're probably wondering how much it will cost to get your hands on a pair of these bad boys. They're set to drop in November at a price of $330, which isn't too bad considering that you're pretty much lacing up a computer on your feet. However, keep in mind that the $330 price point is in American dollars and you're probably going to have to fork out a lot more when they eventually land Down Under. https://youtube.com/watch?v=LK_paShxGM8 [Via PSFK]
In NGV International's Federation Court stands an imposing sculpture in a solemn pietà pose. At seven metres tall, Gone (2019) by Kaws is the world-renowned Brooklyn-based artist's largest bronze sculpture to date. It's part of the gallery's Kaws: Companionship in the Age of Loneliness exhibition, which you'll be able to get up close and personal with on Saturday, February 22. The gallery is hosting a one-off mass meditation right underneath the giant bronze sculpture. The morning will kick off at 9am with a meditation led by A-Space founder Manoj Dias — suitable for all levels of experience — which'll be accompanied by a live musical performance. After that, you'll get exclusive access to the exhibition from 9.45am. Explore Kaws' vivid murals and distinctive, pop culture-inspired characters before the rest of the riff-raff are let in at 10am. You're probably familiar with the artist's reinterpretations of iconic figures like Mickey Mouse, Snoopy and The Smurfs, all reworked with those signature Xs over the eyes — and you'll get to see them all here. Tickets will set you back $40, which includes meditation and access to the exhibition. [caption id="attachment_742493" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kaws, What Party (2019) photo by Tom Ross[/caption] Top image: Kaws, Gone (2019) by Tom Ross.
The sun is staying out longer, and it's time to start utilising all our glorious parkland again. Whip out the picnic rugs and get the wine cooler at the ready — Moonlight Cinema is back for another year. From December until March, this local favourite is the place to be for the most explosive action-packed blockbusters, the latest comedy releases and even the odd sing-a-long. The December–January portion of the program which has just gone on sale is basically a hit list of the summer's biggest flicks. Guardians of the Galaxy and Interstellar will make for perfect viewing under the vast night sky. Ladies will be taking a leading role for a fair portion of the action with The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Pt 1, Lucy, and the controversial Gone Girl. Then the latest comedy will be lightening the mood with Dumb and Dumber To, Horrible Bosses 2, and The Interview which sees Seth Rogen and James Franco basically going to war with North Korea. There are a few lesser known titles to watch out for too. The yet-to-be-released Birdman will see Michael Keaton poking fun at his days as the caped crusader alongside a stellar supporting cast, the heartbreaking Still Alice has Julienne Moore tipped for a Best Actress nomination, and The Gambler sees Mark Wahlberg front an adaptation of a '70s classic. Like every year, the gates open at 7pm and screenings kick off at 8.30pm when the sun goes down. Make sure to bring your own picnic blanket — and a full picnic while you're at it. While the cinema is totally BYO, there will also be an LA-style food truck on site boasting burgers with pulled pork brisket or Southern fried chicken. You can even go all out and get a New York-style chilli cheesedog. Check out the full program at the Moonlight Cinema website. Tickets are $15-35 depending on whether you opt for the 'Gold Grass' option (where you are given the best spots and beanbags in the house).
Combining camping in comfort with drinking in a vineyard, winery glamping is the trend that absolutely no one will ever complain about. It's been popping up all over the country, from Bendigo in regional Victoria, to Mount Cotton just outside of Brisbane, to a luxury pod-based version in South Australia's McLaren Vale — and now the Mornington Peninsula is getting in on the action. Meet Mornington Peninsula Glamping, which is now up and running at Blue Range Estate Wines in Rosebud. At a site overlooking not only the vineyard, but with views out over Port Phillip Bay, it features a number of luxe five-by-five-metre tents. There's three onsite at the time of writing; however there'll be ten by mid-October. Available for $265 per night, each tent is decked out with a queen-sized bed with 1000-thread-count sheets, two armchairs and a coffee table, plus solar power to keep your devices juiced. Visitors also have access to a shared cooking and eating area with two barbecues, hot water, and a choice of boutique tea or coffee, plus a luxury bathrooms in a shipping container. Mornington Peninsula Glamping is the brainchild of Christian Melone, whose family own and run vineyard, with his grandparents establishing the site back in the 80s. If you glamp over Thursday to Sunday, you can also mosey up to the winery's restaurant for a meal, tucking into the likes of tagliatelle with bay scallops and prawns, slow-roasted lamb shoulder with truffled mashed potatoes and ocean trout fillet with blood orange butter. Find Mornington Peninsula Glamping at Blue Range Estate Wines, 155 Gardens Road, Rosebud, Victoria.
Melbourne has a new vegan eatery — and it's fuelled by matcha. Matcha Mylkbar opens this morning on the corner of Carlisle and Acland Streets. The plant-based café comes from Sarah Holloway and Nic Davidson, the same people that brought you (and basically every cafe in Australia) Matcha Maiden. It will serve an entirely vegan menu to St Kilda locals needing something new to Instagram. Matcha is green tea leaves ground into a fine powder. That means instead of throwing out the tea bag, you swallow the leaves and get 137 times the antioxidants of simply steeping green tea. 2015 was a big year for matcha; traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies, it started to be used creatively in baking, smoothies and lattes. Matcha Maiden has been everywhere ever since. "We never thought we would start a physical venue, but we realised there was obviously a market there," says Holloway. "Then one of our friends [a founder of St Ali] happened to have a venue in Melbourne for us." The menu has regulars like smashed avocado with heirloom tomatoes and corn fritters. But then there's the coconut bacon and the matcha pancakes with dark chocolate sorbet. There are mushroom lattes, and beetroot lattes. Yes, you read that right — beetroot lattes. The breakfast bowls, a requirement of any vegan café, are elaborate and beautifully decorated. The 'eggs' follow suit with the rest of the menu and are made completely of plant-based products. A little sceptical? Holloway promises that when poached, they ooze just like a regular egg. "They have the same nutritional profile, but the yolk is made of linseed protein and sweet potato, and the outside is almond milk and coconut milk," she explains. Despite what you might assume, Holloway and her business partners aren't actually vegan themselves. Knowing about the benefits of plant-based eating, they wanted to fuse it with their love of matcha and make it available and affordable to everyone — not just vegans. "People on the outside tend to think of veganism as this really hippie, weird thing. I think the fact that this café comes from non-vegans makes it like vegan eating for non-vegans. Hopefully people will be a little more open minded." Matcha Mylkbar opens today Thursday, March 31 at 72 Acland Street, St Kilda. They'll be open daily from 7.30am to 4pm. For more info, visit matchamylkbar.com.
Living through bushfires, drought, a pandemic and economic depression — sounds familiar, right? Australian impressionist painter Arthur Streeton might have lived a hundred years ago, but his worldview was impacted by all-too-familiar cycles of environmental, economic and political upheaval. If you don't know much about Streeton, you'll have the opportunity to get to know one of Australia's most loved landscape painters through 150 of his works — including some that haven't been shown since the 1920s — in a new retrospective exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Head curator of Australian art Wayne Tunnicliffe took a deep dive into the Gallery's collection to uncover not only the beloved paintings hanging on the Gallery's walls, but also works within the collection that have been stored away for over 100 years. Born in 1867, Streeton's art practice evolved over six decades. Within the exhibition, you'll see that evolution and an enduring passion for Australia's natural beauty; there are his sun-drenched landscapes from the 1880s, bright, joyful depictions of Sydney Harbour from the 1890s and his bucolic paintings of the 1920s and 30s. [caption id="attachment_784956" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Arthur Streeton, 'From McMahon's Point — fare one penny' (1890), National Gallery of Australia, Canberra[/caption] He painted familiar, and often beautiful, locations in New South Wales, from Coogee and Manly beaches to the Blue Mountains and upper Hawkesbury River. His skill at capturing light, land and sea contributed to Australia's take on impressionism. His peers — artists Tom Roberts and Charles Conder — were part of a new art movement, the Heidelberg School, that was a distinctly Australian take on the global art movement. The exhibition, which runs from November 7–February 14, will feature 150 works from both public and private collections — including paintings, drawings and watercolours. It's the most significant retrospective of Streeton's art ever presented, and includes works from the artist's time in Egypt, England, Italy and in France during the second world war. As well as his final works, which show Streeton's increasing focus on environmental concerns — on his return to Australia, Streeton became more vocal about conservation and exhibiting works showing our destruction to the natural world. Tickets to 'Streeton' cost $22 and you can buy timed-entry tickets online now. If you have already purchased untimed and undated tickets for 'Streeton', your tickets will be honoured for any date and time until February 14, 2021, excluding opening weekend. For $35, you can upgrade to a Gallery Pass, which gives you access to 'Streeton' and the 'Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2020'. Top images: 1. Arthur Streeton, 'Early summer – gorse in bloom' (1888), Art Gallery of South Australia, Adelaide, Gift of Mrs Andrew Tennant through the Art Gallery of South Australia Foundation 1982. 2. Arthur Streeton, 'The Land of the Golden Fleece' (1926). Private collection, Sydney. Photo: Jenni Carter, AGNSW.
Love dessert? Not so good at sports? Keen on using the former to help the latter? Well, it could actually happen. In the kind of culinary development that oh-so-many dreams are made of, an Italian cardiologist has invented an ice cream he claims will improve your sporting ability. So, who do you thank? Science, and Professor Valerio Sanguigni from the University of Rome Tor Vergata. He has crafted his own secret recipe for a gelato that has antioxidant properties. And, as anyone that has ever seen an ad for skin care products or trendy supermarket health foods knows, they're so good for you that television commercials won't stop shouting their praises. Sanguigni's three types of ice cream draw upon his own research into the area — into antioxidants, not ways to justify eating more frozen sweet treats (that's just an added bonus, though he is apparently a lifelong enthusiast). In tests, he gave chocolate, hazelnut and green tea-flavoured gelato to groups of volunteers, and then noticed that they subsequently pedalled faster on an exercise bike than those who ate ordinary ice cream. In short, their vascular function and physical performance improved. No word yet as to what Sanguigni's plans are for his sports-boosting dessert, though it sounds like the type of thing he'd want to start selling quick smart. So, just think: if you've ever wanted to be a little more active — and actually be good at shooting hoops, hitting balls or whatever other sport takes your fancy — gelato might help. With a Korean convenience store also selling ice cream as a hangover cure, it seems that your favourite chilled confectionery just might be the sweetest and tastiest super food of them all. Via Munchies.
Northside food truck park Welcome to Thornbury is teaming up with the good folk at Mountain Goat Beer to dish up a one-off Sunday session jam-packed with live tunes. Join in the fun from 3pm on Sunday, March 19, and spend your afternoon soaking up sounds from a cast of well-known Aussie talent — while sipping a few crisp brews, of course. Tickets are an easy $10, which'll get you not just entry to the Live & Untamed party, but also your choice of complimentary bev — either a pint of Mountain Goat's new Headliner Pale Ale or a tinny of its Pink Gin & Soda. As always, the bar will be stocked with a hefty range of other sips, too. Meanwhile, there'll be some big names gracing the stage, with the day's lineup headed by ARIA Award-winning rocker Adalita, You Am I legend Davey Lane, and Kav Temperley, who you'll know as the frontman, bassist and songwriter of a little band called Eskimo Joe. Rounding out the bill are Scott Darlow, Zoë Fox and Reece Mastin, all up delivering a genre-hopping mix of tunes to help you wrap up your weekend in style.
The saying "all good things come to an end" doesn't apply that often on TV anymore. Whenever a show wraps up, there's usually a chance that it could return in some shape or form, whether as a prequel such as House of the Dragon, a sequel series like That '90s Show or a revival as Party Down is currently doing. But when Barry finishes its run after its upcoming fourth and final season, this really might be it for Bill Hader's (Lightyear) military sniper-turned-hitman-turned actor. If you've watched season three, which was characteristically phenomenal, you'll know why — but, also, a show about an assassin trying to be an on-screen star in Hollywood can't keep its main figure away from the law forever. So, in the just-dropped first trailer for Barry season four, HBO teases an "arresting final act". Barry is incarcerated, his mentor and veteran thespian Gene Cousineau (Henry Winkler, Black Adam) is being hailed as a hero, but this turn of events is clearly going to have consequences. In the initial sneak peek, Barry is seeing his friends and acquaintances as he wanders around the yard in prison — including Cousineau, his former handler Monroe (Stephen Root, Succession) and his ex-girlfriend Sally (Sarah Goldberg, The Night House) — which doesn't bode well for his already-fragile mental health. Is this where the killer-for-hire will be when the eight-episode season concludes? Will Chechen gangster Noho Hank (Anthony Carrigan, Bill & Ted Face the Music) somehow intervene? What's happening with Sarah's career after season three? These are all natural questions to have about the Emmy-winner's return. Answers will start coming soon, with Barry season four set to start streaming via Binge in Australia and Neon in New Zealand from Monday, April 17. If you're new to all things Barry, Hader not only stars but created the show, has directed a heap of episodes, and also co-wrote others. The initial setup: when Hader's Barry Berkman heads from Cleveland to Los Angeles for his job, he discovers a previously unknown passion for acting after he stumbles into a class held by veteran thespian Cousineau. The catch? Barry kills people for money, and that isn't a line of work that you can leave easily, especially when you become caught in the Chechen mafia's violent and deadly dramas. Check out the first trailer for Barry season four below: Barry's fourth season will start streaming via Binge in Australia and Neon in New Zealand from Monday, April 17. Top image: Merrick Morton/HBO.
The inaugural Melbourne Vegan Festival has arrived and ethically-minded eaters could not be happier. Topping the bill is Thug Kitchen, the infamous creators of the cookbook that told us all to "eat like you give a f**k" in 2014. "You bet your sweet ass everything we do is vegan. Every recipe on our site is completely plant-based," say creators Matt Holloway and Michelle Davis, the big vegan tickets for this year's festival. Jim Morris, a 79-year-old American bodybuilder, will also be in attendance and we're keen to hear how he keeps on keeping on. For those interested in vegan-focused business, Lentil As Anything founder Shanaka Fernando and the Loving Earth founder, Scott Fry will be there to talk shop. For those into raw foods, Raw Satya should be your one to watch; those up for a beverage, head to Dean O’Callaghan from The Good Brew Company. Considering the Vegan Festival will be held at the Corner, there's no way the event could go by without a bit of music, so Jamie Hay will be performing. In the spirit of the event, the Corner is extending their vegan menu for the day. So, if you're looking for some freshly-made vegan fare, cooking demonstrations and immediately useful talks, head to Melbourne’s very own vegan fest.
Here's a way to make an entrance. Ever-evolving ride service Uber has announced their next alternative transportation method and it's set to be a whirlwind (ha). The UberCHOPPER will see 20 racing punters touching down on the Caulfield Cup helipad this weekend, where they'll be greeted (of course) with champagne and VIP passes for the day. A continual do-gooder, this year Uber has saved people on the move from the mediocre arrival methods known as buses, trains and conventional taxis by giving them other options — like luxury cars, water taxis and Optimus Prime. They've repeatedly come to your drunken 3am rescue, and even brought you food and taken you shopping. Like many of these other initiatives, it's unlikely the chopper service will become a regular feature. For now you'll just have to pray you get through in the frantic scramble when the FREECHOPPER code goes live this Saturday, October 18 at 10am. Here's how to book: 1. Download the Uber app onto your smartphone and make an account, if you haven't already. 2. Enter the promo code "FREECHOPPER" when signing up, or in the promotions section of the app if you've already got Uber. 3. At 10am on Saturday, select UberCHOPPER in the app. Get your friends to do it too. Don't be discouraged if at first you don't succeed — it's just that the rest of Melbourne is trying at the same time. 4. Hit "REQUEST CHOPPER". If your booking is accepted — don't panic. (Or do.) You've got 15 minutes to get your race face on before an UberMINI picks you up and transfers you to the helipad.
Australians, if you need to renew your passport — or just find wherever you stashed it away more than 18 months ago — the time is now. When Monday, November 1 arrives, Aussies will be permitted to travel internationally again. Of course, given that the COVID-19 situation varies in each state, jetting off won't be as straightforward as it used to be; however, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed that the Federal Government will be allowing Aussies to leave the country and return from that date. Back at the beginning of October, the PM advised that Australia's indefinite ban on holidaying overseas — a ban that came into place in March 2020 to control the spread of COVID-19 — would lift sometime in November on a state-by-state basis. At the time, Morrison announced that "international travel is on track to reopen safely to fully vaccinated Australian travellers" when each state and territory individually hits the 80-percent double-jabbed threshold. Now, on Friday, October 15, the Prime Minister confirmed the exact date that Aussies will be allowed to travel internationally — after New South Wales Premier Dominic Perrottet announced that quarantine requirements will be dropped for folks who've had both their jabs from Monday, November 1, too. Also in NSW, caps on the number of double-vaccinated overseas arrivals will also lift on the same day. "I'm very pleased that the New South Wales Government has advised, as you've learnt today, that they will be in a position to move to a no quarantine arrangement for people arriving back in Australia from the 1st of November, which enables us to be in a position to ensure that we can lift the caps for returning Australian citizens, residents and their families from the 1st of November into New South Wales," said Morrison. He continued: "this also means is that we will be allowing Australians, permanent residents and citizens and their families, to leave Australia from wherever they live in Australia and return, but obviously the capped arrangements in other states will continue because of the vaccination levels in those places and the arrangements they have in place in each of those states and territories." Accordingly, if you wanted to hop on a flight out of NSW to an overseas destination from the beginning of November onwards, you can — and, if you're then returning to NSW and you're double-jabbed, you won't need to quarantine (not in a hotel, and not at home either). In response to the news, airlines have started bringing forward their international flight dates, so you really can start booking. Qantas has brought forward its London and Los Angeles routes from Sydney (the former now going via Darwin) to November 1, after initially intending to take to the skies again mid-November, and is also looking at possibly bringing forward the restart dates for flights to Singapore, Fiji, Vancouver and other destinations from mid-December. At this early stage, the international border will open for double-jabbed Aussies heading outwards and coming back — and permanent residents and citizens and their families, as the PM noted — but not for international travellers and international students. Plus, for those who aren't double-dose vaxxed, hotel quarantine will remain compulsory upon entering Australia, and caps upon arrival numbers will still apply. In NSW, mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine will remain in place, and only 210 overseas arrivals who aren't double-jabbed will be permitted each week. Media release: reopening roadmap update. #NSWPol #auspol2021 pic.twitter.com/mKbxdO0W53 — Dom Perrottet (@Dom_Perrottet) October 14, 2021 Arrangements in states and territories other than NSW, including the quarantine requirements upon return for double-vaccinated folks and the caps on arrivals from November 1, haven't yet been confirmed by the respective state and territory leaders. Also, exactly where Aussies can travel to out of NSW from November 1 obviously depends on border rules and requirements in other countries. The trans-Tasman travel bubble with New Zealand is presently on hold until at least mid-November, for instance, while Fiji will reopen to Aussies from Thursday, November 11. For further information about Australia's plan to restart international travel, head to the Prime Minister's website. More details about the National Plan to transition Australia's National COVID Response can be found on the same site. And, details of the New South Wales Government's current plans can be found on its website. Also, to find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia in general, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website.
Victoria's gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions is set to continue, with Premier Daniel Andrews mapping out the next two phases of the state's easing of lockdown conditions. And if you've been eager to hang out with more than a just few mates, spend a night away, or wander around a gallery, zoo or outdoor amusement park, it's all great and welcome news. Two weeks ago, the first stage of eased restrictions for the state were announced, which came into place at midnight the next day — allowing five visitors allowed inside a house, and gatherings of ten outside. Then, last weekend, the Premier advised that cafes, restaurants, pubs and clubs would be able to reopen to dine-in customers from Monday, June 1. Now, today, Sunday, May 24, the Premier has outlined a heap of additional activities that will be permissible from 11.59pm on Sunday, May 31. That's when the current State of Emergency is due to end, and the list of changes is lengthy, with all of the following back on the cards: Up to 20 people in your home, including both residents and visitors. Gatherings of up to 20 people outside of the house. Gatherings of up to 20 people in libraries, youth centres and other community facilities, in addition to the people needed to operate the space. Weddings with up to 20 people, plus the celebrant and couple getting married. Church gatherings of up to 20 people, in addition to those required to conduct the service. Funerals with up to 50 people, in addition to those required to conduct the service. Overnight stays at private residences and paid accommodation, including campgrounds and caravan parks — but not those with communal facilities such as kitchens or bathrooms. The reopening of entertainment and cultural venues such as galleries, museums, drive-in cinemas, historic sites, zoos and outdoor amusement parks — with 20-person limits, and with indoor venues required to collect customer details for contact tracing. The reopening of swimming pools, with 20-person limits and other safety requirements in place. Community sporting activities with up to 20 people in undivided spaces, as long as the sport is outdoors, non-competition, and non-contact — and that people can play 1.5 metres apart. The reopening of beauty and personal care services — such as nail salons, spas, tattoo parlours — with 20-person limits, and with businesses required to collect customer details for contact tracing. Auctions and open inspections with a 20-person limit, and with agents required to collect attendee details for contact tracing. The reopening of non-food and drink market stalls. In addition, outdoor playgrounds, skateparks and outdoor communal gym equipment will be allowed to reopen on Tuesday, May 26 — in-line with the return of students to schools. https://twitter.com/DanielAndrewsMP/status/1264349050767204352 If all goes well, the next stage of eased restrictions will come into effect at 11.59pm Sunday, June 21. That said, the Victorian Government will continue to assess community transmission and testing rates before giving the go-ahead to loosen more limits. When the next stage does start in Victoria, indoor fitness and recreation facilities will be allowed to open with up to 20 people inside — and up to 10 people per group or activity at any one time. In an increase from current 20-person caps, 50 people will be permitted inside cafes, restaurants and hotels, as well as museums. That limit will also apply to cinemas, theatres and concert venues, which'll be able to reopen for the first time. And, the Victorian snow season will also start on June 22. At each stage, the standard social-distancing requirements will still apply — so sticking physical distancing, maintaining four square metres per person indoors, hand and cough hygiene, and frequent cleaning and disinfection. Victorians are also advised to continue to work from home if they are able, at least until the end of June. Announcing the eased restrictions, Premier Andrews noted that "with the rate of community transmission remaining low, and the rate of testing remaining high, we're in a position to make a number of additional changes." He explained that the new relaxed limits were guided by still "limiting the number of people moving around our state". And, regarding working from home specifically, he advised: "we just can't afford to have millions of people moving around our state — taking public transport or using the communal kitchen. Let alone when you think about the logistical challenges of getting people in and out of lifts or lobbies." To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. Top image: Salon Gallery at NGV International, photo by NGV Photographic Services.
Cities are living beasts. Swelling and humming and brimming with life, these places we live are subject to change at any moment. These changes can be slow, like that giant apartment complex they've been building forever by your house. Or they can be fast, like the way the skyline comes to life with lights after 8pm. New York photographer Richard Silver has taken it upon himself to explore the latter changes, and the results are pretty beautiful. With his camera pointed towards iconic skylines and landmarks from around the world, Silver has catalogued an entire day in each image. Different from regular timelapse photography that creates a fluid sense of movement, Silver's images are staccato and ornate. Like a collage, each photograph is composed of shots from 36 different times throughout the day. Looking from left to right, you get a glimpse into a full day, from dawn to dusk. Enamoured with the nature of time, Silver appropriately named the series Time Slice. "[It] started in New York when I would go out at sunset to photograph iconic NY buildings," the artist told The Huffington Post. "I can take a photograph a mere few seconds apart and the change in of blue in the sky at sunset just fascinates me." It seems that people around the world are fascinated by this idea as well. In the last week alone, hits to his website have increased from roughly 1,000 per day to upwards of 190,000. Digital sightseers have descended upon the series to view his take on Easter Island, Shanghai, Venice, Milan, London and the Colosseum among others. No longer do tourists have to bicker about whether it's better to see a landmark during the day or at night! Just stay at home and drink in the whole thing. See more of Richard Silver's work at his website. Via Huffington Post. Photos via Richard Silver.
Art and vino prove the perfect pairing at Fitzroy's new pop-up cellar door meets photography exhibition. Championing skin contact wine grown in the Murray Darling region, along with the winemaking practices of Northeast Italy, new local label MDI Wines (formerly Mandi) is an emerging favourite of Melbourne's wine-sipping circuit. And until Monday, June 27, it's taking over the Gertrude Street event space At The Above for a tasting experience with a difference. The pop-up urban cellar door is not only pouring tastings of MDI's new-release drops, but showcasing an exhibition of works by celebrated Aussie photographer Josh Robenstone. While you sip and swirl, you'll be able to scope out pieces from the artist's BASTA! series, alongside additional works that have never been shown before. The featured snaps are from Robenstone's 2011 travels through Italian spots like the Amalfi Coast, Milan and Rome. What's more, their energy has been captured anew for the photographer's most recent designs, which you'll recognise gracing MDI's wine labels. The pop-up is open for tastings and gallery browsing from 10am–6pm Thursday to Sunday, taking walk-ins only. The MDI crew is also planning more exhibits and artists to join them at the cellar door over the coming months. [caption id="attachment_858930" align="alignnone" width="1920"] At the Above[/caption]
Each year we anticipate the arrival of December 25. Because of the day off, the promise of an afternoon spent dozing in a hammock — and the arrival of Gelato Messina's annual Christmas cake. This year, the gelato chain is bringing back its version of the quintessential Australian dessert: the trifle. Yes, we're talking Christmas desserts already. The Christmas Coma will return for its third year running — and this time it's more fruity than overly decadent. The epic ice cream creation will feature layer upon layer of everything that is good about Christmas — but instead of being soggy and slightly regrettable, this one will have you licking the glass bowl. So what's in it? Well, Messina has switched out the vanilla gelato for a mango sorbet, and will be slathering it with its house-made passionfruit mousse. Then it will be layered with — here we go — whipped guava jelly, coconut cream, sponge soaked in mango and macadamia crunch. Oh, and garnished with a chocolate coconut. Plus, it'll come with some Messina rum custard to douse all over the mess and a box of Christmas crackers for the table. The trifle, which serves 20–30 (or less if you really commit), costs $170 and can be pre-ordered from October 28. You can pick up your Christmas Coma between midday on Friday, December 20 and 6pm on Christmas Eve, from all Gelato Messina stores across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane except The Star, Surry Hills, Richmond and Coolangatta. It comes in a Messina cooler bag and, if you keep it in there sealed, can survive for up to two hours. Last year, the trifle sold out super fast, too, so we suggest you don't wait on this one. The Christmas Coma available to order from Tuesday, October 29. Updated October 29, 2019.
If you're someone who loves indulging in a few G&Ts on a summer evening but doesn't love waking up to dehydrated, hungover skin, we've got you covered. Beloved Aussie brands Four Pillars Gin and Go-To Skincare are bringing back their extremely limited-edition Go-To Gin — a spirit that sent fans of Go-To founder ZFB (that's Zoë Foster-Blake for the uninitiated) into a frenzy on its release last spring. When we say frenzy we mean it — the inaugural batch of My New Go-To Gin sold out in just five hours. This year you've got some time to gather yourself — the second release drops on Thursday, November 17. Ready for cocktail mixing and shaking, flavours in this coveted drop include native Aussie peach, lemon myrtle, pink peppercorns and ruby grapefruit. The familiar peachy pink Go-To label means you could probably add it to your bathroom counter's line-up and nobody would notice anything out of the ordinary. And if you sip a few too many the night before another event (hello, festive season) you're in luck: Every bottle comes with a Go-To 'Transformazing' sheet mask to soak your skin in much-needed moisture. Four Pillars co-founder and distiller Cam Mckenzie said in a statement he was aware gin and skin are an "unlikely duo". "But after a G&T or two (or three) with the Go-To team we realised there was a lot we had in common. We're both champions of using best-in-class ingredients, we're both sticklers for quality and, speaking personally, we both have a thing for Sunday night face masking." To celebrate the launch, the skincare brand is taking over the gin garden at the recently revamped Four Pillars Distillery in Healesville for a series of cocktail workshops and skincare tutorials on November 18–20. Melbourne readers (or fans willing to travel) can find out more about that here. If last year is anything to go by, we imagine this gin is going to sell out pretty quickly, so sign up to the waitlist here — you'll also find a festive cocktail recipe. If you miss out, or peach isn't really your gin infusion of choice, you've got options however you choose to imbibe. Four Pillars has brought back its annual cult-favourites bloody shiraz gin and Christmas gin for your festive cocktail needs, or you can opt for a ready-to-pour bottled gin martini. The 2022 Four Pillars Go-To Gin will go on sale online on Thursday, November 17. Head to the Four Pillars website to sign up to the waitlist and to register for the launch weekend at Four Pillars' Victorian distillery.
Step into the films of one of world cinema's greatest icons, with Australia’s favourite curmudgeonly critic as your guide. Screening at ACMI over two and a half weeks, Essential Bergman will showcase ten iconic titles from the oeuvre of Swedish master Ingmar Bergman, carefully selected by former At the Movies co-host David Stratton. Expect 35mm film prints, plenty of existential angst and not a handheld camera shot in sight. Even if you haven’t seen any Bergman films in full, odds are you’re at least unconsciously familiar with his work. Whether it’s Max von Sydow playing chess with the Grim Reaper in The Seventh Seal or the haunting dream sequence from the beginning of Wild Strawberries, Bergman has been responsible for some of the most indelible images in cinematic history. Other titles in the program include Persona, Cries and Whispers and Fanny and Alexander. Stratton himself will present a lecture on Bergman on Thursday, June 18, as well as an hour-long reviewing masterclass for aspiring critics aged 15 to 25. For the full Essential Bergman program, visit the ACMI website.
Are you sick of Friday nights spent in dingy bars with sleazy businessmen and girls in microscopic dresses? Does the thought of catching one more seedy cab from outside the Carlton Club make your skin crawl? Maybe it's time to class up your weekends. And there's no better way to do that than with late-night art, killer music, and the classiest venue of them all: the National Gallery of Victoria. From now until the end of August, the NGV are opening up their winter blockbuster series to the night-time crowd. It's been around for a few years now, so you probably know the drill. Each Friday night, you'll be able to cruise around Italian Masterpieces while listening to some sweet Aussie musicians and sipping on some wine. With talks, DJs, and a suitably Italian bar menu, the NGV has officially been transformed into an all-in-one oasis. This year's series will be kicked off by Kirin J Callinan on Friday, June 27 and followed up with the likes of Owl Eyes, Teeth & Tongue, Dan Kelly, and The Audreys. Head over to the NGV website to see the full line-up.
This long weekend, swap the big smoke for some colourful blooms and garden-themed fun, with a trip to the Ballarat Begonia Festival. A top-notch excuse to get outta town, the festival returns for its 67th edition from Saturday, March 9 to Monday, March 11. Green-thumbed folk will be in their element, with a dazzling begonia display in the conservatory, a pop-up market dedicated to gardeners and creatives, and appearances from some TV gardening legends. A historic tram will also be transformed into its own moving floral arrangement — which you can catch a free ride on, too. Meanwhile, four different stages will play host to a diverse program of live, local tunes, and an all-ages circus drop zone is set to host juggling and uni-cycling workshops, ninja obstacle courses, trapeze performers and more. Of course, some of Ballarat's best eats and drinks will also be on show across the weekend — sample delights from the likes of Red Duck Brewery, Kilderkin Distillery and Wightwick Wines at the pop-up Begonia Bar, tuck into woodfired slices in the Begonia Courtyard courtesy of The Forge Pizzeria, and browse a huge array of food and produce stalls in between.
Colourful anime hits, intriguing murder mysteries and moody yakuza thrillers — they're all on the lineup at this year's Japanese Film Festival. Throw in a rom-com about renting a friend, a musical-comedy starring a former J-pop idol and a live-action version of a best-selling manga, and Melbourne viewers will have plenty to watch at the Treasury and Capitol theatres between Thursday, November 21 and Sunday, December 1. It all starts with opening night's Masquerade Hotel, which tasks a detective (Blade of the Immortal's Takuya Kimura) with going undercover at a swanky Tokyo establishment. The reason? He believes that a murder is about to take place within its walls, and he's determined not only to stop it, but to solve three other seemingly unrelated killings. From there, standouts include Little Love Song, about Okinawa high schoolers in a pop band; family reunion drama Born Bone Born, as set on the island of Aguni; and Melancholic, which follows a new university graduate who takes a job at a bathhouse, only to find himself working for dangerous mobsters. On the animated front, Ride Your Wave takes to the sea on a surfboard, because Japanese animators can make surfing movies too. Final Fantasy fans might want to catch Brave Father Online, given that it focuses on a father and son reconnecting through their love of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, while Dance With Me takes its characters on a singing and dancing road trip — and And Your Bird Can Sing gets atmospheric with three friends over a long Hokkaido summer.
Ms Elwood, the southside hawker-style eatery and bar, has a whole array of pan-Asian offerings on the go for hungry folk — but even tastier news is its weekly specials. As well as $1 dumplings on Mondays and Wednesdays (with $9 margaritas also available on the latter), Thursdays are Bao Night, with $3 bao. But its piece de resistance might be its occasional bottomless cocktail nights. At a price of $25 (or $30 at peak times), you get all you can drink cocktails for 90 minutes. Running on both Friday, June 22 and Saturday, June 23 — the first 90-minute slot kicking off at 4pm and the last at 9pm — the deal is only valid if you order food (lining your stomach is important) and bookings are essential. The cocktails you'll get to drink (limitlessly) include frosé, espresso martinis, lychee martinis and long island iced teas. That's a whole heap of fancy cocktails for less than a pineapple.
Tuesdays mean different things to different people. Another day closer to the weekend, almost hump day, the day you wish you could sleep through — they're all on the list. But, at The Bavarian each week, the day after Monday also means tucking into $9.95 schnitzels. It's one of the tastiest ways to celebrate any day, and to also save your pennies while doing so. There's no occasion, other than just because — but cheap schnitties for the sake of it is what any Schnitzel Tuesday should be about. For a bargain price, The Bavarian will serve you up a chicken schnitzel with fries and lemon, but you do have to also buy a full-priced drink to get the deal. Fancy another schnitty? That's completely fine — just get another drink. Available all day every Tuesday, this is some good schnitz. To get your fix, you can head to The Bavarian venues around town — there are two in Victoria, at Highpoint and Westfield Knox, so you've got options. You can also level-up your schnits for an extra $10, getting a 'Godfather' (a giant schnitzel, ham, cheese, kielbasa, napoli sauce and cheese) or a 'Matterhorn' (a schnitzel mountain, cheese spätzle, three layers of Alpen cheese and bacon).
Thanks to an unfortunately timed COVID-19 outbreak, this year's edition of the Emerging Writers' Festival will take place entirely online. But if you're a devourer of books, you can rest assured it's still set to deliver a hefty lineup of talks, workshops, panels and more. Running from June 16–June 26, the all-digital program has events for all varieties of lit-lover — from After Dark, a night of live-streamed performance headlined by emerging stars like Wai-Mun Mah, Christy Tan, Jesse Oliver and Penny Smits, to a short story masterclass led by the award-winning Alice Bishop. Streamed via YouTube, Next Big Thing will feature readings from some of the country's hottest up-and-coming talent, while Littlefoot & Co heads up a night of spoken word on June 24. Plus, EWF favourite Amazing Babes will see a cast of familiar faces sharing stories about the women, real and imagined, who've helped shape their lives. The National Writers' Conference will also run as planned, with a full-day online program of panels, talks, workshops and pitching sessions. It's also your chance to hear from EWF's 2021 ambassadors, including poet and editor Elena Gomez (Body of Work), activist and novelist Tony Birch (Ghost River), and non-fiction star Sisonke Msimang (Always Another Country: A Memoir of Exile and Home). [caption id="attachment_811529" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sisonke Msimang[/caption]
Gotta love this grass-roots, crowd-sourced internet art project. Corpus Libris is an ongoing photo essay on books and the bodies that love them, in which participants create visually quirky creations by superimposing images of the human body found on book covers over their own bodies. Creator of the project Emily Pullen says "It began as a fun little photo essay on a Thursday night while working at Skylight Books in Los Angeles. As we kept going and going, I realized that many, many more people could enjoy and create similar photographs. The possibilities are practically endless!" The most successful images strike a balance of perspective, positioning the book so the image is the same size as the human holding it – check them out below: [Via Flavorwire]
The 2021 edition of Negroni Week has kicked off in Melbourne, running from September 13–19. And, while you can't celebrate by enjoying one of the event's namesake cocktails at your favourite local bar, this year's program is still serving up loads of negroni-centric goodness. The annual initiative sees venues across the globe whipping up signature negroni-inspired sips, raising funds for various charity partners. Of course, this time around, Melbourne is delivering a lockdown-friendly spin on the Negroni Week festivities, with specialty creations available for takeaway and delivery. Mjolner has crafted a Norse-inspired drink dubbed The Negrimnir, starring a burnt orange blossom honey mead infused with bilberry, while Bar Clara is coming to the party with a three-strong negroni flight pack. The Tipplers Bar is also doing a trio of negroni variations, available to order through its website, and Jimmy Rum distillery is delivering its rum-infused take on the classic drink across the Mornington Peninsula. That's Amore Cheese has assembled a Cocktail Hour Hamper packed with cheese, gourmet snacks and an Everleigh Bottling Co cocktail, to raise money for OzHarvest. Meanwhile, new Japanese grill restaurant Robata is serving a revamped negroni featuring Japanese gin and umeshu, available via the online store. And leading bars including Byrdi, Capitano and Bar Americano have teamed up with the Everleigh Bottling Co to create a limited-edition Negroni Week mixed pack, with $10 from each box donated to Aussie non-profit R U OK. Jump onto the website to see who's whipping up what drinks and where to get your hands on them. [caption id="attachment_825331" align="alignnone" width="1920"] That's Amore's Negroni Week Cocktail Hour Hamper[/caption]
Thanks to her vibrant, playful and dot-filled body of work, Yayoi Kusama is known for many things. Her brightly coloured pumpkins, often blown up to larger-than-life size, are instantly recognisable. Her mirrored infinity rooms constantly dazzle the eye, too. But when it comes to interacting with her pieces, the Japanese artist's obliteration rooms might be her most entertaining creation. The concept really couldn't be more simple. As every visitor enters the space, they're given a page of stickers. Then, as quickly or slowly as each person sees fit, it's their job to place those stickers around the room. If you're heading along at the beginning of the exhibition's run, you might see plenty of white surfaces just waiting to be covered with circles of colour. If you're taking part towards the end of its season, a rainbow of dots might already fill every nook and cranny. First developed for children as part of an Australian show — Queensland Art Gallery's APT 2002: Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art — back in 2002, obliteration rooms have been part of Kusama's repertoire ever since. That said, in almost two decades, she hasn't extended the idea to a greenhouse — until now. As announced in mid-2019, a huge site-specific Kusama exhibition will display at the New York Botanical Garden, kicking off in May this year. KUSAMA: Cosmic Nature sprawl over The Bronx venue's entire 250 acres, both inside and out. And, while the broad details were unveiled when the show was first revealed, the site has started announcing specifics — such as Kusama's first obliteration greenhouse. Called Flower Obsession, the interactive artwork will task visitors with applying coral flower stickers throughout the interior of the space. Given that KUSAMA: Cosmic Nature is all about celebrating the natural world and its inspiration on the artist's work, it's safe to assume that the greenhouse will actually function as a greenhouse. Just don't go plastering any stickers on the plants, of course. [caption id="attachment_732283" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] New York Botanical Garden, Robert Benson[/caption] Another just-revealed highlight: Infinity Mirrored Room—Illusion Inside the Heart, which'll take Kusama's famed infinity room concept outdoors, responding to changing light throughout each day and season. Dancing Pumpkin will tower 16-feet high — and be shaped like the vegetable, naturally — while the vivid I Want to Fly to the Universe will span 13 feet in height, with the biomorphic form featuring a yellow face and polka dots. They're all brand new works; however the exhibition will also reimagine some of the artist's existing pieces. A recreation of the painting Alone, Buried In A Flower Garden might be the most striking, with the NYBG's horticulturists planting a whole garden that mimics its shapes and colours. Elsewhere, tulips and irises will be planted in formations that'll resemble pumpkins when they bloom. Also, floral presentations will bring another of Kusama's pieces to life in a new medium — using violas, salvias, zinnias and chrysanthemums. [caption id="attachment_758873" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Infinity Mirrored Room—Illusion Inside the Heart (2020)[/caption] As all of these aspects of the exhibition make plain, attendees won't just be walking through multiple halls filled with Kusama's work or moseying around an entire gallery. This is a multi-sensory experience, involving wandering around the whole grounds and spying her pieces not only placed on walls and floors everywhere, but mixed among the natural wonders outside. When the showcase kicks off in 2020, running from May 9 to November 1, visitors can also expect a host of Kusama's giant floral pieces, nature-based paintings, botanical sketches, collages and soft sculptures. KUSAMA: Cosmic Nature marks the first-ever large-scale exploration of the acclaimed artist's overflowing fondness for the natural world — and, taking its cues from nature, the show is designed to transform over the course of the exhibition. Obviously, interactive installations such as Flower Obsession will evolve thanks to audience participation, but the whole space will also change with the seasons. Transitioning from spring to summer to autumn during the exhibition's duration, the different conditions will add a new tone to Kusama's work. If you've been contemplating making New York travel plans for this year, consider this some extra motivation. Yayoi Kusama's exhibition at the New York Botanical Garden will run from May 9, 2020 to November 1, 2020. Head to the venue's website for further details — and to purchase tickets from February 26.
Finally, summer is on the horizon, and with it comes the inevitable food requirements: beachside BBQs, ice cold beers and the quintessential Golden Gaytime. And now there’s a new contender for the perfect summer treat, and it comes courtesy of a soft serve yoghurt machine and a rainbow of flavors straight of out Willy Wonka’s candy factory. Merely weeks since opening, Yo-Chi has become something of a local phenomenon; teenagers filter steadily through in the after school hours and there’s a comfortable mix of hipsters and families to be found on any visit. And with the ‘pick and mix’ attitude of choosing your own flavor and topping, its cult following is suited much more for the unfussy, laid-back cool of Balaclava rather than it’s showy sibling St Kilda. Whilst there’s no doubt it could have done just as well in a more tourist-focused location, it’s clear the mentality behind Yo-Chi isn’t to become a trendy treat styled chain a la Trampoline, more centered around community and creating a local hangout that’s friendly and relaxed. For what seems a simple concept, the combinations are endless – if you like your yoghurt the conventional way, there’s simple flavors such as traditional greek, mango and mixed berry to choose from, or you can go something more obscure like the brilliantly spiced Chai or the light and fluffy coconut. Toppings range from freshly cut fruit to dense chocolate sauce, nuts and even passionfruit pearls that burst in your mouth. Unlike the usual pick and mix system where each topping costs extra, Yo-Chi encourage you to try different flavors and toppings in the one cup, often giving you the chance to try before you make your decisions. 100g of yoghurt is $2.80, though you’ll most likely find a small cup filled reasonably full (with two or three toppings) works out closer to $5. Whether you’re just looking for a healthy alternative to the myriad of ice-cream chains populating St Kilda or simply want to try something a little bit different, Yo-Chi looks set to become a staple this summer – and with its attitude to trying new variations each time, it demands a return visit.
When naming the world's highest-pressure occupations, one traditionally thinks of heads of state, air traffic controllers and emergency room surgeons. Kindergarten teachers would probably put their hands up, too, but one area that’s generally overlooked — mostly because it’s hidden away by design — is the kitchen of any Michelin-rated restaurant. These temples of fine dining and avant garde cuisine play host to the most talented chefs in the world, and to cook alongside them is — as one character in Burnt explains — like working with Yoda. But the privilege comes at a cost. Their genius seems almost inextricably bonded with arrogance and rage, an exacting expectation of excellence that permits no error or half-measures. Egos clash, tempers flare, reputations are made and ruined and all the while the wealthiest one percent sits just metres away, oblivious and impatient. To see Burnt is to finally peer behind this temple’s curtain and experience just a semblance of the chaotic magic within. The film stars Bradley Cooper as Adam Jones, a disgraced chef in search of his third Michelin star — the highest rating a restaurant (and hence its chef) can secure. Penniless and jobless, Jones is at rock bottom; a recovering addict of every imaginable vice and shucking one million oysters as part of a gruelling personal penance. Redemption beckons, however, so he procures a London restaurant from his friend Tony (Daniel Brühl) and attempts to assemble a team of the most talented cooks and sauciers available. The stakes may seem low, but placing an addict in a high-pressure environment haunted by both the demons of his past and the debilitating fear of future failure creates levels of Sicario-like tension throughout this film that rarely drop below ten. To make a non-wanky movie about a chef is an achievement in itself, but to also make it suspenseful is definitely worthy of praise. For the food lovers, Burnt features an absolute bucket load of cooking, mixing, sharpening, experimentation and close-up food porn — perhaps more than any other recent offering along similar lines (including, for example, Jon Favreau’s Chef). It’s also guilty of more montages than Teen Wolf 2, but — in its defence — they’re not making two minute noodles here. To watch beef brisket cooked sous-vide would be like watching water boil, in that — well — that’s exactly what it is, so the editing choices are forgivable. The dialogue is mostly snappy and the kitchen scenes are fast-paced and volatile, making the delicate creations they produce seem all the more inconceivable. In all, Burnt is something of a culinary action movie, and while several of its characters are admittedly lacking in narrative depth (most notably Sienna Miller as Jones’s gifted saucier), it’s still a cracking film and a fascinating glimpse into a rarely-seen world.
Is your sleep schedule still ruined from the FIFA World Cup? Are you gradually making your way to being fully nocturnal? Maybe you're already searching for another arduous sporting contest happening on the other side of the world to follow. Good news, sleepyheads: the Tour de France is about to touch down on the streets of France (and late night SBS), and we have the perfect place to huddle up and watch it. Presented by the legends from The Shadow Electric, Domestique is a pop-up bar now in its third annual form. Far from the bogans that pack our your local while the footy's on, the organisers of this slick little happening knowingly describe it as "a sports bar for those who prefer bars to sport". Of course, a love of cycling doesn't go astray for those 4am wake-up calls. Domestique will feature a live feed of the mountain stages and time trial via HD projection, music, drinks, food, heating and ping pong. Friday and Saturday nights will offer food from Fancy Hank's BBQ and DJs, and every other night you can snag yourself some Polish dumplings from Peirogi Peirogi. Hide away from the winter chill, dose yourself up with dumplings and beer 'til the wee hours, and start mingling with the other deranged humans doing this to themselves for sport. Domestique will be open 7pm till late on select dates of the Tour de France. Head to their Facebook page for more details.
Richmond's Future Future is dropping a new menu it like it's hot (because it is). This contemporary Japanese spot will be keeping you toasty this winter with its new midday menu of ramen — perfect for your lunch break. While this little eatery embraces the concept of wabi-sabi, which is exploring the beauty in imperfection, there's not too much that's imperfect about its ramen. Warm up your belly with a vegetarian tan tan men ramen ($17) topped with crispy tofu, shimeji mushrooms, watercress, spring onion and chilli oil — or a hearty pork belly version ($18) with a soy egg, nori and furikake (a umami-heavy Japanese seasoning). If you're doubly hungry, you can add on extra noodles for $3, too. A lunch set is also available, which comes with an otsumami (a side dish) of your choice, such as cucumber with white miso or tuna sashimi salad with wasabi mayo, and a local wine or Japanese lager. If ramen isn't your thing — maybe, because you ate too many 60-cent packs in uni — the menu also features donburi rice dishes, topped with the likes of pork belly ($18), salmon ($19) and mushroom ($17), to tuck into. Grab your colleagues or mates, escape Melbourne's future (future) brisk temperatures and snag a bowl of warming ramen at Future Future this winter. Future Future is located at 191 Swan Street, Richmond and its ramen menu is available throughout winter from May 2 from midday–3pm, Thursday–Saturday.
With an airless paint sprayer, prominent Melbourne-based artist Ash Keating creates towering works that emanate with colour and radiance. Entitled Gravity System Response, Keating first began the much-loved series in 2015, but over the last two years has continued to add more and more works, with the project now totalling 60-plus paintings. Newport's The Substation presents the exhibition featuring six of Keating's most popular pieces which best exemplify his immaculate intermixing of colour, while also demonstrating the meticulous process of painting, layering and waiting to apply each coat. For more than a decade Ash Keating has exhibited extensively across Australia and internationally, showing his large-scale work in both galleries and site-responsive and collaborative art projects. His art explores a range of social and environmental issues, such as systems of production and consumption, climate change, urban gentrification and waste and sustainability.
There were some pretty happy snow bunnies across Victoria and NSW this weekend, as many of the states' ski fields scored record-breaking snow falls, just two weeks after the official start of this year's ski season. The powder bucketed down across the weekend, with Sunday morning seeing Victoria's Mt Buller reporting its fifth deepest snow at this point in the season for the past 40 years. Fellow Victorian ski resort Mt Hotham this morning reported an extra 16cm of snow, beefing up its base to 80cm — the biggest its seen for the second week of the ski season in decades. The mountain has had 95cm of snow altogether this season, with 90cm of that falling in the last seven days. Further north, NSW's Perisher scored another 10cm of fresh snow overnight, bringing the total from the weekend's snow storms there to 82cm. And Thredbo is also covered in a hefty blanket of white, with 20cm of fresh snow in the past 24 hours, pulling its season total to 85cm. https://twitter.com/BOM_Vic/status/1007411165943730177 According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Victoria's alpine areas have only seen the start of it, with a further 25cm to 50cm expected to drop over the next three days. Meanwhile, conditions in NSW are set to clear right up, as the storm there reaches its end before the middle of the week. Top image: Thredbo
Sydney's Art Gallery of NSW has taken its weekly after-hours session online — and the next two editions are all about NAIDOC Week, a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and achievements. On Wednesday, November 11, you can join a discussion between author and presenter Yumi Stynes, Aboriginal rights activist and proud Bundjalung woman Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts, and four-time Archibald Prize finalist Blak Douglas (aka Adam Douglas Hill). Douglas' 2020 portrait of Dujuan Hoosan, star of the documentary In My Blood It Runs, is on show at the AGNSW until Sunday, January 2021, alongside Vincent Namatjira's award-winning depiction of sporting star Adam Goodes — the first-ever portrait by an Indigenous artist to take out the top gong in Archibald Prize history. The following week, on Wednesday, November 18, curator of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art Coby Edgar will chat with artist and Arrernte woman Marlene Rubuntja, whose stunning sculptures feature in the gallery's new exhibition entitled Joy. Both sessions will be streamed on the AGNSW's Facebook page and Youtube channel. If you're in Sydney and can make it to the gallery, you can also head along to a free Indigenous-led guided tour of the Yiribana Gallery. [caption id="attachment_789035" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Blak Douglas, 'Writing in the sand' (2020). Copyright the artist. Photo by Felicity Jenkins, AGNSW.[/caption]
Hear it on the grapevine in the Yarra Valley this November. For one day only, Rochford Wines is pairing its very best drops with a music lineup that'll make your head spin. The Preatures, Bag Raiders, Claptone, George Maple, Running Touch, Cub Sport and London Topaz are just some of the acts tapped for Grapevine Gathering 2017, the latest shindig from the team behind Hot Dub Wine Machine. In addition to the tunes, punters will have access to an array of first-rate food options, including gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizzas and slow-cooked smoked treats. And that's to say nothing of the drinks list, which will feature craft beers, cocktails, a wide array of wines and that most summery of beverages: ice cold frose. For more details and ticketing information, head over here.
Despite also serving up everything from all-day breakfast to ice cream sandwiches, we still think that fries are the best thing about Lord of the Fries. It's right there in the name, after all. The chain's chips are particularly tasty — as made with Australian potatoes and cooked in a cottonseed sunflower oil blend. There is one thing better than Lord of the Fries' titular dish, however. That'd be free fries from the chip-loving establishment. And on Tuesday, July 13, the vegan fast food joint is giving away just that. Free. Fries. Yes, really. To snag free fries on Tuesday, you'll need to head to your chosen Melbourne store — there's 14 of them to pick from — between 1–2pm, and you'll be gifted a serving of shoestring deliciousness. You don't even have to purchase any vego nuggets to redeem them. There is a limit of one freebie per person, though, so take that into consideration if you're feeling particularly peckish. You'll get your choice of classic sauces, too. And if you're wondering why, that's because it's National Fry Day. Of course it is.
It's been 14 years since Danny Rogers and Jerome Borazio decided to fill a Melbourne alleyway with tunes in 2005. Thankfully, Laneway Festival has just confirmed it will be heading back to its collection of unconventional venues for another year, revealing its jam-packed 2019 lineup. Returning to Melbourne next February, Laneway will raise a plastic cup to the middle of summer with one heck of a lineup. This year's eclectic program is headlined by two huge Aussie names: indie rock group Gang of Youths and acclaimed singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett. A few big artists are heading Down Under for the first time, too, including English R&B superstar Jorja Smith, neo-soul singer Rex Orange County and American rapper Denzel Curry. You'll also be able to get down to Camp Cope, Middle Kids and Mitski and sway along to Mansionair, What So Not and Skeggs. If you want to catch Jorja Smith and NYC rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, you'll have to head along to Laneway — they'll both be playing exclusively at the festival, with no sideshows. This year, the Melbourne leg of the festival will be heading to its new location for the first time: Footscray Park. Its a bigger space, but, supposedly, won't have an increased capacity — so, hopefully that'll mean less lines and more room for dancing. But, enough chit-chat — here's the full 2019 lineup. LANEWAY 2019 LINEUP Gang of Youths Courtney Barnett A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie (exclusive) Baker Boy Camp Cope Charlie Collins* Clairo Cosmo's Midnight Crooked Colours* Denzel Curry* DJDS G Flip Jon Hopkins Jorja Smith (exclusive) KIAN Mansionair Masego Methyl Ethel Middle Kids Mitski* Parquet Courts Ravyn Lenae Rex Orange County Ruby Fields Skeggs Smino What So Not Yellow Days *East Coast only Laneway Image: Anthony Smith.
Melbourne's Malthouse Theatre has announced a 2014 season that celebrates artistic diversity and risk in all its forms. Artistic director Marion Potts and her team have committed to a program that combines original Australian work with international direction, injects the energy of some of the city’s unique independent collectives, and features Australia's up-and-coming and established onstage talent. "In 2014 we at Malthouse Theatre will continue our quest to provoke and challenge in our own irreverent way," says Potts, "It's going to be a fantastic season, the breadth of which is only supported by the depth and currency of the issues that will be raised." Simon Stone's attitude to pillaging older texts for his own adaptations has been a hot topic of conversation in Australian theatre circles recently. Malthouse add fuel to the fire, programming a "Stoned" version of classic Hollywood film The Philadelphia Story that draws heavily on the modern cult of celebrity. But while there’s some theatre that explodes older work into something new, Malthouse is also continuing its rich tradition of supporting Australian voices, with new plays by Roslyn Oades (Hello, Goodbye & Happy Birthday) and Peta Brady, whose poetic work Ugly Mugs captures the world of Melbourne's sex workers. Another highlight is the visiting Meng Jinghui (director, National Theatre of China), who'll take on Brecht’s The Good Person of Szechuan as part of the theatre’s Directors Exchange Program. After sold-out, uproarious shows in the Melbourne Theatre Company’s NEON Festival of Independent Theatre, THE RABBLE comes on board as the Company in Residence, and Sisters Grimm present an end-of-year spectacular, Calpurnia Descending, starring the sensational Paul Capsis and Ash Flanders. Also announced is a significant new partnership with Coopers that will see Malthouse Theatre's venue renamed the 'Coopers Malthouse', a moniker that harkens back to the building's history as a brewery. More importantly, the corporate sponsorship represents a valued source of funding for more ambitious artistic projects. Full details of the program and subscription packages can be found on the Malthouse website.
We've all seen films where star-crossed lovers ride the rollercoaster of romance. And we've all seen films where aspiring artists weather the ups and downs of chasing their dreams. Starting with a series of awkward encounters, and focusing on a struggling actress and a jazz pianist, La La Land offers both. But the thing that makes writer-director Damien Chazelle's musical follow-up to his breakout hit Whiplash shine isn't the familiar path it wanders down. Rather, it's how it takes audiences on that journey. When Mia (Emma Stone) and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) first meet on the streets of Los Angeles, they're hurling ire at each other in traffic. When they finally get the chance to chat at a party, there's teasing in the air, with a romantic connection soon blooming. As their relationship continues, Sebastian inspires Mia to break free of the soul-crushing audition cycle and write her own one-woman play. In turn, he keeps working towards opening a jazz club, while also taking up the opportunity to pursue something more lucrative and concrete. So far, so straightforward. But all isn't fair when you're simultaneously trying to find love, seek your chosen career and carve out a fulfilling life. While it might not feature J.K. Simmons screaming "not my tempo" a la Whiplash, Chazelle's latest effort certainly doesn't shy away from the costs and consequences of trying to succeed. Nor does the film pull its punches when personal and professional matters fail to align. Instead, erupting with gorgeous colour and energetic choreography one moment, then taking time to brood and contemplate the next, La La Land offers a delicate balance of dreaming big while realising that not every wish can or will come true. Moreover, it does so while celebrating the Hollywood musical genre, and at the same time fashioning its trademarks and style into something bittersweet and melancholy. The traditions of grand song-and-dance flicks gets their time in the spotlight, though in truth they're only one part of the story. As characters shuffle through the streets and float through the air in '50s-style numbers, churn out '80s covers, play contemporary jazz, and croon mournful ballads, audiences will find themselves swept along the entire musical and emotional spectrum. For that, a fair share of the credit should go to co-stars Stone and Gosling. In their third on-screen pairing after Crazy, Stupid, Love and Gangster Squad, both are in stellar, swoon-worthy form. Whether they're belting out a tune, tapping their toes, or quietly expressing the feelings that lurk beneath, the duo navigate the melange that comprises La La Land with the same flair and thoughtfulness as their director, while sharing in his not-to-be-underestimated task. After all, at the heart of the luminous and lively film sits a stark truth: fantasising is easy, but embracing reality is hard. It's no surprise that the movie that results is clearly crafted with this in mind as it soars high but dives deep, evoking affectionate wonder, heartfelt tears and the knowledge that life usually lurks somewhere in between.
The latest exhibition at Linden New Art will explore the contributions from six specifically commissioned design studios, as they delve into both the process and the final product. As part of the exhibition, viewers will be offered a glimpse into the design process — from ideas to prototypes to the final product. Object Future III will explore many different fields of design, including industrial, product, furniture, object design, sculpture and contemporary art. Australia’s design landscape presents itself in many different forms, which is exactly what Object Future III carefully demonstrates. Exhibiting designers include Hamish Munro, Hugh Altschwager, Amos Enders-Moje, Kate Stokes and Haslett Grounds from Coco Flip, Rosanna Ceravolo and ACV Studio. Object Future III is curated by Suzannah Henty and Dale Hardiman, and will be opened by the director of Workshop 3000, Susan Cohn.
'Tis the season for catching up with friends. And if you'd like those catch-ups to involve soaking in natural geothermal mineral waters while enjoying the antics of the world's favourite TV friends on an al fresco big screen, it's time to make a beeline for Peninsula Hot Springs. The precinct's Bathe-In Cinema has kicked off a series of themed weeknight Friends screenings, where you can watch a few smash-hit episodes as you soak in the balmy hot springs and snack on a pre-ordered cheese platter. Screenings will run from 8pm every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evening, from November 16–December 2. And all the best-loved episodes will be covered across themed blocks including Best of Rachel, The Engagements and The Best First Kisses. Access to Bathe-In Cinema comes complimentary with any booking for the Revitalise Bath House Bathing experience, which clocks in at $65.
After all the restrictions and closures that turned last year on its head, it's safe to say you're probably itching for some live music right about now. And the folks behind the long-running Brunswick Music Festival are more than happy to provide. Yep — the much-loved northside event is back for a tune-filled 2021 edition, taking over a swag of Brunswick's music venues, bars, pubs and parks. The festival is has embraced a brand-new ten-day format with a stacked program of artists performing from, Friday, March 5–Sunday, March 14. And the best part for your post-lockdown wallet? None of the tickets on offer will cost you anything more than a tenner (plus booking fee), with plenty of them completely free. Much of the magic will be happening at Brunswick Music Festival's new openair venue at Gilpin Park, with local acts like DJ JNETT, East Brunswick All Girls Choir, Loose Tooth, Good Morning and Kee'ahn will take the stage. Thanks to collaborations with curators including Bad Apples, Flightless Records and Port Fairy Folk Festival, you'll also enjoy sounds from renowned artists like Cash Savage and The Last Drinks, Emma Donovan and The Putbacks, singer-songwriter Alice Skye and Mo'Ju at the new site. Meanwhile, emerging artists Pinch Points join indie-pop act Tender Buttons for a special show at Brunswick Library, and Howler fires up the speakers for a trio of album launches that promise to get you moving. And, as always, some of the suburb's favourite bars and pubs are transforming into live music venues for the duration of the festival. The Venues 3056 program features an expansive lineup of gigs at haunts like The Edinburgh Castle Hotel, The B. East, urban winery Noisy Ritual, Brunswick Ballroom, The Retreat Hotel and many more. [caption id="attachment_802253" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brunswick Ballroom by Nicole Cleary[/caption] Top image: Brunswick Music Festival by Joshua Braybrook
Are you the type to spend hours and days before a meal studying the menu and mentally preordering? Us too. So, it can be a nice change of pace to commit to a night out without knowing any details — even where it's happening. Enter The Signet Speakeasy. Maker of mighty smooth whisky, Glenmorangie, is collaborating with fine dining restaurant Vue de Monde and its in-house cocktail joint, Lui Bar, to create an immersive pop-up bar this June. This speakeasy will celebrate the fine amber liquor (which is the first in the world to use roasted chocolate malt barley) in a very Melbourne way — via a secret warehouse transformation. The location will remain a secret until a few days before the event begins. Head along to the swingin' speakeasy to sample Glenmorangie Signet — neat or in cocktail form courtesy of Lui — alongside some pretty lavish snacks by the Vue De Monde crew. Also on the agenda are smooth jazz vibes and 'theatrical surprises', so bring an open mind, an empty stomach and perhaps some sensible shoes, just in case. Hosted by Glenmorangie's head of maturing whisky stock, Brendan McCarron, the event will lead you on a physical journey through the different spaces of the warehouse, from a candlelit lobby to the speakeasy bar, then onto a decadent mandarin grove. Each space will represent one of the signature notes of Signet: chocolate, espresso and mandarin. Tickets cost $85 per person and include one neat Signet, three cocktails and three different food offerings, alongside your guided wander. The tour should take you about an hour to complete, but you're welcome to hang out in the mandarin grove afterwards — there'll be more drinks, snacks and acoustic music to enjoy. The Signet Speakeasy will run from 6–10pm across Thursday, June 27–Saturday, June 29. To purchase tickets, head this way.
This Melbourne after-hours pop-up isn't at a pub, an underground club, or even some repurposed warehouse space. Nope, the Nocturnal event series is happening at a venue you've probably only ever seen in the light of day: Melbourne Museum. The first Friday of each month will see the museum's exhibition spaces transformed into an after-dark playground, as Nocturnal swaps the school-uniformed tour groups for crowds of music-loving partygoers. Expect a space primed for Friday night revelry, complete with pop-up bars slinging cocktails, roving entertainers and spot talks from some of the museum's curators. Plus, there will be plenty of killer tunes, with a main stage set up in front of the Forest Gallery. This month, Nocturnal is inspired by Harlem and the current Mel&NYC festival happening across Melbourne. On Friday, August 3, the pop-up will feature live performances from New York's Rakiem Walker Project (who are heading to Aus for the very first time), Melbourne's DRMNGNOW and colourful dance duet Glitter and Snatch. Wander through the gallery, and you'll encounter more, too, including The Cook Island Drummers in the Te Vainui O Pasifikia gallery. You can also join in a dance-off in the Plaza, refuel at the Gumbo Kitchen, then explore large-scale projections of images by Camilo Vergera, a famed Harlem photographer.
